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Rise of the Discordant #1
Past Life Strife
Blackbird may seem like any other small Midwestern town, but the bland and unremarkable façade hides a dark and deadly secret. The Discordant, creatures from the realm of Chaos, lurk in the shadows, preying upon the souls of Blackbird’s unsuspecting residents.
As an Observer, Seth is tasked with identifying the lost before they fall victim to the Discordant. An unenviable job under normal circumstances, but the situation takes a turn for the worse when Blackbird’s Guardian calls it quits and no new Guardian is available to take her place. Instead, Seth now finds himself partnered with Desmond, a powerful and intimidating Warrior, who worries that Seth will give in to the lure of Chaos. Desmond’s fears are all but validated when a magical disturbance draws even more Discordant to the area. Among them is Amara, a dangerous and nearly invincible femme fatale from Seth’s past.
To stop her, Seth must sacrifice his own soul or put all of his faith in a psychic’s vague prediction. But without a Guardian, both the Observer and Warrior are at a disadvantage and time is running out.
As an Observer, Seth is tasked with identifying the lost before they fall victim to the Discordant. An unenviable job under normal circumstances, but the situation takes a turn for the worse when Blackbird’s Guardian calls it quits and no new Guardian is available to take her place. Instead, Seth now finds himself partnered with Desmond, a powerful and intimidating Warrior, who worries that Seth will give in to the lure of Chaos. Desmond’s fears are all but validated when a magical disturbance draws even more Discordant to the area. Among them is Amara, a dangerous and nearly invincible femme fatale from Seth’s past.
To stop her, Seth must sacrifice his own soul or put all of his faith in a psychic’s vague prediction. But without a Guardian, both the Observer and Warrior are at a disadvantage and time is running out.
161 pages, Paperback
First published November 19, 2014
52 people are currently reading
715 people want to read
About the author
Christina McMullen
23 books286 followersChristina McMullen is a sci-fi and urban fantasy author who dreams of jetpacks and electric sheep.
Christina enjoys travel, vegan cooking, modern and classic art, and championing the progressive nature of ebooks and independent authors. She is obsessed with robots and the internet, and revels in the fact that she was fortunate enough to have been born in an era where she was able to witness the 'future' finally come into being. And for the record, the year 2000 will forever be the future no matter how far it falls into the past. Call it a perk of growing up at the end of a millennium.
In 2014, she took a vow to read and review only independently published authors. It is unlikely that this will ever change as she has since dedicated the time when she is not writing to further push independent publishing into the mainstream.
Christina enjoys travel, vegan cooking, modern and classic art, and championing the progressive nature of ebooks and independent authors. She is obsessed with robots and the internet, and revels in the fact that she was fortunate enough to have been born in an era where she was able to witness the 'future' finally come into being. And for the record, the year 2000 will forever be the future no matter how far it falls into the past. Call it a perk of growing up at the end of a millennium.
In 2014, she took a vow to read and review only independently published authors. It is unlikely that this will ever change as she has since dedicated the time when she is not writing to further push independent publishing into the mainstream.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 21, 2022
Seth has been an Observer for less than two hundred years (still wet behind the ears really) and the events about to engulf him in the Midwestern town of Blackbird may be more than an inexperienced supernatural can handle. First Abbey, his Guardian, suddenly quits; then Amara, the love of his life (or rather, of his former life as a mortal, hence the book's title) shows up again after an absence of a century and a half - and she's very bad news, believe me. Meanwhile, and most worryingly of all, there has been a resurgence in Discordant activity in the area...
The Discordant - vampires, demons, sprites, harpies, witches and far worse - are the representatives of Chaos and what attracts them are 'lost' souls, ordinary humans sunk in despondency. There's been a lot of that, too, in Blackbird in recent decades: once prosperous, by the turn of the millennium it was already in full decline and the Discordant hordes have been homing in on the prevailing gloom in ever-increasing numbers. Holding them at bay - just - are the forces of Order. Order's Observers, Guardians and Warriors are supernaturals too, but humans lifted out of the Cycle of ordinary mortal experience, the endless round of birth, life, death and rebirth. This is a worldwide, perhaps universal, battle - not a struggle between good and evil though, but between Order and Chaos, harmony and discord.
