The Cool Thing: A Dark Comedy. Or Not. by Robert Rife
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is so weird! The writing style is the star in this read. If you are a fan of just about every genre, then this book is right up your alley. You will at least find one or several parts that you will like. Strange, odd, funny, sci-fi weirdness is about all I can say LOL
Reviewed by @danihoneycutt
The Cool Thing: A Dark Comedy. Or Not. by Robert Rife
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was unlike anything I’ve read before. There were many entertaining aspects and laughs throughout. There are not a lot of redeeming qualities to the characters in this book and it reads as detached from the story and more about just following the authors train of thought. That being said, I had fun reading this book and it kept me interested in reading through to the end.
A Quirk of Destiny by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Quirk of Destiny (Quirk of Destiny Book 1) by Catherine Greenall. This is the story of Calum who has been trying to recover from his fiance’s suicide so he has thrown himself into his work. He is a Government Scientist so he has plenty to do. His friends have tried setting him up but he’s just not really interested. When a deadly disease starts killing all kinds of people he feels like he needs to do something. In trying to find a cure for this disease he uncovers a horrible conspiracy and unleashes a deadly mutant. If these people do survive this disease they are attacked by paranormal mutants. Cal has to do something to help save humanity. Will he be able to save those he love and the world? Read this fast paced dystopian read!
The Cool Thing: A Dark Comedy. Or Not. by Robert Rife
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was just wow. A new author for me and unlike any other I have ever read! There is such a quirkiness but also just something that draws you in and traps you, leaving you needing to know where it goes! I am trying not to spill or give away anything but truly what a cool book! I would definitely recommend this book AND this author! He brings so much to the table and this book had everything you could imagine included in its plot! A great read hands down!
The Cool Thing: A Dark Comedy. Or Not. by Robert Rife
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
THE COOL THING: A DARK COMEDY. OR NOT. is the first book in THE COOL THING SERIES. It’s a satisfyingly weird book that takes the kind of yuckier, messier parts of humanity and gives them a good shake up with some truly wacky sci-fi elements.
I’m always a fan of a detailed book that really captures my imagination, and this definitely did that. Somehow, the level of grossness at times made it even more vivid and tangible for me, and I was really drawn in. Like, we see former sporting hero Carl trying to salvage a pack of cigarettes that had an unfortunate encounter with a bottle of beer. I’m pretty sure I could smell and taste them as I was reading.
I wouldn’t recommend this if you’re looking for loveable characters. But you’ll certainly find interesting characters here! Readers may find some of the content offensive or upsetting, and this is definitely not a book for younger readers.
This book gets five stars from me. I was totally engrossed, and really enjoyed it! It has me looking for the weird and magical in the everyday, which is wonderful!
Castor’s Kiss by Tai James
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Castor’s Kiss: Soul Bonded in the Stars Book 2
4 out of 5 Stars
This book is a page turner. It is the perfect mix of fantasy, romance, sci-f- and dystopian future. Mia Grey is one strong mother. Forced to fight for her life on the daily, and for the enjoyment of others, she becomes a crowd favorite. But that is not what she wants in life. Who wants to remain a captive forever? Castor arrives and he claims to hold the key to her escape, but is he who he really says he is? And can Mia trust him? This book is quick paced, riveting and you do not want to put it down. Lovers of Sci-fi, Romance and fantasy will adore this book! 4 out of 5 Stars.
Reviewed by @kgregory
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a dystopian novel with an emphasis on real world problems. The author has created a story that is fictional and set in a dystopian world but has given it a very realistic feel by basing it on current global issues such as GM vs organic food and general political views.
I thought the idea behind the story was good. It was an enjoyable plot with characters that fit well within the story. I found it hard to really connect with it though as, at times, it felt like it was a little too political for my liking. While I don’t’ mind reading books like that, I prefer my dystopian novels to be more on the fictional side.
However, the book was well written and certainly interesting. It gave me a good view into the authors writing style and has made me want to read more of her work.
The Cool Thing: A Dark Comedy. Or Not. by Robert Rife
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Quirky and left-field
This was uniquely crazy! I enjoyed the dark humour and madness surrounding the eccentric characterisation. There’s suspense, sci fi, and some slightly horrific scenes but it was captivating. A very different, but talented, writing style delivers an imagery that is hard to forget. A very entertaining read.
“https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61650104-castor-s-kiss” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”>
Castor’s Kiss: Soul Bonded in the Stars Book 2 by Tai James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Mia is a woman who hasn’t had a lot of luck over the last few years, she has been kidnaped, tortured and now she is fighting for her life in an arena on Planet Nod which is run by a sadistic individual who runs an arena where Mia has to fight to the death everyday, but she is damn good at it and has become a fan favourite. The fact that she has survived all of this is a miracle, but it has changed her, however, she has never forgotten the dream of escaping and trying to go back to her old life, but it has felt so far away for a long time that she has resigned herself to her fate, but one day that all changes.
