What do you think?
Rate this book
Beyond Parallel #1
Beyond Parallel
One boy. One girl. One insignificant moment that changes their lives forever.
Bella and Clark are two young twenty-somethings, finding themselves in a chaotic and crazy world. One craves love; the other avoids it. Will they find one another, or will a single what-if moment send them down different paths?
In the same mould as Sliding Doors, Uncertainty, and Smoking/No-Smoking, Beyond Parallel flips between two parallel tales. One follows Bella and Clark as a couple, the other as if they never meet.
Friendships, careers, dreams, fantasies...their lives are no different to yours or mine.
Follow their journey over a fast paced, mazy two-years. Highflying careers, book tours, teaching teenagers, hipster warehouses, coffee shop hangouts, a despicable salesman...they're all confronted.
It's incredible how a small, everyday decision can affect how you look, where you live, the people you love, and who you become. We could all live a billion lives, but we’re only given one. Is it all a game of chance, or are Bella and Clark meant to be?
Bella and Clark are two young twenty-somethings, finding themselves in a chaotic and crazy world. One craves love; the other avoids it. Will they find one another, or will a single what-if moment send them down different paths?
In the same mould as Sliding Doors, Uncertainty, and Smoking/No-Smoking, Beyond Parallel flips between two parallel tales. One follows Bella and Clark as a couple, the other as if they never meet.
Friendships, careers, dreams, fantasies...their lives are no different to yours or mine.
Follow their journey over a fast paced, mazy two-years. Highflying careers, book tours, teaching teenagers, hipster warehouses, coffee shop hangouts, a despicable salesman...they're all confronted.
It's incredible how a small, everyday decision can affect how you look, where you live, the people you love, and who you become. We could all live a billion lives, but we’re only given one. Is it all a game of chance, or are Bella and Clark meant to be?
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
2 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Turner
16 books77 followersMatthew Turner is a British Author who lives in a small town in Yorkshire, England. Having previously published three novels and a non-fiction business book, he wrote Beyond The Pale on the back of interviewing hundreds of successful entrepreneurs, authors, investors, and thought-leaders.
Gaining a unique insight into areas such as mindset, flow, and personal development, and a gaining reputation for crafting compelling stories out of other peoples’ lives, Matthew builds relatable fables for those looking to live a meaningful and purpose-driven life.
As well as writing for himself, Matthew ghostwrites both articles and books for other successful entrepreneurs and thought-leaders, in-between spending time with his two children.
Gaining a unique insight into areas such as mindset, flow, and personal development, and a gaining reputation for crafting compelling stories out of other peoples’ lives, Matthew builds relatable fables for those looking to live a meaningful and purpose-driven life.
As well as writing for himself, Matthew ghostwrites both articles and books for other successful entrepreneurs and thought-leaders, in-between spending time with his two children.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
April 15, 2013
Beyond parallel is the first novel by author Matthew Turner. The novel explores the idea of people changing their destiny by a simple decision. Further, the author actually details two very different scenarios experienced by the main characters. In one scenario they become couple (with), and in the other scenario they never meet (without).
Such concept is adventurous and original, although I am not sure what came first, this novel or the movie Sliding Doors. For this unique approach along, the author deserves praise, not only for his experimentation, but more importantly, for the way he handled the structure of the novel, in order to give the reader a true perspective of the two worlds he very well paints.
He does so by alternating chapters. One chapter narrates the main characters as couple (or “with”) and the next narrates them as strangers (“without”). This will appeal to readers used to experimental writing. The classic Julio Cortazar’s Rayuela comes to mind.
Further, Mr. Turner was smart enough to keep the prose very simple, and the narrative limited to pretty much 4 characters, so the reader can easily follows the story line, which is well written and well edited.
“Put a stop to this kissing right now and plant my hand on his firm, tight chest, and say ‘NO.” Says the main character at the beginning of the novel while confronting her self. I was quite impressed by Mr. Turner’s ability to “think” like a female. This is important, since most of the novel goes around the psychology of Bella, the main character.
But it was precisely the characters my one complaint. I was pleased that Mr. Turner made them ordinary individuals, yet I was never able to get a mental picture of them, a sign that I simply did not connect. Having just few characters was a great opportunity for a rich development —through stronger dialogue—. But these characters lacked an edge and fit the romantic comedy-dramas mold. Many however may very well disagree with my opinion, particularly those liking the genre —I am not one of them—.
The narrative itself is satisfying and well put together. It is entertaining and again, the element of back and forward between the two story lines kept me reading. One may have wanted vivid sexual scenes or catastrophic/shocking events as consequences of the characters’ choices. I was glad Mr. Turner did not fall into such trap.
I enjoyed this original novel and think many will. 3.5.
Such concept is adventurous and original, although I am not sure what came first, this novel or the movie Sliding Doors. For this unique approach along, the author deserves praise, not only for his experimentation, but more importantly, for the way he handled the structure of the novel, in order to give the reader a true perspective of the two worlds he very well paints.
He does so by alternating chapters. One chapter narrates the main characters as couple (or “with”) and the next narrates them as strangers (“without”). This will appeal to readers used to experimental writing. The classic Julio Cortazar’s Rayuela comes to mind.
Further, Mr. Turner was smart enough to keep the prose very simple, and the narrative limited to pretty much 4 characters, so the reader can easily follows the story line, which is well written and well edited.
“Put a stop to this kissing right now and plant my hand on his firm, tight chest, and say ‘NO.” Says the main character at the beginning of the novel while confronting her self. I was quite impressed by Mr. Turner’s ability to “think” like a female. This is important, since most of the novel goes around the psychology of Bella, the main character.
But it was precisely the characters my one complaint. I was pleased that Mr. Turner made them ordinary individuals, yet I was never able to get a mental picture of them, a sign that I simply did not connect. Having just few characters was a great opportunity for a rich development —through stronger dialogue—. But these characters lacked an edge and fit the romantic comedy-dramas mold. Many however may very well disagree with my opinion, particularly those liking the genre —I am not one of them—.
The narrative itself is satisfying and well put together. It is entertaining and again, the element of back and forward between the two story lines kept me reading. One may have wanted vivid sexual scenes or catastrophic/shocking events as consequences of the characters’ choices. I was glad Mr. Turner did not fall into such trap.
I enjoyed this original novel and think many will. 3.5.
March 7, 2013
This is what I call a romance for real people. It was beautiful and heartwarming and I just loved the ending, it appealed to my hopelessly romantic soul!
The concept of the book and the 'what if' moment grabbed me from the start and is what inspired me to read and keep reading this book. It resonates with me because of what I have in my life. I can't imagine being without my husband and soul mate, or having my little boy, yet it could all have not happened if some small little things had happened differently. If the bar my best friend and I were in hadn't got a broken card reader, said best friend wouldn't have left me to go get cash, and I wouldn't have been sitting on a bar stool on my own. I wouldn't have met him, that what if changed my life.
Anyway, enough about me. This is what I loved about this book though. Bella and Clark were so easy to relate to. They weren't leading super extraordinary lives, they were just like you and me. Also, the struggles they went through, finding their path, career, marriage, love, following dreams; these are the worries of a twenty-something. The author captured the anxiety of making yourself a life very well, the doubts, the hopes and most of all the emphasis on love.
The way this was written with the two parallel stories of 'with' and 'without' was intriguing from the start but I have to admit I did struggle for awhile. I recommend not using text to speech on kindle as it made it next to impossible to follow which story I was in. Once I decided to just leave my commuting time to contemplation I found in reading the book it wasn't hard to follow at all.
The reason for the 4 rather than 5 stars is that I felt the book took awhile to warm up. I ended up in love with Bella and Clark, and Sam too, but I didn't really feel like I knew them until maybe 60% in, which is a long time really. This book isn't OTT in the typical NA girly way of painstakingly describing every kiss and attraction which made it a breath of fresh air and comes back to my original statement; this is about real romance, between and for real people.
Give this a go, and bear with it whilst it warms up because it's worth it, it's lovely and all I feel now is a desire to give my guy a big hug. It's a nice feeling :)
The concept of the book and the 'what if' moment grabbed me from the start and is what inspired me to read and keep reading this book. It resonates with me because of what I have in my life. I can't imagine being without my husband and soul mate, or having my little boy, yet it could all have not happened if some small little things had happened differently. If the bar my best friend and I were in hadn't got a broken card reader, said best friend wouldn't have left me to go get cash, and I wouldn't have been sitting on a bar stool on my own. I wouldn't have met him, that what if changed my life.
