Reviews of Shatter (The Children of Man, #1)

One of the better fantasy books I've read in a long time. I downloaded it on a whim and I'm pleasantly surprised. when is the next part ready?

Thought it was a good read especially for being free. I will definatley read the next book.

Haven't finished this yet, but this is good!

(no rating)
One of the most interesting fantasy novels I've read in a long time; and that says a lot. Everything about this book was first rate, from the concept and storyline- to the writing and editing. I can't believe that it was FREE. I don't mind paying for work of this quality. Great job, and I cannot wait for the next part. Thanks!

I just finished Shatter and I really look forward to seeing the story continue. This was a tremendous novel. Scratch that; it is a tremendous novel!

I downloaded Shatter because it was free. Plus, my mother's maiden name was Mock and I wondered if we might be related. I was born in Cincinnati, too... None of that stuff mattered, before long. I was caught up in the events, the characters, the world you created. I don't know when I've been so thoroughly involved in a book--and I not only read constantly but publish books under the name CWG Press. I wish I'd had the chance to publish this one.

Like all good fantasies, this book has clear villains and heroes, good versus evil, and world-changing events. Naturally the characters we follow are involved in the most significant actions and reactions. The good people are mostly flawed, and the bad ones often have redeeming qualities, and we don't know for sure on which side some of our favorite characters will end. We like them anyway, though. We just wish they would make the right decisions. Why do they keep missing what is so obvious to us?

The novel has depth and breadth too, and I can't wait to see what happens next.

I toyed with only giving this book 4 stars, as there are a few editing/proof-reading errors and I think the characters are a shade immature in their development (to be clear: their development by the author is excellent, but I feel she's painted a few too youngish; at times I nearly flashed on my niece's past addiction to the Redwall books -- but not quite), but that would be churlish, given the hours of enjoyment I nevertheless found in this book.

I will be eagerly anticipating the other two thirds of this trilogy (even paying for them!), as well as Elizabeth Mock's own maturing in her writing style. Already delightful, I expect her future work to be nothing but stellar.

Being the frugal sort (read: cheap bastard), I sample the freebies first, and I've "kissed many frogs" before finding this gem. Elizabeth's work will keep me hopeful that there still are great new talents out there, grain amidst the chaff, just awaiting the opportunity to be discovered.

My most sincere best wishes to Elizabeth to slavishly labor over the sequels and deliver them both promptly (soon, please!), but not before she's polished them to her absolute satisfaction.

This story exists in a unique world and one that I will enjoy visiting again. Faela is well-drawn and as a reader I wish for her to find the end of her struggle. Well written! Kudos!

(no rating)
I want the second one now! I can't wait! Please hurry!!!!!!!!!

I could not get enough of this book. Please finish the second!

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.