It's a good read too - the clear-as-day prose moves along smartly, and with a nice turn of phrase here and there: "...he left me just enough bippity to keep the humans from knowin' my true form, but no boppity boo for anythin' else..." That was Bogie by the way, one of the more likeable demons you're likely to meet reading urban fantasy; and here he is again a few pages later: "...'Shut up!' Louise snapped, tilting her head to the side, which made her look a lot like a dog who just heard his favorite squeaky toy..." All the characters are similarly well-drawn and one thing I particularly liked is that each chapter is written, first-person, from the viewpoint of one of three of them (Seth, Des or, yes, Bogie) so you get a slight overlap and glimpse some of the action through two different pairs of eyes - nicely done.
Past Life Strife is the first of a series and, on this evidence, I'd say there's more than enough boppity boo left to make the rest as entertaining (you definitely get the feeling that the battle for Blackbird has only just begun).
The Discordant - vampires, demons, sprites, harpies, witches and far worse - are the representatives of Chaos and what attracts them are 'lost' souls, ordinary humans sunk in despondency. There's been a lot of that, too, in Blackbird in recent decades: once prosperous, by the turn of the millennium it was already in full decline and the Discordant hordes have been homing in on the prevailing gloom in ever-increasing numbers. Holding them at bay - just - are the forces of Order. Order's Observers, Guardians and Warriors are supernaturals too, but humans lifted out of the Cycle of ordinary mortal experience, the endless round of birth, life, death and rebirth. This is a worldwide, perhaps universal, battle - not a struggle between good and evil though, but between Order and Chaos, harmony and discord.
It's a good read too - the clear-as-day prose moves along smartly, and with a nice turn of phrase here and there: "...he left me just enough bippity to keep the humans from knowin' my true form, but no boppity boo for anythin' else..." That was Bogie by the way, one of the more likeable demons you're likely to meet reading urban fantasy; and here he is again a few pages later: "...'Shut up!' Louise snapped, tilting her head to the side, which made her look a lot like a dog who just heard his favorite squeaky toy..." All the characters are similarly well-drawn and one thing I particularly liked is that each chapter is written, first-person, from the viewpoint of one of three of them (Seth, Des or, yes, Bogie) so you get a slight overlap and glimpse some of the action through two different pairs of eyes - nicely done.
Past Life Strife is the first of a series and, on this evidence, I'd say there's more than enough boppity boo left to make the rest as entertaining (you definitely get the feeling that the battle for Blackbird has only just begun).
October 21, 2015
This is one of those books that I had no trouble diving into -- and I enjoyed every moment - every awkward moment. The characters are well written, providing a group of individuals that I would love to sit down and have a few drinks with, while the plot is one that I've never stumbled across before. I thoroughly enjoyed it and am looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 15, 2016
A great beginning to a series I have already purchased the remainder of. I'm all in, as they say. I can't wait to see the characters McMullen has introduced continue to grow and am anxious to see what happens as new ones come into play. Believe the hype - Bogie is a unique and memorable character that I imagine was as much fun to write as he is to read.
Past Life Strife is fun, fast, and unexpected, unless you've read some of McMullen's other works, and you know to expect the unexpected. Still, the fast and the fun will keep you so distracted you'll probably be blindsided by the unexpected.
Past Life Strife is fun, fast, and unexpected, unless you've read some of McMullen's other works, and you know to expect the unexpected. Still, the fast and the fun will keep you so distracted you'll probably be blindsided by the unexpected.
December 17, 2018
(Mild spoilers)
Of all the tales I've read by Christina McMullen thus far, this is most definitely my favorite! This hit all the right notes for me. The prose draws you right in. A unique take on religions (the 'Creator' can take the form of any deity it pleases, including a couple of amusing pop-culture references), likable characters, and a ton of mythological creatures make for a great ride! I devoured it in two sittings, and it would've been one if it hadn't been for work.
If you're reading this, you've probably read the synopsis, so in short the city of Blackbird is under siege by the forces of the (chaotic) Discordant, and it's up to the Order (and their allies) to keep things in line. The memorable characters include our protagonist Seth, a reincarnated martyr; Des, a warrior of Order (who, rightly or wrongly I pictured as Peter Mensah) who is connected to him by mysterious means; a trio of witches (color-coded by hair for easy recognition! I liked Betty best of the three for no reason I can adequately explain); and an affable demon called Bogie (after Humphrey Bogart, though his name may induce chuckles from British types.) They have to learn to work together, and while most of them come across generally good-natured, they're capable of acting straight-up cold blooded, which adds an intriguing dimension to their personalities.