Anyway, enough about me. This is what I loved about this book though. Bella and Clark were so easy to relate to. They weren't leading super extraordinary lives, they were just like you and me. Also, the struggles they went through, finding their path, career, marriage, love, following dreams; these are the worries of a twenty-something. The author captured the anxiety of making yourself a life very well, the doubts, the hopes and most of all the emphasis on love.
The way this was written with the two parallel stories of 'with' and 'without' was intriguing from the start but I have to admit I did struggle for awhile. I recommend not using text to speech on kindle as it made it next to impossible to follow which story I was in. Once I decided to just leave my commuting time to contemplation I found in reading the book it wasn't hard to follow at all.
The reason for the 4 rather than 5 stars is that I felt the book took awhile to warm up. I ended up in love with Bella and Clark, and Sam too, but I didn't really feel like I knew them until maybe 60% in, which is a long time really. This book isn't OTT in the typical NA girly way of painstakingly describing every kiss and attraction which made it a breath of fresh air and comes back to my original statement; this is about real romance, between and for real people.
Give this a go, and bear with it whilst it warms up because it's worth it, it's lovely and all I feel now is a desire to give my guy a big hug. It's a nice feeling :)
April 9, 2013
Beyond Parallel was a delightful read. The story starts with a particular moment in time and asks, what if that moment happened or did not happen? What are the consequences? Where would their life take them?
Now, this kind of story has been written before. Everyone has these moments in their lives, which is what makes the question such an interesting one.
But what I enjoyed so much about this particular tale is each story had the main character going through a different journey, discovering different things about themselves and growing as a person, while at the same time being held back as a result of that particular parallel. It wasn't black and white which one was better, and I often found myself switching as to which life was really better for the main characters.
The writing was well paced and well written. The only thing is that I could tell that the writer was English in the beginning when writing Bella, the American character as "coming away" while traveling. Not a term that an American would use, but it was the only instance I saw the writer really use incorrectly.
I also wanted to know the motivation of Alex a little more. I was hoping that we would get some insight or some conversation with him and Bella at that the end.
I gave this story four stars, as it held my interest and I cannot wait to see what else this author is going to write in the future. Well done.
Now, this kind of story has been written before. Everyone has these moments in their lives, which is what makes the question such an interesting one.
But what I enjoyed so much about this particular tale is each story had the main character going through a different journey, discovering different things about themselves and growing as a person, while at the same time being held back as a result of that particular parallel. It wasn't black and white which one was better, and I often found myself switching as to which life was really better for the main characters.
The writing was well paced and well written. The only thing is that I could tell that the writer was English in the beginning when writing Bella, the American character as "coming away" while traveling. Not a term that an American would use, but it was the only instance I saw the writer really use incorrectly.
I also wanted to know the motivation of Alex a little more. I was hoping that we would get some insight or some conversation with him and Bella at that the end.
I gave this story four stars, as it held my interest and I cannot wait to see what else this author is going to write in the future. Well done.
March 12, 2013
Read the full review and see more and www.appraisingpages.com!
I gave this book 5 stars and let me just say that it deserves it. This is by far the best self-published/indie book I’ve ever read and deserves to be a bestseller. I could barely put it down and was itching to get back to it every time I was forced to. In order for me to like a romance, it has to be creative. Since the relationship(s) propels the story it needs to be good. No clichés, only an appropriate level and type of drama, a lot of creativity. This book has all of it and I was so appreciative, I think a good romance can be hard to find.
Something I’ve discovered having read a pretty hearty mixture of traditionally and independently published books is that when it comes to writing, you either have it or you don’t. Not to say that only traditionally published authors do or that you can’t get “it” if at first you don’t, but it’s true. Matthew Turner has “it”. He gives me everything I need as a reader in perfect balance: setting, character, forward motion, dialogue, emotion, all of it. There’s absolutely nothing I desired from this book that I didn’t get. I can tell that he’s a seriously talented writer who knows the craft and had a great editor (all things I think are requirements of any indie author.) I seriously cannot praise this book any more!
I gave this book 5 stars and let me just say that it deserves it. This is by far the best self-published/indie book I’ve ever read and deserves to be a bestseller. I could barely put it down and was itching to get back to it every time I was forced to. In order for me to like a romance, it has to be creative. Since the relationship(s) propels the story it needs to be good. No clichés, only an appropriate level and type of drama, a lot of creativity. This book has all of it and I was so appreciative, I think a good romance can be hard to find.
Something I’ve discovered having read a pretty hearty mixture of traditionally and independently published books is that when it comes to writing, you either have it or you don’t. Not to say that only traditionally published authors do or that you can’t get “it” if at first you don’t, but it’s true. Matthew Turner has “it”. He gives me everything I need as a reader in perfect balance: setting, character, forward motion, dialogue, emotion, all of it. There’s absolutely nothing I desired from this book that I didn’t get. I can tell that he’s a seriously talented writer who knows the craft and had a great editor (all things I think are requirements of any indie author.) I seriously cannot praise this book any more!
January 8, 2013
I thought it was a really romantic and thought-provoking novel. In fact, it made me think without even having to try very hard to do so. It was extremely entertaining.
A concept we all most likely churn in the backs of our minds when we are in the shower, laying in bed awake at night...sometimes in our happier times and most certainly in our times of downcast....is the question of WHAT IF? WHAT IF I would have made the decision to go here instead of there, to choose to have a relationship with this person rather than that person? To take that job instead of the other offered? To move here or there?
There are many scenarios we can concoct. In this book, Turner takes on the WHAT IF question of decision-making in relationships. Many people might question if they made a right decision in choosing their life partner. Some wonder if the "grass is greener on the other side" right? In times of true hardships, or sadness, or maybe even just boredom, we almost always wonder if we made a wrong turn on the road of life. But is that the case? Or maybe fate always has other things in mind for us.
In the book, Clark and Bella are both living life in their twenties and trying to make decisions unknowing what the future ahead of them holds. Turner tells the story from the viewpoint of them being together and also in a parallel story of if they had never met. It was a page turning festival of fun to see what would happen next in each scenario.
Turner writes simple prose with a minor number of characters, which is good because as the reader keeps switching between scenarios from chapter to chapter, it's easier to keep everyone straight. It's not a heavily detailed book in setting or character development, but it does stick true to its premise which is to offer us a look into the lives of four people and their ultimate path to meeting each other. He is clear in his characters emotions and conversations, which is the premise of the book. We see how their decisions alter their lives and also see on the parallel side what the other option would have entailed for them. It's very interesting to take this concept and see if the "other" choice they wonder about really would have turned out any better for them.
I really enjoyed spending a few hours over my Holiday break reading this book! It was a fun detour from a lot of the heavier historical or horror reading I tend to do. If you are looking for a book to help you relax, and enjoy light romance that is not just the hot and steamy variety, then this book would be an entertaining read for you. If you ever pondered the WHAT IF question in your relationships, I highly recommend you read this book! In the fine tradition of British storytelling, Turners pen makes the mark.
A concept we all most likely churn in the backs of our minds when we are in the shower, laying in bed awake at night...sometimes in our happier times and most certainly in our times of downcast....is the question of WHAT IF? WHAT IF I would have made the decision to go here instead of there, to choose to have a relationship with this person rather than that person? To take that job instead of the other offered? To move here or there?
There are many scenarios we can concoct. In this book, Turner takes on the WHAT IF question of decision-making in relationships. Many people might question if they made a right decision in choosing their life partner. Some wonder if the "grass is greener on the other side" right? In times of true hardships, or sadness, or maybe even just boredom, we almost always wonder if we made a wrong turn on the road of life. But is that the case? Or maybe fate always has other things in mind for us.
In the book, Clark and Bella are both living life in their twenties and trying to make decisions unknowing what the future ahead of them holds. Turner tells the story from the viewpoint of them being together and also in a parallel story of if they had never met. It was a page turning festival of fun to see what would happen next in each scenario.
