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Doc W. #1
Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa
One world, divided.
Two worlds destined for disaster.
An enslaved orphan might hold the key to saving two worlds from unspeakable evil…
Doc, an orphan child, has been enslaved to work in the mines. On his twelfth birthday a book from a local Witch Doctor changes his life forever. Inside Doc reads of strange creatures that live hidden beneath the Asperatus Cloud.
Curious and desperate to learn more, Doc digs deeper.
What he uncovers will change everything. Thrust into a new world, Doc must learn the ways of the Witch Doctor before it’s too late. But this new world contains secrets about Doc. Mysterious secrets that’ll alter the course of his life.
Two worlds destined for disaster.
An enslaved orphan might hold the key to saving two worlds from unspeakable evil…
Doc, an orphan child, has been enslaved to work in the mines. On his twelfth birthday a book from a local Witch Doctor changes his life forever. Inside Doc reads of strange creatures that live hidden beneath the Asperatus Cloud.
Curious and desperate to learn more, Doc digs deeper.
What he uncovers will change everything. Thrust into a new world, Doc must learn the ways of the Witch Doctor before it’s too late. But this new world contains secrets about Doc. Mysterious secrets that’ll alter the course of his life.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2021
16 people are currently reading
593 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 15, 2022
In Lou Rusty Doc and the Cursed undersea we get to meet Doc who is an orphan who is exploring magical worlds where he meets a witch doctor who gives him a book on his birthday later on he discovers more about himself his and origins. I enjoyed really this YA Fanysasy thanks to the author sending a copy of it in Epub format.
March 1, 2022
Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa is a unique read full of magic, fantasy and whimsy.
This book was something wild and out there, a step away from my typical reads. I don't always dip into fantasy (by chance alone), so stepping into Doc's world and seeing VooDoo and mystical magic was very fun and interesting.
This book seems like it is made for middle graders. I originally thought ages 8-12 would be the best fit, but there are some swear words in this book. Now, I realize that children have had exposure to swear words but not every parent is comfortable with that. So, I like including that little tidbit here in my review so the whole "reader beware" is present before they buy.
The story itself has talking animals, VooDoo magic, prophecy, a school of magic, friendships, bullies and a giant battle. It had the fantasy and fun I expect from a middle grade story, and it packed in a lot of lore and mystical elements into it. There's many unique names and words too, like Zanzibar the bully and Flytrap, Doc's friend. It felt so unique and intriguing of a read.
Unfortunately, this book just didn't pull me in all that well. I really wanted to be interested in it, but it just wasn't for me. And guess what? That's totally okay. I can see how this book will be loved by it's target audience. It's fun and magical! It's absolutely a great book with simplistic writing, which will be easy for middle grade readers to tackle. I am honestly very impressed by this book even if I didn't enjoy it all that much. Overall, Lou Rusty did a great job and I'm sure many readers will adore this book!
One out of five stars because I just didn’t enjoy it.
I received this book for free from the author, Lou Rusty, in exchange of an honest review.
This book was something wild and out there, a step away from my typical reads. I don't always dip into fantasy (by chance alone), so stepping into Doc's world and seeing VooDoo and mystical magic was very fun and interesting.
This book seems like it is made for middle graders. I originally thought ages 8-12 would be the best fit, but there are some swear words in this book. Now, I realize that children have had exposure to swear words but not every parent is comfortable with that. So, I like including that little tidbit here in my review so the whole "reader beware" is present before they buy.
The story itself has talking animals, VooDoo magic, prophecy, a school of magic, friendships, bullies and a giant battle. It had the fantasy and fun I expect from a middle grade story, and it packed in a lot of lore and mystical elements into it. There's many unique names and words too, like Zanzibar the bully and Flytrap, Doc's friend. It felt so unique and intriguing of a read.
Unfortunately, this book just didn't pull me in all that well. I really wanted to be interested in it, but it just wasn't for me. And guess what? That's totally okay. I can see how this book will be loved by it's target audience. It's fun and magical! It's absolutely a great book with simplistic writing, which will be easy for middle grade readers to tackle. I am honestly very impressed by this book even if I didn't enjoy it all that much. Overall, Lou Rusty did a great job and I'm sure many readers will adore this book!
One out of five stars because I just didn’t enjoy it.
I received this book for free from the author, Lou Rusty, in exchange of an honest review.
