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Blue Dust #1
Forbidden
All teenage girls keep secrets and Kerry Johnston is no exception. More than anyone else she knows how to lie, for ‘Kerry’ is an alias and her life is a nightmare of secrecy, violence and fear. In reality this overweight, limping teenage girl is Qea, a Forbidden child from the Qarntaz Octad, sent to Earth to hide from the warlord she has betrayed. Born third into her family in an overpopulated world where surplus offspring are Forbidden and killed or delivered as fodder for the malevolent Inquisitors, Qea has spent her life in hiding.
Qea (Pronounced Kee-ah) is a girl with an unusual history. She comes from a distant galaxy where warlords rule the law and corruption is rife, so she must become hard to survive, but here on Earth a young man will change her heart and risk her life, changing it forever.
Qea (Pronounced Kee-ah) is a girl with an unusual history. She comes from a distant galaxy where warlords rule the law and corruption is rife, so she must become hard to survive, but here on Earth a young man will change her heart and risk her life, changing it forever.
269 pages, ebook
First published August 22, 2012
1 person is currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
Katy Krump
5 books26 followersI was an English and Music teacher before almost losing my sense of humour (and mind) and after a number of children’s musicals I wrote were published, decided I needed to devote myself to writing. I became a full-time television scriptwriter for children, working on the award winning children’s programme Kideo, entered a nationwide scriptwriting competition and was selected to be on the writing team of Generations, a popular South African soap. I also worked as an advertising copywriter, wrote radio ads and jingles, industry specific educational textbooks and readers for illiterate and semi-literate adults, corporate video scripts, CD-ROM programmes for the Independent Electoral Commission before the first democratic elections in South Africa...anything to keep the wolf from the door.
I’m constantly writing, books and TV scripts. In 2000 I embarked on a new journey, crossing the galaxy to settle on a new planet or as some like to call it 'Immigration', and am now a proud possessor of a maroon Intergalactic Wayfarer Permit and have come to love the aliens I mix with daily.
I’m constantly writing, books and TV scripts. In 2000 I embarked on a new journey, crossing the galaxy to settle on a new planet or as some like to call it 'Immigration', and am now a proud possessor of a maroon Intergalactic Wayfarer Permit and have come to love the aliens I mix with daily.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
October 14, 2012
Katy Krump made me believe in sci-fi again. It's not that I didn't like this genre before, but all the sci-fi books I have read before were all rather boring and slow paced. However, "Blue Dust: Forbidden" is just the opposite. It is full of action, and suspense with a brilliant plot and characters to top it all off.
Right from the beginning Katy Krump pulls you in as you watch Qea discover that her relatively peaceful life on Earth is coming to a close. Logically speaking, any normal teenage girl would start hyperventilating at the thought that she was all by herself in the world.....but Qea is no normal teenage girl. Qea is a Forbidden child from Qarntaz Octad, and has been kept in hiding for all her life, never allowed to be her true self. Now that her Keepers have disappeared, she has to make her own decisions, and fast, before the men find her and take her back to her planet where she will be punished for escaping. When Qea moves to a small seaside town, she doesn't know what to expect. Especially when she meets Adam. In disguise for many years, no guy has spared her a second glance, until him. He makes Qea feel normal, but she can't shake the feeling that something isn't right. When her suspicions are confirmed, she is taken back to her planet, and Adam is forced to come too. There, the two must try to survive, in a war-torn world where the law is second to wealth.
In the beginning, I'll admit I was a little concerned about how Adam would cope. On Earth, he seemed so fragile and innocent compared to Qea. Once on Octad although, he becomes the voice of reason for Qea, and is her rock to lean on. I really enjoyed the relationship between these two. It's not vain or frivolous. There is no confusing body language or obnoxious banter. They truly care about one another, and help each other stay strong. Adam also helps Qea find herself. Forced to wear a disguise for all her life, she doesn't know who she really is. All she seems to care about is surviving, not caring that it's at everyone else's expense. Throughout the story, Qea learns from her mistakes and discovers that alone, she cannot do anything to help her planet, but with others help, she can make a difference in her corrupt world. Slowly, Qea discovers that her world, and it's inhabitants need her, and realizes that this is her destiny. I love this book, but I did wish that the reader could have been provided with a little more detail of Qarntaz Octad. Katy Krump did a very good job describing the look and feel of the water, but that was about it for me. At times, it was hard to picture the setting. Maybe I'm just being picky but I definitely would have loved to learn a bit more about Qea's world.
Overall, "Blue Dust: Forbidden" is sci-fi at it's best, with action to liven things up and a bit of romance to satisfy every reader. I would recommend this book to all teens, sci-fi lover or not. "Blue Dust: Forbidden" is currently out on Kindle, and is due for paperback release on November 24, 2012.
Right from the beginning Katy Krump pulls you in as you watch Qea discover that her relatively peaceful life on Earth is coming to a close. Logically speaking, any normal teenage girl would start hyperventilating at the thought that she was all by herself in the world.....but Qea is no normal teenage girl. Qea is a Forbidden child from Qarntaz Octad, and has been kept in hiding for all her life, never allowed to be her true self. Now that her Keepers have disappeared, she has to make her own decisions, and fast, before the men find her and take her back to her planet where she will be punished for escaping. When Qea moves to a small seaside town, she doesn't know what to expect. Especially when she meets Adam. In disguise for many years, no guy has spared her a second glance, until him. He makes Qea feel normal, but she can't shake the feeling that something isn't right. When her suspicions are confirmed, she is taken back to her planet, and Adam is forced to come too. There, the two must try to survive, in a war-torn world where the law is second to wealth.
