In the not too distant future a young woman bears witness to the end of her world.
Earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions rock the planet, reducing cities to smoking rubble, burying entire islands and coastlines beneath cataclysmic waves.
Religious fervor and human evil erupt and entwine, becoming a maelstrom of madness in the days after, bringing with it the horror of apocalyptic war.
As a population in the depths of despair struggles to overcome insurmountable odds, can a single glimmer of hope flare into a beacon for the survivors?
This is her tale…the world is ours…and now, it’s STORY TIME.
over 57- 4 and 5 star reviews--4.0 and better average rating!
Earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions rock the planet, reducing cities to smoking rubble, burying entire islands and coastlines beneath cataclysmic waves.
Religious fervor and human evil erupt and entwine, becoming a maelstrom of madness in the days after, bringing with it the horror of apocalyptic war.
As a population in the depths of despair struggles to overcome insurmountable odds, can a single glimmer of hope flare into a beacon for the survivors?
This is her tale…the world is ours…and now, it’s STORY TIME.
over 57- 4 and 5 star reviews--4.0 and better average rating!
Story Time
15 of 16 people found the following review helpful:
What an imagination!!!!, October 8, 2011
By Joyce
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
Congratulations to Linell Jeppsen for another winner! She is a first class story teller!! Story Time is an `end of times' book with a twist. You'll have to read the book to figure out what that is. The story grabs you right from the beginning and will hold you all the way through. Most of the story takes place on a ranch that sits between Kettle Falls and Colville, WA. Disaster hits Naomi and her brothers Zack and Josh in the form of earthquakes, volcano eruptions, tsunamis and a few surprises along the way, destroying pretty much the whole west coast and the world as they know it. It's an enlightening story about family and friends trying to get along with the good and the evils that would inevitably happen during such a catastrophe. You find yourself laughing and then crying as the story continues to unfold. I truly enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down. In fact, I plan on reading it again. And again..................
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5 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
End of the World (as we know it), November 11, 2011
By Jeff Dawson "Direktor59"
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
Disclaimer: I must admit this is the first sci-fi novel I have ever read so maybe I'm getting my feet wet at the expense of the author. You decide.
It took me awhile to catch onto how the story was being told. I kept looking for a definitive time line but it kept alluding me until I took notice the notes at the top of each page. The story is being told form a reporter who has compiled his notes on what happened to the earth in 2016. Some us saw the movie 2012, well here is the real deal with a serious twist. Not only does mother nature start emulating the End of Days with massive earthquakes and tsunamis, the earth is visited by not one, not two, not even three different alien races but four. Three of the want to steel a resource not many of us think about. It might become one of the alternative fuels we keep hearing about, but that is another story. No one is talking about it and I won't let the cat out of the bag. The forth one's? They turn out to be in "our world" historians, in theirs, they are accountants for they are accountable for what they see and report from the past, the present and the future.
Chapter one does get your attention with all of the devastation and loss of life occurring all over the planet. You feel for the characters as they deal with their own loss and grief and then realize they must find a place away from the major cities and start rebuilding a normal semblance to their lives. This they do a ranch "Harmony" located in the northern part of Washington away from all of the turbulence and death.
At times, the book was very intriguing and captivating. At others, it was difficult to follow as I had a hard time joining the time lines. I went back and found where I got lost; at the beginning. I believe if the preamble would have provided just a little more information I would have caught on quicker than I did. I really didn't understand the lead ins to the chapters where the disclaimer opens many of the chapters. I think if I had known from the start that the story was based on the notes of the reporter Mr. Cummings, it would have been better.
I know this is meant as a work of science fiction and I wish the author would have left it at that. But at times some of our current political upheaval and issues crept in. Inter-racial and same sex unions. This I could have done without. I'm sure many were shocked with the crew of the first Enterprise. Who in the the 60's would have taken a chance with a black woman with a major part and of course Admiral Kirk cared not what race, color, or creed the women were he seduced, but for me, the theme of book strayed as the author concentrated on those issues. I felt it bogged down the story.
I believe the ending could have been better developed. Since the book is not intended to have a sequel many questions were remained unanswered.
I did like the touch of how the story swirls around the state of Washington where the author resides. That was a nice touch.
If you are a science-fiction fan, I think you will like this story. I do plan on reading at least one more work from this author.
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6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars Earthquakes, and Volcanoes, and Aliens...Oh My, December 19, 2011
By Sapphyria - See all my reviews
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
This novel combines the prophesied Sign of the Times with Science Fiction. After the earth is devastated by earthquakes, eruptions of volcanoes, and complete and utter disaster, Natalie (aka. Nay) and her band of family and close friends take refuge on her family ranch. As in many modern day Apocalyptical tales there is general mayhem in all affected areas; looting, crime, violence, theft, etc. Natalie and her extended family face these same issues as well. Some of the people she kindly gave refuge to try to perform mutiny only to fail and be forced off of the ranch. Instead of moving on, the bad guys try to do anything and everything they can to rip Natalie's safe haven (as safe as it can be) from her.