February 10, 2022
Lou Rusty schrijft Ya en kinderboeken. Rusty is bezig met het schrijven van een reeks boeken over Doc. Doc W and the cursed undersa is hier het eerste deel van.
Verhaal
Doc is een weesjongen die gedwongen wordt om in de mijnen te werken. Op zijn twaalfde verjaardag krijgt hij van een oude tovenaar een boek dat zijn hele wereld overhoop gooit. Het boek verteld over mysterieuze dieren en planten in een andere wereld. Aangetrokken door deze nieuwigheden zoekt Doc verder tot hij zaken ontdekt die alles wat hij dacht te weten op losse schroeven plaatst. Hij moet de manieren van de tovenaars leren voor het te laat is. Maar is hij hier wel tegen opgewassen.
Denken aan andere boeken
Sommige passages lijken hun mosterd gehaald te hebben in andere boeken. Zoals uit Schätzing zijn boek De Zwerm en uit Harry Potter. Bepaalde gebeurtenissen zullen bij de mensen die deze boeken gelezen hebben wel een belletje doen rinkelen. Maar het werkt in dit verhaal.
Moeilijke start
In het begin is het wel wat moeilijk om in het verhaal te komen. Soms komt het verhaal wat verwarrend over maar naarmate de spanning toeneemt betert dit wel. Als lezer groei je mee met het verhaal dat betert naarmate het vordert .
Personages
Er is een grote verscheidenheid aan personages die de revue passeren. Het hoofdpersonage Doc lijkt het meeste uitgewerkt, maar Flytrap heeft ook een redelijk goeie uitwerking genoten.
Wereldopbouw
Rusty slaagt erin een wereld te creëren die zeer goed bij zijn verhaal past. Zoals vermeld een wereld die wat aan Harry Potter doet denken maar dit kan in dit geval enkel maar een compliment zijn in de richting van de auteur.
Slot
Het slot is het beste deel van het verhaal. Bomvol spanning en plottwisten. Je wordt van de ene verbazing in de andere verwarring gesleurd.
Conclusie
Een verwarrende start, goed middelstuk en magnifiek einde. In die start en middelste deel zat echt meer in dan dat er nu uitgekomen is. Maar ondanks dit, is het een boek dat zeker de moeite van het lezen waard is.
Engels
Lou Rusty writes Ya and children's books. Rusty is writing a series of books about Doc. Doc W and the cursed undersa is the first part of this.
Story
Doc is an orphan boy who is forced to work in the mines. On his twelfth birthday, an old witch docter gives him a book that turns his whole world upside down. The book tells about mysterious animals and plants in another world. Drawn by these novelties, Doc searches on until he discovers things that throw everything he thought he knew into question. He must learn the ways of the witch docters before it is too late. But is he up to it?
Thinking of other books
Some passages seem to have got their mustard in other books. Such as from Schätzing's book The Swarm and from Harry Potter. Certain events will ring a bell with the people who have read these books. But it works in this story.
Difficult start
It is a bit difficult to get into the story at first. Sometimes the story is a bit confusing, but as the tension increases, this improves. As a reader you grow with the story that improves as it progresses .
characters
There is a wide variety of characters to be featured. The main character Doc seems to be the most developed, but Flytrap has also enjoyed a fairly good development. The others are less worked out but the reader doesn't mind.
world building
Rusty manages to create a world that fits his story very well. As mentioned a world that reminds a bit of Harry Potter but in this case this can only be a compliment to the author.
The end
The ending is the best part of the story. Full of suspense and plot twists. You are dragged from one surprise to another confusion.
Conclusion.
A confusing start, good middle and magnificent ending. In that start and middle part there was really more in it than what has come out now. But despite this, it's a book well worth reading.
Verhaal
Doc is een weesjongen die gedwongen wordt om in de mijnen te werken. Op zijn twaalfde verjaardag krijgt hij van een oude tovenaar een boek dat zijn hele wereld overhoop gooit. Het boek verteld over mysterieuze dieren en planten in een andere wereld. Aangetrokken door deze nieuwigheden zoekt Doc verder tot hij zaken ontdekt die alles wat hij dacht te weten op losse schroeven plaatst. Hij moet de manieren van de tovenaars leren voor het te laat is. Maar is hij hier wel tegen opgewassen.