In the beginning, I'll admit I was a little concerned about how Adam would cope. On Earth, he seemed so fragile and innocent compared to Qea. Once on Octad although, he becomes the voice of reason for Qea, and is her rock to lean on. I really enjoyed the relationship between these two. It's not vain or frivolous. There is no confusing body language or obnoxious banter. They truly care about one another, and help each other stay strong. Adam also helps Qea find herself. Forced to wear a disguise for all her life, she doesn't know who she really is. All she seems to care about is surviving, not caring that it's at everyone else's expense. Throughout the story, Qea learns from her mistakes and discovers that alone, she cannot do anything to help her planet, but with others help, she can make a difference in her corrupt world. Slowly, Qea discovers that her world, and it's inhabitants need her, and realizes that this is her destiny. I love this book, but I did wish that the reader could have been provided with a little more detail of Qarntaz Octad. Katy Krump did a very good job describing the look and feel of the water, but that was about it for me. At times, it was hard to picture the setting. Maybe I'm just being picky but I definitely would have loved to learn a bit more about Qea's world.
Overall, "Blue Dust: Forbidden" is sci-fi at it's best, with action to liven things up and a bit of romance to satisfy every reader. I would recommend this book to all teens, sci-fi lover or not. "Blue Dust: Forbidden" is currently out on Kindle, and is due for paperback release on November 24, 2012.
March 3, 2015
It tells the story of Qea, who for reasons unknown at the beginning of the book, is hiding on Earth under the guise of Kerry Johnston; a teenage girl with a limp. After discovering all is not as it should at home, Kerry realises her cover has been blown and crosses the breadth of England to Devon to meet at the rendezvous spot. And so starts Qea's journey that will take her across the galaxy to her home system; the Octad.
We discover that Qea was third born to a family; which goes against the rules. In a land where Warlords rule the desolate land, diamondine mines and have contacts in every liveable sector. Natural resources are sparse and a reproduction law deems only two children per family. Qea has only known solitude for her early life and when her parents are killed she is captured by an evil warlord who uses her for his own gain.
But after betraying this warlord, Qea meets Adam on Earth, who causes a bit of a dilemma. Qea is torn between her instincts for survival and her heart when she is thrust back into the ruthless land she grew up in and must find a way to survive against the mysterious Inquisitors; a unique alien police force who govern the laws.
I think Katy Krump is on to a winner here with Blue Dust; a YA Sci Fi novel is a unique proposition amongst a plethora of successful fantasy novel featuring vampires and witchcraft. It is indeed original and it sucks you in within the first chapter, where the action blasts off almost instantly. Who is this Kerry Johnston? And why is she taking refuge in our planet? Ms Krump doesn't release all of the details all at once mind you, but slowly gives you tit bits of life on the Octad and the politics that govern the system.
In the first quarter of the book, what works extremely well is the flashbacks of Qea to when she was a young girl hiding away with her parents and her trying to understand the life she was unfairly thrust into. It's a wonderful balance of innocence and curiosity and I thought that this was perhaps the most important part of the novel. What this does is allow us to feel for Qea's predicament and will her on to become free. This young Qea is almost a complete contrast to the spunky, no nonsense teenage Qea who is always on the look out and suspects danger around every corner. With her back story we can see how her life must have been difficult; trying to stay hidden from a warlord must be daunting task.
Blue Dust: Forbidden is extremely well written; concise, descriptive and engaging. Ms Krump's use of language is also interesting as it is quite educated compared to other YA novels. I however, loved the originality of the world she creates where water is treacle like and red.
The love interest between Qea and Adam is also extremely well crafted and never comes across as cheesy and obviously fabricated which could alienate some readers, especially male readers. However, the subtle references are believable and written in a more dependable way. The character's of Qea and Adam make a great team and must get use to each other's way of dealing with things to come out on top together. They are thrust with responsibility with the looking after of Forbidden Children quite early on and their disagreements give us an insight to the core of both characters. Soppy romantic writing doesn't make an appearance and I think this book is very much multi sex. It has enough action and imagination to appeal to both male and female readers.
And what action there is! Fights with warlords, battles with Inquisitors and deadly escapes from prison camps; it is all in here. Ms Krump even goes as far to mix supernatural elements with appearances from spirits. Her reference to the Troiqa is a unique subtle reference to religion and it is these delicate mentions of our life that make this book very special indeed. This is exactly what YA novels need and Katy Krump almost does everything right.
Where Blue Dust: Forbidden falters ever so slightly though is perhaps the last quarter of the book where it seems to run out of steam in parts. It doesn't ruin the story, but the flow of the book seems to slow down and it isn't until the very end where it picks up again. Another problem I had with the book was something quite silly, but still affected ones opinion and that was the front cover. It just didn't fit and didn't give a correct representation of what the book was about. Thankfully the cover has since changed and all is OK again.
If you are new to the Sci Fi genre, then Blue Dust: Forbidden is exactly the introduction you need and with it's pacey, well structured story interwoven amongst a backdrop of callous warlords and crime, it is exciting to get stick in and follow Qea's turmoil. Adam creates a wonderful balance and represents us humans into the story and he is so easy to get behind, with his gentle approach and caring nature. You can't help but get pulled into the new world this book creates. It's addictive, appealing and very accessible and a brilliant start to what is bound to be an action packed series. Give it a go; I promise you, you won't be disappointed.
We discover that Qea was third born to a family; which goes against the rules. In a land where Warlords rule the desolate land, diamondine mines and have contacts in every liveable sector. Natural resources are sparse and a reproduction law deems only two children per family. Qea has only known solitude for her early life and when her parents are killed she is captured by an evil warlord who uses her for his own gain.
But after betraying this warlord, Qea meets Adam on Earth, who causes a bit of a dilemma. Qea is torn between her instincts for survival and her heart when she is thrust back into the ruthless land she grew up in and must find a way to survive against the mysterious Inquisitors; a unique alien police force who govern the laws.
I think Katy Krump is on to a winner here with Blue Dust; a YA Sci Fi novel is a unique proposition amongst a plethora of successful fantasy novel featuring vampires and witchcraft. It is indeed original and it sucks you in within the first chapter, where the action blasts off almost instantly. Who is this Kerry Johnston? And why is she taking refuge in our planet? Ms Krump doesn't release all of the details all at once mind you, but slowly gives you tit bits of life on the Octad and the politics that govern the system.
