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The Reprobation Series #1
Reprobation
Are you one of the elect?
Dr. Helen Hope is a lecturer in eschatology � the study of death, judgement, and the destiny of humankind. She is also a Calvinist nun, her life devoted to atoning for a secret crime.
When a body is found crucified on a Liverpool beach, she forms an unlikely alliance with suspect Mikko Kristensen, lead guitarist in death metal band Total Depravity. Together, they go on the trail of a rogue geneticist who they believe holds the key � not just to the murder, but to something much darker.
Also on the trail is cynical Scouse detective Darren Swift. In his first murder case, he must confront his own lack of faith as a series of horrific crimes drag the city of two cathedrals to the gates of hell.
Science meets religious belief in this gripping murder mystery.
Dr. Helen Hope is a lecturer in eschatology � the study of death, judgement, and the destiny of humankind. She is also a Calvinist nun, her life devoted to atoning for a secret crime.
When a body is found crucified on a Liverpool beach, she forms an unlikely alliance with suspect Mikko Kristensen, lead guitarist in death metal band Total Depravity. Together, they go on the trail of a rogue geneticist who they believe holds the key � not just to the murder, but to something much darker.
Also on the trail is cynical Scouse detective Darren Swift. In his first murder case, he must confront his own lack of faith as a series of horrific crimes drag the city of two cathedrals to the gates of hell.
Science meets religious belief in this gripping murder mystery.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 16, 2018
157 people are currently reading
274 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
October 28, 2018
This was a dark and gritty thriller with a bit of a different cast of characters...
A nun and a lead guitarist in a Death Metal band walk into a.... not a bad joke, they are two characters in this thriller.... when a body is discovered on the beach crucified and with a Bible quote? The authorities call on Sister Helen... sister Helen is convinced the guilty party is not Mikko lead guitarist in the Death Metal band Total Depravity...
This book was much darker than I was anticipating and very descriptive in places.... it also involves some science and studies that I have never Heard of before... how would you live your life if you knew you were already genetically pre-destined to go to heaven or hell? This is an interesting concept and very thought-provoking, it is also the theory of the rogue geneticist that they are chasing down... an interesting look at the similarities and differences between science and religion.... all leading to murder and “total depravity�... I found these characters very interesting, I thought it was a very unique angle to a thriller.... Music, religion, science, death, judgment, a potpourri of subject matter!
Recommended to those of you who enjoy a darker thriller with some intriguing and unusual characters....
A nun and a lead guitarist in a Death Metal band walk into a.... not a bad joke, they are two characters in this thriller.... when a body is discovered on the beach crucified and with a Bible quote? The authorities call on Sister Helen... sister Helen is convinced the guilty party is not Mikko lead guitarist in the Death Metal band Total Depravity...
This book was much darker than I was anticipating and very descriptive in places.... it also involves some science and studies that I have never Heard of before... how would you live your life if you knew you were already genetically pre-destined to go to heaven or hell? This is an interesting concept and very thought-provoking, it is also the theory of the rogue geneticist that they are chasing down... an interesting look at the similarities and differences between science and religion.... all leading to murder and “total depravity�... I found these characters very interesting, I thought it was a very unique angle to a thriller.... Music, religion, science, death, judgment, a potpourri of subject matter!
Recommended to those of you who enjoy a darker thriller with some intriguing and unusual characters....
February 27, 2019
This book is SO COOL!!!
What do you get when an author decides to write a murder mystery which has a Calvinist nun, a heavy dead metal singer and a newly appointed young DI all working towards solving a series of murders which are somewhat entwined with the Calvinist doctrine of predestination (a doctrine which states that a person is already predestined to go either to hell or heaven irrespective of his deeds in this world) and a crazy geneticist's obsession with it? You get a story which is original, unusual, fast paced and very enjoyable.
I loved the pairing of the nun, Dr. Helen Hope who also happens to be a lecturer on Eschatology (a study of death and afterlife) and Mikko, the dead heavy metal singer/ guitarist! I mean they have to be one of the oddest pairing I have come across so far in my reading journey but they work brilliantly!!
The plot line is engaging, the pace is fast, the writing style is easy and engaging and the characters are interesting--ticked all my boxes. The cover picture is intriguing as well, it is the first thing that caught my attention and made me request for the book.
Thank you Netgalley, the author Catherine Fearns and the publisher for the ARC!!😄😄
What do you get when an author decides to write a murder mystery which has a Calvinist nun, a heavy dead metal singer and a newly appointed young DI all working towards solving a series of murders which are somewhat entwined with the Calvinist doctrine of predestination (a doctrine which states that a person is already predestined to go either to hell or heaven irrespective of his deeds in this world) and a crazy geneticist's obsession with it? You get a story which is original, unusual, fast paced and very enjoyable.
I loved the pairing of the nun, Dr. Helen Hope who also happens to be a lecturer on Eschatology (a study of death and afterlife) and Mikko, the dead heavy metal singer/ guitarist! I mean they have to be one of the oddest pairing I have come across so far in my reading journey but they work brilliantly!!
The plot line is engaging, the pace is fast, the writing style is easy and engaging and the characters are interesting--ticked all my boxes. The cover picture is intriguing as well, it is the first thing that caught my attention and made me request for the book.
Thank you Netgalley, the author Catherine Fearns and the publisher for the ARC!!😄😄
September 4, 2020
This was not the book I expected.
So deep in the year it was a joy to read a debut author who has presented a novel of originality and unspeakable religious fervour.
To have a Calvinist Nun as a lead character was not only bold but quite brilliant. To place her in a sinister convert with a dark backstory allows her to both unravel and grow before the reader. Sister Helen Hope was an engaging character and one whose journey was both realistic and reflective of everyone’s struggle to process their faith.
This book isn’t churchy or Christian but presents real issues with theology and especially Eschatology at its heart.
I loved both her struggle to work within the world of academia and make sense of her vows. The juxtaposition of her beliefs and those of a death mental band was genius and allowed a separate path for the plot to take.
The crime story is set in the city landscape of Liverpool and concerns the first murder investigation of a local copper made good. His DC is also a fresh character and they make heavy progress into the investigation of a horrendous crime scene in Crosby.
The use of the changing waterfront is a fitting tribute to this centre of commerce in better days. There are great signs of new trends, the religion of football and new uses for former places of worship.
These are the clever bits of this story that demonstrate the obvious skills of this new author. Hints and analysis of cultural and religious shifts. The mention of liminal places is also strategic in her writing. Those crossing places between life and death; those tidal areas where water cleanses with each cycle but also takes things away. Marginal areas which are renewed but can never be fully known.
The questions Sister Helen asks in her lecture hall is what happens to us when we die? How does our beliefs effect how we live? Is it predetermined, preordained that one should go to hell while the other is admitted to heaven?
These are the themes of the story reflected in everyone’s story regardless of faith and in this way, we are confronted with a thrilling crime novel that allows scope to think and be entertained with a mystery that is as dark as it is exciting. As complex as the DNA it alludes to at times.
Totally engaging. Stunningly original and faultless in its plotting. Complex issues expertly juggled with to ratchets up the tension but never to leave the reader behind in even religious or scientific jargon.
The use of Sister Hope is the reader’s friend who brings clarity to the criminal investigation and a humanity seldom seen in religious orders.
The best news is a second book is scheduled to be released as early as February 2019. I for one cannot wait, and on the strength of this debut I expect the name of Catherine Fearns on every crime fiction fan’s lips, the next go to author and a fresh talent we all want to read!
So deep in the year it was a joy to read a debut author who has presented a novel of originality and unspeakable religious fervour.
To have a Calvinist Nun as a lead character was not only bold but quite brilliant. To place her in a sinister convert with a dark backstory allows her to both unravel and grow before the reader. Sister Helen Hope was an engaging character and one whose journey was both realistic and reflective of everyone’s struggle to process their faith.
This book isn’t churchy or Christian but presents real issues with theology and especially Eschatology at its heart.
I loved both her struggle to work within the world of academia and make sense of her vows. The juxtaposition of her beliefs and those of a death mental band was genius and allowed a separate path for the plot to take.
The crime story is set in the city landscape of Liverpool and concerns the first murder investigation of a local copper made good. His DC is also a fresh character and they make heavy progress into the investigation of a horrendous crime scene in Crosby.
The use of the changing waterfront is a fitting tribute to this centre of commerce in better days. There are great signs of new trends, the religion of football and new uses for former places of worship.
These are the clever bits of this story that demonstrate the obvious skills of this new author. Hints and analysis of cultural and religious shifts. The mention of liminal places is also strategic in her writing. Those crossing places between life and death; those tidal areas where water cleanses with each cycle but also takes things away. Marginal areas which are renewed but can never be fully known.
The questions Sister Helen asks in her lecture hall is what happens to us when we die? How does our beliefs effect how we live? Is it predetermined, preordained that one should go to hell while the other is admitted to heaven?
These are the themes of the story reflected in everyone’s story regardless of faith and in this way, we are confronted with a thrilling crime novel that allows scope to think and be entertained with a mystery that is as dark as it is exciting. As complex as the DNA it alludes to at times.
Totally engaging. Stunningly original and faultless in its plotting. Complex issues expertly juggled with to ratchets up the tension but never to leave the reader behind in even religious or scientific jargon.
The use of Sister Hope is the reader’s friend who brings clarity to the criminal investigation and a humanity seldom seen in religious orders.
The best news is a second book is scheduled to be released as early as February 2019. I for one cannot wait, and on the strength of this debut I expect the name of Catherine Fearns on every crime fiction fan’s lips, the next go to author and a fresh talent we all want to read!