Denken aan andere boeken
Sommige passages lijken hun mosterd gehaald te hebben in andere boeken. Zoals uit Schätzing zijn boek De Zwerm en uit Harry Potter. Bepaalde gebeurtenissen zullen bij de mensen die deze boeken gelezen hebben wel een belletje doen rinkelen. Maar het werkt in dit verhaal.
Moeilijke start
In het begin is het wel wat moeilijk om in het verhaal te komen. Soms komt het verhaal wat verwarrend over maar naarmate de spanning toeneemt betert dit wel. Als lezer groei je mee met het verhaal dat betert naarmate het vordert .
Personages
Er is een grote verscheidenheid aan personages die de revue passeren. Het hoofdpersonage Doc lijkt het meeste uitgewerkt, maar Flytrap heeft ook een redelijk goeie uitwerking genoten.
Wereldopbouw
Rusty slaagt erin een wereld te creëren die zeer goed bij zijn verhaal past. Zoals vermeld een wereld die wat aan Harry Potter doet denken maar dit kan in dit geval enkel maar een compliment zijn in de richting van de auteur.
Slot
Het slot is het beste deel van het verhaal. Bomvol spanning en plottwisten. Je wordt van de ene verbazing in de andere verwarring gesleurd.
Conclusie
Een verwarrende start, goed middelstuk en magnifiek einde. In die start en middelste deel zat echt meer in dan dat er nu uitgekomen is. Maar ondanks dit, is het een boek dat zeker de moeite van het lezen waard is.
Engels
Lou Rusty writes Ya and children's books. Rusty is writing a series of books about Doc. Doc W and the cursed undersa is the first part of this.
Story
Doc is an orphan boy who is forced to work in the mines. On his twelfth birthday, an old witch docter gives him a book that turns his whole world upside down. The book tells about mysterious animals and plants in another world. Drawn by these novelties, Doc searches on until he discovers things that throw everything he thought he knew into question. He must learn the ways of the witch docters before it is too late. But is he up to it?
Thinking of other books
Some passages seem to have got their mustard in other books. Such as from Schätzing's book The Swarm and from Harry Potter. Certain events will ring a bell with the people who have read these books. But it works in this story.
Difficult start
It is a bit difficult to get into the story at first. Sometimes the story is a bit confusing, but as the tension increases, this improves. As a reader you grow with the story that improves as it progresses .
characters
There is a wide variety of characters to be featured. The main character Doc seems to be the most developed, but Flytrap has also enjoyed a fairly good development. The others are less worked out but the reader doesn't mind.
world building
Rusty manages to create a world that fits his story very well. As mentioned a world that reminds a bit of Harry Potter but in this case this can only be a compliment to the author.
The end
The ending is the best part of the story. Full of suspense and plot twists. You are dragged from one surprise to another confusion.
Conclusion.
A confusing start, good middle and magnificent ending. In that start and middle part there was really more in it than what has come out now. But despite this, it's a book well worth reading.
January 13, 2022
3.5 rounded up. This charming little YA fantasy found me recently just at the right time. I've read some disturbing horror recently and in order to maintain a decent level of mental health and restore my faith in humanity I will take brief trips into fantasy territory. A good bit of this story seemed to fit better under a middle grade read, which can be even better for restorative purposes. Either way it was absolutely lovely. The characters were adorably loveable, especially Flytrap. His humor was so endearing. There were magical creatures that talked. Witch doctors that were tasked with protecting the plants and animals in their realm. All set in a gorgeous land that was basically a utopia. This utopia is threatened and it is up to our main character Doc, a sweet and kind 12 year old, and his new friends to save the wondrous place.
The world building was at times slightly confusing to me and I felt like I didn't always grasp past events as solidly as I would have liked. The magic system was based in curses and I also felt like I didn't always grasp its intricacies. However, it was a highly enjoyable read and it definitely left the door open for many more tales to come. As a mom I would absolutely recommend this for middle grade kids and adults who want a quick and sweet tale to reset between tougher reads.
The world building was at times slightly confusing to me and I felt like I didn't always grasp past events as solidly as I would have liked. The magic system was based in curses and I also felt like I didn't always grasp its intricacies. However, it was a highly enjoyable read and it definitely left the door open for many more tales to come. As a mom I would absolutely recommend this for middle grade kids and adults who want a quick and sweet tale to reset between tougher reads.
January 18, 2022
I liked the storyline. I got into the story pretty quickly everytime I would open the book. The buildup on the amount of information was good for me. It made the story less predictable.