In the first quarter of the book, what works extremely well is the flashbacks of Qea to when she was a young girl hiding away with her parents and her trying to understand the life she was unfairly thrust into. It's a wonderful balance of innocence and curiosity and I thought that this was perhaps the most important part of the novel. What this does is allow us to feel for Qea's predicament and will her on to become free. This young Qea is almost a complete contrast to the spunky, no nonsense teenage Qea who is always on the look out and suspects danger around every corner. With her back story we can see how her life must have been difficult; trying to stay hidden from a warlord must be daunting task.
Blue Dust: Forbidden is extremely well written; concise, descriptive and engaging. Ms Krump's use of language is also interesting as it is quite educated compared to other YA novels. I however, loved the originality of the world she creates where water is treacle like and red.
The love interest between Qea and Adam is also extremely well crafted and never comes across as cheesy and obviously fabricated which could alienate some readers, especially male readers. However, the subtle references are believable and written in a more dependable way. The character's of Qea and Adam make a great team and must get use to each other's way of dealing with things to come out on top together. They are thrust with responsibility with the looking after of Forbidden Children quite early on and their disagreements give us an insight to the core of both characters. Soppy romantic writing doesn't make an appearance and I think this book is very much multi sex. It has enough action and imagination to appeal to both male and female readers.
And what action there is! Fights with warlords, battles with Inquisitors and deadly escapes from prison camps; it is all in here. Ms Krump even goes as far to mix supernatural elements with appearances from spirits. Her reference to the Troiqa is a unique subtle reference to religion and it is these delicate mentions of our life that make this book very special indeed. This is exactly what YA novels need and Katy Krump almost does everything right.
Where Blue Dust: Forbidden falters ever so slightly though is perhaps the last quarter of the book where it seems to run out of steam in parts. It doesn't ruin the story, but the flow of the book seems to slow down and it isn't until the very end where it picks up again. Another problem I had with the book was something quite silly, but still affected ones opinion and that was the front cover. It just didn't fit and didn't give a correct representation of what the book was about. Thankfully the cover has since changed and all is OK again.
If you are new to the Sci Fi genre, then Blue Dust: Forbidden is exactly the introduction you need and with it's pacey, well structured story interwoven amongst a backdrop of callous warlords and crime, it is exciting to get stick in and follow Qea's turmoil. Adam creates a wonderful balance and represents us humans into the story and he is so easy to get behind, with his gentle approach and caring nature. You can't help but get pulled into the new world this book creates. It's addictive, appealing and very accessible and a brilliant start to what is bound to be an action packed series. Give it a go; I promise you, you won't be disappointed.
April 24, 2013
This story is a unique paranormal/science fiction story. We don't have the normal vampires, and other creatures. But what we do have are some interesting new creatures. Inquisitor to name just one. I found them to be similar to vampires but not quite. We also have children with amazing abilities and knowledge. This book takes place on Earth and also in another solar system.
The book started out with Kerry (aka Donna & Qea) coming home to find that her "supposed" family were gone. But since she had been trained in case of this very emergency she knew what to do. As the story progresses we learn quite a bit about Qea's past. She goes by the name of Donna for a bit of the book, where she meets a boy named Adam. She winds up falling for him, but no one can outrun their past, and now it has caught up with her with a vengeance. Now I won't go into any details but this is not your typical boy/girl romance story. This story has a LOT of heart to it.
Overall the story was really enjoyable. I liked how this story touched upon such subjects as "forbidden children", slavery, kidnapping, child abuse and even religion using various methods. The Draconian laws where each family could only have 2 children hit such a point with me due to the laws in our own world today where in some countries only 1 child is allowed, and female children are cast aside. And what happened to the children in this book. Well I won't give away any details but it will break your heart. I always wonder when I read books like this where the populace are just sheep following blindly the orders of the government how we as Humans can change that behavior here before its too late.
There were a few things I didn't like about the book, one thing I will say is that I found it hard to believe that Adam an Earthling on a strange planet would ever find his way to meet up with Qea again. Yet time and again he was lost then miraculously found. Now I understand this is where faith comes into play. But still I found it hard to believe. BUT that aside this book definitely kept me flipping pages. I wanted to know... No I needed to know more about the planet Qea is on, how she is going to do what needs to be done, and why. The over all question for me was WHY???
Faith plays such a big role in this story. They touch briefly upon Earth's God, but where she is from the solar system it is protected by Troiqa. There were a lot of questions brought up in this story about faith, but done in such a manner that it was both enlightening and fun to read.
Krump has created a novel that draws you in. The action and adventure in this story will keep your flipping pages late into the night. She has created strong characters who not only change as the story develops, but grow into better people. I can say I hope to see more from this very talented Author and can't wait for the next book in this saga.
I give this book 4.5 stars for the entertainment value and moral lessons. And I think it is appropriate for pre-teens and YA.
Details/Disclaimer: Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
The book started out with Kerry (aka Donna & Qea) coming home to find that her "supposed" family were gone. But since she had been trained in case of this very emergency she knew what to do. As the story progresses we learn quite a bit about Qea's past. She goes by the name of Donna for a bit of the book, where she meets a boy named Adam. She winds up falling for him, but no one can outrun their past, and now it has caught up with her with a vengeance. Now I won't go into any details but this is not your typical boy/girl romance story. This story has a LOT of heart to it.
Overall the story was really enjoyable. I liked how this story touched upon such subjects as "forbidden children", slavery, kidnapping, child abuse and even religion using various methods. The Draconian laws where each family could only have 2 children hit such a point with me due to the laws in our own world today where in some countries only 1 child is allowed, and female children are cast aside. And what happened to the children in this book. Well I won't give away any details but it will break your heart. I always wonder when I read books like this where the populace are just sheep following blindly the orders of the government how we as Humans can change that behavior here before its too late.
There were a few things I didn't like about the book, one thing I will say is that I found it hard to believe that Adam an Earthling on a strange planet would ever find his way to meet up with Qea again. Yet time and again he was lost then miraculously found. Now I understand this is where faith comes into play. But still I found it hard to believe. BUT that aside this book definitely kept me flipping pages. I wanted to know... No I needed to know more about the planet Qea is on, how she is going to do what needs to be done, and why. The over all question for me was WHY???