And then there are the creatures! Sirens and pixies and werewolves (oh my!) The angel, teased throughout the book, fired up my imagination most when it finally arrived. Without spoiling anything, it was the most dramatic, coolest creature to appear.
All in all, this is a great urban fantasy that I very much enjoyed. It's practically begging to be adapted into a TV series. Best of all, it's first in a series! Two thumbs up.
Of all the tales I've read by Christina McMullen thus far, this is most definitely my favorite! This hit all the right notes for me. The prose draws you right in. A unique take on religions (the 'Creator' can take the form of any deity it pleases, including a couple of amusing pop-culture references), likable characters, and a ton of mythological creatures make for a great ride! I devoured it in two sittings, and it would've been one if it hadn't been for work.
If you're reading this, you've probably read the synopsis, so in short the city of Blackbird is under siege by the forces of the (chaotic) Discordant, and it's up to the Order (and their allies) to keep things in line. The memorable characters include our protagonist Seth, a reincarnated martyr; Des, a warrior of Order (who, rightly or wrongly I pictured as Peter Mensah) who is connected to him by mysterious means; a trio of witches (color-coded by hair for easy recognition! I liked Betty best of the three for no reason I can adequately explain); and an affable demon called Bogie (after Humphrey Bogart, though his name may induce chuckles from British types.) They have to learn to work together, and while most of them come across generally good-natured, they're capable of acting straight-up cold blooded, which adds an intriguing dimension to their personalities.
And then there are the creatures! Sirens and pixies and werewolves (oh my!) The angel, teased throughout the book, fired up my imagination most when it finally arrived. Without spoiling anything, it was the most dramatic, coolest creature to appear.
All in all, this is a great urban fantasy that I very much enjoyed. It's practically begging to be adapted into a TV series. Best of all, it's first in a series! Two thumbs up.
October 30, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved the viewpoints of the three main characters--Seth the Observer, Desmond the Warrior, and Bogie the Demon (with a conscience-ha!). They were well-drawn characters, and I'm looking forward to their growth and antics in the next book. I also thought the whole Creator, Order, and Chaos theory was a fun and intriguing take on how this thing called life works. Lastly, the title is awesome.
May 16, 2017
This book was a lot of fun to read, with a great story and relatable well-developed characters, but the writing was by far my favorite part. Christina McMullen has a real talent for clever, understated humor that gets directly to the point, and her evocative descriptions really sold me on not just what the town of Blackbird looks like, but what it feels like to be there. Looking forward to continuing this series!
December 22, 2015
For starters, the cover of this and the entire series makes me want to read them. I know that's not a good way to start a review, but really, #coverenvy.
The plot itself was intriguing. McMullen has created a world split into good peopleand deatheaters and bad. The former work for The Order, who keep the yang, The Discordant, from destroying humanity. Souls are cycled through when they die (basically reincarnation) with no memory of their previous life. Seth and Desmond are charged with keeping the peace in the sleepy Midwestern town, whereas Bogie is a ne'er do well demon who is flying under the radar. Throw in a succubus hellbent on turning Seth, and you've got a big ol' problem on your hands.
Personally, I really should have enjoyed this book more than I did, and I think that was more because of my own life-turmoil than the quality of the book. The three POVs (Seth, Desmond, Bogie) threw me at first, and I wasn't sure that I liked Bogie all that much, but they all grew on me. I really want to see more of this world that's been created in The Order, and wanted more of that back-office bureaucracy that was hinted at.
There was also a surprising (and yet, not surprising when you think back on the eggs that McMullen left) twist at the end that sets up an interesting relationship between Seth and Desmond.
The plot itself was intriguing. McMullen has created a world split into good people
Personally, I really should have enjoyed this book more than I did, and I think that was more because of my own life-turmoil than the quality of the book. The three POVs (Seth, Desmond, Bogie) threw me at first, and I wasn't sure that I liked Bogie all that much, but they all grew on me. I really want to see more of this world that's been created in The Order, and wanted more of that back-office bureaucracy that was hinted at.
There was also a surprising (and yet, not surprising when you think back on the eggs that McMullen left) twist at the end that sets up an interesting relationship between Seth and Desmond.
November 6, 2016
This review covers all five books in the series. Now that the series is done I had the luxury of reading straight through, start to finish, and I thoroughly enjoyed all five novels.