The character building was fantastic, I liked how it started off with basic/no information about them, to turning into magical characters.
I would have liked shorter chapters. The signs in the in between chapters could have been a new chapter. That would have read a bit easier for me personally.
The book had a well-prescribed world where I could still have my own imagination on the places Doc was. I love the cover aswell. It is plain but it fits the story so well! I would recommend this to younger readers (mainly because Doc is 12 y/o) and to people who are in a reader slump!
The character building was fantastic, I liked how it started off with basic/no information about them, to turning into magical characters.
I would have liked shorter chapters. The signs in the in between chapters could have been a new chapter. That would have read a bit easier for me personally.
The book had a well-prescribed world where I could still have my own imagination on the places Doc was. I love the cover aswell. It is plain but it fits the story so well! I would recommend this to younger readers (mainly because Doc is 12 y/o) and to people who are in a reader slump!
January 13, 2022
A little book of magic!
I struggled in some areas with this book as it was VERY magical which im not overall used to but as you read on it becomes easier to read! I loved Doc and Flytraps friendship and i also liked Met Tet.
Doc grabs your heart from the get go as hes a mistreated Orphan with noone to look out for him which is why i was glad Flytrap came along.
Overall i enjoyed this books and it was a very fun read taking me back to my younger days wishing i could of went on such an adventure!
I also loved the cover, its beautiful and different.
4 shining⭐'s
I struggled in some areas with this book as it was VERY magical which im not overall used to but as you read on it becomes easier to read! I loved Doc and Flytraps friendship and i also liked Met Tet.
Doc grabs your heart from the get go as hes a mistreated Orphan with noone to look out for him which is why i was glad Flytrap came along.
Overall i enjoyed this books and it was a very fun read taking me back to my younger days wishing i could of went on such an adventure!
I also loved the cover, its beautiful and different.
4 shining⭐'s
January 1, 2022
A charming, brisk and very original tale of a young, orphaned boy exploring a magical world that draws stark parallels with many environmental issues we’re facing today. More than once I was reminded of Roald Dahl as Doc encounters a menagerie of strange and wonderful characters beyond the mysterious Asperatus Cloud. There’s lots of wonderful ideas here; Rusty has created a world that begs to be explored.
August 26, 2022
I liked this book and the story was so mesmerizing. There are some adventures and interesting creatures. It's really good for middle grades, children, or young adults. If you like some magic, adventures, and fantasy.
I wanted to say to the author of this book that it was great to work doing this book and Thank you so much for giving me this book for me:)
I wanted to say to the author of this book that it was great to work doing this book and Thank you so much for giving me this book for me:)
January 25, 2022
Doc W and the Cursed Undersa is well-written, and reads easily. While Doc is the main character, it is Flytrap who truly captures the readers’ hearts. He is as endearing as the book’s artwork is beautiful. His friendship with Doc is the red thread through the story. Doc’s backstory is tragically un-discussed, but perhaps the author plans on revealing details in the next book.
The magic system and world Doc comes to live in are well thought out by the author. The book uses a unique mixture of Voodoo, herbology, runes and machinery. Not to mention the many spirits, which appear in the book. In my mind, they come across as Polynesian-inspired, which is a cool aesthetic to mix with the book’s steampunk elements.
All in all, once you get into the story, this book is a very enjoyable read.
The magic system and world Doc comes to live in are well thought out by the author. The book uses a unique mixture of Voodoo, herbology, runes and machinery. Not to mention the many spirits, which appear in the book. In my mind, they come across as Polynesian-inspired, which is a cool aesthetic to mix with the book’s steampunk elements.
All in all, once you get into the story, this book is a very enjoyable read.
January 14, 2022
Firstly, I want to thank the author for providing me with an e-copy of the book. The entire review is spoiler-free.
I always love to come back to teen or YA fantasy after reading high fantasy or romance books just because it's so refreshing. It's like I am 3 years back reading Artemis Fowl and Percy Jackson.
Doc is an orphan kid who becomes friends with this witch doctor after he helps him pick up some supplies that fell. Doc receives a book from the Witch Doctor, who introduces him to the magical world of Asperatus Cloud. From here on, Doc begins his journey to this magical world where he discovers more about himself, his parents, and his origins.
Something I loved about this book particularly was the world-building and the character-building.
