MICHAEL TIMMINS
Writing Fantasy Like No One Else
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What People Are Saying About "The Awakening: Part One"
4.0 out of 5 stars I love paranormal and dark stories
By Nikki
I love paranormal and dark stories. The Awakening doesn't disappoint as it spins a tale of ancient prophecies, Were shifters, strong magic, and the eternal struggle of good vs. evil. Two Druidess priests on opposite sides of a Lycan war will face each other and all that threatens to destroy the world as we know it. The fascinating twist on shifters alone makes this story an incredible read. Werewolves, Weretigers, and Wereboars are just to name a few.
The action is fast paced and sets off relatively quickly with an incredible story line that hooks the reader in. Many different characters are introduced throughout the novel and their point of view given and it's an interesting approach to an expansive cast. Some of their lives intermingle and cross over while others are left to further their story lines in subsequent books.
The strength of The Awakening is the writing. Mr. Timmins shines here with descriptions and detail that leap off the page. There's a lot of darkness as well as a fair amount of horror. Those who appreciate these kinds of stories will enjoy this novel.
If I had any critique, I would say that I wished for more of a connection between all of the characters before the ending. I don't mind cliffhangers at all, especially when I know a sequel will be released. This story is part of a larger more epic adventure that I can tell will come together with an explosive series of books. Looking forward to reading more about this paranormal world.
Characters: 4.5/5
Plot: 4/5
Word Building: 4.5/5
Story Flow: 3.5/5
Picky Bitches OVERALL SCORE: 4/5
3.0 out of 5 stars this really is the kind of book I love to read
When I read the blurb I was excited, this really is the kind of book I love to read. The Awakening had an interesting concept with were animals rather than just the usual werewolves. I think it's difficult to get a fresh take on such a well used (and loved) subject so kudos to the author for thinking up something fresh and interesting. I enjoyed the premise with the two female druids who were pitted against each other, the 'dark' Kestrel and the 'light' Sylvanis who are both leaders of warring were animals. In the beginning we are introduced to these two characters, and the story revolves around their subsequent resurrection. I think the author spent a lot of time thinking up a convincing world. In isolation, I liked the differing back stories to the other multiple characters introduced.
However, I did find that there was a lot going on. That is, there were multiple changes in POV within each chapter and this made it much more difficult to 'relax' into the story. I did find myself having to go back and re-read to make sure I understood what was going on and with whom. I think this is a very tricky writing style to try and pull off, and for me, unfortunately it didn't work so well. I also agree with the other reviewer in that it finished too abruptly. I felt that there needed to be a resolution for this book, but I guess that's hard to do with so many different stories going on within the main overarching one.
Having said that, this has the potential to be a good series. The world the author has created is believable and has room for lots of interesting story arcs/characters (though hopefully they won't all be packed into the next book). It is worth a read for sure and if you'd like a different take on the usual werewolves then this is for you. Overall, I thought this book was good. I so wanted to give it four stars but, for me, it just wasn't quite there. If I could give 3.5 stars I would have.
3.0 out of 5 stars but Timmins does a great job of giving a new twist on both
The Awakening is high energy and exciting. The story has unique perspectives and gives new takes on old ideas. Druids and lycans are both age old story ideas, but Timmins does a great job of giving a new twist on both.
Personally, I had a little trouble getting past the beginning. I actually put it down a couple of times because I was somewhat bored and having trouble following the storyline because of it. Eventually the story does take off and once it does, it’s nonstop. I’m glad I didn’t give up on this book.
I’m not a fantasy reader, and this had a bit more fantasy than I generally like, but it’s not overwhelming. That being said I did enjoy this book more than I thought I would after struggling with the beginning. The character development is great and Timmins has a talent for creating characters that are both fantastical but believable as well as being relatable.
Overall this was an enjoyable read, not my favorite, but I think if you can get past the beginning with the world building and character development, most people who enjoy fantasy will like this book as well.
