A Place Beyond The Map [Kindle Edition]

I feel bad leaving reviews that aren't good. It takes a lot of work to create a story and even more to get it published.

When I first saw this book, I'll admit that the cover drew me in. It's a great piece of art, but unfortunately is my favourite thing about this book.

I read the blurb and thought this had the making of a great story, and in it's defence it started quite well. The characters felt real enough, and the plot progressed nicely.

Then I just got the feeling like I didn't care any more, I wasn't interested in what was happening. I don't know why, I just found the writing boring and over descriptive. There were also parts in this story that I felt like I'd read elsewhere. I know it's not easy to be truly original - and I read a lot of books - but as an example, there's the magical labyrinth that only Phinnigan can get in, to get to the goblet of fire at the centre while the mysterious white stag guides him through before revealing himself to be a magical half goat half man from Narnia. Okay, perhaps that's not what really happened here - but that's how I felt reading it.

I also hated that Phinnigan's brother is called Quinn. Quinn Qwyk - what were his parents thinking?

So why did I give it three stars I hear you ask? Well I've read worse books in my time for starters. This book isn't a really bad book - it's actually pretty good in places. Also, it doesn't cost much so I can't complain that much, right?

I'm not sure if this is Samuel Thews' first book, but if it is then I'm certain the future will only see better works - for me though I can't recommend reading this. Sorry.

Beautifully written and a book that younger readers will enjoy, I would suggest 10 upwards, as the language used is quite intricate. It tells the story of Phinnegan, who one evening is confronted by a Fae called Periwinkle, he accidently gets transported to their world and finds out that somehow he has ended up here to fulfill some purpose. The end is an invitation for a sequel. It is a simplistic tale spun within the world of creatures of myth and that simplicity is also what makes it so beautiful. It is not for the seeker of more dark urban fantasy, but rather for the reader, who simply enjoys a creative imagination without the use of excessive examples to create thrills. I received a free copy of this book for my review.A Place Beyond The Map

A Place Beyond The Map I just started reading this book and it grabbed me from the moment I picked it up. A true fairy tale.