February 1, 2019
I do like an unusual plot and you can't get more unusual than a Calvinist nun and Norwegian heavy metal singer joining forces to solve crimes. Their investigation runs parallel with that of newly promoted DI Darren Swift on his first real case and feeling out of his depth. I really enjoyed following as both investigations took place alongside each other.
I found the premise of removing original sin quite interesting and thought provoking. I'm quite comfortable being an agnostic so it's not an area I give much passing thought to but I really liked having a think about where I would fall on this subject. Probably would't be attempting any gene therapy and murder to achieve anything though!
It's quite a short book but packs plenty of action into it as the two teams race to prevent someone else being killed and has one or two twists along the way until we finally find out the whodunnit.
I'm reviewing second book Consuming Fire on a blog tour on 21st February but enjoyed this one so much I'm already half way through the second. Absolutely recommend.
I found the premise of removing original sin quite interesting and thought provoking. I'm quite comfortable being an agnostic so it's not an area I give much passing thought to but I really liked having a think about where I would fall on this subject. Probably would't be attempting any gene therapy and murder to achieve anything though!
It's quite a short book but packs plenty of action into it as the two teams race to prevent someone else being killed and has one or two twists along the way until we finally find out the whodunnit.
I'm reviewing second book Consuming Fire on a blog tour on 21st February but enjoyed this one so much I'm already half way through the second. Absolutely recommend.
February 6, 2019
Sister Helen Hope, a lecturer in eschatology (the study of death and the afterlife) at an unnamed university in Liverpool and a Calvinist nun (who knew there was such a thing?), finds herself drawn into the bizarre murder of a reformed penny-ante drug dealer. The murder victim has been killed and then literally crucified on a beach near Liverpool, accompanied by a Bible verse with special meaning for those who believe in the Calvinist tenet of predestination. Debut author Catherine Fearns� novel only gets weirder from there.
Sister Helen makes an unlikely alliance with a foul-mouthed Norwegian heavy-metal band musician on tour in Northern England, and the pair begin investigating that murder and more crimes to come. At the same time, an odd-couple pair of detectives � the newly promoted Merseyside Detective Inspector Darren Swift and his female sidekick, Detective Constable Colette Quinn � are investigating the same series of crimes via a different route. What will each investigating pair discover, and who will close in first?
Reprobation proves much more complicated and offbeat than I have just made it sound. Fearns� plot veers into unexpected directions and examines theological premises not much considered these days � not just ignored in the secular world, but in most religious communities. The term reprobation has come to mean “severe disapproval,� but it originally meant “rejection by God.� Under the Calvinist doctrine of predestination, those who aren’t the Elect are headed to Hell, despite their faith, their attempts at good works, or their life choices � in essence, rejected by God through not fault of their own. Such a theology makes for pretty grim religion, which readers can see revealed at the convent of the Order of the Sisters of Grace. But even for those who reject predestination, the novel reminds us of one of the central paradoxes of all religions: How can a loving God permit so much senseless cruelty and evil in the world?
Fearns� novel isn’t perfect. Detective Swift comes across as a cardboard character inserted to play the role of religious skeptic, and Sister Helen makes some pretty implausible choices; however, Reprobation otherwise delivers such a fresh approach and so many twists that I almost devoured it in a single sitting, and I can’t wait for the sequel, Consuming Fire, due out this week.
Caveat emptor: Those who object to foul language will find plenty of that here. And those who are distracted by missing punctuation (like me) will fume and ask why Fearns didn’t get a better proofreader.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd. in exchange for an honest review.
Sister Helen makes an unlikely alliance with a foul-mouthed Norwegian heavy-metal band musician on tour in Northern England, and the pair begin investigating that murder and more crimes to come. At the same time, an odd-couple pair of detectives � the newly promoted Merseyside Detective Inspector Darren Swift and his female sidekick, Detective Constable Colette Quinn � are investigating the same series of crimes via a different route. What will each investigating pair discover, and who will close in first?
Reprobation proves much more complicated and offbeat than I have just made it sound. Fearns� plot veers into unexpected directions and examines theological premises not much considered these days � not just ignored in the secular world, but in most religious communities. The term reprobation has come to mean “severe disapproval,� but it originally meant “rejection by God.� Under the Calvinist doctrine of predestination, those who aren’t the Elect are headed to Hell, despite their faith, their attempts at good works, or their life choices � in essence, rejected by God through not fault of their own. Such a theology makes for pretty grim religion, which readers can see revealed at the convent of the Order of the Sisters of Grace. But even for those who reject predestination, the novel reminds us of one of the central paradoxes of all religions: How can a loving God permit so much senseless cruelty and evil in the world?
Fearns� novel isn’t perfect. Detective Swift comes across as a cardboard character inserted to play the role of religious skeptic, and Sister Helen makes some pretty implausible choices; however, Reprobation otherwise delivers such a fresh approach and so many twists that I almost devoured it in a single sitting, and I can’t wait for the sequel, Consuming Fire, due out this week.
Caveat emptor: Those who object to foul language will find plenty of that here. And those who are distracted by missing punctuation (like me) will fume and ask why Fearns didn’t get a better proofreader.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd. in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2018
Science and religion have a tenuous relationship in real life and it doesn’t get any better in fiction.
When a murdered young man is found tied to a cross, the suspect list is wide open. A religious fanatic? Crazed serial killer? Unpaid drug dealers?
DI Darren Swift—leading his first major case—and DC Colette Quinn are two sharp investigators that put together a stellar team and dig deep to break the case, but it’s the unlikely pairing of a conflicted, Calvinist nun and a jaded, cynical, foul-mouthed, metal musician that keeps this read moving.
Even before Helen Hope’s tragic history was revealed, I liked her. Pragmatic and practical, the eschatologist was able to see a bigger picture than her life as a nun and question her own actions and judgment.
And the woman thought nothing of taking a risk.
After Swift and Quinn question Helen about the religious implications of the murder site, Helen searches on her own and finds startling similarities between what the police told her about the crime scene and Total Depravity, a Norwegian metal band led by Mikko Kristensen.
When Helen and Mikko team up to find answers, each of their belief systems is challenged leaving both to wonder if they know themselves at all.
Swift is intent on following a drug angle in the murder case, but Helen finds someone is mixing the concept of predestination with junk DNA and genetic markings—does it get any better than that?
Reprobation is spot on with religious detail and the hard science of gene therapy without being high-brow and boring. Characters are well-developed and memorable and will put you firmly on the side of good…or evil. Mikko is my favorite character because he will say anything to anyone. Not for shock value–okay, mostly not for shock value–but, because that’s who he is.
Plot twists are well-planned, perfectly timed� and foreshadowed. Pay attention!
As much as I enjoyed this read and the details, it loses a star because, for me, there were times it was too detailed.
Most chapters end with a situation, plight, or dilemma that had me in a hurry to get to the next page only to be met by deep, detailed descriptions of the locale and/or the historical references connected to it before getting back to the story. Extremely frustrating and took me out of the story each time.
Still, despite that, this is a smart read with a fresh plot that will challenge readers on several levels.
The ending is satisfying but wide and vague, leaving the door open for another adventure with Helen and Mikko?
I hope so, and soon!
Enjoy!
When a murdered young man is found tied to a cross, the suspect list is wide open. A religious fanatic? Crazed serial killer? Unpaid drug dealers?
DI Darren Swift—leading his first major case—and DC Colette Quinn are two sharp investigators that put together a stellar team and dig deep to break the case, but it’s the unlikely pairing of a conflicted, Calvinist nun and a jaded, cynical, foul-mouthed, metal musician that keeps this read moving.
Even before Helen Hope’s tragic history was revealed, I liked her. Pragmatic and practical, the eschatologist was able to see a bigger picture than her life as a nun and question her own actions and judgment.
And the woman thought nothing of taking a risk.
After Swift and Quinn question Helen about the religious implications of the murder site, Helen searches on her own and finds startling similarities between what the police told her about the crime scene and Total Depravity, a Norwegian metal band led by Mikko Kristensen.
When Helen and Mikko team up to find answers, each of their belief systems is challenged leaving both to wonder if they know themselves at all.
Swift is intent on following a drug angle in the murder case, but Helen finds someone is mixing the concept of predestination with junk DNA and genetic markings—does it get any better than that?
Reprobation is spot on with religious detail and the hard science of gene therapy without being high-brow and boring. Characters are well-developed and memorable and will put you firmly on the side of good…or evil. Mikko is my favorite character because he will say anything to anyone. Not for shock value–okay, mostly not for shock value–but, because that’s who he is.
Plot twists are well-planned, perfectly timed� and foreshadowed. Pay attention!
As much as I enjoyed this read and the details, it loses a star because, for me, there were times it was too detailed.
Most chapters end with a situation, plight, or dilemma that had me in a hurry to get to the next page only to be met by deep, detailed descriptions of the locale and/or the historical references connected to it before getting back to the story. Extremely frustrating and took me out of the story each time.
Still, despite that, this is a smart read with a fresh plot that will challenge readers on several levels.
The ending is satisfying but wide and vague, leaving the door open for another adventure with Helen and Mikko?
I hope so, and soon!
Enjoy!
November 29, 2018
This unusual and very enjoyable book takes a look at Calvinist Christianity and its predestination doctrine, and entwines a bit of speculative genetics. The author comes up with a murder mystery very far out of the ordinary. I enjoyed the characters and their interaction, particularly Helen, the nun, and the death metal musician. The writing flows well and it was a joy to get my teeth into the story. It would be good to take some of the characters a bit further. Highly recommended.
October 26, 2018
A body is found on Crosby beach crucified with a quote from the Bible and a strange symbol carved into the victim. Sister Helen Hope, a Calvinist nun and lecturer of theology, is drawn into the mystery when the police consult her on the Bible quote.
