Zackery Alexander Humphreys

I really liked reading Epsilon A. R by Zackery Alexander Humphreys. It was a book that kept me guessing throughout which at the same time kept me wanting to find out more. It was weird getting to know all of the characters by their 3 letter, 3 number names like ALN-896 and I was glad when he ended up in prison as was known as Alan. I found myself reading his letter/number name as Alan too as it was much easier. After reading the book I don’t think I would like to live in Epsilon because it is so easy to break the law. You are not allowed to have friends, a family, a lover, you are basically put on Epsilon to work and do everything to a strict routine and that is it. The prison was not much better either although they were allowed to have friends and change their names, the prisoners were sent to compete against each other to death. It reminded me of The Hunger Games with that part of the book.
I liked Alan’s character and the friends he made, especially Twitch. Alan was a strong minded man and he seemed to not be defeated at any point.
For a book that I did not think I would like to start with I found myself really loving it. The plot ran smoothly and at a good pace and it kept me wanting more.
Left on a bit of a cliff-hanger I hope there is a book 2.… (más)

I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. I thought this was a really cool book. It was quite a page turner that kept me intrigued throughout. Imagine being forced to live under a dome of sorts, its 700 years later and they’ve forgotten what event occurred to cause them to live there. I found it interesting that people’s names were like license plates, for example ALN-896. There were so many rules too, no one’s life was their own and it was as if their only meaning of life was to serve Epsilon. When ALN-896 gets arrested, he meets others that were spending long sentences for ridiculous things, like having a relationship or friends. If you decide not to take your pill, that’s even worse. This was interesting cross between the classic novel 1984 and the current bestseller Hunger Games. If you enjoyed those, you’ll enjoy this unique take on a dystopian society.… (más)

I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest opinion. This book review is a part of a blog tour hosted by VBT Cafe

The story brings us into a futuristic city where robots and humans live and work together to make Epsilona better city. ALN-896 is used to the comfort of his life: he works during the day, takes the little pill and falls asleep. No dreams, no worries, no relationships. That is until one day he starts dreaming and remembering strange things. On the very same day a lot of strange things happen and he is taken to the man who he admired his whole life: the Chief Joseph Freedmen. Instead of telling him that he have been doing a great job, he accuses him of killing his coworker and puts him in prison. After adjusting to prison he makes friends and while trying to figure out his dreams, his only way to stay alive is to escape the prison.

First of all: Is there going to be a second book?? Because that ending made me really really really upset. What the hell happens to Alan? Arrrrrggggg! Epsilon A. R. has become my new favorite book with twists and unexpected events. It's been interesting to get into Alan's head and actually see how he changed. And his character! It was very well executed and presented. There were times when it was a little confusing between dreams and reality but as you read further, everything makes sense so thumbs up for following with the story. Definitely love the world that the author created and cannot wait to read more books from him. 5 Stars!!!… (más)

Everything is normal in this land under the ground. Well, normal for those that live in Epsilon, but for one particular man nothing is normal anymore. Things are happening that just don't make sense. Before he knows it, he is accused of murdering a co-worker and is thrown into prison. He doesn't remember killing him. He doesn't understand why authorities are showing him such special interest. His thoughts of his world will be changing forever.

Let me start off with the fact that I do not generally like Science Fiction. I read this one because I had the chance for a book tour and wanted to help a friend out. Well, this book surprised me. I did enjoy it. Now it still confused me like so many of this genre, but by the time I realized I was confused I was also trapped in the story and had to get to the end.

The plot was very interesting. At times it seemed familiar from movies I had seen but then the plot would switch gears and I'd be seeing something new and fresh again. (Keep in mind that every book can be compared to another movie or book somewhere.)

There are many unique characters that help the story pull you along. They were realistic in keeping with their traits and in the various circumstances. A lot of them left me confused just because they were shrouded in so much mystery which was the intent by the author.

I don't want to give you any spoilers, but the end was a disappointment only because I need more. Not sure if there will be a sequel, but there better be. :)

If you like science fiction, give this book a try. If you sort of like it, read it. I did enjoy it and it has me looking more at this genre.

Note: This book was supplied through a virtual book tour with no expectation of a positive review.… (más)