Antipodes by T S Simons
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I want to start by saying that this was a pretty good book. It was written well and I enjoyed the majority of the book. I did have a hard time understanding the science part of it. But that is not because it wasn’t explained well. My mind just doesn’t work that way.
Antipodes by T S Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a hidden gem of a book! I almost didn’t read this, I read the synopsis and thought it wasn’t my kind of story but there was just something that seemed a little interesting so I gave it a go and I am so glad that I did. The authors writing was just amazing and it didn’t take me long to be hooked on what I was reading. It was very obvious that the author had done a huge amount of research before writing the story and I think that made a huge amount of difference to what I read.
The character development was great and I really liked Cam!
I am definitely looking forward to the next book in the series! I highly recommend Antipodes – it was a fantastic read!
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Antipodes
Antipodes Series: Book 1
By: T.S. Simons
Review By: Susan Ratchford
5 Stars
What would happen if you were chosen to help establish a new community after a viral Epidemic threatens to desolate the population? How would you survive or even begin to start anew? That’s the question T.S. Simons poses in her first installment of The Antipodes Series.
Wow, I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the second one! After the past few years and our own pandemic still fresh in our minds, you can’t help but compare the situations. This book was really gripping and makes you think of the what ifs, what I would do in that situation. Would I be chosen? I couldn’t help but feel emotionally connected to the main character Cam and everything he goes through in this story, everything he loses and finds, including himself. He is such a relatable character and his relationship with Freya is written so genuinely you can’t help but root for them. Very well written with such intense detail you can see how much research T.S. Simons put into her craft. I highly recommend reading this series and continuing this eye-opening journey with me!
Antipodes by T S Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A gripping dystopian romance, set in Australia in the aftermath of a global outbreak which threatens to destroy the planet. Cam Mackintosh, is one of a select group of highly skilled young people who have been selected by Australian scientists, to establish a sustainable island community. This community will be built on the modern values of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Once Cam overcomes his loneliness and anxiety at his strange new life, he starts to make friends and finds a sense of belonging. Just as Cam is building his new life with partner Freja, his dreams are shattered when she goes missing.
He must go on a journey of discovery, in the hopes of finding her. Cam comes across other communities like his own and finds both friendship and acceptance within them. However, he is forced to make a decision which will change everything. This was a real page turner with an intriguing storyline which had me hooked from start to finish. The characters are likeable and relatable which made me feel engaged with them, especially Cam, who brings the story together. The setting is brought to life by the authors descriptive narrative and I felt immersed in the dystopian world that Cam finds himself in. An enjoyable and entertaining read, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Dystopian books are a new genre to me and they really take you outside box. The what if questions and the routes that can be taken make these reads the most fun.
Antipodes was a really good story that most can relate to having lived through a pandemic. The characters were well developed and easy to relate to. The authors detailing and vivid descriptions played to my imagination as if I were directly in the moment with the characters. Cam was a great lead character. You feel for him having to make these life altering decisions and leaving everything and everyone he loves behind. As he adjusts to the new life he has chosen he does find stability, friendship, love, and a sense of self. However with the good you take the bad, and Cam finds himself under circumstances yet again where he has to be all in or all out.
Antipodes by T S Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh, you can’t help but feel for Cam. Not to mention the others that are swept away via this whirlwind of a decision, change of lifestyle, and knowledge that those you are leaving behind, are those that you will never get to see again. I admire the writing style of this author, the research and information given through this story is well done, and you are bound to learn something while whipping through these pages. The character development, world building, and everything else you could possibly want made for a well polished story for the anyone that loves Dystopian adventures.
This is the first installment, and I have to tell you, I have the remaining four novels of this series already in my shopping cart, though, tempted to purchase the hard copies as I would love to have them on hand in my personal library to read over and over again and to lend to anyone who asks for a good recommendation. To read this series on the other side of our pandemic was a trip, and I am grateful that ours wasn’t nearly as severe as Cam’s world. Highly recommend, and very much look forward to reading the rest, well done!
P.S. This is worth checking out: https://www.antipodesmap.com/
Antipodes by T S Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Not a book I’d typically read but I’m glad I gave it a chance! Imagine being chosen to go live on a island, pretty much inside of a huge dome, because the water around the entire world is contaminated and people are dying. Intense and scary right? I wouldn’t make it lol. But reading the hardships and the struggles..I just couldn’t imagine. This is definitely a page turner. A few surprises but I won’t say what, because I don’t want to spoil anything. I’ll definitely be checking out more books by this author!
