My review of Blake Northcott's new novel: Relapse (Volume Two of the Vs. Reality series)

Blake Northcott Delivers Again

The long awaited sequel to Vs. Reality is here! I was given the opportunity to help with a slightly advanced copy of the book Relapse (Vs. Reality Volume Two).* Unfortunately, I then had to take a nearly month-long hiatus from life and the internet due to military obligations. I am back and wanted to take a moment to post a review of the book. I imagine there won’t be any surprises here. 

If you have been paying attention at all to Blake’s career thus far, you know she has consistently received glowing reviews for her work. There is a reason for that and it is called talent. She is a great story teller, and has come up with a great story to tell in the Vs. Reality series.

The story continues where it left off and there are no lulls from start to finish. The narrative isn’t always moved forward with action, but it doesn’t ever get boring or slow. Blake’s characters are not just “good guys” and “bad guys” they are unique and realistic. They think, feel, reason, and evolve through life just like everyone.        

I love the wonderful present tense writing! You are dragged into the action and given the sense that you are witnessing these events first hand, right now. It can’t be an easy thing to pull off, especially when you are trying to weave in back-story as well. Blake manages to do it and she does it well. It seems to come quite easily to her, but I have to believe it takes a tremendous amount of work to keep everything flowing smoothly.

Buy these great books

Her dialog is always clever and realistic and her descriptions are clear, even when the situation is complicated. New characters bring new shape and mystery to the story and honestly, you will be hooked. Start with the first volume of course, but whatever you do; don’t pass up this author or these books. You will not be disappointed.

Relapse is fast-paced, and intriguing. From the initial sequence, and through all the twists and turns to the cliff-hanger at the end, it is really hard to put down. So don’t. Just enjoy the ride.

* In the spirit of full disclosure, I didn’t pay for my initial copy of this book. However, I did purchase it once it was officially released so I could read the final version. While you will find my name in the acknowledgements, I assure you, this review would be the same with or without my minor contribution to this brilliant novel.