This novel is told from a couple different viewpoints. Natalie relays her side of the story in what she calls "Story Time." It's told in front of an audience as sort-of a look back in history so the children know what happened in 2015/2016. The other is relayed by a Journalist who witnessed these events, as well as to the Journalist by the "criminals" that fought, stole, and murdered to survive during the disasters.
Let's not forget about the Sci Fi twist to this story. If you love aliens you'll love this book!
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5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars A Wonderful Read That Brought Tears To My Eyes, December 15, 2011
By Sandy L. Wolters "Sandy Wolters" (Tempe, AZ USA) - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
This review of Linell Jeppsen's novel, Story Time, was completed by Sandy Wolters, as a guest PRG Reviewer, for The Paranormal Romance Guild. All rights reserved.
I must start this review by stating the fact that I have never in my life read a science fiction book. I must admit, I was a little nervous to pick this book up, knowing full well that I would be reviewing it and the only experience I have with Sci-Fi is in the form of the original TV show, Star Trek.
Given my obvious lack of familiarity with this genre, I must say that Story Time by Linell Jeppsen was probably the very best book I could have picked to cut my teeth on this genre with. I LOVED IT. I was concerned that I, as a reader, would start out on a planet that I was unfamiliar with and have unlikeable little green men/women as lead characters. That could not be farther from the truth. I want to warn you that I have tried to generalize my review so I would not give too much away, but there are spoilers if you continue.
Story time starts present day in the United States. Events start happening in the novel, that I have actually read and worried about in the papers within the last year. By starting Story Time out in this fashion, the author sucked me right into the story. The events escalate from birds falling out of the sky, to earthquakes, to a cataclysmic caldera eruption.
People are trying to survive these events as well as they can, and then suddenly, aliens appear on the scene. There are two types of aliens, "bad aliens" and "good aliens". I thought the parallel that Linell Jeppsen drew between the aliens and humans was absolutely brilliant.
The "bad aliens" moved in and started raping the earth of its natural resources prior to the earth's apocalyptic end. They did not care who or what they killed while mining these precious resources. Humans were insignificant to them. The "bad people" killed, raped and pillaged others to get what they needed to survive, turning their backs on those that did not belong to their group and never giving a thought to the heinous crimes they were committing. Needless to say, the "bad aliens" and "bad people" far outnumbered the good.
Ms. Jeppsen gives the reader hope with the "good aliens" that are here to help a select few humans be a part of the Harmony continuum to maintain the balance over the extinction of the human race as we know it. These aliens would only harm humans in the event that they were killing and destroying other humans. The "good humans" feel compassion for others, protect what is theirs, but will not kill another human unless it is absolutely necessary.
Story Time is told beautifully through Naomi, the leader of the people at Harmony ranch. You learn of the different character's journeys, hopes, fears and compassion. The final attack scene is so horrifying, that Naomi is willing to give her life to make it stop. Linell Jeppsen made you feel Naomi's pain, her sorrow, and her deep rage at what the human race had sunk to. While the subject matter is difficult and violent, you are left with a sense of peace at the end of the book.
This is absolutely a must read. Even if, like me, you've shied away from science fiction, you will love this story about human weakness, human suffering, and human strength.
Review by Sandy Wolters
Guest Reviewer for the Paranormal Romance Guild Review Team
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5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Story Time by Linell Jeppsen, December 7, 2011
By Paul D - See all my reviews
This review is from: Story Time (Paperback)
Great story. Well written. Based on actual scientific and geological projections. I am always amazed at her talant and imagination to gather facts of the local area and combine them for such a story line. Her earlier book, The Hunt, likewise was centered on the local area. Being from the local area of the story made it especially good reading for me. She has drawn from the many scientific and geological projection and fears published by noted individuals about the future of the northwest - earthquake in Seattle, eruption of Mt. Rainer (Remember Mt St. Helens?), Yellowstone Park area along with demonstrated human nature to describe a frightening but possible disaster scenario. One only has to observe the local terrain and land forms, still smoking volcanoes, past lava flows and fault lines to realize similar disasters occurred in the past and remain a likely future possibility. The only real question is not "if" but "when"! When the event occurs I hope the aliens will be there to rescue. I recommend reading the book, but you can expect to lose some sleep as you lay awake pondering the questions of what if and when. Scary thoughts!
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6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars A new world..., November 29, 2011
By J. C. Willis (Los Angeles, CA USA) - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
When I began to read "Story Time" by Linell Jeppsen, it seemed to be the heir of decades of 'end of the world fiction' from "On the Beach" to "Mad Max". It is very well written and plotted but how could you come up with a new idea after all these years?