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I usually avoid dystopian reads because it scares me and makes me think of things that very well may become a reality , I know I’m just strange 🙃😉
I could resist this though and I think it lit if it had to do with the cover art as well as what’s happened In in the world the last 2 and a bit years and with Covid and the devastation it caused , I lost a very dear friend to it so some of the things in this read really pulled at my heart strings …..
Expect the unexpected that’s all I want to say ….
I just loved the characters Cam and Freya but Cam holds a very special place in my heart for so many different reason but do yourself a favour and get to know them yourself 🙃
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was wonderfully written! The setting was described so eloquently that I could see in my head what the characters were seeing. The distinct personalities of each of the characters was amusing because I could hear the tone that they would have been speaking in, and I truly appreciated the level of sarcasm some of them used. The storyline fascinated me, using an event the whole world is somewhat familiar with, and taking the main character – Cam – on a journey to find himself, and more. Cam himself was so fabulously written, and I could see myself becoming friends with him. The way he faced each obstacle he faced, even struggling with his anxiety was amazing. I can’t wait to read more about his journey and how it continues!
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
A Quirk of Destiny is the first book in the Apocalyptic Trilogy by Catherine Greenall. This is a though-provoking sci-fi thriller with a dystopian-esque scenario that incorporates an outbreak which causes a zombie(like) apocalypse, bringing action, danger, violence, deadly illness, government conspiracies and cover-ups, politics, agendas, paranormally strong zombies, environmental messages, Gm vs organic food debate, pro-veganism ideals, and plenty of dramatic developments.
With everything that is happening in the world today, I couldn’t help but think that this scenario could very-well come to pass. Which made this book a little more disturbing than it may otherwise have been. It certainly made me sit up and take notice. Giving plenty to ponder over as the story unfolded.
Catherine Greenall’s story certainly packs a punch what with her dynamic, detailed, and descriptive storytelling allowing her to paint a truly believable and dramatic picture.
When a scientist, Callum, raises concerns about the testing and regulation of food production, his warnings go unheeded and are instead supressed. But when a deadly illness spreads across the world Callum can’t help but step up and try to help. But he is in for more shocks as mutants with paranormal abilities begin attacking. With danger, violence, politics, major corruption, government conspiracies, and evil forces- what can Callum do in the face of such overwhelming odds? And what does that mean for the fate of humanity? If you want the answers to those questions, you will have to read all the dramatic details for yourself.
If you love zombie apocalypse stories with an original spin, environmental issues and other messages, believability, danger, and plenty of action- then this is definitely the book/series for you.
….And as this is the first book in a trilogy, the story is set to continue in Book #2.
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Catherine Greenall!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
An extremely well written dystopian Thriller that is so well done you want to keep reading!
what happens when rich people have too much power and want to play games with lives….
what happens when you introduce GM feed to stock that humans consume… but this gm feed changes the animals very DNA which in turn changes the DNA of the consumer and they turn into….genies?!?!? some aggressive and violent… some more productive but with so many different abilities.
as this sweeps the nation and no one knows what’s causing them to be sick and the violent genies attack can a small group of scientists who knew this was a problem and keep getting attacked to be silenced save man kind from extinction?
if you love dystopian or are interested but haven’t tried it this book is a great addition to your library!
Antipodes by T S Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Antipodes is book one in the Antipodes series. This is the first book that i have read by this author. Antipodes is Dystopian romance read. This Read is really amazing and really well written and everyone should give this book a chance i don’t think you will be disappointed. I found myself engrossed in this read. I enjoyed reading about Cam and really felt for him, I seriously can not wait to read the rest of the books in this series. This book comes highly recommended from me and its a must add to your TBR list. Thank you to this amazing author for a wonderful series to read. I Look forward to reading more of your books, Thanks again.
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
An extremely well written dystopian Thriller that is so well done you want to keep reading!
what happens when rich people have too much power and want to play games with lives….
what happens when you introduce GM feed to stock that humans consume… but this gm feed changes the animals very DNA which in turn changes the DNA of the consumer and they turn into….genies?!?!? some aggressive and violent… some more productive but with so many different abilities.
as this sweeps the nation and no one knows what’s causing them to be sick and the violent genies attack can a small group of scientists who knew this was a problem and keep getting attacked to be silenced save man kind from extinction?
if you love dystopian or are interested but haven’t tried it this book is a great addition to your library!
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I loved the level of detail in this book! Antipodes is a post-apocalyptic novel about a select group of people who have been isolated from the effects of a global pandemic that threatens to eliminate life on Earth. The main character, Cam, struggles with how he fits into society and all of the differences in living under the dome. You can tell that Simons put a lot of thought into making sure that all of the readers’ questions would be answered because this novel has a phenomenal amount of world building. This story set up the sequel in a way that made me want to pick it up right away!
