The Darkness by Crystal Connor

A science experiment interacts with the occult with bizarre consequences.

Adam is the child turned young man upon which this story revolves.   Adam’s welfare and abilities challenge both science and witchcraft represented by his conflicted mothers.  

Amoral behavior is characteristic of practically all the participants in this adventure.  Any altruistic actions seems to morph into self serving indulgence.  I found no likeable characters in the book.  Intriguing, mystifying, overblown, satanic and selfish behavior is in abundance but likeable not so much.   The book has an interesting and challenging premise with a satisfyingly intricate plot.

I was not overly thrilled with the cover and I think a more captivating cover would increase interest in the book.   Twilight Zone fans will love this book. 

I recommend it.

Body of work of Crystal Connor

Web site:  none found

The Stone of Destiny by Jim Ware

A sick Mom, an obsessed junior alchemist, wee people, giants and magic combine in a hunt for treasured stones.

Morgan Izaak is trying to follow in his father’s footsteps, striving to save his mother from dying.   His friend, Eny, finds her self embroiled in her own mystic journey.     The book ties together typical fantasy components with Christian overtones.   I found it a bit confusing. 

I didn’t get wrapped in the characters.   I felt all the ingredients were there but they just didn’t captivate me.  I don’t know if it is my mood or the book so take my lack of enthusiasm with a grain of salt.   It is worth reading and even redeeming in some ways and most definitely faith affirming.    

Body of work of Jim Ware

Web site: http://www.randomhouse.com/author/54782/jim-ware