Turner writes simple prose with a minor number of characters, which is good because as the reader keeps switching between scenarios from chapter to chapter, it's easier to keep everyone straight. It's not a heavily detailed book in setting or character development, but it does stick true to its premise which is to offer us a look into the lives of four people and their ultimate path to meeting each other. He is clear in his characters emotions and conversations, which is the premise of the book. We see how their decisions alter their lives and also see on the parallel side what the other option would have entailed for them. It's very interesting to take this concept and see if the "other" choice they wonder about really would have turned out any better for them.
I really enjoyed spending a few hours over my Holiday break reading this book! It was a fun detour from a lot of the heavier historical or horror reading I tend to do. If you are looking for a book to help you relax, and enjoy light romance that is not just the hot and steamy variety, then this book would be an entertaining read for you. If you ever pondered the WHAT IF question in your relationships, I highly recommend you read this book! In the fine tradition of British storytelling, Turners pen makes the mark.
June 14, 2013
3.5
I couldn’t decide whether or not I wanted to give this novel a 3 or 3.5. In the end I ended up with the 3.5 because the pro’s outweighed the cons. Oh yeah, that’s right. I’m a list person. Lists, Charts, and all those things I love them, I LIVE for them.
Beyond parallel is the debut novel by Matthew Turner, with characters that change their destiny by one decision. Turner labels the chapters well with “With” and “Without”, as the main characters go on about their lives in a two totally different realms of existence. I really love the idea of parallel universes, and I always have. To be honest, I think quite often about all the “What if’s?” and the “maybe’s” of my life. “What If” is a serious inner turmoil question. I mean, at least for me it is.
I liked this novel, probably more than I thought I would. I do have some issues with it though. I admit it wasn’t exactly what I expected. I do feel like it was light, and fresh… compared to my normal reads. Don’t get me wrong. There are still a couple surprises and twists. I liked how each segment let you know exactly which “universe” you were going to read about. As I read this I couldn’t decide which story I liked better. At first I was completely enthralled about the “With” story. Then I decided I liked how the characters played out in the “Without” story.
I appreciate the ending, but I felt it was generic. Matthew decided to write about a two worlds, which is a pretty daring move. It’s hard to transition back in forth between the two. It’s almost as if you’re reading two companion books at the same time. To some it may get a little too confusing, but again… I’m a total parallel universe fan. Throughout the book I was fairly sure of what was going to happen but I still had that “Ooh what’s gonna happen now!?” perspective. Unfortunately at the end, I saw it coming a mile away and didn’t enjoy it as much as I could have. I’m sure it’s super hard to create a world without having people know the ending. Matthew did a GREAT job with that, until about 85% into the book.
Beyond Parallel was extremely well written, and I thoroughly enjoyed the novel. I feel that many people will fall head over heels in love with this book. Personally, I’m not a big Chick Lit. fan and I would have to classify this novel as that. So if you’re looking for a book like that, with some light twists, a little angst and just a great read… This book is definitely for you. Beyond Parallel still makes you smile, laugh, get a little emotional, and want to scream at the characters. All in all I think this was a great debut Novel from Matthew Turner. I look forward to seeing what he has to offer in the future.
I couldn’t decide whether or not I wanted to give this novel a 3 or 3.5. In the end I ended up with the 3.5 because the pro’s outweighed the cons. Oh yeah, that’s right. I’m a list person. Lists, Charts, and all those things I love them, I LIVE for them.
Beyond parallel is the debut novel by Matthew Turner, with characters that change their destiny by one decision. Turner labels the chapters well with “With” and “Without”, as the main characters go on about their lives in a two totally different realms of existence. I really love the idea of parallel universes, and I always have. To be honest, I think quite often about all the “What if’s?” and the “maybe’s” of my life. “What If” is a serious inner turmoil question. I mean, at least for me it is.
I liked this novel, probably more than I thought I would. I do have some issues with it though. I admit it wasn’t exactly what I expected. I do feel like it was light, and fresh… compared to my normal reads. Don’t get me wrong. There are still a couple surprises and twists. I liked how each segment let you know exactly which “universe” you were going to read about. As I read this I couldn’t decide which story I liked better. At first I was completely enthralled about the “With” story. Then I decided I liked how the characters played out in the “Without” story.
I appreciate the ending, but I felt it was generic. Matthew decided to write about a two worlds, which is a pretty daring move. It’s hard to transition back in forth between the two. It’s almost as if you’re reading two companion books at the same time. To some it may get a little too confusing, but again… I’m a total parallel universe fan. Throughout the book I was fairly sure of what was going to happen but I still had that “Ooh what’s gonna happen now!?” perspective. Unfortunately at the end, I saw it coming a mile away and didn’t enjoy it as much as I could have. I’m sure it’s super hard to create a world without having people know the ending. Matthew did a GREAT job with that, until about 85% into the book.
Beyond Parallel was extremely well written, and I thoroughly enjoyed the novel. I feel that many people will fall head over heels in love with this book. Personally, I’m not a big Chick Lit. fan and I would have to classify this novel as that. So if you’re looking for a book like that, with some light twists, a little angst and just a great read… This book is definitely for you. Beyond Parallel still makes you smile, laugh, get a little emotional, and want to scream at the characters. All in all I think this was a great debut Novel from Matthew Turner. I look forward to seeing what he has to offer in the future.
July 10, 2013
Usually, I don't read New Adult novels because I can't really relate to the characters. But I was intrigued by Beyond Parallel and the concept of alternate realities. It's so very cool! And this novel didn't disappoint me but it didn't impress me either. With so much going on I felt a little left in the dark during some chapters and bored or excited with others. Between chapters, six months goes by which is a lot of time for things to happen. Nonetheless, Beyond Parallel is a book that readers will enjoy.
Bella and Clark are such a cute couple. The only problem I have with them is that the beginning of their relationship is the classic case of insta-love. Their relationship happens so fast and maybe this is how adults do things, I'm not sure, but it feels very forced in the beginning. It would have been nicer if readers were eased into their romance instead of shoved into it. I also don't like Bella. At all. Throughout the story, for both stories in fact, she's annoying, whiny, and very self-centred. She expects her best friend, Alex to help her through a breakup (fine), be her wingman (fine), but to also just talk about herself and then whine about it without asking Alex about his problems (No way). It's really annoying how flat and boring all of the secondary characters are also. They have little life to them.
A big element in the novel is travelling and finding that special missing something or someone. The story starts off in Thailand where Bella and Clark both are and I liked that Matthew Turner used Thailand because it's a really exotic, fun place with some breathtaking sights. Beyond Parallel has two stories inside of the book, one with Bella and Clark as a couple and the other one is without Bella and Clark as a couple. For me, I really enjoyed reading about Bella and Clark being a couple because I got to read about both sides of their story instead of just one. They both start freaking out over little things and their hardships as a couple that they are forced to over come shows how realistic any kind of relationship is and I liked that.
Overall, Beyond Parallel is a good read full of romance and a few tough parts to get through. Just like any relationship and although the middle is very slow and most of the characters are quite flat, I did enjoy the story. Especially the ending, it's so cute and Awe worthy! I recommend this to anyone who enjoys new adult or romances with some travelling going on.
January 8, 2013
Have you ever made a decision and then later thought 'What If?' . . . 'who would I have met? would we have fallen in love? would I have been successful? and happier?'
Regrets are an integral part of human nature but in 'Beyond Parallel' Matthew Turner takes this idea and extends it - allowing his characters to live their 'if' and their 'now'.
Matthew Turner leads his reader on an original an unexpected journey, which I loved every minute of, and I would like to thank him for my ARC of 'Beyond Parallel' which he offered to me in exchange for an honest review.
The story centres around the lives of Bella and Clark and thus the reader has to be aware of changes in perspectives and switches in parallel lives. It would therefore be easy for there to be confusion but Matthew Turner's prose is flowing; he keeps each narrative short and has a continuous pattern of narrator.
I found I knew which character would be speaking when, and in which 'life' and that Matthew Turner's rich storytelling actually made 'Beyond Parallel' more of an interesting read.
The characters are intricately thought out, and the complicated events of their lives are enough to make the plot stimulating but not too much that the reader is overwhelmed with information.