Castor is an Atlantean and his race have been reclusive, but he is about to bring them into the light and become a bit of a spectacle when he goes to liberate her, however, he soon comes to realise that this will not be as simple as he first planned. When Castor and Mia first lay eyes on each other, they cannot look away and this is something neither of them expected and it is this that leads them into trouble as Castor’s plan goes awry and the two end up thrown together in the arena and have to make a decision in order to survive, although Mia does not trust easily and she doesn’t believe that Castor is meant to be her saviour, she can’t.
The owner of the arena decides that both Mia and Castor are going to have to fight in the ultimate fighting challenge and battle for their survival, so as she explains just what they have gotten themselves into and how this challenge works, they both devise an escape plan, but while this is all happening, they cannot deny that there is a growing attraction between them, no matter how much they try, it is at this point that Castor realises that Mia is his soulmate, but Mia is shocked and struggles to accept it.
Will Castor and Mia be able to escape the arena before the big battle or will death come before escape and how will their bond as fated mates get in the way, or enable them to overcome the odds stacked against them? This is a fast paced fantasy where the odds are against everyone and danger lies around every turn which will draw you in and keep you invested all the way through.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
The Cool Thing: A Dark Comedy. Or Not. by Robert Rife
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a strange and unique story unlike any I have read before. The chapters are short and snappy, making the book quite fast paced. There isn’t really much room for connecting with the characters but this is really all about the story. This is a completely new author to me and this book has intrigued me as to whether all of his work is like this. I will certainly be reading more to find out.
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
This is book one of this Sci-Fi series and exceeded my expectations on all fronts!
Catherine Greenall does a tremendous job w/ the creation and building of the intriguing multi-faceted characters within this book. I love a great dystopian twist and the dramatic build up had me on the edge of my seat. Normally I would hate to read a book with a cliffhanger, but I’m convinced that book number two will be even better than the first.
I think the author’s scientific background enhances her ability to create an extremely convincing scientific plot within this story. Science and greed pits society against those who have a bit too much power, and it has all gone straight to their heads. The main character, Calum works for the Dept of Food and Environment as a scientist, testing the safety of food related technology. He begins to investigate strange happenings that he believes has a scientific reason behind them. Soon, he finds the world in a full-blown epidemic that quickly overwhelms the world. Calum believes he may have uncovered the truth and soon takes those immune to the questionable contagions under his wing to embark on one heck of an adventure.
This is a quick paced read and was entertaining from page one.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. If I could give this a higher “grade”, I would.
I think folks will enjoy this read and find themselves engrossed in a new series!
Castor’s Kiss by Tai James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ok so I found this book and was in the mind set of branching out in my comfort zone of what I like to read. So I went in completely blind on this one all I knew was it was a Sci-fi Romance, and not my normal reading pleasure. But boy am I incredibly glad I took this leap of faith because this book had me completely captured from start to finish. Mia is a character that I will remember for a long time. Each character was so easy to connect with, them simply pull you into their world and you don’t want to leave. I’m so happy I found this author and can’t wait for more. Five huge stars and highly recommended.
The Cool Thing: A Dark Comedy. Or Not. by Robert Rife
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
The Cool Thing by Robert Rife is a bit of a madcap fantasy, with plenty of dark humour, adventure, action, danger, suspense, emotion, drama, surprising developments, imagination, all while packing loads of originality. This is the first book that I have read by Mr. Rife, and if this story is anything to go by, it certainly won’t be my last.
It reminded me a bit of Douglas Adams or Terry Pratchett’s stories. A zany, comical, madcap fantasy that sweeps you up in all the action, shakes you up a bit, and doesn’t let you go until you have read every crazy, cool word.
Well worth the read!
Thank you, Robert Rife!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
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!
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!
a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61247292-castor-s-kiss” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”>Castor’s Kiss by Tai James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Castor’s Kiss is a great science fiction romance about two people that find each other. Mia Grey has been tortured and watched someone close to her die. Castor has forced himself not to have a soulmate because his family didn’t believe in things like that. They meet and their attraction is instant the second they lock eyes. This book has action, drama and romance. Mia and Castor get into battle with other people that are enemies. The fight scenes are great and detailed, letting me picture what the conflicts are in my head. The author does a great job with world building by creating futuristic planets for the book and different characters that are unique for the story. I recommend anyone who loves sci-fi and enjoys romance to read Castor’s Kiss. This book is a great example of true love and how there is someone out there for everyone.
Reviewed by @cw31
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.
The Cool Thing: A Dark Comedy. Or Not. by Robert Rife
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
It is total mayhem and madness. I love black humour and that is what this book has. It is one crazy and unique story. Even though it is one book there is a story for each character that pulls the overall story together. I laughed, I cringed, I gasped, I shook my head but, in the end, I really enjoyed it.
It is a horror, sci fi, suspense story and a buffet of everything in between that will have you completely enthralled. I really enjoyed Robert’s sense of humour and look forward to reading more. This fast-paced tale is certainly different and has lots of action and adventure.
I am not going to give anything away as you need to read it yourself to fully appreciate it.
Reviewed by @jennadb