I definitely recommend this book to Teens.
Check out my full review here - https://bookistic17.blogspot.com/2022...
I always love to come back to teen or YA fantasy after reading high fantasy or romance books just because it's so refreshing. It's like I am 3 years back reading Artemis Fowl and Percy Jackson.
Doc is an orphan kid who becomes friends with this witch doctor after he helps him pick up some supplies that fell. Doc receives a book from the Witch Doctor, who introduces him to the magical world of Asperatus Cloud. From here on, Doc begins his journey to this magical world where he discovers more about himself, his parents, and his origins.
Something I loved about this book particularly was the world-building and the character-building.
I definitely recommend this book to Teens.
Check out my full review here - https://bookistic17.blogspot.com/2022...
March 1, 2022
Epically good
Doc, a young boy, has grown up working like a slave in a mine with daily beatings and feeling like his life will never be different.
That all changes on his twelfth birthday, starting with one act of kindness.
Doc's character develops well, his confidence grows and he shows how amazing he is.
It's so good traveling alongside him, so as sad as I was for his journey to come to and end, I'm thrilled that there is more to come.
Doc, a young boy, has grown up working like a slave in a mine with daily beatings and feeling like his life will never be different.
That all changes on his twelfth birthday, starting with one act of kindness.
Doc's character develops well, his confidence grows and he shows how amazing he is.
It's so good traveling alongside him, so as sad as I was for his journey to come to and end, I'm thrilled that there is more to come.
Read
February 7, 2022Just started but like what I’m seeing
December 9, 2021
Absolutely loved this book, could not stop turning the pages!! :) My heart was beating from start to the finish.
An epic adventure fantasy that incorporates magic and nature in a new and exciting way. The book starts with Doc the main character who meets a Witch Doctor which tells Doc a story about a hidden world that has been kept secret. Next thing Doc is swept away, taken on an incredible journey where they must cross the Asperatus Cloud into this secret world.
Inside Doc faces a completely new universe to explore with its own system of rules, unique languages, different nations, epic landforms, exotic creatures (My favorite was the Orbi Bear :) So cute) and so many other cool things I have never read before in any other fantasy novels.
Plagued by his feelings that something is not quite right, Doc begins to explore places unknown and discovers the truth of what is terrorizing this new world.
A completely immersive experience on all levels, vivid imagery, new and exciting storytelling, deep emotional experiences and incredible characters.
I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK TO COME OUT!! :)
An epic adventure fantasy that incorporates magic and nature in a new and exciting way. The book starts with Doc the main character who meets a Witch Doctor which tells Doc a story about a hidden world that has been kept secret. Next thing Doc is swept away, taken on an incredible journey where they must cross the Asperatus Cloud into this secret world.
Inside Doc faces a completely new universe to explore with its own system of rules, unique languages, different nations, epic landforms, exotic creatures (My favorite was the Orbi Bear :) So cute) and so many other cool things I have never read before in any other fantasy novels.
Plagued by his feelings that something is not quite right, Doc begins to explore places unknown and discovers the truth of what is terrorizing this new world.
A completely immersive experience on all levels, vivid imagery, new and exciting storytelling, deep emotional experiences and incredible characters.
I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK TO COME OUT!! :)
February 7, 2022
A lovely fantasy story that had me hooked from the beginning. It is an exciting story and very creative. I can't wait for a sequel!
January 8, 2022
Doc, a young orphan boy has been enslaved to work in the mines. Doc loves the days that he gets to go into town to buy all the ingredients for his favorite meal. On this one particular day, Doc meets this old man, a Witch Doctor in town who needed his help after an accident.
Doc helps the Witch Doctor pick up his supplies from the ground that spilled out of his bags and then Doc helps the Witch Doctor home. The Witch Doctor gives Doc a book for his birthday and tells him a story about another world, Asperatus Cloud.
Doc is a very inquisitive little boy and has so many questions for the Witch Doctor about the book and this new world he has introduced him to. Doc just has to know if this world is real. If it is then he just has to see it for himself.
Doc and the Witch Doctor take a journey to this new world. Their trip there was so magical. The descriptions were so vivid I could see each and every scene playing out in my head as if I was right there beside Doc witnessing everything he was experiencing.
Doc meets some very interesting people and cute and strange little creatures on his journey. Doc also learns some very interesting facts about his own self on this journey. Things that he is not sure that he can live up to or if it is even real.
Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa is a very interesting and enchanting story that will pull you into its world from the first page and take you on the journey of a lifetime. You get to meet some very interesting and unique characters not to mention a new world.
I would recommend Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa to all fans of magic and fantasy! Grab your copy of Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa today for an adventure of a lifetime!
Doc helps the Witch Doctor pick up his supplies from the ground that spilled out of his bags and then Doc helps the Witch Doctor home. The Witch Doctor gives Doc a book for his birthday and tells him a story about another world, Asperatus Cloud.
Doc is a very inquisitive little boy and has so many questions for the Witch Doctor about the book and this new world he has introduced him to. Doc just has to know if this world is real. If it is then he just has to see it for himself.
Doc and the Witch Doctor take a journey to this new world. Their trip there was so magical. The descriptions were so vivid I could see each and every scene playing out in my head as if I was right there beside Doc witnessing everything he was experiencing.
Doc meets some very interesting people and cute and strange little creatures on his journey. Doc also learns some very interesting facts about his own self on this journey. Things that he is not sure that he can live up to or if it is even real.
Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa is a very interesting and enchanting story that will pull you into its world from the first page and take you on the journey of a lifetime. You get to meet some very interesting and unique characters not to mention a new world.
I would recommend Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa to all fans of magic and fantasy! Grab your copy of Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa today for an adventure of a lifetime!
September 21, 2022
JK Rowling called and she wants royalties for this sh1t show. Harry (I mean Doc) is an orphan living with the Dursleys (I mean an abusive uncle). He discovers he is a wizard (I mean the Last Baron) and goes on a journey to Hogwarts (I mean some magical island beyond some cloud, I’m not sure, the imagery is confused). He meets Ron and Hermione (I mean Flytrap and whatshername, it’s all very forgettable), he solves riddles, learns some spells that all come in useful at crunch time. I mean, if it’s written for children it might also be written by one! Dumbledore (I mean the Baron Headmaster) turns up and… need I go on?? Utter waste of time. The person responsible needs to learn to think for themselves, stop ripping off other people’s work - or find a series to plagiarise that isn’t world famous already - or just stick to their day job. I have an awful feeling this is going to be a series… god help us all. Just to top it all off, spelling and syntax isn’t high on the list for this “author”. Real children might read this. It’s practically abuse.
December 19, 2022
A charming story for middle schoolers.
Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa is the story of a young boy named Doc and his discovery and exploration of a magical world. Doc is treated terribly by his guardian, Marsh, but Doc stumbles on the Unknown World on his twelfth birthday, and very soon is wrapped up in it. Doc is very likable, and he makes an excellent character to follow as he adventures through the magical Unknown World.
Doc meets all kinds of characters in his travels, and their description as well as their amusing surreality reminds one of Doctor Seuss stories. The way the story is told, is also reminiscent of Seuss's works, and I imagine, Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa, will be a great hit with Seuss fans of all ages.
I listened to the audio book and the narrator was excellent. It was easy to imagine her telling the story to a group of children.
Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa is the story of a young boy named Doc and his discovery and exploration of a magical world. Doc is treated terribly by his guardian, Marsh, but Doc stumbles on the Unknown World on his twelfth birthday, and very soon is wrapped up in it. Doc is very likable, and he makes an excellent character to follow as he adventures through the magical Unknown World.
Doc meets all kinds of characters in his travels, and their description as well as their amusing surreality reminds one of Doctor Seuss stories. The way the story is told, is also reminiscent of Seuss's works, and I imagine, Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa, will be a great hit with Seuss fans of all ages.
I listened to the audio book and the narrator was excellent. It was easy to imagine her telling the story to a group of children.
December 28, 2021
From the first page I dove into the story . It took me into the world of mystery. The story is dynamic and unpredictable. This book is full of magical creatures that become alive on the pages of the book.
I definitely think there is potation for series of this book. I recommend this book. I found a lot of fun in reading it!
By the way, don’t forget the message of author in end of the book: “So that their valiant acts may be remembered, Doc and Flytrap have been inscribed in the year that all may know from now until eternity, As the hearts that proved most important, to keep the beating hearts of all.”
I definitely think there is potation for series of this book. I recommend this book. I found a lot of fun in reading it!
By the way, don’t forget the message of author in end of the book: “So that their valiant acts may be remembered, Doc and Flytrap have been inscribed in the year that all may know from now until eternity, As the hearts that proved most important, to keep the beating hearts of all.”