Faith plays such a big role in this story. They touch briefly upon Earth's God, but where she is from the solar system it is protected by Troiqa. There were a lot of questions brought up in this story about faith, but done in such a manner that it was both enlightening and fun to read.
Krump has created a novel that draws you in. The action and adventure in this story will keep your flipping pages late into the night. She has created strong characters who not only change as the story develops, but grow into better people. I can say I hope to see more from this very talented Author and can't wait for the next book in this saga.
I give this book 4.5 stars for the entertainment value and moral lessons. And I think it is appropriate for pre-teens and YA.
Details/Disclaimer: Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
September 24, 2012
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Review on Confessions of a book addict and blogcritics by Dayla:
Katy Krump’s Blue Dust: Forbidden is a young adult fantasy novel heavy with philosophical meaning and beautiful writing. From the get-go, the reader is thrown into a fast-paced plot full of questions neither the reader, nor Qea, the protagonist, can answer. The reader is taken on an adventure that will put to question the values of Earth, and what s/he knows about life beyond the solar system.
A master of disguise, Qea experiences a character growth that both surprises and seemingly weakens her. Krump uses her gift for words to create a realistic and relatable protagonist in a most surreal world. Qea’s uneasiness with change adds a hint of humanity to a character that appears almost indestructible.
It isn’t just Qea who undergoes a brilliant transformation, but Adam, Qea’s partner, does as well. He gives the reader hope that a human can surpass the prejudices placed on him/her by a dominant race.
Blue Dust: Forbidden is a fantastic novel that also brings to light, and challenges, some of Earth’s most talked about and tabooed topics. Such topics include: religion, politics, the power of currency, and mother nature, to name a few. Krump’s novel is a blend of what is both wrong and simple on Earth, and how Earth may be looked upon by worse-off worlds. The message the reader may get, aside from how to survive if ever abducted by aliens, is that Earth is better than how its inhabitants are treating it.
Religion is one of the greatest aspects of this novel, no matter how subtly it is touched upon. Though Qea references Earth’s God briefly, her solar system is protected by the Troiqa, a benevolent being that follows the reader and hides among Qea’s world, until s/he is discovered. It brings to light the frailty and the complexities of faith. By not overtly focusing on the power of the Troiqa, Krump is allowing the reader to form his/her own faith in Qea’s god-like creator. Her trust in her reader gives her novel strength, since she is not forcing her ideals, but offering multiple viewpoints.
Masterfully detailed, engaging, and well-paced, Krump has created a novel that will draw its readers in. Blue Dust: Forbidden promises hours of action and adventure. Save for one or two instances where the story may drag, particularly near the conclusion, Krump offers a nearly flawless commentary on what is both right and wrong with Earth.
Krump’s novel is recommended for an audience that enjoys well-detailed and eye-catching fantastical worlds, strong female protagonists who appear seemingly flawless, but human all the same, and an intriguing story line that promises to leave the reader in a contemplative mood once s/he has reached the conclusion.
I give Katy Krump’s Blue Dust: Forbidden: 5 stars
Happy reading!
Review on Confessions of a book addict and blogcritics by Dayla:
Katy Krump’s Blue Dust: Forbidden is a young adult fantasy novel heavy with philosophical meaning and beautiful writing. From the get-go, the reader is thrown into a fast-paced plot full of questions neither the reader, nor Qea, the protagonist, can answer. The reader is taken on an adventure that will put to question the values of Earth, and what s/he knows about life beyond the solar system.
A master of disguise, Qea experiences a character growth that both surprises and seemingly weakens her. Krump uses her gift for words to create a realistic and relatable protagonist in a most surreal world. Qea’s uneasiness with change adds a hint of humanity to a character that appears almost indestructible.
It isn’t just Qea who undergoes a brilliant transformation, but Adam, Qea’s partner, does as well. He gives the reader hope that a human can surpass the prejudices placed on him/her by a dominant race.
Blue Dust: Forbidden is a fantastic novel that also brings to light, and challenges, some of Earth’s most talked about and tabooed topics. Such topics include: religion, politics, the power of currency, and mother nature, to name a few. Krump’s novel is a blend of what is both wrong and simple on Earth, and how Earth may be looked upon by worse-off worlds. The message the reader may get, aside from how to survive if ever abducted by aliens, is that Earth is better than how its inhabitants are treating it.
Religion is one of the greatest aspects of this novel, no matter how subtly it is touched upon. Though Qea references Earth’s God briefly, her solar system is protected by the Troiqa, a benevolent being that follows the reader and hides among Qea’s world, until s/he is discovered. It brings to light the frailty and the complexities of faith. By not overtly focusing on the power of the Troiqa, Krump is allowing the reader to form his/her own faith in Qea’s god-like creator. Her trust in her reader gives her novel strength, since she is not forcing her ideals, but offering multiple viewpoints.
Masterfully detailed, engaging, and well-paced, Krump has created a novel that will draw its readers in. Blue Dust: Forbidden promises hours of action and adventure. Save for one or two instances where the story may drag, particularly near the conclusion, Krump offers a nearly flawless commentary on what is both right and wrong with Earth.
Krump’s novel is recommended for an audience that enjoys well-detailed and eye-catching fantastical worlds, strong female protagonists who appear seemingly flawless, but human all the same, and an intriguing story line that promises to leave the reader in a contemplative mood once s/he has reached the conclusion.
I give Katy Krump’s Blue Dust: Forbidden: 5 stars
Happy reading!
December 28, 2012
I was contacted by the author, and offered a copy of the ebook, in return for an honest review.
This novel is a fast-paced sci-fi novel, from an author who's writing is some of the best YA writing I have read in a while. The whole plot is very imaginitive, from the world to all the strange but fantastical beasts that live on the planet.