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This one is intriguing. It’s in the realm of The Scorch Trials, Fifth Wave, and the Divergent series. Those are the immediate stories that pop into my head as I read this book. Following the main character through the seeming normal morning to something that is beyond grasp, his feelings and emotions are relatable and easy to understand.
Post-Covid, reading something like this is fascinating. Going through something like this would be scary for anyone. Having to choose whether to work harder than you ever have before to save the species or to stay with your family? I’m not sure what my answer would be. But knowing my vulnerabilities, I can empathize with Campbell’s sister, Sorcha. She’s brilliant and intelligent, but he was the one chosen to go. Like having to see someone off to war, knowing you may, or won’t ever see someone again, it takes a deep emotional toll on a person. Especially someone who thinks of everyone else before themselves.
I absolutely love the description of Campbell’s mom. The fiery, five foot woman, who no one wants to trifle with. I couldn’t help but giggle in that moment because I’ve met women like that before and am one myself. Her strength is amazing.
Watching Freyja and Campbell’s relationship grow through the book is such a cool thing. It’s more than just about sex between these two, you can really tell that they truly care about each other. One is more emotional than the other, the other being more logical. It’s just amazing to see how the communities grow and thrive after such hardships and come out working hard as a group to make life worth living together.
The author does an amazing job when it comes to the scientific descriptions of everything and the fact that mental health is talked about too just made it more real for me. Like Campbell’s anxiety, and then, the grief along the way of all of those who were chosen, and those who left loved ones behind felt real and tangible like you were really there.
This story is so cool. There are things all over the book that help you learn so much. I didn’t even know what antipodes were, but man… I feel like I’m learning a lot from this.
Not only is this book an amazing read when it comes to the characters, but the scenery is gorgeous, and the amount of scientific and philosophical knowledge that the author incorporates is fantastic. I found myself in awe about the things I didn’t know that I learned from this book.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
A Quirk of Destiny by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was amazing. It is my first book by this author and I was so pleased. All the elements that are relatable today made it hard to put down. I can see it in my mind while reading it. The author did a great job with all the attention to details. I cannot wait to read more in this series.
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this story. It was one of those books you read that even though it is fiction you could imagine something similar happening. With all the additives and GM stuff that is added to our food these days we really don’t know what we are consuming. I really appreciated the research the author put into this book so that it had more of a realistic feel and it makes the feeling that this could become a reality instead of a work for fiction. The twists and turns kept me gripped and I was shocked at how far the cover up goes and how much is hidden that we wouldn’t know about.
In this story we follow Calum as he tries to find out what is causing this outbreak which is turning normally reasonable people into aggressive humans. Could it be something they’ve eaten? When it seems that the only people not affected are vegans this leads Calum on the trail fo what is being used to taint the meat and dairy products. What he discovers is a bunch of secrets and cover ups that no one should know about and the consequence of this knowledge puts him in a danger situation.
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Calum O’Connell is a scientist with the Department of Food and Environment that starts to suspect that genetically-modified food is responsible for the zombie-like dystopia that he has found himself in. Only people that don’t consume animal products are able to avoid the mutation that makes people have a reaction and become so aggressive that society is about to fall. Calum builds a group of unaffected survivors to try to find answers. A Quirk of Destiny is a very good thriller that made me very happy that I am vegan. The plot and characters are well-written. The world-building is awesome. This author really makes you think about what could be under similar circumstances. It was a bit terrifying. A great read for those that like dystopian books.
A Quirk of Destiny by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This dystopian thriller has a plot based around the GM versus Organic debate that is well known around the United States, if not the world. It focuses on a particular genetic mutation that is able to enter and affect the human body when consumed from animal based products. These humans turn into what the characters in the novel call “Genies”. These Genies are violent, unreasonable, and zombie-like. Much of the focus is centered on the government hiding the fact that they allowed these GM’s to be distributed throughout the world and the friend group that the novel focuses on specifically is trying their best to spread the word so others are not affected by these GM’s.
To be quite honest, I was not able to enjoy this book as much as I wanted to. Dystopian is one of my favorite genre’s, so I was eager to get my hands on it. The beginning is much too political and scientific for my fictional brain, making it difficult for me to dive right into. The characters are very strong-willed and interesting, but I feel like information is thrown at you in random places throughout the book. I also feel that the novel was slower-paced than your typical dystopian writing. There is so much happening that you really have to be paying attention or you will miss a valuable piece of information. If you like a more realistic dystopian take, this novel is for you. Unfortunately I could not separate the political ideologies in order to enjoy this book as much as I wanted to.
