Shatter (The Children of Man, #1) [Kindle Edition]

Elizabeth C. Mock (Author), Anne Hromalik (Illustrator)

Book Description

Growing up during the chaos of the Nabosian War, Faela Durante and her entire generation never knew what it meant to live in a time of peace. Though the war ended years ago, the devastation has not. Every decision, no matter how seemingly insignificant, has a consequence and some consequences can never be predicted. But some are foretold.

Less than a year ago, Faela, the first Tereskan mind healer in generations, disappeared from her family home in Finalaran scared and pregnant. Hunted and living as an outcast, Faela searches for a legend that might be her only hope of gaining atonement and returning to her son. When her journey collides with two strangers and a prophecy, she must choose between trusting those around her or accomplishing her mission. Haunted by her past, the consequences of Faela's choices will endanger more than her own fate.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Elizabeth C. Mock grew up with a passion for stories and writing as well as exploring wardrobes. She currently lives in Cincinnati, OH where she teaches philosophy and continues writing The Children of Man series as well as an urban fantasy series of short stories, The Noctunarum Vows. From time to time, she still investigates suspicious looking wardrobes.

Product Details

• File Size: 840 KB
• Print Length: 447 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1451598777
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• Language: English
• ASIN: B003XF1DX2
• Text-to-Speech: Enabled
• X-Ray: Enabled
• Lending: Enabled
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #64,763 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store)

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

80 of 83 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars A very good beginning October 7, 2010

By simona bedosti

Format:Kindle Edition|Amazon Verified Purchase

I'm a fantasy lover, and I downloaded this book because it was tagged fantasy, and it was a freebie. When I do that, I don't have many expectations, as sometimes I couln't ever finish some books.
This time, however, I've been lucky and I find a little gem. "Fantasy" means that the author avoids the limits and boundaries of the real world, having the more difficult task to build an environment that actually makes sense, plus a good story and characters.
When it happens, I usually can't put down the book, and that's what happened with "Shatter". It's a very good first book, my only disappointment is that the second one isn't available yet. I'll be looking forward to it.

118 of 127 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Well worth the read! June 2, 2010

By Tyler Howat

Format:Paperback

I really enjoyed this book!
It has a lot of different threads, which draw together to form a tightly woven narrative with a rich mythology--leaving the author room to expand on in some prequels...
There is a complex magic system which is handled very well. This is one of the points I look for when reading fantasy (obviously...), because if it's done poorly the suspension of disbelief can fall through.
Moreover, it helps to take a look at the maps which come with the book, as the world is a key element, as this also has the elements of a travel narrative--akin to LOTR, as places are key to the story. The places here have distinct, well-constructed atmospheres. Plus, I LOVE pub names...
One of the things I particularly enjoyed is the dialogue. Each of her characters has a distinct voice which lends more credibility to the dialogue--I can hear their voices clearly, aided through the syntax and the diction.
All the technicalities aside, I was drawn in by the characters and really connected with them, particularly due to their interactions and relationships.
The book ends with desperation, with heartbreak, but it really fits with one of the major themes of the novel, which is brokenness. Each of the main characters, in some way, is broken, and I figure *crosses fingers* that the trilogy is about redemption.
Anyway, pick this up and enjoy!

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars A good book on its own, also a very promising launch for a trilogy July 10, 2010

By Randolph Lalonde

Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase

On its own, Shatter is a novel that introduces us to the personalities and struggles of some memorable characters. Faela is a character on a journey propelled by deep motivations that aren't immediately apparent. As you unravel the mystery surrounding her and discover what drives her you are treated to her practical yet charming personality. The other characters in this book are just as interesting, their struggles are just as compelling, you'll find yourself cheering for some and sneering at others.

The world, magic system and history behind this book are specific and well made. Unlike many fantasy and science fiction novels these days, you don't get the feeling that the whole universe is built to the direct benefit of the characters. Instead, Elizabeth Mock has built a setting that is anything but convenient or simple, adding depth and realism to their struggles.

This book does stand on its own, but I promise you'll be looking forward to the second part of the trilogy by the time you finish it.

More About the Author

Elizabeth C. Mock grew up with a passion for stories and writing as well as exploring wardrobes. She and her husband live in Cincinnati, OH, where they watch too many movies and plot their next culinary adventure. She currently teaches philosophy, spends too much time on social networking sites, and continues writing The Children of Man series and working on other projects. From time to time, she still investigates suspicious looking wardrobes. Elizabeth is a fantasy author repped by Joe Monti of Barry Goldblatt Literary.