Qea and Adam are excellent main characters, who are written in such a way that has you rooting for them the whole way through. I also really like the relationship between them, it seems to actually have some foundations, I like that the author begins the relationship before the action begins. It allows you to see their relationship develop, and see how their relationship takes the strain of the circumstances they find themselves in. I really liked Qea's character, and how she seems quite cold and calculating at the beginning, but as the novel progresses, who she thought she was starts to crumble, and she has to try and rediscover exactly who she is. She becomes almost human, she starts to feel things she isn't used to. Adam also changes through the novel, though in a different way from Qea. Adam grows and develops into more than just Qea's boyfriend, he becomes a leader and a hero, and becomes someone Qea relies on heavily to keep her going.
The writing of this novel was very engaging, keeping me on the edge of my seat, and making me want to read more and more. The descriptions were excellent, giving a very clear picture of the places and characters in the novel.
The plot has lots of questions and puzzles woven through it, some of these questions get answered and some don't. This always annoys me when an author leaves so many questions unanswered, but I presume they will be answered in the folowing books in the series.
Overall I really enjoyed this novel and I would definitely reccommend checking it out, whether you're a fan of sci-fi or not. The storyline is great, and the author has left lots of great questions hanging for the following books, which I will definitely be reading!
This novel is a fast-paced sci-fi novel, from an author who's writing is some of the best YA writing I have read in a while. The whole plot is very imaginitive, from the world to all the strange but fantastical beasts that live on the planet.
Qea and Adam are excellent main characters, who are written in such a way that has you rooting for them the whole way through. I also really like the relationship between them, it seems to actually have some foundations, I like that the author begins the relationship before the action begins. It allows you to see their relationship develop, and see how their relationship takes the strain of the circumstances they find themselves in. I really liked Qea's character, and how she seems quite cold and calculating at the beginning, but as the novel progresses, who she thought she was starts to crumble, and she has to try and rediscover exactly who she is. She becomes almost human, she starts to feel things she isn't used to. Adam also changes through the novel, though in a different way from Qea. Adam grows and develops into more than just Qea's boyfriend, he becomes a leader and a hero, and becomes someone Qea relies on heavily to keep her going.
The writing of this novel was very engaging, keeping me on the edge of my seat, and making me want to read more and more. The descriptions were excellent, giving a very clear picture of the places and characters in the novel.
The plot has lots of questions and puzzles woven through it, some of these questions get answered and some don't. This always annoys me when an author leaves so many questions unanswered, but I presume they will be answered in the folowing books in the series.
Overall I really enjoyed this novel and I would definitely reccommend checking it out, whether you're a fan of sci-fi or not. The storyline is great, and the author has left lots of great questions hanging for the following books, which I will definitely be reading!
April 8, 2013
Kerry Johnson a less than perfect teenager with a handicap hides a secret. Is she truly less than perfect, or is it all a disguise? Arriving at her home one day, Kerry discovers she's been abandoned by those calling themselves her parents. She knows what to do, what she must accomplish, and goes about this in an almost automaton way. Soon, she's Donna, searching to reconnect with those who protect her, but there is no way to find them again. She searches for safety and connects with Adam, a British teen with a talent for music who doesn't suspect what he's in for once her past catches up to her. For Donna can't run from her true heritage as Qea from Qarantz 7 = Qea the Seer, Qea the Forbidden child.
Katy Krump weaves a tale of a quest to overcome Draconian laws condemning children to a life of strife in another galaxy, of a single child who stands out because of her talents. This story is one of strife, of unthinking acceptance by people who have been long inoculated by those who rule, yet Krump shows us one young woman determined to make a difference. With a teen from earth at her side, Qea tackles not only the obstacles set in place by those around her but also by her own training, training that might cause her to lose the battle before it even begins. The hurdles faced, both internal and external, are plotted with exquisite care. No matter the situation, Krump allows her characters to fail, to question the meaning of their lives, to draw on their deep mettle to achieve what must be done. The ending promises even more in the future, and I look forward to reading a sequel to this book.
Katy Krump weaves a tale of a quest to overcome Draconian laws condemning children to a life of strife in another galaxy, of a single child who stands out because of her talents. This story is one of strife, of unthinking acceptance by people who have been long inoculated by those who rule, yet Krump shows us one young woman determined to make a difference. With a teen from earth at her side, Qea tackles not only the obstacles set in place by those around her but also by her own training, training that might cause her to lose the battle before it even begins. The hurdles faced, both internal and external, are plotted with exquisite care. No matter the situation, Krump allows her characters to fail, to question the meaning of their lives, to draw on their deep mettle to achieve what must be done. The ending promises even more in the future, and I look forward to reading a sequel to this book.
April 19, 2013
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started to read this book, all I knew was the title. I was pleasantly surprised to find a tale of a girl who has been hidden on earth to save her life. She comes home to find that her current family is gone and transforms herself into Donna. As Donna she gets a job, a place to live and even meets a boy named Adam. She gets too comfortable in her new place, too trusting and gets caught. Along with Adam she is transported back to her home planet.
She’s an incredible person who was termed a “forbidden” child, as the rules were families could only have two children, and as a third child she had to remain hidden. Qea, her name on her home planet, life’s story unfolds as she is trying to save herself and Adam from the horrors around them. As they learn more about what’s going on, well I will stop here and let you read it for yourself.
I truly liked this book, it’s very well written. My imagination was very active while reading this book, I could see in my mind the wonders that were being described. I am in awe of the talent it takes to create a book like this. I would like to thank Katy Krump for giving me this book to read and review.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
She’s an incredible person who was termed a “forbidden” child, as the rules were families could only have two children, and as a third child she had to remain hidden. Qea, her name on her home planet, life’s story unfolds as she is trying to save herself and Adam from the horrors around them. As they learn more about what’s going on, well I will stop here and let you read it for yourself.
I truly liked this book, it’s very well written. My imagination was very active while reading this book, I could see in my mind the wonders that were being described. I am in awe of the talent it takes to create a book like this. I would like to thank Katy Krump for giving me this book to read and review.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
April 25, 2013
Really good and detail oriented Sci-Fi book. This genre isn't my normal go to but I gave it a try and it was a pretty enjoyable read. The writer is The writer was so good at describing details that you could really get into the book very well. I would recommend to people who like Sci-Fi books.