Review by @aware
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is an interesting take on the dystopian genre and had me turning the page to see how the story unfolds. The story is told from a third person point of view, based in the UK, and is written in British English. There’s some slang as an American that I didn’t understand, but figured it out as I read on.
I haven’t read a novel with this type of outbreak leading up to a dystopian future and it’s a distinguishing feature- something I wouldn’t have thought of! If you like dystopian stories, this would be a fantastic addition to the TBR pile!
Reviewed by @bilberrysweet
Brandy Vaughn, July 2022
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Overall very good book. Not what you would first expect. I did get tripped up on some of the more scientific parts but got the idea and kept going. I already know that GM foods are bad for you, but this makes you think a bit more about what goes in your mouth. Greenall did a very good job using fiction to make us more aware of what could happen if we don’t make some changes. I think this book would be good for young adult through adult.
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a great opportunity for readers who have not read or just starting to read apocalyptic books. This has a great narrative and world-building. It has a few sentences that are stumbling blocks or have to be re-read to understand, but you ignore it when reading it to find out what happens. I quickly immersed myself into the book and was eager to know more about the conspiracy and how the government caused the end of the world. The characters are personable and they are easy to know. This is an overall experience. Not at all your typical zombie/plague type of book.
The main characters discover a virus that was first tested on rats and then quickly went south. Both scientists and citizens alike try to fight or uncover the cause and stop it. But it is too late the government quickly covers it up and tries to kill everyone involved. Not realizing it’s too late. This is a seat-of-your-pants thriller/ conspiracy at the core and a plague/zombie book secondly. Definitely worth reading.
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is fiction, but it is filled with so many factual things that it makes it even scarier. Could this happen? Could the overpopulation of the world and our reliance on genetically-modified foods create the end of the world?
Catherine Greenall used real research and stories in order to build this very real, very intense world where society as we know it can no longer exist. There were so many twists and turns – and I did not see them coming!
Knowing this is a trilogy, I cannot wait to see what is next for these characters. I fell in love with so many of them, and I was always rooting for humanity to win.
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Quirk of Destiny is the first book in this trilogy and a unique dystopian Sci-Fi Thriller. It is action packed and fast paced with a zombie (‘genies’) type apocalypse, global conspiracy and a world on the edge of ruin. Where toxic food is a reality and being vegan is the best option. Ironic for me as I am allergic to most fruit and veg.
Catherine’s passion for animals and the environment shines through in her narrative of this tale that could in all possibility become a reality one day. Scary thought.
With a deadly sickness, mortal danger, mutants with paranormal powers you are in for a ride of your life.
Callum soon finds himself in a fight for himself and the world but who can he trust? Just who is behind this terrible conspiracy and is bringing destruction to the world?
If post-apocalyptic sci fi thrillers is what you like then you will love this.
Reviewed by @jennadb
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is one terrifying book. I know it’s written as fiction but it sure feels as if it could happen. We hear about GMO type stuff and that all the time. I love a scary thriller that leaves me ont he edge-of-my-seat holding my breath. Calum is on a mission to find out what is going on and why it’s being covered up. Through the story, there are plot twists and turns that take you on the ride for your life with him. Exciting, intriguing, this book had me from the start and I didn’t want to stop until it was done. The characters were fantastic and well-written. The author did a wonderful job in putting the story together. You can tell she did her research. This is intense, top-secret zombie apocalypse type stuff. Great story. I wish I could give more than 5 stars.
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow! This book certainly brought on the wow factor to the extreme. A lot of this book had twists and turns I did not expect to say the least, I was very much hooked and intrigued as I read this book!
In this apocalyptic thriller, it held more than I thought it would have at first glance. I fell in love with the characters and the writing. The book was brilliant to say the least. It made me be curious about what was going on with the world as it was in this book, but yet wondered if humanity really had a chance? Could this all have been prevented? if this truly the side effect of ultimate power? I was hooked, and this had a lot of gripping suspense, and I could not put it down! Loved this book so freaking much!
Amazing read from start to finish! I think even if apocalyptic reads are not usually your type you still need to read this! I loved it! Highly recommend this must read book! Do not pass it up for any reason!