'Beyond Parallel' is also an honest love story - Matthew Turner certainly does not create an idealistic view of romance - these characters feel raw human emotion and they have to find ways to make their relationships work just like the rest of us. I appreciate how hard the author works to connect his reader with his work.
Matthew Turner invites his reader to consider their own 'What If?' which I think is perhaps the most clever factor of all in this book and strengthens this connection.
I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to read and review this book before its release and thank Matthew Turner. I now recommend others to go out and purchase their own copy - you will not be disappointed. I look forward to reading more of the author's work!
Regrets are an integral part of human nature but in 'Beyond Parallel' Matthew Turner takes this idea and extends it - allowing his characters to live their 'if' and their 'now'.
Matthew Turner leads his reader on an original an unexpected journey, which I loved every minute of, and I would like to thank him for my ARC of 'Beyond Parallel' which he offered to me in exchange for an honest review.
The story centres around the lives of Bella and Clark and thus the reader has to be aware of changes in perspectives and switches in parallel lives. It would therefore be easy for there to be confusion but Matthew Turner's prose is flowing; he keeps each narrative short and has a continuous pattern of narrator.
I found I knew which character would be speaking when, and in which 'life' and that Matthew Turner's rich storytelling actually made 'Beyond Parallel' more of an interesting read.
The characters are intricately thought out, and the complicated events of their lives are enough to make the plot stimulating but not too much that the reader is overwhelmed with information.
'Beyond Parallel' is also an honest love story - Matthew Turner certainly does not create an idealistic view of romance - these characters feel raw human emotion and they have to find ways to make their relationships work just like the rest of us. I appreciate how hard the author works to connect his reader with his work.
Matthew Turner invites his reader to consider their own 'What If?' which I think is perhaps the most clever factor of all in this book and strengthens this connection.
I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to read and review this book before its release and thank Matthew Turner. I now recommend others to go out and purchase their own copy - you will not be disappointed. I look forward to reading more of the author's work!
June 23, 2013
Before I began reading this novel, I did not pay close enough attention to the introduction, where the author noted that he had written a short prequel to the novel. However, before I go too far along, I realized this and went back to read the prequel, which was free at Amazon. Since it set the stage and provided some background on the characters, I was glad I did because this made the story make more sense. I found the concept behind this book fascinating. We all have had “What If’s”, only in this case the author lets the reader see what would have happened if the characters had followed through on them as well as seeing what the characters actually did choose to do. The author has kept the number of characters, their lives and such very simple, which is good and is probably necessary because of the continual shifting between what is and what might have been. In the book, I sometimes did wish that the author had made a better, clearer distinction between the parallel lives. Perhaps a new chapter might have helped me transition better, since I sometimes found myself a bit confused as where I really was, which story I was reading about. The settings were simple enough to not get caught up in what was going on or where you were as you read. Still, I sometimes did get caught up in just that. As the story unfolds, the reader sees how the four characters go through life as two couples live regular lives—or more, if you count the parallel lives in the book. I definitely grew to like Bella and Clark more than the other two characters, especially Beki, who seemed uncaring and distant. How different Clark’s two female companions ended up being! Finally, I though the ending was somewhat abrupt, though not all that unpredictable. This book was quite a good book, with a novel plot concept. If the reader is looking for something that is a bit different but with many well known themes and sub-plots, this one may just hit the mark. After reading this, I am curiously awaiting what the author will produce next. I received this book free on-line to read and review.
July 7, 2013
really 3.5 stars -
I would highly suggest that anyone interested in reading this book also pick up the free prequel, Tales From A Tiny Thai Table. The introduction to the characters will serve you well in the reading of the novel. Unfortunately, I was not told of the prequel, and was unaware of it until I started to gather information for this post.
This was an interesting read, all based on those “what if” questions that we all have: what if I went left instead of right, what if we had never met, what if I chose x instead of y. They are simple questions, ultimately futile in the real world, although providing a ripe font of potential for a novel.
This is the story of Bella and Clark and the two universes that they could inhabit: met and unmet. While I was not a fan of the film Sliding Doors, parallel universe stories can be greatly entertaining when managed well, and the questions and situations posed are logical and feel possible.
While I think both lives were fairly well-developed if rather basic, I would have wished for more information of their lives at the end to finish the story completely. All four of the main characters were basically fleshed out, but I could not find a great deal of polish that creates a breathing character that a reader can picture. I think part of this was cleverly done on the author’s part – keeping the character numbers down and their lives and situations simple for ease of storytelling, but I still wanted more. While I did find Turner’s writing very smooth, with dialog that felt natural and the characters had a solid sense of identity, the brusque splits between together and separate often led to the story feeling disjointed, with a couple of chapters needing to pass before they gathered together again.
It was a clever story that mostly worked for me, and would possibly have worked better had I known of and read the prequel beforehand.
I received an eBook from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions were my own responsibility.
I would highly suggest that anyone interested in reading this book also pick up the free prequel, Tales From A Tiny Thai Table. The introduction to the characters will serve you well in the reading of the novel. Unfortunately, I was not told of the prequel, and was unaware of it until I started to gather information for this post.
This was an interesting read, all based on those “what if” questions that we all have: what if I went left instead of right, what if we had never met, what if I chose x instead of y. They are simple questions, ultimately futile in the real world, although providing a ripe font of potential for a novel.
This is the story of Bella and Clark and the two universes that they could inhabit: met and unmet. While I was not a fan of the film Sliding Doors, parallel universe stories can be greatly entertaining when managed well, and the questions and situations posed are logical and feel possible.
While I think both lives were fairly well-developed if rather basic, I would have wished for more information of their lives at the end to finish the story completely. All four of the main characters were basically fleshed out, but I could not find a great deal of polish that creates a breathing character that a reader can picture. I think part of this was cleverly done on the author’s part – keeping the character numbers down and their lives and situations simple for ease of storytelling, but I still wanted more. While I did find Turner’s writing very smooth, with dialog that felt natural and the characters had a solid sense of identity, the brusque splits between together and separate often led to the story feeling disjointed, with a couple of chapters needing to pass before they gathered together again.
It was a clever story that mostly worked for me, and would possibly have worked better had I known of and read the prequel beforehand.
I received an eBook from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions were my own responsibility.
July 5, 2013
Is the word "beyond" meant to be equivalent to the word fate? There are two lives running simultaneously as the title suggests, and what lives they are! Different in all implications of that word are the two characters that the readers follow.
Turner weaves these tales in such a way that it truly feels as if the reader is getting a peek into the actual, real people.Their angsts, their triumphs, their anxieties, the ups and down, the struggles, the joys, and their loves can be felt by the reader by the way this talented author spins this tale.
I bet numerous readers will identify themselves in these characters as they run through the gamut of emotions, all of us having had our own trials and tribulations and similar emotions in our own lives and experiences with love.
Beyond Parallel is a romantic novel which deals in the reality of life as opposed to a fantasy set out of time, out of this world, out of place. It manages the romance in the real life settings which more readers may easily identify with and therefore enjoy it immeasurably. You see the romance, the idea of fate, the realism, and the love of Clark and Bella, the way it ought to be.
The parallel lives for them are woven in such a way that the readers won't find out if they are fated for one another. It is one of those stories that is so seamless, so intricate, the reader will be eager for the end to find out what happens. It captivated me entirely. These two paths were extremely interesting and entertaining especially because they were so uniquely different. I am no writer and cannot begin to describe how much you immerse yourself in this story, watching and learning. The prose is contemporary and smooth-flowing without any glitches to kick you out of Reader Zone. You must read this.
Turner weaves these tales in such a way that it truly feels as if the reader is getting a peek into the actual, real people.Their angsts, their triumphs, their anxieties, the ups and down, the struggles, the joys, and their loves can be felt by the reader by the way this talented author spins this tale.
I bet numerous readers will identify themselves in these characters as they run through the gamut of emotions, all of us having had our own trials and tribulations and similar emotions in our own lives and experiences with love.
Beyond Parallel is a romantic novel which deals in the reality of life as opposed to a fantasy set out of time, out of this world, out of place. It manages the romance in the real life settings which more readers may easily identify with and therefore enjoy it immeasurably. You see the romance, the idea of fate, the realism, and the love of Clark and Bella, the way it ought to be.