December 10, 2021
I bought this book to read with my nephew in the hope that it would encourage him to read more on his own. We both enjoyed it a lot and his parents have told me that he's now reading on his own in the evenings. Even now when thinking about the story I can see it in my imagination with vivid detail. This is a story worth remembering.
December 8, 2021
Quite a journey with this book! A blend of adventure and questioning leads the reader with much to think about. Highly recommended with the author’s engaging storytelling style and descriptive pen, you will definitely come back for more.
December 23, 2021
This book is a wonderful amalgamation of fantasy and adventure penned with finesse which makes for sublime reading. Highly recommended!!
December 29, 2021
A wonderful tale full of magical realism. The book follows
Doc, a young boy as he encounters fantastical creatures, mad
professors and strange contraptions in a surreal fantasy land,
while also learning about his own newfound powers. I was
hooked from the start and kept burning through it as it
reminded me of books and films I read when I was younger.
It would be a great book to give to, or read to children as it
has a lot of the wonder that some modern kids’ books lack.
Doc, a young boy as he encounters fantastical creatures, mad
professors and strange contraptions in a surreal fantasy land,
while also learning about his own newfound powers. I was
hooked from the start and kept burning through it as it
reminded me of books and films I read when I was younger.
It would be a great book to give to, or read to children as it
has a lot of the wonder that some modern kids’ books lack.
January 23, 2022
A charming little book about magic and nature. I found personally some of the writing to be a bit hard to follow, so sometimes I wasn’t sure how the characters got from one situation to another but I did really like the underlying elements where the actions of humans caused nature to be affected in a negative way.
I think it is a book that children could enjoy for sure if they want a quick magical read with a good lesson!
A thank you to the author for the free e book to review!
I think it is a book that children could enjoy for sure if they want a quick magical read with a good lesson!
A thank you to the author for the free e book to review!
August 27, 2025
The book was pretty well-written and easy to follow. The characters were not very well-developed but likable and there was a lot of emphasis placed on world building and setting. There was plenty of non-stop action throughout, enough to keep the reader's interest. There were also a few good plot twists.
This book is an enjoyable read for anyone who needs a good dose of fantasy escapism on a weekend afternoon at the library or a bookstore.
This book is an enjoyable read for anyone who needs a good dose of fantasy escapism on a weekend afternoon at the library or a bookstore.
September 16, 2023
disclaimer: given a free copy for an honest review
Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa has a storybook, sing-songy narrative voice. The main character Doc has a Cinderella upbringing with his neglectful guardian Marsh but a love of nature keeps the young boy going. His kindness leads to a chance encounter with a mysterious old man.
This is another chosen one story with a legend that speaks of the Witch Doctor/The Last Baron to save them all. Strictly plot-driven as the most important personality trait anyone has is Doc’s inquisitiveness. I can’t speak to any of the Voodoo representation. There is a character King Legbah here, who I’m not sure is supposed to be Papa Legba or a heavily-inspired character. Much later in the story, Doc meets two other kids and they become a bit of a trio. One of the friends gets way more spotlight than the other.
Note: the word “gypsy” is used constantly in the beginning, but it comes from the mouth of an obviously horrid, hateful character. A few curse words are present.
In general, pretty interesting but many references were probably lost to me. Terror, peril, and action sequences are taken seriously, but it’s still a whimsical adventure. Extinct flora and fauna are constantly referenced as they still exist in the other worlds. These educational bits are woven in smoothly. The world-building felt like a kaleidoscope. There are so many different creatures in the other worlds, a mixture of real and fictional.
Doc W. and the Cursed Undersa has a storybook, sing-songy narrative voice. The main character Doc has a Cinderella upbringing with his neglectful guardian Marsh but a love of nature keeps the young boy going. His kindness leads to a chance encounter with a mysterious old man.
This is another chosen one story with a legend that speaks of the Witch Doctor/The Last Baron to save them all. Strictly plot-driven as the most important personality trait anyone has is Doc’s inquisitiveness. I can’t speak to any of the Voodoo representation. There is a character King Legbah here, who I’m not sure is supposed to be Papa Legba or a heavily-inspired character. Much later in the story, Doc meets two other kids and they become a bit of a trio. One of the friends gets way more spotlight than the other.