Ms. Jeppsen has more than met the challenge. As the volcanoes, tsunamis, and human nature run wild, the situation is suddenly taken out of human hands.
It's a great read and more than worth the effort, even for us old-timers who think we've heard it all.
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8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars I'm pleasantly surprised by this thrilling read!, November 27, 2011
By Mistress of The Dark Path "Suzie" (The Otherworld) - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Story Time (Paperback)
Story Time is an apocalyptic tale of earth's final moments before utter destruction. An event that comes in many forms no one expected, but a lot of them are reminiscent of predictions from the book of Revelations. It begins with a few major natural disasters that aren't really tied together at first but eventually it's clear something awful is brewing. No one expected how far it would go or how bad things would end up. The loss of human life reaches epic proportions in a relatively short period, leaving few survivors. This is not a story that could be properly told from only one view point, so there are several which give individual accounts as to how things went down. The one constancy they all have is that every narrator eventually ends up at a place called Harmony Ranch in Washington State. One of the last places where humans fight to survive before the planet becomes uninhabitable.
Readers will meet a multitude of characters, some more likeable than others. The story is told from both good, honest people and those who are little more than criminals. One of the most prominent is Naomi, the woman whose family owns Harmony Ranch. She is a soft-hearted, sweet young woman who is forced to take the mantle of leadership for the many people who come to her home for refuge. There is also Steven Cummings, a reporter who was forced to flee with his life partner and seek safety at the ranch. Michael Anderson, a former NBA player, is turned into a hero by his actions to save those weaker than him. There are also several more who were not so good in the things they did. Their version of accounts show a darker side to human nature.
Story Time grabbed my attention from the beginning and didn't let go. As each account was revealed, I desperately turned the pages (or rather touched the screen to flip them) so I could find out more. The world building in this novel is impressive as the author thought of numerous small details to add depth and greater visualization. I could see every event as it unfolded. Not only this, but the character development throughout was excellent. Each person came to life with their unique backgrounds and made it easy to see how people of various walks of life were affected by the disasters that hit earth. They all had their strengths and weaknesses which made them realistic and easy to relate to. Despite the excellent descriptions, I never found the story to slow down, if anything it sped up as things came to their tragic conclusion.
***Spoiler Alert***
There is very little to complain about with this novel. It is well written and thought out. I would have liked to know more about what happened to people on other continents, aside from North America, as little was mentioned about them. It is one factor that should have gotten a bit more attention, even if only at the final stages of the novel. I got the impression from things revealed toward the end that there were other pockets of humans that made it off the planet alive, but couldn't be sure how this occurred. The ending was a bit abrupt as well. I had expected to learn exactly how the humans were saved on that final day, aside from the fact it was aliens that helped them. Little explanation was given on this. Who were these aliens and why did they come to the rescue? These questions linger in my mind. Yet I wouldn't say that the above factors hurt the book much. It still told a very vivid story that certainly gave a fairly complete picture.
***End Spoiler Alert***
If you enjoy suspenseful tales involving the apocalypse that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Story Time is a must read. It is one of the better versions I have seen, especially if compared to other books and movies on the same subject. I am certainly pleased for picking this one up and giving it a chance. It was well worth the time and most certainly a very entertaining novel!
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8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars A MUST-READ!!! Not just for Sci-Fi readers!, November 1, 2011
By J Bryden Lloyd "J Bryden Lloyd" (Author - UK) - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
This is a powerful book, written by an exceptional author, which utilises the historical records of the future to tell of humanity's decline into chaos as our planet is suddenly pummelled into extinction by both natural disaster and the alien forces that converge to harvest, and battle over, what can be salvaged from a dying civilisation. A gentle, but excellent narrative tells of the death and destruction with superb elegance, skill and remarkable descriptive, which leaves the reader in little doubt as to what the darker side of humans can truly be.
In the safety of a new, peaceful, idyllic world, the `story' of the end of the Earth, is told in graphic excellence with a flowing storyline and beautifully written characters. The narrative is one of the best I have read, and the author leaves out none of our 'flaws' as she uses human weakness to bring the 'good guys' to the brink of self-destruction and, ultimately, their knees.
The story is told by an old woman, once a young teacher who is thrust into having to survive when the first of many `natural disasters' intervenes in her predetermined path in life, and through the interviews of a reporter who witnessed those final days and now, many years on, is interviewing the `criminals' who sought to conquer and survive at any cost. In contrast to the old woman, who tells her story in front of a willing and captive audience, the reporter finds himself facing the hatred and bigotry of 'Old Earth', as he seeks to recover the first-hand accounts from the now aged and dying prisoners and those who followed them, both willingly and through necessity.