The parallel lives for them are woven in such a way that the readers won't find out if they are fated for one another. It is one of those stories that is so seamless, so intricate, the reader will be eager for the end to find out what happens. It captivated me entirely. These two paths were extremely interesting and entertaining especially because they were so uniquely different. I am no writer and cannot begin to describe how much you immerse yourself in this story, watching and learning. The prose is contemporary and smooth-flowing without any glitches to kick you out of Reader Zone. You must read this.
January 3, 2013
I read Matthew Turner's short story "Tales from a Tiny Thai Table" a while back, and was instantly hooked on the story of Clark and Bella. When I received Beyond Parallel, I was thrilled to pick up where I'd left off with these characters.
Beyond Parallel is a wonderful book. The earliest chapters are a bit confusing, as the book alternates between parallel stories involving the same characters, but once you understand the format, the short chapters and frequent character switches serve to enhance the plot, rather than detract from it.
The story itself is delightful; the characters are well-crafted, and Turner's descriptive writing style makes for a vivid, fast read. Along the way, I tried to guess at how the characters' paths would finally come together, but I was pleasantly surprised by the ending. Beyond Parallel successfully blends romance, drama, and mild humor. Despite its somewhat Bildungsroman motif, this story will no doubt please adult readers. After all, aren't we all still "coming of age" in some sense or another?
The one thing that kept me from giving this book the full five (5) stars is that the editor did a poor job of catching errors in the manuscript. There were several places where easily-correctable typos distracted me from the story. Looking past this, Beyond Parallel was a great read.
I truly enjoyed this debut novel from Mr. Turner, and I look forward to following his career. I would happily recommend Beyond Parallel to readers looking for a story about finding love, while also finding oneself.
Beyond Parallel is a wonderful book. The earliest chapters are a bit confusing, as the book alternates between parallel stories involving the same characters, but once you understand the format, the short chapters and frequent character switches serve to enhance the plot, rather than detract from it.
The story itself is delightful; the characters are well-crafted, and Turner's descriptive writing style makes for a vivid, fast read. Along the way, I tried to guess at how the characters' paths would finally come together, but I was pleasantly surprised by the ending. Beyond Parallel successfully blends romance, drama, and mild humor. Despite its somewhat Bildungsroman motif, this story will no doubt please adult readers. After all, aren't we all still "coming of age" in some sense or another?
The one thing that kept me from giving this book the full five (5) stars is that the editor did a poor job of catching errors in the manuscript. There were several places where easily-correctable typos distracted me from the story. Looking past this, Beyond Parallel was a great read.
I truly enjoyed this debut novel from Mr. Turner, and I look forward to following his career. I would happily recommend Beyond Parallel to readers looking for a story about finding love, while also finding oneself.
February 10, 2013
I receved this book in exchange for an honest opinion of the book.
I have to start out by saying that the idea alone was enough to intrigue me into wanting to read this story. We all have our own "what ifs" and the thought of a book that allowed us to see both sides of the coin was fascinating.
I did start by reading the prequel to this story, Tales From A Tiny Thai Table, which was a free download from Amazon and I am glad I did as it gave me a bit of background into our main characters. I enjoyed that story as well and I eagerly went on to reading Beyond Parallel.
I have to say that at first it was a little bit hard to follow with the back and forth. But once you start reading and going by the "with" or "without" at the beginning of each chapter the story is much easier to follow and I found mysef dying to get to the next installment of the what if I had just read.
I loved that I was able to read both stories back to back and see how things developed and possible opportunities were missed. How things went on and how paths nearly crossed. I love that we find out exactly what if and maybe decide on our own which path we like best for our friends, Clark and Bella. Sometimes we wonder about things and second guess ourselves...here we find out that some things we just can't forsee. I enjoyed this story a lot and I am definitely a fan of Matthew's wonderful writting style and whit. I absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a new story without the cookie cutter format so many are following these days.
I have to start out by saying that the idea alone was enough to intrigue me into wanting to read this story. We all have our own "what ifs" and the thought of a book that allowed us to see both sides of the coin was fascinating.
I did start by reading the prequel to this story, Tales From A Tiny Thai Table, which was a free download from Amazon and I am glad I did as it gave me a bit of background into our main characters. I enjoyed that story as well and I eagerly went on to reading Beyond Parallel.
I have to say that at first it was a little bit hard to follow with the back and forth. But once you start reading and going by the "with" or "without" at the beginning of each chapter the story is much easier to follow and I found mysef dying to get to the next installment of the what if I had just read.
I loved that I was able to read both stories back to back and see how things developed and possible opportunities were missed. How things went on and how paths nearly crossed. I love that we find out exactly what if and maybe decide on our own which path we like best for our friends, Clark and Bella. Sometimes we wonder about things and second guess ourselves...here we find out that some things we just can't forsee. I enjoyed this story a lot and I am definitely a fan of Matthew's wonderful writting style and whit. I absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a new story without the cookie cutter format so many are following these days.
February 12, 2015
Beyond Parallel (Beyond Parallel #1) by Matthew Turner is a romance story about new adults. Now, this isn’t your typical romance novel. You’ll follow the journey of Bella and Clark’s life if they stayed together and also their journey if they didn’t. Is the grass greener on the other side?
Most people wonder what if. What if I married my first love? What if I chose a different career? How would things be different?
Alex invites Bella on a trip to see the world. The two are best friends. But Alex wants more.
Bella loves to be in love and jumps from one relationship to the next. What if it doesn’t work out? Should she risk their friendship?
While on the trip around the world, Bella meets a boy on a Thai bus who happens to be from England. Clark is new and exciting. Should she peruse this?
At a critical point, Bella must choose between Alex and Clark. This is where the book splits in to two stories. You’ll experience the ups and downs of both choices.
I really enjoyed this book. I am not a fan of typical romance stories, but this one is organized in way that makes it seem like a mystery novel. I couldn’t put the book down, because I wanted to see what was going to happen next.
Everything made sense. The characters are relatable. The plot is interesting. The pace was just right. The end was perfect.
Most people wonder what if. What if I married my first love? What if I chose a different career? How would things be different?
Alex invites Bella on a trip to see the world. The two are best friends. But Alex wants more.
Bella loves to be in love and jumps from one relationship to the next. What if it doesn’t work out? Should she risk their friendship?
While on the trip around the world, Bella meets a boy on a Thai bus who happens to be from England. Clark is new and exciting. Should she peruse this?
At a critical point, Bella must choose between Alex and Clark. This is where the book splits in to two stories. You’ll experience the ups and downs of both choices.
I really enjoyed this book. I am not a fan of typical romance stories, but this one is organized in way that makes it seem like a mystery novel. I couldn’t put the book down, because I wanted to see what was going to happen next.
Everything made sense. The characters are relatable. The plot is interesting. The pace was just right. The end was perfect.
February 7, 2013
Beyond Parallel by Matthew Turner
Beyond Parallel is the story of Clark and Bella and how their lives are destined to be together. The story follows the pair as they live lives separately and together. Bella and Clark both struggle with general anxiety about long term relationships, having both been through a lot of heartache and pain. Their stories begin while travelling around the world, and a chance meeting in Thailand.
It's quite an interesting setup I am not sure I have every read a book quite like this, which makes it unusually unique. I was drawn in immediately by the characters and their side by side troubles which lead them through life. The characters are very well written, but I found the pace to be numbingly slow, it took me over 2 weeks to finish. Beyond the pace of the book, I really enjoyed the storyline and found that most people have struggled in their twenties just like Clark and Bella but some bits were quite predictable. This is the first novel published by Mr. Turner and I'm looking forward to following his work in the future. I would give this book 3 out of 5 stars.
Beyond Parallel is the story of Clark and Bella and how their lives are destined to be together. The story follows the pair as they live lives separately and together. Bella and Clark both struggle with general anxiety about long term relationships, having both been through a lot of heartache and pain. Their stories begin while travelling around the world, and a chance meeting in Thailand.