Qea (Pronounced Kee-ah) is a girl with an unusual history. She comes from a distant galaxy where warlords rule the law and corruption is rife, so she must become hard to survive, but here on earth a young man will change her heart and risk her life, changing it forever. All teenage girls keep secrets and Kerry Johnston is no exception. More than anyone else she knows how to lie, for 'Kerry' is an alias and her life is a nightmare of secrecy, violence and fear. In reality this overweight, limping teenage girl is Qea, a Forbidden child from the Qarntaz Octad, sent to Earth to hide from the warlord she has betrayed. Born third into her family in an overpopulated world where surplus offspring are Forbidden and killed or delivered as fodder for the malevolent Inquisitors, Qea has spent her life in hiding.
Qea (Pronounced Kee-ah) is a girl with an unusual history. She comes from a distant galaxy where warlords rule the law and corruption is rife, so she must become hard to survive, but here on earth a young man will change her heart and risk her life, changing it forever. All teenage girls keep secrets and Kerry Johnston is no exception. More than anyone else she knows how to lie, for 'Kerry' is an alias and her life is a nightmare of secrecy, violence and fear. In reality this overweight, limping teenage girl is Qea, a Forbidden child from the Qarntaz Octad, sent to Earth to hide from the warlord she has betrayed. Born third into her family in an overpopulated world where surplus offspring are Forbidden and killed or delivered as fodder for the malevolent Inquisitors, Qea has spent her life in hiding.
April 4, 2013
Kerry is on the run. She changes her appearance and her identity and then becomes Donna. She then meets Adam. Donna/Kerry is actually Qea (Pronounced Kee-ah) and she is from another planet. The “blue dust” from the title refers to the planet Qarntaz 7 where Qea lived, though it isn't the planet where she was born. She was born on Qarntaz 3. Qea is a forbidden child and has visions of the future. Because of the population, people are only allowed to have two children, Qea is the third child, which made her forbidden. The forbidden children are supposed to be killed at birth or they are sold as slaves or sold to warlords and turned into child soldiers and sex slaves. The storyline is really intriguing. The writing grabs you immediately and thrusts you into Qea's world. I like how tough she is. I was enjoying reading about Qea and Adam's adventures. I thought the tone of the story was really good.
July 1, 2013
Kerry Johnson aka Qea is living live on the run she has been taught how to mix in with her surroundings. What happens through out the rest of the book is Qea on the run and now she has a human male named Adam to keep safe also. First Earth than another planet that resembles a rainbow of colors. Qea is one of the forbidden children of the planet and is used to hiding and thinking while on the run. Now not only is her live or Adams life is jeopardy but numerous forbidden children. It is all or nothing.
This was a good Sci/Fi book. The constant being caught was a bit much. Overall this was a good fast read.
4 STARS
Patches
April 12, 2013
I give Blue Dust 4/5 angel stars. Review to follow
October 26, 2012
Article first published as Book Review: Blue Dust: Forbidden by Katy Krump on Blogcritics.
Review also appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7
I received a copy for review
Katy Krump’s Blue Dust: Forbidden is a young adult fantasy novel heavy with philosophical meaning and beautiful writing. From the get-go, the reader is thrown into a fast-paced plot full of questions neither the reader, nor Qea, the protagonist, can answer. The reader is taken on an adventure that will put to question the values of Earth, and what s/he knows about life beyond the solar system.
A master of disguise, Qea experiences a character growth that both surprises and seemingly weakens her. Krump uses her gift for words to create a realistic and relatable protagonist in a most surreal world. Qea’s uneasiness with change adds a hint of humanity to a character that appears almost indestructible.
It isn’t just Qea who undergoes a brilliant transformation, but Adam, Qea’s partner, does as well. He gives the reader hope that a human can surpass the prejudices placed on him/her by a dominant race.
Blue Dust: Forbidden is a fantastic novel that also brings to light, and challenges, some of Earth’s most talked about and tabooed topics. Such topics include: religion, politics, the power of currency, and mother nature, to name a few. Krump’s novel is a blend of what is both wrong and simple on Earth, and how Earth may be looked upon by worse-off worlds. The message the reader may get, aside from how to survive if ever abducted by aliens, is that Earth is better than how its inhabitants are treating it.
Religion is one of the greatest aspects of this novel, no matter how subtly it is touched upon. Though Qea references Earth’s God briefly, her solar system is protected by the Troiqa, a benevolent being that follows the reader and hides among Qea’s world, until s/he is discovered. It brings to light the frailty and the complexities of faith. By not overtly focusing on the power of the Troiqa, Krump is allowing the reader to form his/her own faith in Qea’s god-like creator. Her trust in her reader gives her novel strength, since she is not forcing her ideals, but offering multiple viewpoints.
Masterfully detailed, engaging, and well-paced, Krump has created a novel that will draw its readers in. Blue Dust: Forbidden promises hours of action and adventure. Save for one or two instances where the story may drag, particularly near the conclusion, Krump offers a nearly flawless commentary on what is both right and wrong with Earth.
Krump’s novel is recommended for an audience that enjoys well-detailed and eye-catching fantastical worlds, strong female protagonists who appear seemingly flawless, but human all the same, and an intriguing story line that promises to leave the reader in a contemplative mood once s/he has reached the conclusion.
Review also appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7
I received a copy for review
Katy Krump’s Blue Dust: Forbidden is a young adult fantasy novel heavy with philosophical meaning and beautiful writing. From the get-go, the reader is thrown into a fast-paced plot full of questions neither the reader, nor Qea, the protagonist, can answer. The reader is taken on an adventure that will put to question the values of Earth, and what s/he knows about life beyond the solar system.
A master of disguise, Qea experiences a character growth that both surprises and seemingly weakens her. Krump uses her gift for words to create a realistic and relatable protagonist in a most surreal world. Qea’s uneasiness with change adds a hint of humanity to a character that appears almost indestructible.