The victim is linked to a disgrace geneticist who became convinced he found the genetic marker for those destined for heaven but he’s disappeared.
Even though she is warned repeatedly Helen can not leave it alone and with the help of foul mouthed lead singer of Total Depravity, Mikko Kristensen, she delves deeper into this gruesome mystery.
So this is definitely an unusual crime thriller with a nun as the main character. I have to be honest this book really surprised me, I don’t often say that! I was expecting some light hearted but it turn out to be quite dark and gritty, mixing the chilling tenets of Calvinism with quite brutal murders.
Now I’m not remotely religious but I found that aspect of it quite fascinating, especially the thought that even one is born with their fate decided, it doesn’t matter what you do on Earth, you’re already going to Heaven or Hell and you can do nothing to change it.
Sister Helen is a really compelling character. She’s obviously trying to atone for something in her past by locking herself away from the world but she has a bit of rebellion in her, sneaking off and investigating murder and listening to music (which is forbidden).
As a scouser myself, I appreciated the little touches, not only in the description of Merseyside but the bits of scouse slang that some of the characters use which gave it a real air of authenticity.
I did feel the story sort of slow down a little in middle. Also as someone who is not remotely musical, I did find when Mikko and Helen were discussing music, a lot of it went over my head which was a little frustrating.
Overall Reprobation is a dark and gritty debut with a real variety of characters but not for the faint of heart.
The victim is linked to a disgrace geneticist who became convinced he found the genetic marker for those destined for heaven but he’s disappeared.
Even though she is warned repeatedly Helen can not leave it alone and with the help of foul mouthed lead singer of Total Depravity, Mikko Kristensen, she delves deeper into this gruesome mystery.
So this is definitely an unusual crime thriller with a nun as the main character. I have to be honest this book really surprised me, I don’t often say that! I was expecting some light hearted but it turn out to be quite dark and gritty, mixing the chilling tenets of Calvinism with quite brutal murders.
Now I’m not remotely religious but I found that aspect of it quite fascinating, especially the thought that even one is born with their fate decided, it doesn’t matter what you do on Earth, you’re already going to Heaven or Hell and you can do nothing to change it.
Sister Helen is a really compelling character. She’s obviously trying to atone for something in her past by locking herself away from the world but she has a bit of rebellion in her, sneaking off and investigating murder and listening to music (which is forbidden).
As a scouser myself, I appreciated the little touches, not only in the description of Merseyside but the bits of scouse slang that some of the characters use which gave it a real air of authenticity.
I did feel the story sort of slow down a little in middle. Also as someone who is not remotely musical, I did find when Mikko and Helen were discussing music, a lot of it went over my head which was a little frustrating.
Overall Reprobation is a dark and gritty debut with a real variety of characters but not for the faint of heart.
December 5, 2020
Thank you Rachel's Random Resources and Catherine Fearns for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Reprobation
By: Catherine Fearns
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆�
A detective, a Calvinist nun and a death metal front man walk into a bar....
Okay, not a bar, but they do feature together in Catherine Fearn's Reprobation, which, if it seems weird, well, it is.
Beginning with the cover, I was favorably struck, yet, confounded by its starkness and implicit imaginative overtones. Reading the book, however, renders the cover less black and white, and more grey.
I'll attempt to briefly explain the plot without actually telling you anything. On a beach in Liverpool, a body is found, and religious elements are involved. DI Darren Swift turns to Dr. Helen Hope for help. She is a Calvinist nun and Theology lecturer of Eschatology (the study of death, judgment, etc.). Helen interprets something for DI Swift, and it (ironically?) feeds into the Calvinist doctrine of predestination.
As the police investigate, Helen does her own digging, leading to the death metal band Total Depravity. Lead vocalist, Mikko, and Helen are entwined in the investigation. This odd pair find solace and commonality where none should exist. Throughout are deep conversations about religious doctrine, etc. I am much better informed about Calvinism now. All of these things I knew nothing about were fascinating and thought provoking, especially predestination.
Reprobation is originality manifested in a book. Science and religion face off in untried, clever and unconventional ways. A Calvinist nun? Kind of brilliant, but way out there, too. This story is first in a trilogy, followed by Consuming Fire and Sound. Each book centers around a crime and the inspired musings of a nun. I highly recommend this trilogy because you have never read anything like it, and I don't think you will be disappointed. Confused, maybe.
Reprobation
By: Catherine Fearns
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆�
A detective, a Calvinist nun and a death metal front man walk into a bar....
Okay, not a bar, but they do feature together in Catherine Fearn's Reprobation, which, if it seems weird, well, it is.
Beginning with the cover, I was favorably struck, yet, confounded by its starkness and implicit imaginative overtones. Reading the book, however, renders the cover less black and white, and more grey.
I'll attempt to briefly explain the plot without actually telling you anything. On a beach in Liverpool, a body is found, and religious elements are involved. DI Darren Swift turns to Dr. Helen Hope for help. She is a Calvinist nun and Theology lecturer of Eschatology (the study of death, judgment, etc.). Helen interprets something for DI Swift, and it (ironically?) feeds into the Calvinist doctrine of predestination.
As the police investigate, Helen does her own digging, leading to the death metal band Total Depravity. Lead vocalist, Mikko, and Helen are entwined in the investigation. This odd pair find solace and commonality where none should exist. Throughout are deep conversations about religious doctrine, etc. I am much better informed about Calvinism now. All of these things I knew nothing about were fascinating and thought provoking, especially predestination.
Reprobation is originality manifested in a book. Science and religion face off in untried, clever and unconventional ways. A Calvinist nun? Kind of brilliant, but way out there, too. This story is first in a trilogy, followed by Consuming Fire and Sound. Each book centers around a crime and the inspired musings of a nun. I highly recommend this trilogy because you have never read anything like it, and I don't think you will be disappointed. Confused, maybe.
February 3, 2023
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Reprobation' by Catherine Fearns.
Read and reviewed for Catherine Fearns,CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platformand Zooloo's Book Tours.
Publication date 4th August 2018.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in the 'Reprobation' series but can be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its fantastic eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title.
This novel consists of 20 chapters. The chapters are short in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Liverpool, England 🏴 , UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited Liverpool several times so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise any places mentioned.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Dr Helen Hope, DI Darren Swift, DC Colette Quinn and Mikko Kristensen. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
LOVE, LOVE, ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS AMAZING EXPLOSIVE START TO A GUARANTEED ADDICTIVE SERIES!!!
Wow!!! This book is fantastically written and had me hook, line and sinker from beginning to end. The descriptions were so in depth and vivid that the hair on my arms was standing on the ends and my heart was pounding throughout. The synopsis, title and cover were perfect for the storyline.
WELL, WELL, WELL, where to even begin? What an absolutely unique page turner!!! I mean where the hell (no pun intended) else are you going to come across a nun that goes to a rock concert in her beetle and teaches Eschatology at a University, a guitarist in a heavy metal banned called 'Total Depravity' whose majority of conversation consists of four letter words beginning with f and ending in k, murder, laughter, tension, suspense, a gene that your born with that has your end destiny of heaven or hell already concluded and so, so, so much more!!! I have never, ever come across such a unique storyline before and if you have please let me know!! An absolute mixed jumble of opposites that should never work but Catherine manages to weave together to form an absolutely explosive storyline perfectly!!I was absolutely absorbed throughout this page turner. It is filled with tension, suspense and omg the twists!!! One of the most gripping unputdownable nerve wracking psychological thrillers I have EVER read!!! I absolutely loved the gothic aspects and the atmosphere of Liverpool and Argarmeols Hall (where Helen and the rest of the Sister's Of Grace live) is just perfect for this amazing page turner!! You lady have one hell of a talent and I cannot wait to get hold of your previous and future books. I cannot remember the last time I was so hooked by a book but you managed that big time!!! The storyline is filled with shocks, suspense, humour, tension and so much more! There was so much going on and it was very fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Catherine's writing style and depth had me so engrossed that when I looked up it took me a moment to realise I was even reading!! Clear your schedule before you start as I read this in one sitting as I could not put it down!! I was absolutely hooked!! I would absolutely love to see this turned into a movie!!!! This is a fantastic book in what promises to be an explosive and addictive series and I am looking forward to reading the next two books in this series 'Consuming Fire' and 'Sound'. In fact as soon as I have written this up I'm jumping straight into 'Consuming Fire'. I loved the multiple narrators and the past and present time lines and I just couldn't do 'just one more chapter' and ended up devouring it in a few hours.
Clear your schedules before even looking at the first page as you will not be able to put this book down!!!!
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but also any characters that may make repeat appearances during the series too.
I was completely invested in both the storyline and the characters. Each of the characters had their own unique personalities and I felt differently about each of them. I absolutely loved Sister Helen Hope who is definitely NOT your typical nun. She is also a university teacher teachingEschatology which absolutely fascinated me. I had to look up quite a lot of words throughout this book but reading on kindle made this easy! I also enjoyed learning so many new things!! Helen teams up with guitarist Mikko and talk about chalk and cheese!! Helen is a calvinist nun (something else I had to look up) and Mikko is the guitarist in the metal band 'Total Depravity' who swore every other word. The fact that they were complete opposites made their relationship all the more intriguing and watching their characters develop and bond was fascinating for me. They made an absolutely brilliant team, despite of or maybe because of their differences and I was laughing so much at times I had tears running down my face!! The other main characters are DI Darren Swift and DC Colette Quinn who also don't have much in common but worked perfectly together. At times I loved Darren and the fact that he admits he doesn't know what he is doing makes him stronger in my book for not pretending he has a clue and being a down to Earth and realistic person. However, there are times where he is quite blunt with people and that's where Colette comes in to put him in his place.These characters and more make fantastic teams and I cannot wait to meet each and every one of them again in the next book in what promises to be an explosive series!!! That book is called 'Consuming Fire' and I am off to read it now. Keep your eyes peeled for my review coming later today!! All in all a great mix of characters that worked well with this storyline.