Reviewed by Melanie
4.0 out of 5 stars Hard-hitting dark fantasy
By susanon November
The storyline attracted me and the first few chapters drew me in. I really liked Sylvanis and Calin, their mystical calling and the beginning of opposing druid spells which span the centuries towards a prophecied Awakening. I saw Sylvanis as good, trying to counter the evil, perpetuated by Kestrel. Blain is a particularly nasty manifestation, and many other characters also show worse-than-animalistic tendencies. It's a good story and does its job of setting up for the series. As it progresses, we see weres of all types (apart from wolves) - rats, tigers, bears and boars - gradually coming to terms with their new forms in different ways, and we start to see what side they are on for the coming war. Reading about shapeshifters, I did not expect a fairytale and it was far from it. I experienced sadness, hope, fear, and horror. But, I admit to being little faint of heart and as I got deeper in to the story, through no fault of the writer, I found the increasing gore and violence hampered my enjoyment rather than enhanced it. Well-described as it was, it rather overwhelmed the story for me. Nevertheless this will definitely appeal to hard core shifter fans. Recommended if you like horror.
I am a picky reader, like it takes a LOT for me to sit down and read something, let alone review it.
This however, peeked my interest.
It was slow in the beginning, most likely for the world/character building, but when I say it picked up... DAMN did it pick up!
This book took my breath away, and it had both strong characters, and wonderful mental images. It felt as if I was watching a movie in my head.
Bravo!
5.0 out of 5 stars I loved this book
By Seden
I loved this book, it was a different and exciting take on werewolves and lycans, weaving the story around two rival Druids. The story connected the past to the present with new and lively characters at each step. The war once fought between two Druids were carried to the present by powerful magic. There were many characters introduced continuously in the present, and the author did a great job keeping our interest along the way. Especially, I enjoyed it when I got to know more about the Kestrel and her evil lycans. And, I found humor in the fact that the Kestrel was the one who liked Earth more than Civilization:) Looking forward to the next book in the series!
4.0 out of 5 stars Was not sure what to expect, what I felt after was GREATNESS!
By Alex
Have never read books that involved "DRUIDS" before so for me this was different, yet exciting. The story starts out slow and then it picks up, making it even a more captivating. There were lots of POVS & that reminded me of another novel I have read so I was fine with it but it did take me a while to realize what was happening. Overall this was something FRESH at least for me and I look forward to reading the next novel in this series now that I have invested time in these characters, I simply need to see it to the end.
Great job making someone need to read the whole series.
4.0 out of 5 stars Unexpected but a great surprise - Highly recommend
This was not what I was expecting at all. Being Irish myself I was loving the two female druids and how Timmins weaved their war and its fallout was masterful. This had a unique take on many old hashed out things such as Were's and the like, I found it refreshing and I really got hooked. (So much so that when I was to be working I found myself instead locked away with my kindle reading this little gem)
The story, in the beginning, was a little slow moving but when it got going it truly found its feet. Positives for me were the female roles of the druids, the were animals and the world crafting via the fabulous storytelling. The negatives would have to be multiple POV but that is a personal taste thing. This was not what kicked this from a 5 star to a 4 star, that would be the abrupt ending. I like cliffhangers as much as the next person but this felt almost 'cut off'. Overall this is a great read and I would highly recommend it to lovers of fantasy/supernatural.
4.0 out of 5 stars Unique Lore
By Molly Neely
I'm usually not a reader of fantasy. I prefer darker, more paranormal themes. However, I was quite taken with The Awakening.
The beginning moves a little slowly, no doubt to paint a full picture of the world you're about to enter. The characters are lovely, unique creatures, with varied pasts. The author does a great job of getting you engrossed in their lives. I couldn't wait to see what each one was going to do with their "New bodies."
I realize this is only book 1, and there will be other volumes, however, The Awakening ended a little abruptly for me. If you like cliffhanger endings, it's ending won't bother you at all.
As a whole, I really enjoyed this book.
5.0 out of 5 stars A spine chilling thrilling adventure!