It isn’t just Qea who undergoes a brilliant transformation, but Adam, Qea’s partner, does as well. He gives the reader hope that a human can surpass the prejudices placed on him/her by a dominant race.
Blue Dust: Forbidden is a fantastic novel that also brings to light, and challenges, some of Earth’s most talked about and tabooed topics. Such topics include: religion, politics, the power of currency, and mother nature, to name a few. Krump’s novel is a blend of what is both wrong and simple on Earth, and how Earth may be looked upon by worse-off worlds. The message the reader may get, aside from how to survive if ever abducted by aliens, is that Earth is better than how its inhabitants are treating it.
Religion is one of the greatest aspects of this novel, no matter how subtly it is touched upon. Though Qea references Earth’s God briefly, her solar system is protected by the Troiqa, a benevolent being that follows the reader and hides among Qea’s world, until s/he is discovered. It brings to light the frailty and the complexities of faith. By not overtly focusing on the power of the Troiqa, Krump is allowing the reader to form his/her own faith in Qea’s god-like creator. Her trust in her reader gives her novel strength, since she is not forcing her ideals, but offering multiple viewpoints.
Masterfully detailed, engaging, and well-paced, Krump has created a novel that will draw its readers in. Blue Dust: Forbidden promises hours of action and adventure. Save for one or two instances where the story may drag, particularly near the conclusion, Krump offers a nearly flawless commentary on what is both right and wrong with Earth.
Krump’s novel is recommended for an audience that enjoys well-detailed and eye-catching fantastical worlds, strong female protagonists who appear seemingly flawless, but human all the same, and an intriguing story line that promises to leave the reader in a contemplative mood once s/he has reached the conclusion.
December 9, 2013
I received this book to give an honest review.
This was a good sci-fi read but I felt as though I could not fully contact with the characters especially the main character.
The story started off great and at first I was like okay what exactly does the title of this book have to do with this story. Well you get your answer later on. I had a problem with Qea not trying to take more action it was like she was constantly trying to second guess herself on what was right and what was wrong. When we get into Qea's story she never truly tried to find out why her parents were scared. It is like she just decides to listen to what they tell her and never truly gets to the bottom of it. Yes she finds out the main reason but that is later on. And what about Adam? He enters into a different world and he just seems okay with it? What is up with him always becoming lost and finding her again? Qea was freaking out about needing money for clothes so she blends in but then Adam is just walking around in his human garments that kind of threw me off a bit.
The relationship between Qea and Adam is not a normal oh I see you and love you. But more of they take time to like each other and Adam tries to get Qea to see that she needs to think of others and not herself like she has been trained to do. There is talk about faith within the story line but do not let that distract you from the story.
Qea is a forbidden child who unbeknownst to herself that she has a mission she is to help other children like herself. But at what cost? There is talk of kidnapping, death and some will break your heart.
I do wonder if there is a book 2 in the works as I would like to know does Qea continue her quest? What happens with Adam does he stay on the planet or does he return to Earth?
This was a good sci-fi read but I felt as though I could not fully contact with the characters especially the main character.
The story started off great and at first I was like okay what exactly does the title of this book have to do with this story. Well you get your answer later on. I had a problem with Qea not trying to take more action it was like she was constantly trying to second guess herself on what was right and what was wrong. When we get into Qea's story she never truly tried to find out why her parents were scared. It is like she just decides to listen to what they tell her and never truly gets to the bottom of it. Yes she finds out the main reason but that is later on. And what about Adam? He enters into a different world and he just seems okay with it? What is up with him always becoming lost and finding her again? Qea was freaking out about needing money for clothes so she blends in but then Adam is just walking around in his human garments that kind of threw me off a bit.
The relationship between Qea and Adam is not a normal oh I see you and love you. But more of they take time to like each other and Adam tries to get Qea to see that she needs to think of others and not herself like she has been trained to do. There is talk about faith within the story line but do not let that distract you from the story.
Qea is a forbidden child who unbeknownst to herself that she has a mission she is to help other children like herself. But at what cost? There is talk of kidnapping, death and some will break your heart.
I do wonder if there is a book 2 in the works as I would like to know does Qea continue her quest? What happens with Adam does he stay on the planet or does he return to Earth?
February 16, 2013
An intriguing tale that bridges the gap between two worlds, and two genres. Blue Dust Forbidden is not only an excellent fantasy novel from the pen of Katy Krump, but also a romance tale to compete with the very best. Katy has an eloquent and unique style of her own. She writes well, using description to allow us to ‘see’ what she is telling us without going over the top with unnecessary wordage. She easily lets her readers view the fantasy world she has created through her words, and produces believable and likeable characters to populate it. We see a fantasy world where surplus offspring are forbidden, and the third child will most certainly meet a horrible end! Our heroine is one such child...
Blue Dust forbidden begins right into the actions, and stays there without losing pace to the last page. I was hooked from the first chapter when the twists and turns of the tale began. No one could ever call this story predictable. Just when you think you know what is going one, Katy throws another curve and you are back to guessing. As to the love interest, this novel puts a whole new slant on can the heroine trust the man she loves. In her case, her very life could depend on it. She is torn between the man she falls in love with on Earth, and her need to help other ‘forbidden’ children back in her own world. Qea, in all her guises, had my support all the way. She is the kind of character that has you cheering for her success. You will be kept guessing until the last action packed page, and though the ending is complete, it is a tale that begs a follow-up. I will certainly be looking for more books by Ms Krump.
Blue Dust forbidden begins right into the actions, and stays there without losing pace to the last page. I was hooked from the first chapter when the twists and turns of the tale began. No one could ever call this story predictable. Just when you think you know what is going one, Katy throws another curve and you are back to guessing. As to the love interest, this novel puts a whole new slant on can the heroine trust the man she loves. In her case, her very life could depend on it. She is torn between the man she falls in love with on Earth, and her need to help other ‘forbidden’ children back in her own world. Qea, in all her guises, had my support all the way. She is the kind of character that has you cheering for her success. You will be kept guessing until the last action packed page, and though the ending is complete, it is a tale that begs a follow-up. I will certainly be looking for more books by Ms Krump.