It's quite an interesting setup I am not sure I have every read a book quite like this, which makes it unusually unique. I was drawn in immediately by the characters and their side by side troubles which lead them through life. The characters are very well written, but I found the pace to be numbingly slow, it took me over 2 weeks to finish. Beyond the pace of the book, I really enjoyed the storyline and found that most people have struggled in their twenties just like Clark and Bella but some bits were quite predictable. This is the first novel published by Mr. Turner and I'm looking forward to following his work in the future. I would give this book 3 out of 5 stars.
March 18, 2013
At first I was curious and scared of starting a novel written by a man, but obviously more the first than the last, as I decided to take the challenge. The book seemed confusing at first, I skipped the WITH's and read through the first chapter only the WITHOUT's. When I came back and read the WITH's, I was hooked in both stories, and, through the second chapter, I was cheering for both Clark and Alex to win Bella's heart, even though they were mutually exclusive. But, as we were in parallel, I was running in parallel too, why not? ;-)
Throughout the book both stories developed wonderfully, and I was sympathetic with the drama and the problems and decisions and turns that life surprises us with. It was a great brain storm, thinking out of the box, and seeing the same life through different angles. I really really liked it. Congrats Mathew, great debut novel, count on me to follow your work. Definetely a must read!
Throughout the book both stories developed wonderfully, and I was sympathetic with the drama and the problems and decisions and turns that life surprises us with. It was a great brain storm, thinking out of the box, and seeing the same life through different angles. I really really liked it. Congrats Mathew, great debut novel, count on me to follow your work. Definetely a must read!
February 29, 2016
Awesome book! I pretty much enjoyed the book, it had a great story line, or better said lines, because as the name of the book says it's about a guy and a girl that are living their lives and having all this experiences before colliding. I liked the story line, it has a good pace, however I felt like the last chapters were the most interesting and exciting. I felt like there was some unfinished business with Alex, he never explains himself and there's little explanation about what he does. I pretty much liked the whole book, but the only thing that I disliked was that sometimes I got a bit lost when switching from one storyline to the other and couldn't tell whose story or at what time I was into. Anyway, I recommend this book, is interesting and will keep you hooked till the end. One last thing is that I enjoy very much when an author talks about all this questions in life that we have during our personal growth into adulthood.
January 8, 2013
While there were a few grammatical errors and I was hoping for a little more development in characters personalities, overall this book is well worth the read. I started reading this book as a favor for a friend who wanted an honest opinion about it. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little worried I was going to dread it and have to find kind words to "cushion the critique". What I found, however, was I couldn't put it down. I completely forgot I knew the author and became consumed with learning more about the characters and their developing relationships. I could think of little else until I learned exactly what the author felt about fate and what was to become of the four people. I think it's fair to say I really, really liked this book and would highly recommend it to anyone who wants a story with the right amount of deep thought and easy read.
January 7, 2013
At first I was a little confused but it didn't take long to grasp what was happening. I thought it was a very interesting story and it kept my attention the entire time. I love how this book shows that one minor act can change your life in such a big way.
Want to read
July 2, 2013This sounds really interesting!
April 9, 2015
trippy!!
May 9, 2013
Originally posted on my blog: Tangled Up In Books
I received this book from the offer in exchange for an honest review.
The thought of reading a story of parallel lives was very interesting to me. To see the effects of a possible chance meeting between two people and how it determines their lives from that point on. I was worried it could get a bit complicated and confusing but the worry was unwarranted. Matthew Turner lays it out for you very simply. The passages in which they've met start out having the title "With..." and so obviously when they haven't it's "Without..." Simple.
I'll probably touch on this subject a few times during this review because without it there's really nothing that can be done to change your mind one way or the other. Hope. In order for a romance to take hold of you and keep you endlessly turning the pages to reach those last few lines you must have hope. Hope that even in the darkest times of this love, that eventually it will get better. I was...without.
Part of the issue was the characters. Honestly I just didn't like them. And I tried. Believe me when I say I did. Because I wanted nothing more than to love this book. But both Clark and Bella were very weak and selfish people. Especially Bella. There's nothing wrong with weak. But they needed to grow, become more than what they were at the start. I just didn't see that until maybe towards the end? But even then they were questioning. Always questioning.
Everyone was just so...sad and depressing. On one side they were just settling and becoming miserable people. They'd settle for just enough to be, moderately satisfied. Stifling dreams and hopes and fears and inwardly letting it all eat away at them into this miserable existence. It's so sad to read. I was never fully given any hope for either of them. Once just the slightest bit was brought in it was quickly dashed away with the contrary internal conflicts. On the other side they poured themselves into their dreams. Which is fine. But at the cost of friends and family? At the cost of everything? I felt no happiness on either sides of the parallel. Just frustration and deep sadness.
Clark is supposed to be this guy who avoids love. And yet in both paths of his life you never really see that, whether it was with Bella or Beki he was into the relationship, even his friend Sam would remark about how different and changed he was. It wasn't until he makes a very important relationship decision when he's with Bella, that is HIS choice, no hinting from her not even a spark of inspiration to make this decision. Once he's done it, it's like he snaps and all of a sudden he questions everything he's doing and wants to bolt most of the time. It just didn't make sense to me. Had he shown signs of this from the beginning maybe it wouldn't have been such a big deal. But there was just too much contradiction within each path.
I liked one person from the start of the book, Alex, and by a little over the halfway mark the signs I saw coming from him had me lose faith completely. And I was right. It broke my heart. By that point I had given up entirely and was just drifting through. I felt nothing. Because I should have had hope. Even if it's just a sliver. I need to be able to feel like by the time I get to the end of this story something will make me say, "oh yes. This was worth it."
There was one bright gem. One part that had me absolutely laughing out loud. It was just so random and funny. All of a sudden in the middle of it all we have this brief passage, a conversation between Clark and his best friend Sam...about a whale...and swimming. I'm telling you it's random as all hell and killed me. I wanted more like that. I think had there been more glimpses of funny, no matter how brief, I'd be singing a different tune.
I give Matthew Turner credit for the fact that this whole idea was exciting and thought provoking. The whole "what if" thing. And the effort was made and attempted, the book really tried. It just wasn't enough for me.
I received this book from the offer in exchange for an honest review.
The thought of reading a story of parallel lives was very interesting to me. To see the effects of a possible chance meeting between two people and how it determines their lives from that point on. I was worried it could get a bit complicated and confusing but the worry was unwarranted. Matthew Turner lays it out for you very simply. The passages in which they've met start out having the title "With..." and so obviously when they haven't it's "Without..." Simple.
I'll probably touch on this subject a few times during this review because without it there's really nothing that can be done to change your mind one way or the other. Hope. In order for a romance to take hold of you and keep you endlessly turning the pages to reach those last few lines you must have hope. Hope that even in the darkest times of this love, that eventually it will get better. I was...without.
Part of the issue was the characters. Honestly I just didn't like them. And I tried. Believe me when I say I did. Because I wanted nothing more than to love this book. But both Clark and Bella were very weak and selfish people. Especially Bella. There's nothing wrong with weak. But they needed to grow, become more than what they were at the start. I just didn't see that until maybe towards the end? But even then they were questioning. Always questioning.
Everyone was just so...sad and depressing. On one side they were just settling and becoming miserable people. They'd settle for just enough to be, moderately satisfied. Stifling dreams and hopes and fears and inwardly letting it all eat away at them into this miserable existence. It's so sad to read. I was never fully given any hope for either of them. Once just the slightest bit was brought in it was quickly dashed away with the contrary internal conflicts. On the other side they poured themselves into their dreams. Which is fine. But at the cost of friends and family? At the cost of everything? I felt no happiness on either sides of the parallel. Just frustration and deep sadness.
Clark is supposed to be this guy who avoids love. And yet in both paths of his life you never really see that, whether it was with Bella or Beki he was into the relationship, even his friend Sam would remark about how different and changed he was. It wasn't until he makes a very important relationship decision when he's with Bella, that is HIS choice, no hinting from her not even a spark of inspiration to make this decision. Once he's done it, it's like he snaps and all of a sudden he questions everything he's doing and wants to bolt most of the time. It just didn't make sense to me. Had he shown signs of this from the beginning maybe it wouldn't have been such a big deal. But there was just too much contradiction within each path.
I liked one person from the start of the book, Alex, and by a little over the halfway mark the signs I saw coming from him had me lose faith completely. And I was right. It broke my heart. By that point I had given up entirely and was just drifting through. I felt nothing. Because I should have had hope. Even if it's just a sliver. I need to be able to feel like by the time I get to the end of this story something will make me say, "oh yes. This was worth it."