The Awakening will awaken in you the thrills and spills of true mastery of the craft. Timmins has woven a spectacularly spellbounding tale that set off the chills and shivers running down my spine in the very first chapter.
A journey not to be missed.
A pleasure not to overlooked.
A joy to read.
He certainly made the endless hours at the regular Doctors waiting room ... enjoyable. I had to look up at interval and jolt myself back to the present and away from his written words.
I absolutely loved it!
5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant!!!
Loved this book. Likes the way it started off by setting up what is to come. One twist I totally did not see coming. If you like your characters and story with some grit you will love this. Good and bad characters you will love and hate in equal measure.
By Tanyawriter
This was such a great read which will leave you wanting more and more. The awakening has started but where will it end
5.0 out of 5 stars Great story
By J. Golini
The Awakening: part has a very unique story line for urban fantasy fans. It was a fun read with interesting characters that left you waiting for the next book.
5.0 out of 5 stars The Awakening
By Denice Pattersonon
This book was hard for me to get into at first, jumping from one character to another, but when it all melded together it became awesome. I can hardly wait to get my hands on the next book!
The start is terrific and the ending is amazing the middle is just something you well have to read. You will not be disappointed with this book.
5.0 out of 5 stars This book is great! Can't wait to get part 2
By Angela Calderonon
This book is great! Can't wait to get part 2!
4.0 out of 5 stars A great book for all fantasy lovers!
By Steve Konesnion
The Awakening Part 1 delivers a fresh take on the age old story of the lycans. It adds enough twists and turns to keep you glued to the page. This is a must read for any fan of lycans, werewolves, druids or fantasy in general. As the first part of a larger story, Michael Timmins is giving us just a taste of what he has to offer and what is in store for us to enjoy.
5.0 out of 5 stars Great Story!!
By Tbraz
This was well thought out and executed. Can't wait for the next one. A lot of surprises kept my interest.
3.0 out of 5 stars A great fantasy read!
By Faunus
I would give this book closer to 3.5 stars. I looked forward to reading this book and supporting this author as he is a local author from my hometown and honestly I was not disappointed with this book. The authors prose was wonderfully descriptive from beginning to end that I had no problem seeing the characters, the environment, and the action in my head. Michael Timmins has a way of building the characters that you start getting your favorites in the story right away...lol.
At first I was going to give the book 3 stars, but bumped it up a tad to 3 1/2 stars. The one thing I was kind of disappointed with, at first, as I read through the book was I started to see that the book was more about the other characters and not the main characters, or the main story line. Then I actually got to chat with the author for a little bit and I brought that up to him as I was curious on it and he stated that the book was like a origins story which was being used to build the characters, the teams, and the world that surrounded them. That made total sense and totally made the book work because as I got to know the characters I am totally ready for the next book to come out so I can find out what happens to some of my favorite characters! The book definitely wasn't boring, the writing was wonderfully descriptive, and the characters were so well thought of. If you enjoy fantasy and want a book full of different Were-Creatures and Druids you will enjoy this book
By Marie J.
I enjoyed the plotline. Could have used some more editing and proofreading. I felt the writing was choppy feeling at times and that some of the character conversations and thoughts could have been proofread a bit more. I am not typically a reader of lycan or werewolf type stories, but I did like the storyline and am interested in where it's going. I enjoy supporting local authors and I can't wait to see where this goes. A prequel story would be interesting too.
4.0 out of 5 stars A decent read
By Dave
The book does some interesting things with "weres" (tigers, boars, wolves, etc), and tends to shine during combat scenes (which can be a little gory). The story itself isn't that complicated, but there are a lot of characters and the point of view shifts back and forth between them regularly, which makes the story a little disjointed at times; it would have been a little easier with shorter chapters where each chapter was from one characters point of view, but it all works. My only real complaint is that many of the characters are two dimensional, particularly Kestrel and Sylvanis (Kestral has a tiny spark of redemption because she cares about the earth, but is basically your typical power-hungry black hat, while Sylvanis is the heart-of-gold, only-kills-when-forced-to white hat). I'm going to get the second book, interested to see where it all ends.
