Monday, March 17, 2014

The Angelic Gene by Steve Goodwin - Review

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Picture and Description taken from GoodReads

Description:
An orphan girl unsure of who she is or why a man wants her dead carries a secret. She will experience humanity.

Are you ready? 

Join Sophia in a heart thumping adventure across England set in the 1870’s, exploring faith, doubt, love and fear. A story, quoted by the editor as “really something special”, you’ll continue to contemplate long after the journey unfolds.


About the book: 
Info on Book from Bostick Communications Email to me: 



The Angelic Gene by Steve Goodwin 
ISBN: 978-0987378477 
Publisher: Software Development Pty, Limted 
Date of publish: December 2013 
Pages: 360 


My Review / Thoughts:

I don't quite know where to start.  I got an email a while back from Bostick Communications letting me know that his book was available for review.  The description sounded fabulous so I sent off for a review copy.  I almost feel bad about reviewing the book since it didn't really stand out for me.  Another reason for requesting it is I really, really enjoy reading self published work.  

Okay, I feel as though I am procrastinating the review.  Let me start by saying that the cover is great.  I think the girl is beautiful and the green eyes are awesome.  Having said that, the cover did not give me the impression that this book is set in the 1870's.  I feel like it is a very "modern" cover for a historical type book.

I didn't ever feel like the book took me to the 1800's.  I felt like I was reading a "modern" day book with some historical referencing.  I don't know if that makes sense, but I just didn't ever feel like I was "in" the setting the author wanted for this book.  I know I am probably in the minority here because I have read some great reviews about this book, which makes me sad that I didn't connect with it.

I never really connected with any of the characters.  I don't know if I am in a funk or if this book just wasn't for me.  

Now, I do have to say that I wanted to see how things were going to turn out so I did finish the book.  I really, really, really, hate trudging through books.  I have done that more in the last few months than I ever have before.  I feel almost "obligated" to finish books I have requested for review.  But, with this one, I at least wanted to know how it ended.  I do feel that the story is very slow in the beginning and just when it picks up, it ended.

I like the "idea" of this book.  I think that had the cover and the world building been a little more "historical" then I might have connected a little more.  It was interesting.  I can say that.  

This is a very "PERSONAL" thing, but I felt that the "religious" parts of the book were a little "out of place" for me.  I don't mind religion in a book, or talking about faith, but this seemed to be a little "preachy" and out of place.  Although the idea of being descended from Angels is kind of awesome!

I do believe this would be a better read for someone one younger.  It's easy to follow, and seemed to be geared towards a younger audience.  It may just be me and my funk though.  Who knows.

I appreciate being able to review this book, even though I didn't end up loving it.  I love reading!  Reading makes me happy.  I love being introduced to new authors, and new styles of writing.  I may not like the way a story is told but I appreciate the talent and hard work that goes into the book.  I love that the authors follow their passion for what they love,  and share it with the world.  

Source:  I was given this book by the author through Bostick Communications in return for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way for this review.  I am not affiliated with Bostick Communications in any way, and these are my own PERSONAL thoughts on the book.

My Rating:

About the Author:
Taken from Email sent to me from Bostick Communications:

After a difficult childhood Steve developed a fascination with the nature of the supernatural, spiritual and physical words and how they affect the lives around us. This led him on a journey spanning two decades of studying, experiences and discovery. As well as demonstrating a profound respect for faith and the battles of doubt, he seamlessly mixes reality with creativity, inspired by Biblical concepts and personal understandings, constructing worlds, dimensions, events, and stories that are relatable.


2 comments:

  1. I hate trudging through books too. I don't do it as much as I used too. I just can't with so many books to read. :)

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  2. I agree that the cover is pretty, but it doesn't exactly say 'historical' to me. I've been the odd one out so many times, when I see enthusiastic reviews for a book but just don't think the same way. I know exactly how you feel and I can imagine how disappointed you were. Sorry you struggled with it.
    Great review, though.

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