McMullen makes a lot of difficult-to-write stuff seem easy. This world-building is terrific: an alternate version of our modern society that is rich, vivid, and complicated, yet always clear and straightforward. McMullen knows how much to tell us, when, so we pick up a lot but never in painful bursts of exposition. For me the proof of successful world-building was my level of dissatisfaction when I'd finish reading and find myself back in junky old reality.
The characters are memorable, distinctive, and fun to spend time with - credible as people who just happen to have some very special powers and backgrounds. Different chapters present different points of view - a lot of them! - but I always knew whose head I was in. I liked every character in the series, but need to give special shout-outs to those low-rent thugs, the demons, and the ever-bickering darkside/lightside teens.
An important component of this series is the author's gentle sarcasm, which manages to poke fun without hurting feelings.
Cliches become cliches because they hold truths, and I mean it when I say: I'm looking forward to reading more by this author.
McMullen makes a lot of difficult-to-write stuff seem easy. This world-building is terrific: an alternate version of our modern society that is rich, vivid, and complicated, yet always clear and straightforward. McMullen knows how much to tell us, when, so we pick up a lot but never in painful bursts of exposition. For me the proof of successful world-building was my level of dissatisfaction when I'd finish reading and find myself back in junky old reality.
The characters are memorable, distinctive, and fun to spend time with - credible as people who just happen to have some very special powers and backgrounds. Different chapters present different points of view - a lot of them! - but I always knew whose head I was in. I liked every character in the series, but need to give special shout-outs to those low-rent thugs, the demons, and the ever-bickering darkside/lightside teens.
An important component of this series is the author's gentle sarcasm, which manages to poke fun without hurting feelings.
Cliches become cliches because they hold truths, and I mean it when I say: I'm looking forward to reading more by this author.
February 24, 2015
When you open this book, it has a slight feel of the (now) popular "The world has ended, now what?" feel to it. However, that lasts for all of about the first two paragraphs.
Christina quickly sucks you into a fun tale of things gone wrong. All of her characters have their own unique flavor, which adds to the wonderful heady brew making up the texture of this story, and the setting helps keep things at a low boil throughout.
Speaking of the main characters...
Each of them has their own unique voice, mannerisms, and set of flaws that works with the others to make them all stronger. Each receives a chapter for themselves, and even if there is a little overlap, sometimes the change in viewpoint made me laugh because what one things may not be what the other intended.
Throughout this entire piece, I kept thinking I had an idea where it was going, but the twists, turns, and double backs definitely kept me guessing. The last kink right at the end isn't quite a cliffhanger, but it definitely does a wonderful job setting up for the next book in the series.
Now comes the hardest part... waiting.
Well done!
Christina quickly sucks you into a fun tale of things gone wrong. All of her characters have their own unique flavor, which adds to the wonderful heady brew making up the texture of this story, and the setting helps keep things at a low boil throughout.
Speaking of the main characters...
Each of them has their own unique voice, mannerisms, and set of flaws that works with the others to make them all stronger. Each receives a chapter for themselves, and even if there is a little overlap, sometimes the change in viewpoint made me laugh because what one things may not be what the other intended.
Throughout this entire piece, I kept thinking I had an idea where it was going, but the twists, turns, and double backs definitely kept me guessing. The last kink right at the end isn't quite a cliffhanger, but it definitely does a wonderful job setting up for the next book in the series.
Now comes the hardest part... waiting.
Well done!
September 7, 2016
This is the first book by Christina McMullen that I read. I love it and I really think I will love the sequels even more. This book should accompany you on your graveyard shift, be readily tucked under your pillow when it's night and raining outside so you can quickly grab it and delve into it. The world of The Rise of The Discordant is Sin City without the savage slaughters and explicit sex scenes featuring a protagonist with a hallowed cause.
You will not find this story elsewhere and you will fall in love with her writing style. After reading it, you'll most likely be someone who says "Hey, read Christina McMullen!"
You will not find this story elsewhere and you will fall in love with her writing style. After reading it, you'll most likely be someone who says "Hey, read Christina McMullen!"