5.0 out of 5 stars
William Moll rated it it was amazing
Refreshing to see a book about werewolves or vampires that isn't a teenage love drama. Review in progress but enjoyable read so far
4.0 out of 5 stars
S.K. Gregory rated it really liked it
Magic, werecreatures and an epic war. This book has it all. A fast paced read that fantasy fans will love. I would recommend it.
4.0 out of 5 stars
Paperback Kingdom rated it really liked it
REVIEWED BY PAPERBACK KINGDOM BOOK BLOG:
The war between two druids has been paused, and now that centuries have passed, an ancient spell creates a loophole that allows them to reawaken from the dead once more to finish what they started. With this comes the awakening of lycanthropy power in four induvial, who must learn to control their newfound abilities and stop the war before it’s too late.
Wow! The Awakening: Part One is a definite must-read for lovers of fantasy and ancient lore and legends. The world building in this book is very well thought out, with a storyline that seems to take readers everywhere.
The good points:
1. This book has incredible descriptions, with characters that readers can visualize quite clearly and personalities that stand out vividly.
2. The storyline leaves clues like a trail of breadcrumbs that slowly feed the reader information and plot points, making it very hard to predict the storyline and keeping readers hooked. It’s definitely original and not a typical werewolf story.
Things that could be improved:
1. At times, the pacing is a little lengthy, and the POVs are a little hard to follow, just because there is so much going on to bring a very complex and well thought out plotline full circle. As long as readers go into this book knowing there is a big cast of characters, they should be able to follow it.
Recommended for:
The Awakening: Part One has some explicit language and a few sexual themes, but for the most part it’s fairly clean. We recommend it for ages 16+ and feel that readers in their late teens and up will really enjoy the book. It’s the kind of story that can grab anybody and appeal to multiple age ranges.
4.0 out of 5 stars I really enjoyed this one
I really enjoyed this one, I'm not a big fantasy reader, but this one was really good. The book is very well written and I loved the description of everything, it was very beautifully done. Each of the characters were unique in their own way and I loved getting to know them. I was totally into this book and had a hard time putting it down. If you love to read fantasy this is definitely a book for you.
What People Are Saying About, "The Awakening: Part Two"
5.0 out of 5 stars Tl;dr BUY THIS! You're welcome in advance.
This book deserves whatever exposure this review affords it. Characters are well defined, the prose is engrossing at all times, and detailed to the point my starting on this entry in the series caused no issue. Age-old fantasy meshed in modern day perfectly with some subtle updates. And the author's skill at subtlety in so many words shouldn't be understated. "People’s needs are more basic than that. They need love, or at least to feel like they are loved and are important." - just proves how much he knows humanity without cynicism, which does wonders for endearing one to modern characters introduced past the 50% mark that could've just seemed cliched. I highly recommend this Pagan-influenced magical tale and look forward to future entries.
5.0 out of 5 stars Lines Are Drawn
By Bob Nailor Authoron
This is a wonderful followup to book one. The setup is complete? I think not. This novel will pull you in, and once immersed, you won't be able to put the book down. Alignments and twists keep the reader turning the pages. Michael Timmins has proven he can tell a tale and continue to tell the story smoothly. I definitely look forward to the next book.
5.0 out of 5 stars Fabulous! !!!!
By Lallion
This is the second book of the series and I loved it. Couldn't put it down. Fantasy with grittiness. The good guys are tough and likeable and the bad ........well you wouldn't want to meet them. Can't wait for the next.!!!!
What People Are Saying About, "Intellect"
By Tanyawriteron
i got an arc copy and i want to review
he had been accused of murdering his love but he didnt do it. so he went on the run to find the witch of time. she will be able to prove he didnt do it but not who did it. will he find her? who is the murderer? will he get the murderer? a great read which i couldnt put down