This book has got to be in my top 10 books of all time and considering I have read hundreds and hundred that is one hell of an achievement!! Welcome to my favourite author list Catherine and keep writing these fantastic books!!
Congratulations Catherine on a true page turner! This may be the first book I have read by you but it most definitely will not be my last!! Here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely heart racing, gothic, hilarious, suspense and tension filled addictive and explosive start to a promising new series!!!
Genres covered in this novel include Urban, Crime, Mystery, Genetic Engineering Fiction, Crime Fiction, Crime Thriller, Thriller, Psychological Fiction, Psychological Thriller, Gothic Fiction, Horror, British Detective Stories and Urban Fantasy amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as to anyone looking for an unputdownable series that is guaranteed to have you glued to the pages!!
211 pages.
This book is just £6.78 in paperback, £2.99 in kindle for the full series (at time of review) via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on ŷ, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on ŷ or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#Reprobation #CatherineFearns #ZooLoosBookTours #CreateSpaceIndependentPublishingPlatform#BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #ŷ #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited
@Reprobation @CatherineFearns @ZooLoosBT @ZooloosBookTours @CreateSpaceIndependentPublishingPlatform @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @ŷ @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger @KindleUnlimited
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Review for 'Reprobation' by Catherine Fearns.
Read and reviewed for Catherine Fearns,CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platformand Zooloo's Book Tours.
Publication date 4th August 2018.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in the 'Reprobation' series but can be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its fantastic eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title.
This novel consists of 20 chapters. The chapters are short in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Liverpool, England 🏴 , UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited Liverpool several times so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise any places mentioned.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Dr Helen Hope, DI Darren Swift, DC Colette Quinn and Mikko Kristensen. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
LOVE, LOVE, ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS AMAZING EXPLOSIVE START TO A GUARANTEED ADDICTIVE SERIES!!!
Wow!!! This book is fantastically written and had me hook, line and sinker from beginning to end. The descriptions were so in depth and vivid that the hair on my arms was standing on the ends and my heart was pounding throughout. The synopsis, title and cover were perfect for the storyline.
WELL, WELL, WELL, where to even begin? What an absolutely unique page turner!!! I mean where the hell (no pun intended) else are you going to come across a nun that goes to a rock concert in her beetle and teaches Eschatology at a University, a guitarist in a heavy metal banned called 'Total Depravity' whose majority of conversation consists of four letter words beginning with f and ending in k, murder, laughter, tension, suspense, a gene that your born with that has your end destiny of heaven or hell already concluded and so, so, so much more!!! I have never, ever come across such a unique storyline before and if you have please let me know!! An absolute mixed jumble of opposites that should never work but Catherine manages to weave together to form an absolutely explosive storyline perfectly!!I was absolutely absorbed throughout this page turner. It is filled with tension, suspense and omg the twists!!! One of the most gripping unputdownable nerve wracking psychological thrillers I have EVER read!!! I absolutely loved the gothic aspects and the atmosphere of Liverpool and Argarmeols Hall (where Helen and the rest of the Sister's Of Grace live) is just perfect for this amazing page turner!! You lady have one hell of a talent and I cannot wait to get hold of your previous and future books. I cannot remember the last time I was so hooked by a book but you managed that big time!!! The storyline is filled with shocks, suspense, humour, tension and so much more! There was so much going on and it was very fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Catherine's writing style and depth had me so engrossed that when I looked up it took me a moment to realise I was even reading!! Clear your schedule before you start as I read this in one sitting as I could not put it down!! I was absolutely hooked!! I would absolutely love to see this turned into a movie!!!! This is a fantastic book in what promises to be an explosive and addictive series and I am looking forward to reading the next two books in this series 'Consuming Fire' and 'Sound'. In fact as soon as I have written this up I'm jumping straight into 'Consuming Fire'. I loved the multiple narrators and the past and present time lines and I just couldn't do 'just one more chapter' and ended up devouring it in a few hours.
Clear your schedules before even looking at the first page as you will not be able to put this book down!!!!
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but also any characters that may make repeat appearances during the series too.
I was completely invested in both the storyline and the characters. Each of the characters had their own unique personalities and I felt differently about each of them. I absolutely loved Sister Helen Hope who is definitely NOT your typical nun. She is also a university teacher teachingEschatology which absolutely fascinated me. I had to look up quite a lot of words throughout this book but reading on kindle made this easy! I also enjoyed learning so many new things!! Helen teams up with guitarist Mikko and talk about chalk and cheese!! Helen is a calvinist nun (something else I had to look up) and Mikko is the guitarist in the metal band 'Total Depravity' who swore every other word. The fact that they were complete opposites made their relationship all the more intriguing and watching their characters develop and bond was fascinating for me. They made an absolutely brilliant team, despite of or maybe because of their differences and I was laughing so much at times I had tears running down my face!! The other main characters are DI Darren Swift and DC Colette Quinn who also don't have much in common but worked perfectly together. At times I loved Darren and the fact that he admits he doesn't know what he is doing makes him stronger in my book for not pretending he has a clue and being a down to Earth and realistic person. However, there are times where he is quite blunt with people and that's where Colette comes in to put him in his place.These characters and more make fantastic teams and I cannot wait to meet each and every one of them again in the next book in what promises to be an explosive series!!! That book is called 'Consuming Fire' and I am off to read it now. Keep your eyes peeled for my review coming later today!! All in all a great mix of characters that worked well with this storyline.
This book has got to be in my top 10 books of all time and considering I have read hundreds and hundred that is one hell of an achievement!! Welcome to my favourite author list Catherine and keep writing these fantastic books!!
Congratulations Catherine on a true page turner! This may be the first book I have read by you but it most definitely will not be my last!! Here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely heart racing, gothic, hilarious, suspense and tension filled addictive and explosive start to a promising new series!!!
Genres covered in this novel include Urban, Crime, Mystery, Genetic Engineering Fiction, Crime Fiction, Crime Thriller, Thriller, Psychological Fiction, Psychological Thriller, Gothic Fiction, Horror, British Detective Stories and Urban Fantasy amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as to anyone looking for an unputdownable series that is guaranteed to have you glued to the pages!!
211 pages.
This book is just £6.78 in paperback, £2.99 in kindle for the full series (at time of review) via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on ŷ, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on ŷ or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#Reprobation #CatherineFearns #ZooLoosBookTours #CreateSpaceIndependentPublishingPlatform#BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #ŷ #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited
@Reprobation @CatherineFearns @ZooLoosBT @ZooloosBookTours @CreateSpaceIndependentPublishingPlatform @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @ŷ @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger @KindleUnlimited
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September 5, 2021
I read 'Reprobation' for my Murder Most Foul Halloween Bingo Square and had a great time with it. It's the first book of a trilogy and I'll be back for the rest.
I was initially drawn to 'Reprobation' by the spooky cover and the fact that it was set in Liverpool. It turned out the nun in the book is nothing like the scary image on the cover and the book is set mostly in Formby, a posh coastal town outside of Liverpool, home to the wide beach and strange sculptures that you see in the banner above. But I wasn't disappointed. The nun was much more interesting than the haven't-I-seen-this-movie? drawing suggested and Formby made the perfect setting for the plot.
There were lots of things to like about this book, starting with the opening sentence:
"Across grey waters, where the river Mersey meets the Irish Sea, wind turbines puncture the dawn horizon like spinning crucifixes."
I loved the way genetics and Calvinism were explained with enough rigour to be engaging without sliding into force-fed knowledge-nugget territory. The links between the two, which I had sometimes wondered about given the deterministic nature of both, were brilliantly made and took me to unexpected places.
I know the area the book is set in very well and the depiction of the places and the people feels spot in. It's full of the kind of observation you make about a place that's your home, not a place you've come to as an outsider or looked up on Google.
The characters are memorable and engaging. I did wonder whether they'd be a little over the top. I mean we have a Calvinist nun who is also a university lecturer in the theology of eschatology, a so-new-no-one's-taken-the-plastic-off police detective coming home to Liverpool after a bad time with the Met and running his first murder case with a crew where some of them knew him when he was wet behind the ears and the lead singer of a Norwegian Metal band who writes lyrics that quote scripture and music that nods to Bach behind the metal beat. Yet Catherine Fearns managed to make all of them human and credible so that they stopped seeing larger-than-life and became people I was invested in.
The plot was also full of surprises. I was fairly sure I knew where it was going and who the bad guy was and I was wrong on both counts, more than once, which is part of the fun. The pacing worked well, starting from flashes of gory slaughter and academic reflections on death, judgment, and the final destiny of the soul and of humankind through to a tense will-they-get-there-in-time-and-will-the-people-I-care-about-survive? ending.
The dialogue was well done. I could hear all the different accents in my head, not just because of the slang used but because of nuances of class, education and nationality embedded in the words and because the main characters had very clear voices.
The only thing that marred my enjoyment was a few places where the text made my Inner Pedant raised his head. For example:
"Even though everyone already knew, the image raised audible gasps."
At which my Inner Pedant said: 'If it's not audible, it's not a gasp.'
Or
"...turning to his incident board while Colette raised an imperceptible eyebrow at him."
Which prompted my Inner Pedant to growl out 'If it's imperceptible, how do we know it happened? Is this the sound of one hand clapping as a tree falls unobserved in a forest?'
My Inner Pedant is not a nice man and I hate it when books I'm enjoying wake him up.