November 10, 2015
This book is unique. I enjoyed it. I enjoyed the characters in this book and how it was written. I think the author did very well with the detail with the characters in this book. It was a fun book for me to read. * I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
August 22, 2018
It’s unbelievable that I’ve owned this book for over a year and waited this long to read it! It is the beginning of an amazing series. Our main character, Seth, is an agent of Order, his position as Observer means he is constantly bombarded with the emotions of the people around him. This empath trait gives him the ability to find those in danger of losing their souls and therefore susceptible to the various Discordant that populate the small city of Blackbird. Along with the Guardian, Abbey, they seem to be losing the battle. In fact, Abbey decides she’s had all she can take of the devastation and bleakness surrounding the once-booming city and decides to cycle (death is seldom true death in McMullen’s world, just a reincarnation of sorts through cycling). Abbey’s choice seems to be a catalyst for an infestation of Discordant - vampires, pixies, demons, and even a siren attempt to take up residence. With all these minions of Chaos, how will Seth ever be able to restore balance?
“You got banished for being banished?” The new warrior asks the demon, Bogie. Desmond is a Warrior for Order and had at one time saved Bogie’s life by banishing him back to Chaos, but they didn’t want him either. What’s a lowly demon supposed to do? Every twist is this story is simply brilliant writing. Absolutely fantastic storytelling! And then there’s the Angels – well I’ll just say it’s unique and adds another layer of intrigue. All the characters we meet in this first book have some baggage they need to come to terms with. There is plenty of action, suspense, and mystery. I am relieved that I have the box set of this series on my kindle so I can continue with this amazing story. Highly Recommended!
“You got banished for being banished?” The new warrior asks the demon, Bogie. Desmond is a Warrior for Order and had at one time saved Bogie’s life by banishing him back to Chaos, but they didn’t want him either. What’s a lowly demon supposed to do? Every twist is this story is simply brilliant writing. Absolutely fantastic storytelling! And then there’s the Angels – well I’ll just say it’s unique and adds another layer of intrigue. All the characters we meet in this first book have some baggage they need to come to terms with. There is plenty of action, suspense, and mystery. I am relieved that I have the box set of this series on my kindle so I can continue with this amazing story. Highly Recommended!
March 20, 2016
This is the third book I read from author McMullen and all three couldn't be more different. If you're afraid of reading books from the same author and feel like you're re-reading the same stories, fear no more.
Past life strife is an urban fantasy written mostly in first person POV from three different characters: Seth the Observer, Desmond the Warrior, and Bogie the lesser demon. All three have their distinct voices, but the one I preferred without a doubt was Bogie's. While he's an entirely different kind of character, his speech pattern reminded me of Lafayette (True Blood TV Show) in an endearing manner.
Even if he's a demon, Bogie has a conscience, which makes him more Neutral than Chaos. The same trait that caused him trouble with his clan shows in his actions all through the story. (I hope we'll see more of him in the sequel.)
Seth as an Observer for the Order is a direct witness to the pain and suffering of the humans. His job is to spot the ones who may turn to Chaos. This has made him a sensitive, and vulnerable soul. He's calm, less prompt to judge people. What's not to love?
Desmond, a Warrior, also works for the Order at Seth's side. He's your all round tough guy, with a hint of softness.
Now add witches, vampires, succubus, angels, and what not to the plot and you have a short but delightful read.
Past life strife is an urban fantasy written mostly in first person POV from three different characters: Seth the Observer, Desmond the Warrior, and Bogie the lesser demon. All three have their distinct voices, but the one I preferred without a doubt was Bogie's. While he's an entirely different kind of character, his speech pattern reminded me of Lafayette (True Blood TV Show) in an endearing manner.
Even if he's a demon, Bogie has a conscience, which makes him more Neutral than Chaos. The same trait that caused him trouble with his clan shows in his actions all through the story. (I hope we'll see more of him in the sequel.)
Seth as an Observer for the Order is a direct witness to the pain and suffering of the humans. His job is to spot the ones who may turn to Chaos. This has made him a sensitive, and vulnerable soul. He's calm, less prompt to judge people. What's not to love?
Desmond, a Warrior, also works for the Order at Seth's side. He's your all round tough guy, with a hint of softness.
Now add witches, vampires, succubus, angels, and what not to the plot and you have a short but delightful read.
December 30, 2015
A fun little romp in the town of Blackbird where just about any mythological creature can and probably will make an appearance.
Not so much a tale of good vs. evil like one often finds in this genre, but a tale of agenda vs. agenda, which makes the whole thing refreshing and interesting.