There was one bright gem. One part that had me absolutely laughing out loud. It was just so random and funny. All of a sudden in the middle of it all we have this brief passage, a conversation between Clark and his best friend Sam...about a whale...and swimming. I'm telling you it's random as all hell and killed me. I wanted more like that. I think had there been more glimpses of funny, no matter how brief, I'd be singing a different tune.
I give Matthew Turner credit for the fact that this whole idea was exciting and thought provoking. The whole "what if" thing. And the effort was made and attempted, the book really tried. It just wasn't enough for me.
January 27, 2013
Mr. Tanner tried something adventurous in this book, and I'm not really sure that it worked for me. He's got several storylines that revolve around "what if" choices and they constantly shift. The thing is, he doesn't tell you which storyline you are reading, and it's up to you to figure it out after three or four sentences. If you aren't aware that this is going on, this book will confuse you, because what ends one scene break will not begin the next.
His characters are Bella, Clark, Alex, Beki, and Sam. In one storyline, Alex and Bella end up together. At first they seem a natural fit, but then she becomes uber-successful writer jet-setting to different countries to just sign books (does this even happen nowadays?) and because she's so "busy" her relationship with boyfriend Alex degenerates into a pile of crap so that he cheats on her and in the end, she's stunned but honestly doesn't care all that much because there was no life in their relationship anyway.
In that same universe Clark and this girl Beki break up after being together for a long time (relationship atrophy again) and Clark meets up with Bella in Hawaii and they naturally click.
In a third universe, Clark and Bella get together and Alex goes running off by himself and they get married and basically live happily ever after.
Sam is the friend of Clark in all universes and he's just there so that Clark has someone to talk to over beers.
I've read my share of "what if" stories in the past. The key is to have an existing relationship with the characters. To pull an example from comic books, you get attached to...I don't know...let's say for example it's Wolverine. And then you pose a "What if" and have a special issue where the "what if" is explored. Well it becomes interesting because you already have investment in the character(s).
In Matthew's book, there's no investment. I've no clue who Bella is on the first page (or Clark or Alex) so I honestly can say, I really don't care about "what ifs" since I don't know how their life turned out before we started asking "what if".
For what it's worth, Beyond Parallel is written well. It's just not typically the kind of book that I would choose to read as an introduction to these characters. I would have preferred reading Bella and Alex's story in its entirety and then go and read the "what if" portions to see how it might have been should she have chosen Clark instead.
His characters are Bella, Clark, Alex, Beki, and Sam. In one storyline, Alex and Bella end up together. At first they seem a natural fit, but then she becomes uber-successful writer jet-setting to different countries to just sign books (does this even happen nowadays?) and because she's so "busy" her relationship with boyfriend Alex degenerates into a pile of crap so that he cheats on her and in the end, she's stunned but honestly doesn't care all that much because there was no life in their relationship anyway.
In that same universe Clark and this girl Beki break up after being together for a long time (relationship atrophy again) and Clark meets up with Bella in Hawaii and they naturally click.
In a third universe, Clark and Bella get together and Alex goes running off by himself and they get married and basically live happily ever after.
Sam is the friend of Clark in all universes and he's just there so that Clark has someone to talk to over beers.
I've read my share of "what if" stories in the past. The key is to have an existing relationship with the characters. To pull an example from comic books, you get attached to...I don't know...let's say for example it's Wolverine. And then you pose a "What if" and have a special issue where the "what if" is explored. Well it becomes interesting because you already have investment in the character(s).
In Matthew's book, there's no investment. I've no clue who Bella is on the first page (or Clark or Alex) so I honestly can say, I really don't care about "what ifs" since I don't know how their life turned out before we started asking "what if".
For what it's worth, Beyond Parallel is written well. It's just not typically the kind of book that I would choose to read as an introduction to these characters. I would have preferred reading Bella and Alex's story in its entirety and then go and read the "what if" portions to see how it might have been should she have chosen Clark instead.
July 19, 2015
Reading Challenge 2015. Reto #20: Un libro en el final de tu lista de pendientes.
1.5/5 estrellas (SPOILERS!!!!!)
La idea principal estaba buena, pero:
1- Resulto ser lo que esperaba y no quería: un libro romántico que el mensajes es "sino conoces a tu amor verdadero entonces tu vida va a ser una mierda y ninguna decisión que tomes va a cambiar eso". Si, sé que el amor es importante, pero no es lo único.
2- Ningún personaje, salvo Sam, tiene personalidad. Son todos muy aburridos, incluso Bella me llego a hartar.
3- Pongamoslo así: Estas en Tailandia, sólo estás con tu mejor amigo, no hablas el mismo idioma, tu casa está al otro lado del mundo. Un día conoces a un chico británico súper lindo y "se enamoran". Por ciertas razones, tenes que decidir, en seguir a tu mejor amigo que conoces desde hace 4 años a Australia (como habían planificado) o quedarte en un país que no conoces, con el chico británico que conociste ayer: Entiendo todo el tema que te queda la duda de "Y si hubiera ido con ese chico?" pero yo jamás hubiera elegido al chico británico que conocí AYER. En el mundo real, hay un %70 de posibilidades de que ese chico sea un traficante de blancas, o que te secuestre, además que estás dejando y nunca volviendo a ver a tu mejor amigo. ¿En serio elegirían al chico? Sé que hay posibilidades de amor, también, pero eso no lo podes saber si lo conociste ayer.
4- Que el autor en ambos mundos, dejara a Alex como el malo. En el mundo A: le dice a Bella que él no tiene problema si ella se queda con el chico británico, pero que él va a seguir viaje a Australia como lo planifico. Según Bella él es egoísta y nunca se vuelven a ver. En el mundo B: Alex le mete los cuernos a Bella. Parece que en ambos mundos es o Alex o Clark, no ambos, es como "si tenes al novio, no podes tener al mejor amigo"
Y esas son las cosas principales. Siento que perdí el tiempo leyendo el libro.
Por otro lado que nada que ver, la portada no pega ni con cola. No sé, yo la veo y pienso en un libro romántico sobrenatural que sucede en el Londres victoriano, aunque la chica tiene un vestido corto que no encaja, pero mi mente va a eso...
1.5/5 estrellas (SPOILERS!!!!!)
La idea principal estaba buena, pero:
1- Resulto ser lo que esperaba y no quería: un libro romántico que el mensajes es "sino conoces a tu amor verdadero entonces tu vida va a ser una mierda y ninguna decisión que tomes va a cambiar eso". Si, sé que el amor es importante, pero no es lo único.
2- Ningún personaje, salvo Sam, tiene personalidad. Son todos muy aburridos, incluso Bella me llego a hartar.
3- Pongamoslo así: Estas en Tailandia, sólo estás con tu mejor amigo, no hablas el mismo idioma, tu casa está al otro lado del mundo. Un día conoces a un chico británico súper lindo y "se enamoran". Por ciertas razones, tenes que decidir, en seguir a tu mejor amigo que conoces desde hace 4 años a Australia (como habían planificado) o quedarte en un país que no conoces, con el chico británico que conociste ayer: Entiendo todo el tema que te queda la duda de "Y si hubiera ido con ese chico?" pero yo jamás hubiera elegido al chico británico que conocí AYER. En el mundo real, hay un %70 de posibilidades de que ese chico sea un traficante de blancas, o que te secuestre, además que estás dejando y nunca volviendo a ver a tu mejor amigo. ¿En serio elegirían al chico? Sé que hay posibilidades de amor, también, pero eso no lo podes saber si lo conociste ayer.
4- Que el autor en ambos mundos, dejara a Alex como el malo. En el mundo A: le dice a Bella que él no tiene problema si ella se queda con el chico británico, pero que él va a seguir viaje a Australia como lo planifico. Según Bella él es egoísta y nunca se vuelven a ver. En el mundo B: Alex le mete los cuernos a Bella. Parece que en ambos mundos es o Alex o Clark, no ambos, es como "si tenes al novio, no podes tener al mejor amigo"
Y esas son las cosas principales. Siento que perdí el tiempo leyendo el libro.