I recommend 'Reprobation' if you're in the mood for something bold and different that's neither boring nor pretentious.
Catherine Fearns is an English writer journalist and musician from Liverpool.
Her three crime fiction novels Reprobation, Consuming Fire and Sound are all Amazon bestsellers Reprobation won a Readers� Favorite Silver Medal and a PageTurner eBook Award.
January 3, 2019
Thank you @netgalley and @ crooked cat for an ARC
I am literally rubbing my hands with glee about the discovery of Catherin Fearns, a new author (for me) who writes dark, cross-genre fiction and illustrates perfectly that you can, with talent, write a story with many different parts making a glorious whole. I’m not going to talk too much about the plot because I’m a notorious unwitting plot spoiler - suffice to say that I may have found my next favorite female MC - up there with Nona Grey (Mark Lawrence).
Helen Hope is a Calvinist nun and theological professor who has entered into an austere religious order that ordains the rejection of pleasure & the embrace of spriritual and practical service. Sadly, she has done this to atone for a perceived past sin - the death of a sibling
But if you remove pleasure from your world what does it fill with? Well, it depends very much on personality as the book explains. In Helen’s case, a sense of loss and longing which she constantly attempts to suppress and in the process allows herself to be manipulated by her zealous Deaconess.
And for others - a righteous & maniacal zealously that can only end badly. And does for some of their victims.
One of the most interesting things about this book is the exploration of theological and religious issues. The author has a huge interest in these unwieldily concepts and explores them vividly and I found there to be an interesting ambivalence about religion and possibly in Catherine - one that I hope is explored in later books. Cracking dark thriller full of complex characters that leave you thinking about them for some time.
Highly recommended - 5* All the way :)
I am literally rubbing my hands with glee about the discovery of Catherin Fearns, a new author (for me) who writes dark, cross-genre fiction and illustrates perfectly that you can, with talent, write a story with many different parts making a glorious whole. I’m not going to talk too much about the plot because I’m a notorious unwitting plot spoiler - suffice to say that I may have found my next favorite female MC - up there with Nona Grey (Mark Lawrence).
Helen Hope is a Calvinist nun and theological professor who has entered into an austere religious order that ordains the rejection of pleasure & the embrace of spriritual and practical service. Sadly, she has done this to atone for a perceived past sin - the death of a sibling
But if you remove pleasure from your world what does it fill with? Well, it depends very much on personality as the book explains. In Helen’s case, a sense of loss and longing which she constantly attempts to suppress and in the process allows herself to be manipulated by her zealous Deaconess.
And for others - a righteous & maniacal zealously that can only end badly. And does for some of their victims.
One of the most interesting things about this book is the exploration of theological and religious issues. The author has a huge interest in these unwieldily concepts and explores them vividly and I found there to be an interesting ambivalence about religion and possibly in Catherine - one that I hope is explored in later books. Cracking dark thriller full of complex characters that leave you thinking about them for some time.
Highly recommended - 5* All the way :)
October 29, 2018
I thought that this book was great!
I loved that the main characters were not your normal police detectives but a nun and a death metal guitarist � and who would have thought they would work so well together � certainly not me � but they do, very well!
I loved the plot line and the setting for the book was great, I love books set in places where I have visited as I feel they come to life more for me so this one ticked a lot of boxes for me. The pace was good and I enjoyed the writing style. A refreshing change from the normal crime thrillers.
Four stars from me- I really enjoyed it!
March 8, 2019
I read Consuming Fire recently by Catherine Fearns and thoroughly enjoyed it, so wanted to read the previous novel featuring Quinn and Helen....so glad I did....
A young man is found tied to a cross, murdered..... so it begins...who would do such a thing, a crazy serial killer, a gang killing or a religious zealot...?
DI Darren Swift, on his first major case as DCI and his colleague, DC Colette Quinn are part of the team to investigate and hopefully solve this bizarre case.
Quinn meets Helen Hope a Calvinist nun, who studies death and humanity and her ‘friend� Mikko, a rather colourful, death metal musician who help bring some sense of reason to this dark and disturbing crime.
Swift is keen on following a drug angle in the murder case, but Helen discovers that there someone is mixing the concept of fate with DNA and genetics......mixing science with religion....
There are great characters in Quinn, Helen and Mikko, which is a real credit to Catherine Fearns creative and expressive writing.....twisty, dark and full of detail....brilliant.
I would like to thank the Author/the Publishers/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review
A young man is found tied to a cross, murdered..... so it begins...who would do such a thing, a crazy serial killer, a gang killing or a religious zealot...?
DI Darren Swift, on his first major case as DCI and his colleague, DC Colette Quinn are part of the team to investigate and hopefully solve this bizarre case.
Quinn meets Helen Hope a Calvinist nun, who studies death and humanity and her ‘friend� Mikko, a rather colourful, death metal musician who help bring some sense of reason to this dark and disturbing crime.
Swift is keen on following a drug angle in the murder case, but Helen discovers that there someone is mixing the concept of fate with DNA and genetics......mixing science with religion....
There are great characters in Quinn, Helen and Mikko, which is a real credit to Catherine Fearns creative and expressive writing.....twisty, dark and full of detail....brilliant.
I would like to thank the Author/the Publishers/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review
January 3, 2019
When a body is found crucified on a beach with a strange religious quotation, Darren Swift consults Sr Helen, a Calavanist nun. She is an expert in the end of days. This is Darren's first murder case and he is full of doubt. Sr Helen is intrigued by the case. She forms an unlikely partnership with a Death Metal musician to find out how a rogue geneticist is involved- not only in the murder but in a plot to change everything Helen believes in.
This is an unusual book with a real mix of characters. The style also takes a bit of getting used to. Once I got into it I really enjoyed this book- good start to my 2019 reading!
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
This is an unusual book with a real mix of characters. The style also takes a bit of getting used to. Once I got into it I really enjoyed this book- good start to my 2019 reading!
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
January 12, 2019
A bold, unpredictable, addictive read. From the blurb I had no idea what to make of this book but the first few pages pulled me in. I love that the author has avoided cliches and come up with refreshingly different main characters who I found plausible and likeable. Although this is a fast-paced thriller, it's also a thought-provoking book. I can't wait to read more by Catherine Fearns
December 7, 2018
Reprobation lures you in from the first pages. Featuring a nun and a death metal singer in the first pages, it was never going to be a run of the mill tale.
The plot is well crafted and the detail on Calvinism, metal and the study of death all well researched and integrated into the story.
It's a punchy novel - relatively short by comparison to some, which enabled a fast pace to be maintained right up to the final page.
Despite the creepy cover, you need have little interest in theology or death metal to enjoy this novel immensely.
The plot is well crafted and the detail on Calvinism, metal and the study of death all well researched and integrated into the story.
It's a punchy novel - relatively short by comparison to some, which enabled a fast pace to be maintained right up to the final page.
Despite the creepy cover, you need have little interest in theology or death metal to enjoy this novel immensely.
December 7, 2018
I love a book that pulls me right in like this and entertains, yet at the same time opens my mind to ideas I'd never thought about before. With an unusual cast of characters, wonderful writing and a layered plot, this is a story that will stay with me for a very long time.
October 23, 2018
When I first saw this book I was intrigued by the cover, then I saw it was a crime/thriller book and was like "How does the nun in the cover relates to this?". Of course I then read the blurb and thought "Hum... Okay, that's how! But now... How does this book going to work out?!" And that's how I ended up signing up to the blog tour and I had a blast reading this book.
Let me tell you some things I loved from the very beginning without even starting the book. First, like I said before, the cover caught my attention. Second the main character's name is Dr. Helen Hope and she's a lecturer in eschatology, which is the study of death, judgement, and the destiny of humankind, and she's the nun. You see it too right? Hope and she studies eschatology... fun and interesting, right?
Third... besides being a crime thriller novel, which made me already curious... there is a death metal band! When I read about that I was so excited and I knew it would be a different kind of book. Especially since Mikko (a member of the band) is the suspect and with the help of Helen, they try to solve the crime. See what I mean with the "How does this book going to work out?!" I had to read it and that's what I did.
Helen became involved with the murder investigation when the investigators ask her for help, since they are trying to figure out the religious aspects in the murder. And as the book keeps going, I found myself very curious about the characters and got really into the story and trying to uncover the mystery and the truth behind the murder.
The author took me on an exciting, intriguing and thought-provoking journey that wasn't always what I expected, but unexpected in a good way. It was a book that had a great plot because of it, it was complex, and the characters' interaction were another aspect that made the book engaging and it made reading the book interesting and have a good pace.
Overall, I loved the book and I'm excited about the future books that Catherine writes because her writing style was amazing.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Catherine for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and by being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book.]
Let me tell you some things I loved from the very beginning without even starting the book. First, like I said before, the cover caught my attention. Second the main character's name is Dr. Helen Hope and she's a lecturer in eschatology, which is the study of death, judgement, and the destiny of humankind, and she's the nun. You see it too right? Hope and she studies eschatology... fun and interesting, right?
Third... besides being a crime thriller novel, which made me already curious... there is a death metal band! When I read about that I was so excited and I knew it would be a different kind of book. Especially since Mikko (a member of the band) is the suspect and with the help of Helen, they try to solve the crime. See what I mean with the "How does this book going to work out?!" I had to read it and that's what I did.
Helen became involved with the murder investigation when the investigators ask her for help, since they are trying to figure out the religious aspects in the murder. And as the book keeps going, I found myself very curious about the characters and got really into the story and trying to uncover the mystery and the truth behind the murder.
The author took me on an exciting, intriguing and thought-provoking journey that wasn't always what I expected, but unexpected in a good way. It was a book that had a great plot because of it, it was complex, and the characters' interaction were another aspect that made the book engaging and it made reading the book interesting and have a good pace.