The narrators are three swell guys you'll love go get to know: Desmond the Warrior, Seth the Observer and Bogie -- heh I love Bogie -- the lesser demon.
A fast paced page turner that any fan of fantasy should check out.
Not so much a tale of good vs. evil like one often finds in this genre, but a tale of agenda vs. agenda, which makes the whole thing refreshing and interesting.
The narrators are three swell guys you'll love go get to know: Desmond the Warrior, Seth the Observer and Bogie -- heh I love Bogie -- the lesser demon.
A fast paced page turner that any fan of fantasy should check out.
May 18, 2016
* Received this book in exchange for my review *
A imaginative story with a battle for balance between good and evil, spirit and soul.
A imaginative story with a battle for balance between good and evil, spirit and soul.
November 9, 2016
I originally bought this book because I enjoy following Christina on Twitter.
As to the book itself, my simple review is that I read book 1 and, based on that, I look forward to reading book 2.
As to the book itself, my simple review is that I read book 1 and, based on that, I look forward to reading book 2.
September 23, 2017
Chaotic
This novel builds a great world that could pass for urban fantasy based around the opposing forces of Order and Chaos. The book thrusts the reader into the lives of two agents for Order introducing the concepts for each identity and the driving power they weild together whilst fighting against the myriad of diverse identities of the demons of Chaos. Chaos runs the gamut of demons including vamps, succubae, and sirens to name a few.
This is a fine read and I'm directly on to the next book.
This novel builds a great world that could pass for urban fantasy based around the opposing forces of Order and Chaos. The book thrusts the reader into the lives of two agents for Order introducing the concepts for each identity and the driving power they weild together whilst fighting against the myriad of diverse identities of the demons of Chaos. Chaos runs the gamut of demons including vamps, succubae, and sirens to name a few.
This is a fine read and I'm directly on to the next book.
August 5, 2015
“Past Life Strife” is a superbly written story, quickly engaging, beginning with a backdrop of the tainted world at large, then introduced to the modern day city of “Blackbird.”
Seth has been sent to the Five Penny bar. His role as Observer is to aid those in peril from slipping further into darkness, and combat the forces behind their demise. In Blackbird, magic resonates, drawing an array uniquely gifted aberrant characters, each with their own agenda.
The author does an excellent job conveying the story from several well defined character vantage points. Scenes converging with vivid detail and smooth transition. The anticipation is every flowing with new challenges, as secrets unfold.
The characters have plenty of depth, detail, and personality. Abounding with clever metaphors and whimsy.
And easy book for me to recommend, first in the Discordant series.
Seth has been sent to the Five Penny bar. His role as Observer is to aid those in peril from slipping further into darkness, and combat the forces behind their demise. In Blackbird, magic resonates, drawing an array uniquely gifted aberrant characters, each with their own agenda.
The author does an excellent job conveying the story from several well defined character vantage points. Scenes converging with vivid detail and smooth transition. The anticipation is every flowing with new challenges, as secrets unfold.
The characters have plenty of depth, detail, and personality. Abounding with clever metaphors and whimsy.
And easy book for me to recommend, first in the Discordant series.
January 8, 2016
A great read with an interesting take on angels, demons, and everything in between! Though a bit slow in places, I was drawn into this story and it's characters immediately. A wonderful start to a series.
October 12, 2023
Imagine a rustbelt town that never recovered from its industrial decline, that is so mired in its own failure it needs its own corps of guardian angels. Well, not really angels, say divine guardians with their own past life issues to deal with. Blackbird seems like any other small Midwestern town, but it has been overrun by the forces of discord…vamps, werewolves, pixies even (yes, pixies can be nasty little brutes). The only thing standing in the way of total chaos is a small group dedicated to maintaining order.
“Past Life Strife” is author Christina McMullen’s first book in her series, Rise of the Discordant. She mixes a heady brew of fantasy with humor and real-world elements. Her story-telling keeps you engaged with both the plot and the characters. Oh, and characters…my favorites include the witches, Louise, Betty, and Donna, as well as Bogie, a minor demon, ostracized by his overlords for fraternizing with the forces of order (he’s a bartender…I’ve always wanted a bartender friend who happens to be a disgraced demon).
This one is a re-read for me. In fact, I’ve read Christina’s entire Discordant series. Each story is self-contained but expands on an overarching theme. The conflict is wrapped at the end of each book and there is a small scene that hints at the plot of the next tale. But what I truly appreciate is that there are no cliff-hangers. If you enjoy a touch of humor, deep character motivations, and well managed plot tension, you’re gonna love “Past Life Strife.”