The alien forces provide an unnerving backdrop of threat to the characters throughout, not just the ones you would like to see finished off, making this a nice twist to the normal sci-fi epic read that I would normally go for but the alien presence is far from the domineering element ofthe story, which is dominated by the human struggle against itself and the dying planet.
I loved this book, and found it was impossible for me not to continue reading, as the story would keep pulling me back in a need to know more. I must recommend Story Time to all sci-fi lovers, as well as those looking for an Action/Adventure. Even if sci-fi is something you haven't considered, if you look past the aliens and into the story beyond, you will find a powerful piece of writing you are certain to enjoy.
Whatever your preferred genre, you should read this. You won't regret it!
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7 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Great storytelling! October 8, 2011
By Lori Little
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
Absolutely love this story... it is a look at the end of all we know, the end of earth, and yet it is a new beginning as well. I like the way the story unfolds... it's a look back at the horrific experiences of the planet's final days through the eyes of the survivors, and yet the story ends on a hopeful note. We end up knowing the characters we've grown to care about have learned from the past and have a future they never imagined.
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11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Ordinary Americans Brave Apocalyptic Struggles: BRILLIANT!, October 17, 2011
By Ellen Ekey-Hines - See all my reviews
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
This is the second Linell Jeppsen novel that I've read and she does not disappoint in either. Just as in 'The Hunt', her characters in 'Story Time' are well developed and the reader grows to know them as friends. Linell has interwoven many survivors' journeys, their fears, struggles and sacrifices to reach Naomi's ranch. Once there, they must learn to pull together while living and dying, loving and understanding, and believing there is still hope. Times are difficult with apocalyptic events: floods, earthquakes, fire, famine, etc. Both human and alien forces oppose them as they strive for a new beginning. Their future will astonish you...
The conclusion will amaze and prompt you to consider many things even after the book is closed. Nothing is predictable about 'Story Time' except that it is very well told by a fantastic writer.
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11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Endings...and New Beginnings, October 10, 2011
By recluse "reclusive thinking..." (Copiague, N.Y.) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
I had the privilege of reading an advance copy of this book.
A beautifully written tale of the end of the world as we know it, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit against all odds, as told by a survivor. A moving story that illustrates the power of hope, and the true potential for the redemption of the human race. Highly recommended.
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5.0 out of 5 stars An exciting and remarkable story..., February 26, 2012
By Coffee Time Romance - See all my reviews
This review is from: Story Time (Kindle Edition)
Linell Jeppson has written an exciting and remarkable story. It is one that once I picked up and began reading, I could not put down or get out of my head. The action never lets up, and the imagination of this author seems to know no bounds yet is logical and makes sense within the context of the novel. The story is conveyed in an unusual manner, told from several different perspectives in a highly unique framework that is almost as captivating as the story itself. It is immense in scope, playing out against a huge world canvas, but focuses with true elegance on a few chosen survivors. I loved the story for the adventure of it, but also for the way it provoked me into re-examining some of my own closely held beliefs. I loved it and recommend it most fervently.
Laurie
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
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3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars I was blown away by this book!, February 23, 2012
By Kristie Leigh Maguire "Indie Author" (Virgin Islands) - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Story Time (Kindle Edition)
I don't know why I waited so long to download this book. I had been wanting to get it because the author is in a Meet Our Authors Thread (The Spinning Wheel) with me but I kept putting it off for first one reason or another. When I saw that it had gone free, I grabbed it even though I would have eventually purchased it anyway for the list price.
I have only one complaint to the author: You kept me up way into the night for 2 nights in a row! Once I started reading this book (which I did as soon as I could after downloading it), I didn't want to stop! It was fascinating! I was blown away and I say this in a good way. :)
Thinking back about why I kept procrastinating about purchasing this book, I think it was because of the title and the cover. Somehow the title of "Story Time" and the cover image didn't grab me even though the blurb sounded interesting to me. I am sooooo glad I didn't let the title and the cover keep me from downloading this book. Even though it is outside my favorite genre (romance), I am very happy that I took a chance on it. I highly recommend it to others.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars The Perfect Good vs. Evil Story, February 23, 2012
By Jimelle Salyers (Spencer, wv, US) - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Story Time (Kindle Edition)
I'm not a huge fan of sci-fi, so I wasn't sure if I would like this book. I shouldn't have worried, because this story is one of the best I've ever read. It is almost a saga novel, and by that I mean it's the kind of story that you can sink into and be lost for the duration. The author creates a world of destruction and invasion, but then plants hope and love in its midst in a way that is believable and timeless. This is a book that I will keep and read again.
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9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars The Eve of Destruction, January 28, 2012
By mountainmama "Shirley Hicks" (Charleston, West Virginia, USA) - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Story Time (Kindle Edition)
This is a truly original story about the apocalyptic end of the earth. As natural disasters and alien invaders claim millions, a group struggles to survive the devastation on a remote ranch in Washington State. The tale is unveiled to us as it is being passed down to younger generations by the woman whose family owned the ranch, and also through interviews by a reporter who gives us another side of the story.