Overall, I loved the book and I'm excited about the future books that Catherine writes because her writing style was amazing.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Catherine for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and by being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book.]
August 26, 2019
Reprobation by Catherine Fearns is enticing as murder brings out the worst of people. Secrets are revealed and it open old wounds. Dr. Helen Hope is intrigued by the religious innuendoes in the murder of a local troubled man. Her search into the weapon at the crime scene leads her to Mikko Kristensen. His rock band focuses a lot on Calvinistic beliefs and his mixed messages brings Helen and Mikko together. On the other hand, DI Darren Swift is heading up his first murder. Trying to lead while still learning the ropes himself makes this interesting.
I found Catherine Fearns an excellent author as she captures the mystique of this quaint area. The murder and the characters present a unique background for this contemporary religious fiction. The research and details the author puts into this novel gives it a rich depth that will please mystery lovers. This is an exceptional start to Catherine Fearns The Reprobation series and an author that you will want to watch.
I found Catherine Fearns an excellent author as she captures the mystique of this quaint area. The murder and the characters present a unique background for this contemporary religious fiction. The research and details the author puts into this novel gives it a rich depth that will please mystery lovers. This is an exceptional start to Catherine Fearns The Reprobation series and an author that you will want to watch.
November 25, 2018
The title of the book was new for me I admit. The front cover of the book caught my attention and after reading the book, I can say that the story is actually a furnished and well woven from an in-depth plot to be specific. The engaging elements in the book won't make the reader get bored or lack the reader's attention, even for once, throughout the end. I liked the overall portrayal of the story and the way it is presented to the reader. Would love to recommend this book. Thank you.
November 15, 2018
To be honest other than it being a book on a blog tour I was invited to join I have no recollection of what drew me to this book. I schedule months in advance so when it’s finally time to read the book I am due to review I sometimes wonder why I’m doing it. I can only imagine it is the cover image that piqued my interest, I had a mad moment when I was a child, I thought it would be fun to be a nun!!
Anyway, on opening the book and having a look at the blurb I was able to ascertain this is a crime story so perhaps that was the clue I needed. A story revolving around nuns, the police and a death metal band set in Liverpool. How on earth was this going to work!?
I’m afraid I have to admit I asked Mr. ‘Google� for advice before I began reading in earnest � Eschatology and Calvinist are not words in my vocabulary that I was familiar with on a daily basis.
The author has a very deep understanding of Liverpool, the atmosphere, dialect and locations are written in such a way that a stranger to the city would soon feel at home. I liked the nod to ‘The Liver Birds� for people of a certain age.
Helen is a nun who lectures at the local Uni, she quite appealed to me, not your average image of a nun when she ‘pootles� around Liverpool in the houses� lime green VW Beetle, a girl after my own heart lol. She becomes involved in a murder enquiry when the investigators need to ask her advice to decipher some religious quote found with the body.
The author takes us on a journey of mystery and intrigue, sometimes rather gruesome and not for the faint-hearted. It really is a case of determining who is trustworthy, who is responsible for further crimes and what is the link between religion and a science/genetics project. Darren the detective was so keen to solve this case but he came across as arrogant to me, whether that is just his demeanour or maybe he should be in a different job.
There are many lines to follow and it got a bit complex but it still kept me turning the pages to see if there would be a satisfying credible ending. I believe Reprobation is a debut novel so I would be interested to see what route the author takes next if any.
Thanks to the author, publisher and Rachel from Random Resources. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Anyway, on opening the book and having a look at the blurb I was able to ascertain this is a crime story so perhaps that was the clue I needed. A story revolving around nuns, the police and a death metal band set in Liverpool. How on earth was this going to work!?
I’m afraid I have to admit I asked Mr. ‘Google� for advice before I began reading in earnest � Eschatology and Calvinist are not words in my vocabulary that I was familiar with on a daily basis.
The author has a very deep understanding of Liverpool, the atmosphere, dialect and locations are written in such a way that a stranger to the city would soon feel at home. I liked the nod to ‘The Liver Birds� for people of a certain age.
Helen is a nun who lectures at the local Uni, she quite appealed to me, not your average image of a nun when she ‘pootles� around Liverpool in the houses� lime green VW Beetle, a girl after my own heart lol. She becomes involved in a murder enquiry when the investigators need to ask her advice to decipher some religious quote found with the body.
The author takes us on a journey of mystery and intrigue, sometimes rather gruesome and not for the faint-hearted. It really is a case of determining who is trustworthy, who is responsible for further crimes and what is the link between religion and a science/genetics project. Darren the detective was so keen to solve this case but he came across as arrogant to me, whether that is just his demeanour or maybe he should be in a different job.
There are many lines to follow and it got a bit complex but it still kept me turning the pages to see if there would be a satisfying credible ending. I believe Reprobation is a debut novel so I would be interested to see what route the author takes next if any.
Thanks to the author, publisher and Rachel from Random Resources. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
December 4, 2018
This was an intriguing, beautifully written book full of original ideas! I loved the very intelligent mix of cutting-edge science, religion, mystery and romance. The author raises some fascinating spiritual and ethical questions that are becoming increasingly relevant. I highly recommend it!
November 7, 2019
I hadn't heard of this book before and how much I regret not reading this sooner! I loved so much about this. Firstly, we have a Calvinist Nun and the lead singer of a Norwegian Metal band solving crimes together, it's like the metalhead version of Father Brown haha, and in the best ways.
We have a few characters at play and the way Fearns hints at the supernatural and otherworldly is perfect, she combines Christian mythology/theology with a police procedural to give you a spectacular murder mystery and the set up for a great set of books. Not to mention she keeps the length of the novel perfect, not overwhelming you or bogging it down unnecessarily so the pacing is just right. All too often a great thriller can be diminished by carrying on too long but Fearns doesn't make this mistake.
What I really enjoy is Fearns giving us a new twist to murders/murder mysteries, she keeps it fresh which for someone like me who reads a copious amount of thrillers, well, it's so nice!
Fearns provided me a copy of her awesome novel in exchange for my honest review.
We have a few characters at play and the way Fearns hints at the supernatural and otherworldly is perfect, she combines Christian mythology/theology with a police procedural to give you a spectacular murder mystery and the set up for a great set of books. Not to mention she keeps the length of the novel perfect, not overwhelming you or bogging it down unnecessarily so the pacing is just right. All too often a great thriller can be diminished by carrying on too long but Fearns doesn't make this mistake.
What I really enjoy is Fearns giving us a new twist to murders/murder mysteries, she keeps it fresh which for someone like me who reads a copious amount of thrillers, well, it's so nice!
Fearns provided me a copy of her awesome novel in exchange for my honest review.
July 30, 2023
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Reprobation' by Catherine Fearns.
Read and reviewed for Catherine Fearns,CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platformand Zooloo's Book Tours.
Publication date 4th August 2018.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in the 'Reprobation' series but can be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its fantastic eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title.
This novel consists of 20 chapters. The chapters are short in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Liverpool, England 🏴 , UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited Liverpool several times so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise any places mentioned.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Dr Helen Hope, DI Darren Swift, DC Colette Quinn and Mikko Kristensen. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
LOVE, LOVE, ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS AMAZING EXPLOSIVE START TO A GUARANTEED ADDICTIVE SERIES!!!
Wow!!! This book is fantastically written and had me hook, line and sinker from beginning to end. The descriptions were so in depth and vivid that the hair on my arms was standing on the ends and my heart was pounding throughout. The synopsis, title and cover were perfect for the storyline.
WELL, WELL, WELL, where to even begin? What an absolutely unique page turner!!! I mean where the hell (no pun intended) else are you going to come across a nun that goes to a rock concert in her beetle and teaches Eschatology at a University, a guitarist in a heavy metal banned called 'Total Depravity' whose majority of conversation consists of four letter words beginning with f and ending in k, murder, laughter, tension, suspense, a gene that your born with that has your end destiny of heaven or hell already concluded and so, so, so much more!!! I have never, ever come across such a unique storyline before and if you have please let me know!! An absolute mixed jumble of opposites that should never work but Catherine manages to weave together to form an absolutely explosive storyline perfectly!!I was absolutely absorbed throughout this page turner. It is filled with tension, suspense and omg the twists!!! One of the most gripping unputdownable nerve wracking psychological thrillers I have EVER read!!! I absolutely loved the gothic aspects and the atmosphere of Liverpool and Argarmeols Hall (where Helen and the rest of the Sister's Of Grace live) is just perfect for this amazing page turner!! You lady have one hell of a talent and I cannot wait to get hold of your previous and future books. I cannot remember the last time I was so hooked by a book but you managed that big time!!! The storyline is filled with shocks, suspense, humour, tension and so much more! There was so much going on and it was very fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Catherine's writing style and depth had me so engrossed that when I looked up it took me a moment to realise I was even reading!! Clear your schedule before you start as I read this in one sitting as I could not put it down!! I was absolutely hooked!! I would absolutely love to see this turned into a movie!!!! This is a fantastic book in what promises to be an explosive and addictive series and I am looking forward to reading the next two books in this series 'Consuming Fire' and 'Sound'. In fact as soon as I have written this up I'm jumping straight into 'Consuming Fire'. I loved the multiple narrators and the past and present time lines and I just couldn't do 'just one more chapter' and ended up devouring it in a few hours.
Clear your schedules before even looking at the first page as you will not be able to put this book down!!!!
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but also any characters that may make repeat appearances during the series too.