Por otro lado que nada que ver, la portada no pega ni con cola. No sé, yo la veo y pienso en un libro romántico sobrenatural que sucede en el Londres victoriano, aunque la chica tiene un vestido corto que no encaja, pero mi mente va a eso...
September 4, 2013
http://bookishtreasures.blogspot.co.u...
This is a story that revolves around two people, Bella and Clark, and the two different paths there lives take due to a single event. The concept is interesting and it was pretty well executed but I had a difficult time reading it towards the end as it felt too melancholic to watch everything crash and burn for one path when there was no happy ending in sight. It had that whole watching a train wreck feel. I loved the way it ended though. It wasn't happy. It was hopeful which seemed very appropriate.
The transition between parallels was well done utilizing a theme of "with"/"without" to differentiate them. It took me a little bit to understand why it started where it did and you had to do some mental sleuthing to determine what even precipitated the diverging realities. I loved how it boiled down to one simple question: squid curry or pad Thai?
I really appreciated how the author portrays ambitious careers requiring personal sacrifice and the inverse of choosing fulfillment in a relationship over certain career aspirations. It's probably the most honest representation of the dilemma that I have seen and this book is able to clearly show each side of the coin.
Overall the book seemed more contemplative than a typical romance and it started to drag at points as I think it wears on you to hop between stories. It's hard to connect fully with the characters as they differ from one parallel to the other due to their circumstances. Sam provided the needed comic relief and I could kiss him for it. There were a few British-isms slipped into the dialogue for the American character but they weren't egregious ("come away", "he's called Clark". and "Vicar").
Read the prologue Tales from a Tiny Thai Table first or you will be missing a good chunk of information. It wasn't included in my review copy so I had to grab it from amazon (it's free).
*A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.*
This is a story that revolves around two people, Bella and Clark, and the two different paths there lives take due to a single event. The concept is interesting and it was pretty well executed but I had a difficult time reading it towards the end as it felt too melancholic to watch everything crash and burn for one path when there was no happy ending in sight. It had that whole watching a train wreck feel. I loved the way it ended though. It wasn't happy. It was hopeful which seemed very appropriate.
The transition between parallels was well done utilizing a theme of "with"/"without" to differentiate them. It took me a little bit to understand why it started where it did and you had to do some mental sleuthing to determine what even precipitated the diverging realities. I loved how it boiled down to one simple question: squid curry or pad Thai?
I really appreciated how the author portrays ambitious careers requiring personal sacrifice and the inverse of choosing fulfillment in a relationship over certain career aspirations. It's probably the most honest representation of the dilemma that I have seen and this book is able to clearly show each side of the coin.
Overall the book seemed more contemplative than a typical romance and it started to drag at points as I think it wears on you to hop between stories. It's hard to connect fully with the characters as they differ from one parallel to the other due to their circumstances. Sam provided the needed comic relief and I could kiss him for it. There were a few British-isms slipped into the dialogue for the American character but they weren't egregious ("come away", "he's called Clark". and "Vicar").
Read the prologue Tales from a Tiny Thai Table first or you will be missing a good chunk of information. It wasn't included in my review copy so I had to grab it from amazon (it's free).
*A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.*
June 2, 2013
I received a free ebook copy in exchange for an honest review.
Have you ever met someone or made a choice and wondered what would have happened if you had done something differently, even if it was something as small as choosing a different seat somewhere or going to a different place for vacation?
Beyond Parallel plays out two different lives of Bella and Clark, one where they met and one where they did not. It shows how one small choice can drastically change your future whether it seems significant at the time or not and makes you wonder, are some things really meant to be? If something is supposed to happen, like a specific meeting, will it eventually happen?
I really enjoyed the thought provoking aspect this book gave me. In theory, it's a great concept and potentially great literature. However, I did have an issue with it. It was extremely helpful that the author labeled each chapter "with" or "without", and minus a little confusion at first, the parallel part to the story wasn't what I had issues with. The characters of Bella and Clark were not my favorite. Both could be so back and forth in their thoughts. In one paragraph, they didn't want something. In the next, boom, they want it now. It just gave them the impression of being unreliable in what they say and their actions. If it had only been one of them or only happened a few times, it wouldn't have been such a big deal, but it happened very frequently, especially toward the end.
Clark and Bella's swings were really the only major issue I had, though. The plot was solid, unfolded beautifully, and I think the author did an impressive job in mastering a challenging process of keeping the two lives on track. Overall, 3/5 stars.
Have you ever met someone or made a choice and wondered what would have happened if you had done something differently, even if it was something as small as choosing a different seat somewhere or going to a different place for vacation?
Beyond Parallel plays out two different lives of Bella and Clark, one where they met and one where they did not. It shows how one small choice can drastically change your future whether it seems significant at the time or not and makes you wonder, are some things really meant to be? If something is supposed to happen, like a specific meeting, will it eventually happen?
I really enjoyed the thought provoking aspect this book gave me. In theory, it's a great concept and potentially great literature. However, I did have an issue with it. It was extremely helpful that the author labeled each chapter "with" or "without", and minus a little confusion at first, the parallel part to the story wasn't what I had issues with. The characters of Bella and Clark were not my favorite. Both could be so back and forth in their thoughts. In one paragraph, they didn't want something. In the next, boom, they want it now. It just gave them the impression of being unreliable in what they say and their actions. If it had only been one of them or only happened a few times, it wouldn't have been such a big deal, but it happened very frequently, especially toward the end.
Clark and Bella's swings were really the only major issue I had, though. The plot was solid, unfolded beautifully, and I think the author did an impressive job in mastering a challenging process of keeping the two lives on track. Overall, 3/5 stars.
Read
February 10, 2016238p Bella and Clark are two young twenty-somethings, finding themselves in a chaotic and crazy world. One craves love; the other avoids it. Will they find one another, or will a single what-if moment send them down different paths?
In the same mould as Sliding Doors, Uncertainty, and Smoking/No-Smoking, Beyond Parallel flips between two parallel tales. One follows Bella and Clark as a couple, the other as if they never meet.
Friendships, careers, dreams, fantasies...their lives are no different to yours or mine.
Follow their journey over a fast paced, mazy two-years. Highflying careers, book tours, teaching teenagers, hipster warehouses, coffee shop hangouts, a despicable salesman...they're all confronted.
It's incredible how a small, everyday decision can affect how you look, where you live, the people you love, and who you become. We could all live a billion lives, but we're only given one. Is it all a game of chance, or are Bella and Clark meant to be?
In the same mould as Sliding Doors, Uncertainty, and Smoking/No-Smoking, Beyond Parallel flips between two parallel tales. One follows Bella and Clark as a couple, the other as if they never meet.
Friendships, careers, dreams, fantasies...their lives are no different to yours or mine.
Follow their journey over a fast paced, mazy two-years. Highflying careers, book tours, teaching teenagers, hipster warehouses, coffee shop hangouts, a despicable salesman...they're all confronted.
It's incredible how a small, everyday decision can affect how you look, where you live, the people you love, and who you become. We could all live a billion lives, but we're only given one. Is it all a game of chance, or are Bella and Clark meant to be?
February 1, 2013
I received this book from the Member Giveaways on Library Thing. I need to preface this review with an important fact: I have a chronic pain illness, that puts my brain into an almost constant "fog". That being said, my review may reflect the fact that my illness is affecting it. I believe that this author is a very good writer; however, I was confused during this whole book because of the alternating story lines. I understand what he is trying to do, which is writing as if the characters are in a "parallel universe". I like the premise of the book, and I like the author's writing style. I had a hard time keeping up with what was going on, however. I also read the prequel to this book, "Tales from a Tiny Thai Table", which the author included as a link at the beginning of the book. The prequel did make it a little bit easier to understand what was going on. All in all, it was an okay book. I would like to read more of this author's books, as I did like his writing style.
January 18, 2015
Maybe it was just me, but at times I found this book hard to follow. I had to re-read and flip back and forth to see if I had missed something. I'm not a fan of alternating stories in one book. I just couldn't enjoy it, because I spent half my time scratching my head, wondering what just happened. It's not poorly written, it just isn't what the summary seemed.
Want to read
March 18, 2013Amazon freebie 3/14/13
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews