I received a copy of this ebook as part of Library Thing Early Reviewers. I was immediately intrigued by this book. The writing seemed fresh and experimental, but byv the time I got to the Relatable Jeff section, I was sold, possibly because it reminded me so much of my favourite video game (the Stanley Parable). The book contains within our several different writing styles and explores multiple narrative choices in a captivating, expert way. I loved the ending. If you are a reader who has ever wanted to get in to metafiction or more involved literature (Ex: House of leaves, tree of codes, etc) but have been intimidated by it (or just find it unattainable as many of these books contain steep price tags), this is a good, accessible intro to the concept. I can absolutely see how this book would not be for everyone and I anticipate it getting mixed reviews due to it's unconventional construction, but I think the risks pay off and fortune favors the brave. I really enjoyed this book. 4 stars ( )

"You Are Here" by JD Turner is an unconventional exploration of the relationship between the author and Warren, a young aspiring writer. The book cleverly intertwines a series of Warren's short stories with the author's reflective commentary, creating a chronological narrative.

The book caught my attention from the beginning with its intriguing premise and introduction of Warren. You instantly like him and want to read about what happens. I found 'The Perfect Twist,' the first of the short stories, particularly fascinating. However, as Warren's short stories started taking on dark and sometimes melancholic undertones, I found myself questioning the author's interpretations and responses to them. Though I continued to enjoy the short stories, the overall narrative became worrying and sometimes frustrating.

Overall, it differed from what I would typically read, and I enjoyed it all the more because it took time to read and digest each "chapter". The twist at the end left me confused and perturbed. I'm still not quite sure how I feel about it.

I plan on writing more about my thoughts on the ending, but I just finished reading it and need time to digest it. ( )

Although the synopsis and underlying concept of this story attracted my attention, I have to admit that initially I found it difficult to feel in any way engaged with it and even considered giving up because it felt too confusing. However, as I’d received a complimentary copy from the author (via LibraryThing), I decided to persevere: a good decision as it turned out because I came to appreciate the inherent cleverness of all the twists in the developing story. I’m finding it impossible to go into any detail about the elements which brought about my ‘conversion’ because of the danger of spoiling what has to be the reader’s individual ‘journey’ through this thought-provoking story. Therefore, maybe all I can do is to encourage anyone who enjoys being ‘challenged and surprised’ to pick up a copy of this truly original piece of storytelling ... particularly as one theme explores the very nature of reviewing!

NB Although I won this in the February draw, sadly I didn’t receive my copy until early April so was unable to read it in time to post a review on, or close to, the publishing date. ( )

I received an advance reader copy of this novel from LibraryThing Early Reviewers. Firstly, I need to say I read the book cover to cover and enjoyed it. JD, a journalist, meets Warren, a new writer, at a conference. Warren shares a short story with JD and this (and the subsequent other short stories from Warren) is included in the narrative. JD changes the format of the short story, called The Perfect Twist, and analyses it and then asks Warren if they can publish it. Warren declines this opportunity to become a published author which puzzles JD. And so begins a conversation of sorts where Warren sends the latest short story and JD replies with some anyalysis and criticism of the story, often making huge leaps and adding 2+2 and making 5. Until the end Warren's voice is only in the stories, until eventually we read Warren's thoughts from an email. An interestingly told tale. ( )

I reviewed this book for Library Thing.

On the plus side - Punctuation and Grammar both very good. Well done.

On the down side - I found the concept and the writing so very boring and gave up on page 51, about a quarter in. I looked at the Acknowledgements and have to say I didn't skip to the end, as i didn't care about the two authors featured in the book.

It did say the book was an uncorrected proof, so I assume 'cue' will be changed to'queue' and 'led' to 'lead'.

Oh - the bookmark was quite nice. ( )