This is a beautifully crafted book. Ms Jeppsen has done a brilliant job of portraying the entire gamut of human emotions and personalities, - from weakness to strength, despair to hope, immorality to compassion, grief to peace. Her characters are utterly believable and her descriptions of events put you in the midst of the action. It is well-paced and maintains the tension throughout.
I loved the book and recommend highly. Well done, Ms. Jeppsen.
15 of 16 people found the following review helpful:
What an imagination!!!!, October 8, 2011
By Joyce
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
Congratulations to Linell Jeppsen for another winner! She is a first class story teller!! Story Time is an `end of times' book with a twist. You'll have to read the book to figure out what that is. The story grabs you right from the beginning and will hold you all the way through. Most of the story takes place on a ranch that sits between Kettle Falls and Colville, WA. Disaster hits Naomi and her brothers Zack and Josh in the form of earthquakes, volcano eruptions, tsunamis and a few surprises along the way, destroying pretty much the whole west coast and the world as they know it. It's an enlightening story about family and friends trying to get along with the good and the evils that would inevitably happen during such a catastrophe. You find yourself laughing and then crying as the story continues to unfold. I truly enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down. In fact, I plan on reading it again. And again..................
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5 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
End of the World (as we know it), November 11, 2011
By Jeff Dawson "Direktor59"
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
Disclaimer: I must admit this is the first sci-fi novel I have ever read so maybe I'm getting my feet wet at the expense of the author. You decide.
It took me awhile to catch onto how the story was being told. I kept looking for a definitive time line but it kept alluding me until I took notice the notes at the top of each page. The story is being told form a reporter who has compiled his notes on what happened to the earth in 2016. Some us saw the movie 2012, well here is the real deal with a serious twist. Not only does mother nature start emulating the End of Days with massive earthquakes and tsunamis, the earth is visited by not one, not two, not even three different alien races but four. Three of the want to steel a resource not many of us think about. It might become one of the alternative fuels we keep hearing about, but that is another story. No one is talking about it and I won't let the cat out of the bag. The forth one's? They turn out to be in "our world" historians, in theirs, they are accountants for they are accountable for what they see and report from the past, the present and the future.
Chapter one does get your attention with all of the devastation and loss of life occurring all over the planet. You feel for the characters as they deal with their own loss and grief and then realize they must find a place away from the major cities and start rebuilding a normal semblance to their lives. This they do a ranch "Harmony" located in the northern part of Washington away from all of the turbulence and death.
At times, the book was very intriguing and captivating. At others, it was difficult to follow as I had a hard time joining the time lines. I went back and found where I got lost; at the beginning. I believe if the preamble would have provided just a little more information I would have caught on quicker than I did. I really didn't understand the lead ins to the chapters where the disclaimer opens many of the chapters. I think if I had known from the start that the story was based on the notes of the reporter Mr. Cummings, it would have been better.
I know this is meant as a work of science fiction and I wish the author would have left it at that. But at times some of our current political upheaval and issues crept in. Inter-racial and same sex unions. This I could have done without. I'm sure many were shocked with the crew of the first Enterprise. Who in the the 60's would have taken a chance with a black woman with a major part and of course Admiral Kirk cared not what race, color, or creed the women were he seduced, but for me, the theme of book strayed as the author concentrated on those issues. I felt it bogged down the story.
I believe the ending could have been better developed. Since the book is not intended to have a sequel many questions were remained unanswered.
I did like the touch of how the story swirls around the state of Washington where the author resides. That was a nice touch.
If you are a science-fiction fan, I think you will like this story. I do plan on reading at least one more work from this author.
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6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars Earthquakes, and Volcanoes, and Aliens...Oh My, December 19, 2011
By Sapphyria - See all my reviews
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
This novel combines the prophesied Sign of the Times with Science Fiction. After the earth is devastated by earthquakes, eruptions of volcanoes, and complete and utter disaster, Natalie (aka. Nay) and her band of family and close friends take refuge on her family ranch. As in many modern day Apocalyptical tales there is general mayhem in all affected areas; looting, crime, violence, theft, etc. Natalie and her extended family face these same issues as well. Some of the people she kindly gave refuge to try to perform mutiny only to fail and be forced off of the ranch. Instead of moving on, the bad guys try to do anything and everything they can to rip Natalie's safe haven (as safe as it can be) from her.
This novel is told from a couple different viewpoints. Natalie relays her side of the story in what she calls "Story Time." It's told in front of an audience as sort-of a look back in history so the children know what happened in 2015/2016. The other is relayed by a Journalist who witnessed these events, as well as to the Journalist by the "criminals" that fought, stole, and murdered to survive during the disasters.