I was completely invested in both the storyline and the characters. Each of the characters had their own unique personalities and I felt differently about each of them. I absolutely loved Sister Helen Hope who is definitely NOT your typical nun. She is also a university teacher teachingEschatology which absolutely fascinated me. I had to look up quite a lot of words throughout this book but reading on kindle made this easy! I also enjoyed learning so many new things!! Helen teams up with guitarist Mikko and talk about chalk and cheese!! Helen is a calvinist nun (something else I had to look up) and Mikko is the guitarist in the metal band 'Total Depravity' who swore every other word. The fact that they were complete opposites made their relationship all the more intriguing and watching their characters develop and bond was fascinating for me. They made an absolutely brilliant team, despite of or maybe because of their differences and I was laughing so much at times I had tears running down my face!! The other main characters are DI Darren Swift and DC Colette Quinn who also don't have much in common but worked perfectly together. At times I loved Darren and the fact that he admits he doesn't know what he is doing makes him stronger in my book for not pretending he has a clue and being a down to Earth and realistic person. However, there are times where he is quite blunt with people and that's where Colette comes in to put him in his place.These characters and more make fantastic teams and I cannot wait to meet each and every one of them again in the next book in what promises to be an explosive series!!! That book is called 'Consuming Fire' and I am off to read it now. Keep your eyes peeled for my review coming later today!! All in all a great mix of characters that worked well with this storyline.
This book has got to be in my top 10 books of all time and considering I have read hundreds and hundred that is one hell of an achievement!! Welcome to my favourite author list Catherine and keep writing these fantastic books!!
Congratulations Catherine on a true page turner! This may be the first book I have read by you but it most definitely will not be my last!! Here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely heart racing, gothic, hilarious, suspense and tension filled addictive and explosive start to a promising new series!!!
Genres covered in this novel include Urban, Crime, Mystery, Genetic Engineering Fiction, Crime Fiction, Crime Thriller, Thriller, Psychological Fiction, Psychological Thriller, Gothic Fiction, Horror, British Detective Stories and Urban Fantasy amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as to anyone looking for an unputdownable series that is guaranteed to have you glued to the pages!!
211 pages.
This book is just £6.78 in paperback, £2.99 in kindle for the full series (at time of review) via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on ŷ, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on ŷ or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#Reprobation #CatherineFearns #ZooLoosBookTours #CreateSpaceIndependentPublishingPlatform#BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #ŷ #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited
@Reprobation @CatherineFearns @ZooLoosBT @ZooloosBookTours @CreateSpaceIndependentPublishingPlatform @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @ŷ @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger @KindleUnlimited
/user/show/3...
Review for 'Reprobation' by Catherine Fearns.
Read and reviewed for Catherine Fearns,CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platformand Zooloo's Book Tours.
Publication date 4th August 2018.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in the 'Reprobation' series but can be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its fantastic eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title.
This novel consists of 20 chapters. The chapters are short in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Liverpool, England 🏴 , UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited Liverpool several times so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise any places mentioned.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Dr Helen Hope, DI Darren Swift, DC Colette Quinn and Mikko Kristensen. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
LOVE, LOVE, ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS AMAZING EXPLOSIVE START TO A GUARANTEED ADDICTIVE SERIES!!!
Wow!!! This book is fantastically written and had me hook, line and sinker from beginning to end. The descriptions were so in depth and vivid that the hair on my arms was standing on the ends and my heart was pounding throughout. The synopsis, title and cover were perfect for the storyline.
WELL, WELL, WELL, where to even begin? What an absolutely unique page turner!!! I mean where the hell (no pun intended) else are you going to come across a nun that goes to a rock concert in her beetle and teaches Eschatology at a University, a guitarist in a heavy metal banned called 'Total Depravity' whose majority of conversation consists of four letter words beginning with f and ending in k, murder, laughter, tension, suspense, a gene that your born with that has your end destiny of heaven or hell already concluded and so, so, so much more!!! I have never, ever come across such a unique storyline before and if you have please let me know!! An absolute mixed jumble of opposites that should never work but Catherine manages to weave together to form an absolutely explosive storyline perfectly!!I was absolutely absorbed throughout this page turner. It is filled with tension, suspense and omg the twists!!! One of the most gripping unputdownable nerve wracking psychological thrillers I have EVER read!!! I absolutely loved the gothic aspects and the atmosphere of Liverpool and Argarmeols Hall (where Helen and the rest of the Sister's Of Grace live) is just perfect for this amazing page turner!! You lady have one hell of a talent and I cannot wait to get hold of your previous and future books. I cannot remember the last time I was so hooked by a book but you managed that big time!!! The storyline is filled with shocks, suspense, humour, tension and so much more! There was so much going on and it was very fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Catherine's writing style and depth had me so engrossed that when I looked up it took me a moment to realise I was even reading!! Clear your schedule before you start as I read this in one sitting as I could not put it down!! I was absolutely hooked!! I would absolutely love to see this turned into a movie!!!! This is a fantastic book in what promises to be an explosive and addictive series and I am looking forward to reading the next two books in this series 'Consuming Fire' and 'Sound'. In fact as soon as I have written this up I'm jumping straight into 'Consuming Fire'. I loved the multiple narrators and the past and present time lines and I just couldn't do 'just one more chapter' and ended up devouring it in a few hours.
Clear your schedules before even looking at the first page as you will not be able to put this book down!!!!
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but also any characters that may make repeat appearances during the series too.
I was completely invested in both the storyline and the characters. Each of the characters had their own unique personalities and I felt differently about each of them. I absolutely loved Sister Helen Hope who is definitely NOT your typical nun. She is also a university teacher teachingEschatology which absolutely fascinated me. I had to look up quite a lot of words throughout this book but reading on kindle made this easy! I also enjoyed learning so many new things!! Helen teams up with guitarist Mikko and talk about chalk and cheese!! Helen is a calvinist nun (something else I had to look up) and Mikko is the guitarist in the metal band 'Total Depravity' who swore every other word. The fact that they were complete opposites made their relationship all the more intriguing and watching their characters develop and bond was fascinating for me. They made an absolutely brilliant team, despite of or maybe because of their differences and I was laughing so much at times I had tears running down my face!! The other main characters are DI Darren Swift and DC Colette Quinn who also don't have much in common but worked perfectly together. At times I loved Darren and the fact that he admits he doesn't know what he is doing makes him stronger in my book for not pretending he has a clue and being a down to Earth and realistic person. However, there are times where he is quite blunt with people and that's where Colette comes in to put him in his place.These characters and more make fantastic teams and I cannot wait to meet each and every one of them again in the next book in what promises to be an explosive series!!! That book is called 'Consuming Fire' and I am off to read it now. Keep your eyes peeled for my review coming later today!! All in all a great mix of characters that worked well with this storyline.
This book has got to be in my top 10 books of all time and considering I have read hundreds and hundred that is one hell of an achievement!! Welcome to my favourite author list Catherine and keep writing these fantastic books!!
Congratulations Catherine on a true page turner! This may be the first book I have read by you but it most definitely will not be my last!! Here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely heart racing, gothic, hilarious, suspense and tension filled addictive and explosive start to a promising new series!!!
Genres covered in this novel include Urban, Crime, Mystery, Genetic Engineering Fiction, Crime Fiction, Crime Thriller, Thriller, Psychological Fiction, Psychological Thriller, Gothic Fiction, Horror, British Detective Stories and Urban Fantasy amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as to anyone looking for an unputdownable series that is guaranteed to have you glued to the pages!!
211 pages.
This book is just £6.78 in paperback, £2.99 in kindle for the full series (at time of review) via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on ŷ, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on ŷ or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#Reprobation #CatherineFearns #ZooLoosBookTours #CreateSpaceIndependentPublishingPlatform#BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #ŷ #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited
@Reprobation @CatherineFearns @ZooLoosBT @ZooloosBookTours @CreateSpaceIndependentPublishingPlatform @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @ŷ @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger @KindleUnlimited
/user/show/3...
February 18, 2019
Calvinist nun Dr Helen Hope finds herself embroiled in a gruesome murder.
My goodness, Reprobation is a very different murder mystery. It is complex, intelligent and actually quite challenging at times, being none the worse for the effort I found I had to put in to grasp some of the theological elements and to define some of the language. I thought Reprobation was exciting and fascinating.
Firstly, I loved the character of Helen Hope; from her appropriate surname through her struggle with her beliefs to her intellectual ability. She helps the reader comprehend the religious aspects of both the underpinning theme of Calvinism and the crime narrative, she links theology with secularism through her discovery of Mikko’s music and lyrics and she has the perfect balance of obedience to her lifestyle and rebelliousness against it that makes her a perfect heroine for this kind of story.
Secondary characters like Darren Swift are developed just enough to leave the reader wanting more about them all by the end of the story and it is interesting just how important a character Liverpool is. Reading Reprobation made me want to visit the city to try to experience some of the brilliantly wrought atmosphere for myself. I understand there is a second book featuring Helen Hope and Darren Swift and I can’t wait to read it.
Reprobation‘s narrative is fast paced, twisty and entertaining. There’s a solid police procedural as well as more maverick, independent, action from Helen and Mikko that helps the plot race along and that I thoroughly enjoyed. Music is an essential element of the story and despite my middle aged, middle of the road musical taste, reading this book made me want to investigate the heavy metal musical genre!
However, it was the philosophical aspects that really grasped my attention. I’m a complete atheist but the concept of playing God, pre-determination, sin, genetics and the afterlife are such brilliantly woven themes that I found Reprobation utterly fascinating.
Reprobation can be read on so many levels. It is indeed an exciting and entertaining Liverpool set police procedural murder mystery. It’s also a philosophically thought-provoking read that I feel I need to reread immediately in order fully to appreciate how intelligently and carefully it has been crafted by Catherine Fearns. I think I have missed so much as a result of my own ignorance. Reprobation is certainly a novel that will withstand several readings. I thought it was excellent.