July 19, 2014
Kerry Johnston is an overweight four-eyed geek, a great target for bullies, but underneath her fat suit and fake limp she is someone else entirely: an alien from another planet, whose real name is Qea. The planets in the Octad are in danger of being overpopulated, so the Committee has rules that each family may only have two children and any children after that are deemed the result of unnatural lusts and are forbidden. Qea is just one of these many forbidden children. Circumstance has led her to seek protection on Earth, but when her protectors go missing, she is left to fend for herself.
This book is set largely on the planets of the Octad, which have brilliant vibrant colors for plants, sky, and earth (the ground is blue dust as opposed to our dull brown dirt). While the Octad has super advanced technology, the planets face tribal fighting much like we see in 3rd world countries here on Earth, making it a very dangerous place to live. But Qea is a survivor.
I loved this book. I'd love to travel to the Octad to see all the brilliant colors of their landscapes. I could do without the danger though, so I don't think I will be visiting any time soon. This book was packed with action and suspense with maybe a little bit of romance thrown in for good measure. I would definitely recommend this book to any science fiction fans that like their books with a strong heroine.
Reviewed for Just Another Girl and Her Books blog
Http://www.justanothergirlandherbooks...
This book is set largely on the planets of the Octad, which have brilliant vibrant colors for plants, sky, and earth (the ground is blue dust as opposed to our dull brown dirt). While the Octad has super advanced technology, the planets face tribal fighting much like we see in 3rd world countries here on Earth, making it a very dangerous place to live. But Qea is a survivor.
I loved this book. I'd love to travel to the Octad to see all the brilliant colors of their landscapes. I could do without the danger though, so I don't think I will be visiting any time soon. This book was packed with action and suspense with maybe a little bit of romance thrown in for good measure. I would definitely recommend this book to any science fiction fans that like their books with a strong heroine.
Reviewed for Just Another Girl and Her Books blog
Http://www.justanothergirlandherbooks...
December 4, 2013
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars!!!
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.
Firstly I would like to thank the author for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
Well, this is a good sci-fi read and I enjoyed it to a great extent but to be honest at some places I just found myself at a total loss because it was hard for me to connect with the characters and the plot as well and the names are hard to pronounce and remember.
I liked the concept very much but somewhere I think that the execution wasn’t proper and that the characters should also have been developed a little bit more. The dialogues are good no doubt. The adventure is another plus point of this story.
Well, as you can see that I have mixed feelings regarding this story but there are quite a no of good punches that shocked and surprised me at intervals. The pacing is good and the writing style is also descriptive and gives out the detailed description of the surroundings and the situations that the main lead faced. Over all a good read which is definitely worth a shot and I would recommend it to the sci-fi lovers. Go for it guys!!!
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.
Firstly I would like to thank the author for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
Well, this is a good sci-fi read and I enjoyed it to a great extent but to be honest at some places I just found myself at a total loss because it was hard for me to connect with the characters and the plot as well and the names are hard to pronounce and remember.
I liked the concept very much but somewhere I think that the execution wasn’t proper and that the characters should also have been developed a little bit more. The dialogues are good no doubt. The adventure is another plus point of this story.
Well, as you can see that I have mixed feelings regarding this story but there are quite a no of good punches that shocked and surprised me at intervals. The pacing is good and the writing style is also descriptive and gives out the detailed description of the surroundings and the situations that the main lead faced. Over all a good read which is definitely worth a shot and I would recommend it to the sci-fi lovers. Go for it guys!!!
July 9, 2013
Blue Dust By Katy Krump
Kerry Johnson aka Qea is living live on the run she has been taught how to mix in with her surroundings. What happens through out the rest of the book is Qea on the run and now she has a human male named Adam to keep safe also. First Earth than another planet that resembles a rainbow of colors. Qea is one of the forbidden children of the planet and is used to hiding and thinking while on the run. Now not only is her live or Adams life is jeopardy but numerous forbidden children. It is all or nothing.
This was a good Sci/Fi book. The constant being caught was a bit much. Overall this was a good fast read.
4 STARS
Patches
complimentary book given for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
Kerry Johnson aka Qea is living live on the run she has been taught how to mix in with her surroundings. What happens through out the rest of the book is Qea on the run and now she has a human male named Adam to keep safe also. First Earth than another planet that resembles a rainbow of colors. Qea is one of the forbidden children of the planet and is used to hiding and thinking while on the run. Now not only is her live or Adams life is jeopardy but numerous forbidden children. It is all or nothing.
This was a good Sci/Fi book. The constant being caught was a bit much. Overall this was a good fast read.
4 STARS
Patches
complimentary book given for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
January 19, 2015
what a rambling mess of a book. imagine a character who changes as does the scenario she finds herself in.
Some good bits, such as the survival phase where the main character is trying to stay out of a very nasty, but everywhere kind kf bad guy.
Goes downhill when it hits the destiny phase.
Imagine lots of bits of Sci-fi/Fantasy plots spliced together and you'd not be far wrobg.
Very lame ending.
Why 3 stars? The writing itself is good for a good part of the book and the action phases grab the attention without being over gory or too graphic.
The 'speak and it shall be so' latter part is too far fetched.
Some good bits, such as the survival phase where the main character is trying to stay out of a very nasty, but everywhere kind kf bad guy.
Goes downhill when it hits the destiny phase.
Imagine lots of bits of Sci-fi/Fantasy plots spliced together and you'd not be far wrobg.
Very lame ending.
Why 3 stars? The writing itself is good for a good part of the book and the action phases grab the attention without being over gory or too graphic.
The 'speak and it shall be so' latter part is too far fetched.
February 5, 2017
With sci-fi being my 'I'll just rather avoid it altogether" genre, I must say that I did enjoy the book. The latter half of the book definitely picked up pace leaving me intrigued as to what will happen with Qea and Adam in the second book 'Destiny'...
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