Find “Past Life Strife” here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PUUJCUY/ or grab the entire five-book series here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EVVH1OQ/
“Past Life Strife” is author Christina McMullen’s first book in her series, Rise of the Discordant. She mixes a heady brew of fantasy with humor and real-world elements. Her story-telling keeps you engaged with both the plot and the characters. Oh, and characters…my favorites include the witches, Louise, Betty, and Donna, as well as Bogie, a minor demon, ostracized by his overlords for fraternizing with the forces of order (he’s a bartender…I’ve always wanted a bartender friend who happens to be a disgraced demon).
This one is a re-read for me. In fact, I’ve read Christina’s entire Discordant series. Each story is self-contained but expands on an overarching theme. The conflict is wrapped at the end of each book and there is a small scene that hints at the plot of the next tale. But what I truly appreciate is that there are no cliff-hangers. If you enjoy a touch of humor, deep character motivations, and well managed plot tension, you’re gonna love “Past Life Strife.”
Find “Past Life Strife” here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PUUJCUY/ or grab the entire five-book series here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EVVH1OQ/
August 6, 2018
Unusual read for me!
I don't believe I've ever read anything close to Past Life Strife. Since I haven't, it took me awhile to understand the roles of the characters. It also took me a few sentences, even a couple of paragraphs, in each chapter to figure out which character's point of view was being portrayed. That was another first for me. Don't get me wrong, it was a distraction, but not that much of a distraction.
Overall, the story was intriguing although there were times when I found it difficult to follow. Some of that may be due to syntax but it may have also been due to certain characters representing things that didn't seem usual to me.
Somewhere along in the read I found myself trying to figure out who I might be like if I were in the story. You might find yourself wondering the same thing if you begin to read Past Life Strife.
I don't believe I've ever read anything close to Past Life Strife. Since I haven't, it took me awhile to understand the roles of the characters. It also took me a few sentences, even a couple of paragraphs, in each chapter to figure out which character's point of view was being portrayed. That was another first for me. Don't get me wrong, it was a distraction, but not that much of a distraction.
Overall, the story was intriguing although there were times when I found it difficult to follow. Some of that may be due to syntax but it may have also been due to certain characters representing things that didn't seem usual to me.
Somewhere along in the read I found myself trying to figure out who I might be like if I were in the story. You might find yourself wondering the same thing if you begin to read Past Life Strife.
October 18, 2019
Took a little bit to get into it - and wasn't sure I was going to make it through chapter 2 there for a bit. (OK - To be fair, I was pretty tired at the time.) - but it picked up and was pretty enjoyable! - although not as humorous as I hoped. Things wrapped up nicely, with a nice set of teasers for book 2. If I didn't have a TON of books on my to-read list, I'd check the further books in the series out - but not right now. Solid 3.5 stars.
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April 19, 2020I could not get past the first few pages of this Fantasy book. It requires a reader with a rebellious and free-wheeling imagination, a mind permissive about reality. I have a feeling it becomes a well-thought-out story which doesn't threaten the ability to suspend disbelief for lovers of Fantasy stories.
August 23, 2019
kind of on the fence.
May 31, 2016
‘Past Life Strife’, by Christina McMullen, is the first book in the ‘Rise of the Discordant’ series. This is quite a beginning; welcome to Blackbird, indeed! It’s a town crawling with mysterious characters, many of them in the ‘highly unsavory’ category. Luckily, they have an Observer, to watch over the more mystical goings-on in town; Seth is a great guy, and he seems able to do a lot to help folks with the aid of his…wait, she’s gone? And what was her name again? And who’s this new guy? Oh, it’s Desmond; he’s awful cool…along with Bogie, a demon that seems pretty attached to the giant Warrior. Hmmm…how is this group ever going to sort out more trouble than they cause? With witches, maybe?
Confused? You won’t be once you start reading this fantastic book. Everyone you meet in the town of Blackbird will have you loving or hating them from the moment they step on the scene, and the town itself will show you that it has a story of its own to share. As things are getting to be too much for Seth, Blackbird takes it to the next level seemingly on its own. More Discordants are flooding the town, and the Five Penny is being overwhelmed by their influence in the absence of a Guardian. The Five Penny; that’s the bar where they work and live together, and watch over the activity of the Discordant. It’ll all make a lot more sense if you just read the book. Let me tell you why.