My goodness, Reprobation is a very different murder mystery. It is complex, intelligent and actually quite challenging at times, being none the worse for the effort I found I had to put in to grasp some of the theological elements and to define some of the language. I thought Reprobation was exciting and fascinating.
Firstly, I loved the character of Helen Hope; from her appropriate surname through her struggle with her beliefs to her intellectual ability. She helps the reader comprehend the religious aspects of both the underpinning theme of Calvinism and the crime narrative, she links theology with secularism through her discovery of Mikko’s music and lyrics and she has the perfect balance of obedience to her lifestyle and rebelliousness against it that makes her a perfect heroine for this kind of story.
Secondary characters like Darren Swift are developed just enough to leave the reader wanting more about them all by the end of the story and it is interesting just how important a character Liverpool is. Reading Reprobation made me want to visit the city to try to experience some of the brilliantly wrought atmosphere for myself. I understand there is a second book featuring Helen Hope and Darren Swift and I can’t wait to read it.
Reprobation‘s narrative is fast paced, twisty and entertaining. There’s a solid police procedural as well as more maverick, independent, action from Helen and Mikko that helps the plot race along and that I thoroughly enjoyed. Music is an essential element of the story and despite my middle aged, middle of the road musical taste, reading this book made me want to investigate the heavy metal musical genre!
However, it was the philosophical aspects that really grasped my attention. I’m a complete atheist but the concept of playing God, pre-determination, sin, genetics and the afterlife are such brilliantly woven themes that I found Reprobation utterly fascinating.
Reprobation can be read on so many levels. It is indeed an exciting and entertaining Liverpool set police procedural murder mystery. It’s also a philosophically thought-provoking read that I feel I need to reread immediately in order fully to appreciate how intelligently and carefully it has been crafted by Catherine Fearns. I think I have missed so much as a result of my own ignorance. Reprobation is certainly a novel that will withstand several readings. I thought it was excellent.
January 3, 2019
I received this from NetGalley and, mannnnn, I’m thankful for it!
Overall Feelings:
This book pulled me in right from the beginning. It seems like an odd mash-up: a nun, heavy metal band leader, and genetics, but it is perfectly balanced and gave me everything I never knew I needed in a novel.
Characters:
Helen felt like a real person with real feelings and emotions. I felt her struggles and I wanted her to find the peace she desperately needed.
The detectives were ok—they felt a bit generic but it wasn’t a huge deal to me. Same with Mikko and the other side characters. I can be ok with just one “real� character if they’re the star of the show as long as the others aren’t too flat.
Plot:
I actually really liked this. I’ve read many, many thrillers and mysteries in my day, and I have to say this one kept me invested until the very end. I usually get frustrated with twists and turns because they’re so obvious or too outlandish but Reprobation had the perfect balance.
Now...why 4/5 stars? Well, this is where the spoiler tag comes in—so stop reading now if you don’t want to know the ending.
We spent the entire book feeling Helen’s struggle with her faith and her life path, yet the book ends before we find out if she definitely walks away from her vows. I mean, yes, she does say that will /likely/ do just that in the last church scene, but it isn’t for sure. I don’t need nice tied up pretty endings, however, I do like to have some sense of closure to problems presented in a novel. I feel like leaving this particular issue open-ended is a bit too much for me to swallow. BUT really, that’s my only issue. The writing was beautiful (if maybe a bit too descriptive at times, but it wasn’t too much of an issue.) I’m looking forward to checking out other books by Fearns.
Overall Feelings:
This book pulled me in right from the beginning. It seems like an odd mash-up: a nun, heavy metal band leader, and genetics, but it is perfectly balanced and gave me everything I never knew I needed in a novel.
Characters:
Helen felt like a real person with real feelings and emotions. I felt her struggles and I wanted her to find the peace she desperately needed.
The detectives were ok—they felt a bit generic but it wasn’t a huge deal to me. Same with Mikko and the other side characters. I can be ok with just one “real� character if they’re the star of the show as long as the others aren’t too flat.
Plot:
I actually really liked this. I’ve read many, many thrillers and mysteries in my day, and I have to say this one kept me invested until the very end. I usually get frustrated with twists and turns because they’re so obvious or too outlandish but Reprobation had the perfect balance.
Now...why 4/5 stars? Well, this is where the spoiler tag comes in—so stop reading now if you don’t want to know the ending.
We spent the entire book feeling Helen’s struggle with her faith and her life path, yet the book ends before we find out if she definitely walks away from her vows. I mean, yes, she does say that will /likely/ do just that in the last church scene, but it isn’t for sure. I don’t need nice tied up pretty endings, however, I do like to have some sense of closure to problems presented in a novel. I feel like leaving this particular issue open-ended is a bit too much for me to swallow. BUT really, that’s my only issue. The writing was beautiful (if maybe a bit too descriptive at times, but it wasn’t too much of an issue.) I’m looking forward to checking out other books by Fearns.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2019
I read Consuming Fire recently by Catherine Fearns and thoroughly enjoyed it, so wanted to read the previous novel featuring Quinn and Helen....so glad I did....
A young man is found tied to a cross, murdered..... so it begins...who would do such a thing, a crazy serial killer, a gang killing or a religious zealot...?
DI Darren Swift, on his first major case as DCI and his colleague, DC Colette Quinn are part of the team to investigate and hopefully solve this bizarre case.
Quinn meets Helen Hope a Calvinist nun, who studies death and humanity and her ‘friend� Mikko, a rather colourful, death metal musician who help bring some sense of reason to this dark and disturbing crime.
Swift is keen on following a drug angle in the murder case, but Helen discovers that there someone is mixing the concept of fate with DNA and genetics......mixing science with religion....
There are great characters in Quinn, Helen and Mikko, which is a real credit to Catherine Fearns creative and expressive writing.....twisty, dark and full of detail....brilliant.
I would like to thank the Author/the Publishers/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review
A young man is found tied to a cross, murdered..... so it begins...who would do such a thing, a crazy serial killer, a gang killing or a religious zealot...?
DI Darren Swift, on his first major case as DCI and his colleague, DC Colette Quinn are part of the team to investigate and hopefully solve this bizarre case.
Quinn meets Helen Hope a Calvinist nun, who studies death and humanity and her ‘friend� Mikko, a rather colourful, death metal musician who help bring some sense of reason to this dark and disturbing crime.
Swift is keen on following a drug angle in the murder case, but Helen discovers that there someone is mixing the concept of fate with DNA and genetics......mixing science with religion....
There are great characters in Quinn, Helen and Mikko, which is a real credit to Catherine Fearns creative and expressive writing.....twisty, dark and full of detail....brilliant.
I would like to thank the Author/the Publishers/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review
February 26, 2019
I received a copy of Reprobation by Catherine Fearns from Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd through NetGalley.
I didn’t know what to expect of this book. I’m an atheist so I don’t know about religions much and Calvinism is a new knowledge. Reprobation was my first book which revolves around religion.
The main character being a calvinist nun is original and just so imaginative that I had to read this book. And I wasn’t disappointed. The story kept me up well into the night which is always a good thing.
I very much liked the characters, especially Helen - our nun - and Mikko. It was interesting to follow Helen and Mikko investigate a series of murders. I mean a nun and a leader of a death metal band investigate a murder. How crazy and amazing is that?
We also follow the official police investigation but that almost seems like a background addition.
All in all I very much enjoyed Reprobation by Catherine Fearns and I highly recommend it. I am giving 4 stars because although there is a closure to the murder case, the story feels kind of unfinished. I would’ve liked to know what happens to Helen and Mikko.
I didn’t know what to expect of this book. I’m an atheist so I don’t know about religions much and Calvinism is a new knowledge. Reprobation was my first book which revolves around religion.
The main character being a calvinist nun is original and just so imaginative that I had to read this book. And I wasn’t disappointed. The story kept me up well into the night which is always a good thing.
I very much liked the characters, especially Helen - our nun - and Mikko. It was interesting to follow Helen and Mikko investigate a series of murders. I mean a nun and a leader of a death metal band investigate a murder. How crazy and amazing is that?
We also follow the official police investigation but that almost seems like a background addition.
All in all I very much enjoyed Reprobation by Catherine Fearns and I highly recommend it. I am giving 4 stars because although there is a closure to the murder case, the story feels kind of unfinished. I would’ve liked to know what happens to Helen and Mikko.
January 5, 2019
This is a great debut novel which has so much going on at so many different levels. On the face of it, it is a police procedural involving the help of a civilian who becomes interested in trying to help the solve the case but it really is so much more. DI Darren Swift is newly promoted and back at the station where he worked years ago in Liverpool. Together with colleague DC Colette Quinn he is working his first murder, a strangled corpse found nailed to a cross with strange religious writing and left on the beach. Dr Helen Hope is a Calvinist nun who lectures part time at the university in eschatology, basically an expert in "what happens to us when we die?" the question she poses to her new students. Her strict religion teaches that this is pre-ordained and, since it appears that the killer believes something along the same lines, she is enlisted to help explain the biblical quotes in this and other crime scenes. She becomes curious and tries to carry out her own investigation, making an unlikely friend of death metal frontman Mikko Kristensen in the process. The whole topic of what happens after death and if it has already been decided for us, together with the study of genetics and the morally debatable question of the use of gene therapy is all opened up in the book whilst never giving the impression of preaching or taking sides. I did feel I got to know Helen and her personal dilemmas much better than any of the other characters who appeared a little "flat" in comparison. It's hard to say more without giving away too much of the plot, but this is a very interesting book which I would recommend to anyone who wants their mind stretching a little whist enjoying a good story.
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