Note: the word “gypsy” is used constantly in the beginning, but it comes from the mouth of an obviously horrid, hateful character. A few curse words are present.
In general, pretty interesting but many references were probably lost to me. Terror, peril, and action sequences are taken seriously, but it’s still a whimsical adventure. Extinct flora and fauna are constantly referenced as they still exist in the other worlds. These educational bits are woven in smoothly. The world-building felt like a kaleidoscope. There are so many different creatures in the other worlds, a mixture of real and fictional.
March 7, 2025
This reads like someone jotting down his dream, or daydream. The style is unusual and not always the easiest to read, and we don't get a female character until a third of the book has elapsed. A boy who is being made to work in a mine befriends an elderly man, who is a near neighbour, but who is called by some a witch. In this way he learns a little about his background and some strange events occurring in the wider world. He goes off on an adventure, and the story is populated by quarrelsome characters, infantile jeers, walking gods and some animals and plants thought to be otherwise extinct.
I could not sustain interest in the characters or plot. The constant stream of Capital Letter Words seems slanted at a very young readership, and the adventure is as confusing as Alice in Wonderland. On the good side, young readers will learn the names of some extinct creatures, and that garbage in the water not only looks bad, it can be toxic. I also give good marks for including the character of Pele, a god of volcanoes and tsunamis.
I'm sure this author has great stories to tell. Also it's good for kids to be aware that somewhere in our world, other children are being forced to work in basic mines. The age group seems suited to ten to twelve year olds, provided they read fantasy.
I read an e-ARC in my own time. This is an unbiased review.
I could not sustain interest in the characters or plot. The constant stream of Capital Letter Words seems slanted at a very young readership, and the adventure is as confusing as Alice in Wonderland. On the good side, young readers will learn the names of some extinct creatures, and that garbage in the water not only looks bad, it can be toxic. I also give good marks for including the character of Pele, a god of volcanoes and tsunamis.
I'm sure this author has great stories to tell. Also it's good for kids to be aware that somewhere in our world, other children are being forced to work in basic mines. The age group seems suited to ten to twelve year olds, provided they read fantasy.
I read an e-ARC in my own time. This is an unbiased review.
January 3, 2022
I received an ARC copy of the novel to review. This is an honest appraisal of Lou Rusty’s book. I love fantasy and Lou has an amazing imagination for unknown worlds and the creatures that inhabit them. His epic story begins with a sad boy whose childhood is shrouded in loneliness and drudgery, and a mystery. But Doc W doesn’t allow those hardships to diminish his natural curiosity, bravery, and commitment to save troubled worlds. If you love a story with wizards, magic, and desperate humans, Lou will not disappoint you. Doc W is the hero of the tale and he not only has a dynamic personality, he cherishes friendships while battling evil. Readers of all ages can enjoy the tale and his use of descriptive language. He provides a detailed landscape of beauty and adventure which had me reading slowly; I needed to capture all its wonders in my mind’s eye. Lastly, there is am important message intertwined the pages that had me questioning humanity’s future. I hope there’s more books.
January 3, 2022
An interesting take on the usual fantasy aspects that is filled with entertaining, new characters in a diverse setting. The author’s universe is a magical one divided between normal people, witch doctors, magical creatures of all kinds, and unstable spirits, gods in tune to the elements of their surroundings. Much of the people persecute and alienate the practitioners of magic, witch doctors conflict amongst themselves to whether to reunite the worlds of creatures and men or to keep the division between them. A young, mistreated, and neglected mining boy is given a book that helps jump start the amazing journey. An ancient force, long thought to be legend, threatens the stability between the worlds.
January 9, 2022
Rusty created a fantasy universe that shows a parallel reminiscense of our world's main problems. What I liked the most of the book was the original world created by the author, with its own creatures, rules and magic; it somehow reminded me of The Legend of Zelda.
The story is very well written and it is easy to follow, with some parts even lyrical. The characters are well developed, and you can specially empathize with Doc.
Highly recommended.
The story is very well written and it is easy to follow, with some parts even lyrical. The characters are well developed, and you can specially empathize with Doc.
Highly recommended.
January 9, 2022
The central character is 12 years old and is “the chosen one” which immediately signals that this story is aimed at younger readers. The author has chosen to tell the story rather than show it. It is an imaginative tale with a good pacing in a well-described world. I can imagine it working well with the target audience
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