‘Past Life Strife’ is not just a great book; it’s an intricately woven spell, cast from the very first page to the very last. Christina McMullen uses every word carefully and magically, so that a single sentence can say many things. The story pulls you ahead in about every way that a story can, and might leave you wondering if you missed something that was being said for all the other things going on. There’s no time to back up, though, and that’s okay; it’s so great that you’re likely to read it again. I myself have already scheduled my next trip to Blackbird. No matter what kind of reader you are, you should go there too. There’s bound to be something there for you that you didn’t know you were looking for. You’ll be glad when you find it.
This book isn’t burdened with clunky philosophy or fluffy new age concepts; it isn’t weighted down by anything. If you’re into that sort of thing, though…prepare for a very rewarding Easter Egg hunt! I would be remiss not to mention one of my favorite aspects of the book, how well McMullen handles herself philosophically. It lends a depth and credibility to what would otherwise already be a screamingly fun and thoughtfully told story. It also makes you want to find out what happens next in Blackbird, and what more there is to learn about this mysterious town full of dark terrors and delights. ‘Past Life Strife’ is supernatural story-telling at its best, and anyone with a soul should read this book.
I’ll see you in Blackbird!
Confused? You won’t be once you start reading this fantastic book. Everyone you meet in the town of Blackbird will have you loving or hating them from the moment they step on the scene, and the town itself will show you that it has a story of its own to share. As things are getting to be too much for Seth, Blackbird takes it to the next level seemingly on its own. More Discordants are flooding the town, and the Five Penny is being overwhelmed by their influence in the absence of a Guardian. The Five Penny; that’s the bar where they work and live together, and watch over the activity of the Discordant. It’ll all make a lot more sense if you just read the book. Let me tell you why.
‘Past Life Strife’ is not just a great book; it’s an intricately woven spell, cast from the very first page to the very last. Christina McMullen uses every word carefully and magically, so that a single sentence can say many things. The story pulls you ahead in about every way that a story can, and might leave you wondering if you missed something that was being said for all the other things going on. There’s no time to back up, though, and that’s okay; it’s so great that you’re likely to read it again. I myself have already scheduled my next trip to Blackbird. No matter what kind of reader you are, you should go there too. There’s bound to be something there for you that you didn’t know you were looking for. You’ll be glad when you find it.
This book isn’t burdened with clunky philosophy or fluffy new age concepts; it isn’t weighted down by anything. If you’re into that sort of thing, though…prepare for a very rewarding Easter Egg hunt! I would be remiss not to mention one of my favorite aspects of the book, how well McMullen handles herself philosophically. It lends a depth and credibility to what would otherwise already be a screamingly fun and thoughtfully told story. It also makes you want to find out what happens next in Blackbird, and what more there is to learn about this mysterious town full of dark terrors and delights. ‘Past Life Strife’ is supernatural story-telling at its best, and anyone with a soul should read this book.
I’ll see you in Blackbird!
April 20, 2016
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
This is a clever book. It has an innovative and fresh plot. It is populated with interesting and well written characters. The story moves along at a fast pace. It leaves you wanting to know what is up next in this story. What more can you want in a good fantasy?
This is a clever book. It has an innovative and fresh plot. It is populated with interesting and well written characters. The story moves along at a fast pace. It leaves you wanting to know what is up next in this story. What more can you want in a good fantasy?
March 15, 2016
Must just be me, but the writing seemed rather clinical to me, lacking emotion, for quite a bit of the book. The past relationship between two of the characters was easy to figure out. I will give the second book a try at some point.
April 19, 2016
Soooooooooo much fun. An interesting take on the standard concepts of vampires, demons, witches, and the like. Christina McMullen is a great, quirky voice that everyone needs to read whether they like this genre or not. Can't wait to read book 2-5!!!!
July 23, 2016
A really fun read! A solid beginning to an urban fantasy series with s couple of interesting twists that I'm not going to reveal in order not to spoil the surprise. Quick without feeling rushed or skimpy.
July 24, 2016
Thoroughly enjoyed this and got the box set. Looking forward to reading the rest.
Finished this a while back but didn't add it to my shelves...will be catching up for a while.
Finished this a while back but didn't add it to my shelves...will be catching up for a while.
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