Let's not forget about the Sci Fi twist to this story. If you love aliens you'll love this book!
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5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars A Wonderful Read That Brought Tears To My Eyes, December 15, 2011
By Sandy L. Wolters "Sandy Wolters" (Tempe, AZ USA) - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
This review of Linell Jeppsen's novel, Story Time, was completed by Sandy Wolters, as a guest PRG Reviewer, for The Paranormal Romance Guild. All rights reserved.
I must start this review by stating the fact that I have never in my life read a science fiction book. I must admit, I was a little nervous to pick this book up, knowing full well that I would be reviewing it and the only experience I have with Sci-Fi is in the form of the original TV show, Star Trek.
Given my obvious lack of familiarity with this genre, I must say that Story Time by Linell Jeppsen was probably the very best book I could have picked to cut my teeth on this genre with. I LOVED IT. I was concerned that I, as a reader, would start out on a planet that I was unfamiliar with and have unlikeable little green men/women as lead characters. That could not be farther from the truth. I want to warn you that I have tried to generalize my review so I would not give too much away, but there are spoilers if you continue.
Story time starts present day in the United States. Events start happening in the novel, that I have actually read and worried about in the papers within the last year. By starting Story Time out in this fashion, the author sucked me right into the story. The events escalate from birds falling out of the sky, to earthquakes, to a cataclysmic caldera eruption.
People are trying to survive these events as well as they can, and then suddenly, aliens appear on the scene. There are two types of aliens, "bad aliens" and "good aliens". I thought the parallel that Linell Jeppsen drew between the aliens and humans was absolutely brilliant.
The "bad aliens" moved in and started raping the earth of its natural resources prior to the earth's apocalyptic end. They did not care who or what they killed while mining these precious resources. Humans were insignificant to them. The "bad people" killed, raped and pillaged others to get what they needed to survive, turning their backs on those that did not belong to their group and never giving a thought to the heinous crimes they were committing. Needless to say, the "bad aliens" and "bad people" far outnumbered the good.
Ms. Jeppsen gives the reader hope with the "good aliens" that are here to help a select few humans be a part of the Harmony continuum to maintain the balance over the extinction of the human race as we know it. These aliens would only harm humans in the event that they were killing and destroying other humans. The "good humans" feel compassion for others, protect what is theirs, but will not kill another human unless it is absolutely necessary.
Story Time is told beautifully through Naomi, the leader of the people at Harmony ranch. You learn of the different character's journeys, hopes, fears and compassion. The final attack scene is so horrifying, that Naomi is willing to give her life to make it stop. Linell Jeppsen made you feel Naomi's pain, her sorrow, and her deep rage at what the human race had sunk to. While the subject matter is difficult and violent, you are left with a sense of peace at the end of the book.
This is absolutely a must read. Even if, like me, you've shied away from science fiction, you will love this story about human weakness, human suffering, and human strength.
Review by Sandy Wolters
Guest Reviewer for the Paranormal Romance Guild Review Team
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5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Story Time by Linell Jeppsen, December 7, 2011
By Paul D - See all my reviews
This review is from: Story Time (Paperback)
Great story. Well written. Based on actual scientific and geological projections. I am always amazed at her talant and imagination to gather facts of the local area and combine them for such a story line. Her earlier book, The Hunt, likewise was centered on the local area. Being from the local area of the story made it especially good reading for me. She has drawn from the many scientific and geological projection and fears published by noted individuals about the future of the northwest - earthquake in Seattle, eruption of Mt. Rainer (Remember Mt St. Helens?), Yellowstone Park area along with demonstrated human nature to describe a frightening but possible disaster scenario. One only has to observe the local terrain and land forms, still smoking volcanoes, past lava flows and fault lines to realize similar disasters occurred in the past and remain a likely future possibility. The only real question is not "if" but "when"! When the event occurs I hope the aliens will be there to rescue. I recommend reading the book, but you can expect to lose some sleep as you lay awake pondering the questions of what if and when. Scary thoughts!
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6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars A new world..., November 29, 2011
By J. C. Willis (Los Angeles, CA USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
When I began to read "Story Time" by Linell Jeppsen, it seemed to be the heir of decades of 'end of the world fiction' from "On the Beach" to "Mad Max". It is very well written and plotted but how could you come up with a new idea after all these years?
Ms. Jeppsen has more than met the challenge. As the volcanoes, tsunamis, and human nature run wild, the situation is suddenly taken out of human hands.
It's a great read and more than worth the effort, even for us old-timers who think we've heard it all.
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8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars I'm pleasantly surprised by this thrilling read!, November 27, 2011
By Mistress of The Dark Path "Suzie" (The Otherworld) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Story Time (Paperback)
Story Time is an apocalyptic tale of earth's final moments before utter destruction. An event that comes in many forms no one expected, but a lot of them are reminiscent of predictions from the book of Revelations. It begins with a few major natural disasters that aren't really tied together at first but eventually it's clear something awful is brewing. No one expected how far it would go or how bad things would end up. The loss of human life reaches epic proportions in a relatively short period, leaving few survivors. This is not a story that could be properly told from only one view point, so there are several which give individual accounts as to how things went down. The one constancy they all have is that every narrator eventually ends up at a place called Harmony Ranch in Washington State. One of the last places where humans fight to survive before the planet becomes uninhabitable.
Readers will meet a multitude of characters, some more likeable than others. The story is told from both good, honest people and those who are little more than criminals. One of the most prominent is Naomi, the woman whose family owns Harmony Ranch. She is a soft-hearted, sweet young woman who is forced to take the mantle of leadership for the many people who come to her home for refuge. There is also Steven Cummings, a reporter who was forced to flee with his life partner and seek safety at the ranch. Michael Anderson, a former NBA player, is turned into a hero by his actions to save those weaker than him. There are also several more who were not so good in the things they did. Their version of accounts show a darker side to human nature.
Story Time grabbed my attention from the beginning and didn't let go. As each account was revealed, I desperately turned the pages (or rather touched the screen to flip them) so I could find out more. The world building in this novel is impressive as the author thought of numerous small details to add depth and greater visualization. I could see every event as it unfolded. Not only this, but the character development throughout was excellent. Each person came to life with their unique backgrounds and made it easy to see how people of various walks of life were affected by the disasters that hit earth. They all had their strengths and weaknesses which made them realistic and easy to relate to. Despite the excellent descriptions, I never found the story to slow down, if anything it sped up as things came to their tragic conclusion.
***Spoiler Alert***
There is very little to complain about with this novel. It is well written and thought out. I would have liked to know more about what happened to people on other continents, aside from North America, as little was mentioned about them. It is one factor that should have gotten a bit more attention, even if only at the final stages of the novel. I got the impression from things revealed toward the end that there were other pockets of humans that made it off the planet alive, but couldn't be sure how this occurred. The ending was a bit abrupt as well. I had expected to learn exactly how the humans were saved on that final day, aside from the fact it was aliens that helped them. Little explanation was given on this. Who were these aliens and why did they come to the rescue? These questions linger in my mind. Yet I wouldn't say that the above factors hurt the book much. It still told a very vivid story that certainly gave a fairly complete picture.
***End Spoiler Alert***
If you enjoy suspenseful tales involving the apocalypse that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Story Time is a must read. It is one of the better versions I have seen, especially if compared to other books and movies on the same subject. I am certainly pleased for picking this one up and giving it a chance. It was well worth the time and most certainly a very entertaining novel!
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8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars A MUST-READ!!! Not just for Sci-Fi readers!, November 1, 2011
By J Bryden Lloyd "J Bryden Lloyd" (Author - UK) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
This is a powerful book, written by an exceptional author, which utilises the historical records of the future to tell of humanity's decline into chaos as our planet is suddenly pummelled into extinction by both natural disaster and the alien forces that converge to harvest, and battle over, what can be salvaged from a dying civilisation. A gentle, but excellent narrative tells of the death and destruction with superb elegance, skill and remarkable descriptive, which leaves the reader in little doubt as to what the darker side of humans can truly be.
In the safety of a new, peaceful, idyllic world, the `story' of the end of the Earth, is told in graphic excellence with a flowing storyline and beautifully written characters. The narrative is one of the best I have read, and the author leaves out none of our 'flaws' as she uses human weakness to bring the 'good guys' to the brink of self-destruction and, ultimately, their knees.
The story is told by an old woman, once a young teacher who is thrust into having to survive when the first of many `natural disasters' intervenes in her predetermined path in life, and through the interviews of a reporter who witnessed those final days and now, many years on, is interviewing the `criminals' who sought to conquer and survive at any cost. In contrast to the old woman, who tells her story in front of a willing and captive audience, the reporter finds himself facing the hatred and bigotry of 'Old Earth', as he seeks to recover the first-hand accounts from the now aged and dying prisoners and those who followed them, both willingly and through necessity.
The alien forces provide an unnerving backdrop of threat to the characters throughout, not just the ones you would like to see finished off, making this a nice twist to the normal sci-fi epic read that I would normally go for but the alien presence is far from the domineering element ofthe story, which is dominated by the human struggle against itself and the dying planet.
I loved this book, and found it was impossible for me not to continue reading, as the story would keep pulling me back in a need to know more. I must recommend Story Time to all sci-fi lovers, as well as those looking for an Action/Adventure. Even if sci-fi is something you haven't considered, if you look past the aliens and into the story beyond, you will find a powerful piece of writing you are certain to enjoy.
Whatever your preferred genre, you should read this. You won't regret it!