The Best of the Year 2013. Best books, another definite must-read thriller. Michael Smith, Green (Living) Review
A global conspiracy to control the world by big corporations and evil government infiltrators masterly presented. You will love this conspiracy, presents enough of today’s food service doubts to keep you reading. I’m hooked, will certainly keep a close eye on “what if” this really was to happen, makes this book so much fun to read. Burntroot Broadcasting, Canada
What happens when too much power is held by too few people, where science is used against rather than for the good of mankind. A government scientist is puzzled by a number of incidents involving fellow scientists finds himself caught up in a deadly worldwide epidemic. Dark forces try to manipulate science to control the worlds’ population, as climate change will eventually make it impossible to feed everyone. An anti-GMO novel examines the impacts of new technology on the world with possible environmental and animal right consequences. My Green Directory
Corrupt systems. An evil plot. Can a scientist save humanity from certain death?
Calum still hasn’t recovered from his fiancé’s suicide. So, the principled government scientist throws himself into his work, despite his friends’ efforts to pair him off. When he raises concerns that food not adequately tested has already been approved, he is shocked at attempts to silence him.
As a deadly sickness sweeps the world, the natural leader feels responsible for keeping the survivors safe, especially attractive scientist Jessie. But he finds himself in mortal danger as he unearths a terrible conspiracy and mutants with paranormal powers attack survivors.
Can Calum save humanity from annihilation by an ancient evil force?
Based on real science, A Quirk of Destiny imagines our future if we continue headlong on the current path of toxic food and environmental destruction, combined with political and corporate corruption.
If you like zombie apocalypse, global conspiracy and intelligently written fiction then you’ll love Catherine Greenall’s shocking book.
Click here to view the Book Trailer for A Quirk of Destiny (Quirk of Destiny Book 1) by Catherine Greenall
Catherine Greenall is an environmentalist committed to using her writing to make a difference to the way people treat others, animals and the environment.
She gained a Master of Philosophy degree in Chemistry and turned to writing after a long career as a government scientist. A voracious reader, she always loved to write stories as a child and feels blessed to be able to spend more time writing now.
She is the author of an apocalyptic, visionary, science fiction trilogy. The first book ‘A Quirk of Destiny’ was awarded joint best book of 2013 by Green Living. The second book in the trilogy is ‘Return to Gallanvaig’ and the shocking final book is ‘Destiny of Light.’ The trilogy is based on actual science and imagines a world where toxic food has caused a deadly disease, where there are corrupt power systems and mutants with strange powers caused by the sickness. This trilogy was written as a warning about the potential dangers in our food and how this situation has been allowed to flourish.
Catherine’s work also includes ghost, horror and vegan cookery, as well as scientific works. She is a long-term vegan and her published works include a vegan cookbook, “Vegans Can’t Eat Anything!” and collections of short stories.
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a well developed story that could have very well been a future qe as humans has to face in the wake of facing modern times without a modern solution. The book although a part of a series reads well enough that it can be enjoyed alone or together as it is intended. The story is a dystopian romance that leaves the readers on the edge of their seat in suspense as the story takes surprising twists and turns. I would recommend this book as a good read and a wonderful eye opener for how much humanity takes for granted, but that could be so quickly changed in a moments notice.
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is attention grabbing, hard to put down and thought provoking all while still being a great fiction that is enjoyable to read! The characters were well planned and written and you feel connected to them easily! The story was engrossing and I had a hard time putting the book down. I was satisfied with how the book played out and look forward to reading more from the author and the series!
~ ~ ~ ~ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Would YOU be chosen?
After a global outbreak that threatens to decimate the planet, Australian scientists select a group of highly skilled young people to establish a sustainable island community built on the modern values of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Lonely and homesick, Cam Mackintosh overcomes his anxiety and finds belonging, passion, and friendship in his new life before his dreams are suddenly ripped from his grasp. Sent hurtling on a journey of discovery, he finds friendship and acceptance when he encounters other communities like his own, but he is forced to make a decision that will ultimately change everything.
Click here to view the Book Trailer for Antipodes (Antipodes Book 1) by T.S. Simons
T.S. Simons is an Australian-based author of Scottish heritage. Living in the alpine region of Australia, she believes in the values of sustainability and community in a world where we place greater value on possessions than people. She enjoys posing philosophical questions that make readers think, and reflect on the world we live in. The Antipodes series addresses the question—if we gave young people the opportunity to start over, would we replicate the mistakes of the past?
Her desire to assist others saw her working in international development before realising that her passion lay in education. She holds Bachelor and Masters degrees from Monash University and enjoys reading, travelling, mythology, snow skiing, and attempting to live as sustainably as possible. She is owned by two, rather bossy, standard schnauzers and two rescue cats who co-manage her household.
The Antipodes series comprises Antipodes, The Liminal Space, Ouroboros, Caim and Sessrumnir. She is developing a related series, The 45th Parallel, which extends on the Antipodes series. This series comprises The 45th Parallel, Orenda and Bifrost.