I have to say I'm not generally a fan of post apocalyptic fiction, but Terry Tyler's books are my exception. Why? Because of th...  Read More

I have to say I'm not generally a fan of post apocalyptic fiction, but Terry Tyler's books are my exception. Why? Because of the characters. In a way, it doesn't matter what period the books are set in because her people are always real, rounded and totally believable. Blackthorn could have been set in medieval times (although the language is very much of our time) rather than 100 years in the future; the life the majority of people lead in this post apocalypse age is actually just as primitive as those of much earlier centuries. In Blackthorn, the story has a similar feel and setting to the later books in the Project Renova series (post Tipping Point) although it could easily be read as a stand alone. However, I really became involved with the main characters and this made the book for me. The story itself is a scarily compelling look at the power of idealism when presented by charismatic personalities. It made me think of many situations in both history and the present day when people have been persuaded to follow an ideal en masse. Terry Tyler's writing always leaves me with something to mull over, and I like that. Altogether, this book is a great read and I'm now very much looking forward to reading the sequel to her previous book, Hope, which I understand will be coming soon.  Read Less

This book is set within the world of the Project Renova series, but is able to be read as a standalone.  Backstory regarding wh...  Read More

This book is set within the world of the Project Renova series, but is able to be read as a standalone.  Backstory regarding what happened in the world during that series is explained so the reader can easily follow along.  Since I've read the Project Renova series, I adored the mention of some of those characters - but I also enjoyed meeting these new ones.  Evie is a delight - feisty, independent, and smart.  She doesn't automatically drink the Koolaid like most of the folks in Blackthorn - she's skeptical, asks questions, and has a good head on her shoulders.  Female readers will be enraged at the way some women are treated in Blackthorn.  It's scary to think society could regress to that point after a postapocalyptic event.  This author has a talent for character development, and the story is primarily character-driven.  I enjoyed the changing POVs between Evie, Byron, and Hemsley, whose character arc is especially riveting.  Ryder is charismatic and personable, and perfect to carry out the role he's been given - but you just never quite trust him.Blacktorn is a compelling and thought-provoking read I found difficult to put down.  As I mentioned, this is a standalone book, but after finishing it, don't be suprised if you find yourself purchasing the Project Renova series.    Read Less