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7 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Great storytelling! October 8, 2011
By Lori Little
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
Absolutely love this story... it is a look at the end of all we know, the end of earth, and yet it is a new beginning as well. I like the way the story unfolds... it's a look back at the horrific experiences of the planet's final days through the eyes of the survivors, and yet the story ends on a hopeful note. We end up knowing the characters we've grown to care about have learned from the past and have a future they never imagined.
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11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Ordinary Americans Brave Apocalyptic Struggles: BRILLIANT!, October 17, 2011
By Ellen Ekey-Hines - See all my reviews
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
This is the second Linell Jeppsen novel that I've read and she does not disappoint in either. Just as in 'The Hunt', her characters in 'Story Time' are well developed and the reader grows to know them as friends. Linell has interwoven many survivors' journeys, their fears, struggles and sacrifices to reach Naomi's ranch. Once there, they must learn to pull together while living and dying, loving and understanding, and believing there is still hope. Times are difficult with apocalyptic events: floods, earthquakes, fire, famine, etc. Both human and alien forces oppose them as they strive for a new beginning. Their future will astonish you...
The conclusion will amaze and prompt you to consider many things even after the book is closed. Nothing is predictable about 'Story Time' except that it is very well told by a fantastic writer.
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11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Endings...and New Beginnings, October 10, 2011
By recluse "reclusive thinking..." (Copiague, N.Y.) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Story Time (America's Great Emerging Authors) (Kindle Edition)
I had the privilege of reading an advance copy of this book.
A beautifully written tale of the end of the world as we know it, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit against all odds, as told by a survivor. A moving story that illustrates the power of hope, and the true potential for the redemption of the human race. Highly recommended.
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5.0 out of 5 stars An exciting and remarkable story..., February 26, 2012
By Coffee Time Romance - See all my reviews
This review is from: Story Time (Kindle Edition)
Linell Jeppson has written an exciting and remarkable story. It is one that once I picked up and began reading, I could not put down or get out of my head. The action never lets up, and the imagination of this author seems to know no bounds yet is logical and makes sense within the context of the novel. The story is conveyed in an unusual manner, told from several different perspectives in a highly unique framework that is almost as captivating as the story itself. It is immense in scope, playing out against a huge world canvas, but focuses with true elegance on a few chosen survivors. I loved the story for the adventure of it, but also for the way it provoked me into re-examining some of my own closely held beliefs. I loved it and recommend it most fervently.
Laurie
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
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3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars I was blown away by this book!, February 23, 2012
By Kristie Leigh Maguire "Indie Author" (Virgin Islands) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Story Time (Kindle Edition)
I don't know why I waited so long to download this book. I had been wanting to get it because the author is in a Meet Our Authors Thread (The Spinning Wheel) with me but I kept putting it off for first one reason or another. When I saw that it had gone free, I grabbed it even though I would have eventually purchased it anyway for the list price.
I have only one complaint to the author: You kept me up way into the night for 2 nights in a row! Once I started reading this book (which I did as soon as I could after downloading it), I didn't want to stop! It was fascinating! I was blown away and I say this in a good way. :)
Thinking back about why I kept procrastinating about purchasing this book, I think it was because of the title and the cover. Somehow the title of "Story Time" and the cover image didn't grab me even though the blurb sounded interesting to me. I am sooooo glad I didn't let the title and the cover keep me from downloading this book. Even though it is outside my favorite genre (romance), I am very happy that I took a chance on it. I highly recommend it to others.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars The Perfect Good vs. Evil Story, February 23, 2012
By Jimelle Salyers (Spencer, wv, US) - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Story Time (Kindle Edition)
I'm not a huge fan of sci-fi, so I wasn't sure if I would like this book. I shouldn't have worried, because this story is one of the best I've ever read. It is almost a saga novel, and by that I mean it's the kind of story that you can sink into and be lost for the duration. The author creates a world of destruction and invasion, but then plants hope and love in its midst in a way that is believable and timeless. This is a book that I will keep and read again.
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9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars The Eve of Destruction, January 28, 2012
By mountainmama "Shirley Hicks" (Charleston, West Virginia, USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Story Time (Kindle Edition)
This is a truly original story about the apocalyptic end of the earth. As natural disasters and alien invaders claim millions, a group struggles to survive the devastation on a remote ranch in Washington State. The tale is unveiled to us as it is being passed down to younger generations by the woman whose family owned the ranch, and also through interviews by a reporter who gives us another side of the story.
This is a beautifully crafted book. Ms Jeppsen has done a brilliant job of portraying the entire gamut of human emotions and personalities, - from weakness to strength, despair to hope, immorality to compassion, grief to peace. Her characters are utterly believable and her descriptions of events put you in the midst of the action. It is well-paced and maintains the tension throughout.
I loved the book and recommend highly. Well done, Ms. Jeppsen.