What do you think?
Rate this book
Bermuda Jones Case Files #1
Doorways
The Otherside: a world that exists on the outskirts of our own, hiding in plain sight and living within our shadows. Shielded from humanity, the Otherside is watched over by the BTCO, a highly secret government agency whose agents are the few humans who possess "The Knack," a genetic anomaly that allows them to see the truth of existence. Franklyn "Bermuda" Jones is the BTCO's finest agent, the only human to have passed to The Otherside and returned. Gifted with the ability to physically interact with The Otherside, he reluctantly stands between both worlds, pining for the life he had to leave behind. Teamed with the Otherside warrior, Argyle, the two of them are assigned a case of a missing woman, vanished under peculiar circumstances. As Bermuda delves further into the disappearances, he uncovers a threat to humanity that will not only break the truce between the two worlds, but render them both obsolete.
288 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2017
114 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Robert Enright
31 books200 followersRobert Enright was born in North London and resides in Buckinghamshire with his wife and daughter, working earnestly to write for a living and dreaming of the day he can get a dog.
He is the author of the international best selling Sam Pope series as well as the DS Jack Townsend series.
Robert also hosts the Two Indie Authors podcast, alongside fellow best selling author, David B. Lyons.
Visit his website via the Linktree in the profile and sign up for TWO FREE Sam Pope novellas and ONE FREE Bermuda Jones novella.
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/robenrightau...
Instagram - robenrightauthor
He is the author of the international best selling Sam Pope series as well as the DS Jack Townsend series.
Robert also hosts the Two Indie Authors podcast, alongside fellow best selling author, David B. Lyons.
Visit his website via the Linktree in the profile and sign up for TWO FREE Sam Pope novellas and ONE FREE Bermuda Jones novella.
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/robenrightau...
Instagram - robenrightauthor
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
October 29, 2017
He didn’t ask to be ‘special’ or to possess a gift that has been more like a curse his entire life, but Bermuda Jones IS special, he DOES see what others can’t and he could very well be the last line of defense to prevent the “Otherside” from taking over the human side of existence. Deep withing the government is an agency so secret that few know of its existence. With the combined forces from both the Otherside and the human side, these secret warriors attempt to keep both worlds separate, but when humans go missing, Bermuda and his partner, Argyle will uncover the plot of a monster who is determined to rule both sides of the veil, making humanity the main course in a deadly bid for the power of the human essence.
DOORWAYS by Robert Enright is science fiction with a twist. Rather than focus on the action, which there is plenty of or of the threatening evil entity, who is pretty vile, much of the focus is on the mental and emotional turmoil of the hero, Bermuda Jones, a man who would give anything to regain the life he was forced to give up to protect those he loves.
Bermuda has given up his family, endured being on outcast, been locked away as insane and paranoid, and still, he does what he has to do to keep the world safe. He isn’t a saint, he is bitter, struggles with his own self-destructive patterns and flaunts a lack of respect for authority at every opportunity. This is a man on the edge, riding the envelope of life, doing all he can to keep his world safe, hating every minute of it, all while realizing, if he doesn’t, who will?
Robert Enright has dark and edgy down pat in this tension-packed fantasy thriller. We get inside Bermuda’s head, and it is a scary place to be, filled with jagged pain, self-recrimination and a fervent desire NOT to be in the position he has been placed in. Mr. Enright’s writing is raw, bold, and crisp with no flowery statements. Looking for something edgy with a character who does what he must without a sense of pride or the accolades of many heroes? DOORWAYS could be it.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy from the author!
Series: Bermuda Jones Casefile
Publisher: Urbane Publications (January 1, 2017)
ISBN-10: 1911129570
ISBN-13: 978-1911129578
Genre: Science Fiction | Dark Fantasy
Paperback: 288 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
DOORWAYS by Robert Enright is science fiction with a twist. Rather than focus on the action, which there is plenty of or of the threatening evil entity, who is pretty vile, much of the focus is on the mental and emotional turmoil of the hero, Bermuda Jones, a man who would give anything to regain the life he was forced to give up to protect those he loves.
Bermuda has given up his family, endured being on outcast, been locked away as insane and paranoid, and still, he does what he has to do to keep the world safe. He isn’t a saint, he is bitter, struggles with his own self-destructive patterns and flaunts a lack of respect for authority at every opportunity. This is a man on the edge, riding the envelope of life, doing all he can to keep his world safe, hating every minute of it, all while realizing, if he doesn’t, who will?
Robert Enright has dark and edgy down pat in this tension-packed fantasy thriller. We get inside Bermuda’s head, and it is a scary place to be, filled with jagged pain, self-recrimination and a fervent desire NOT to be in the position he has been placed in. Mr. Enright’s writing is raw, bold, and crisp with no flowery statements. Looking for something edgy with a character who does what he must without a sense of pride or the accolades of many heroes? DOORWAYS could be it.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy from the author!
Series: Bermuda Jones Casefile
Publisher: Urbane Publications (January 1, 2017)
ISBN-10: 1911129570
ISBN-13: 978-1911129578
Genre: Science Fiction | Dark Fantasy
Paperback: 288 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
March 13, 2023
So glad to have found this author and his quirky character of Bermuda Jones. Bermuda is different, to put it mildly. He has the ability to see what other people can’t. It is because of that, that Bermuda works for a government agency that is so secret almost no one knows it exists. When people start going missing Bermuda and his partner Argyle are sent to investigate the disappearances and hopefully to put an end to them. Will they be able to get one step ahead and stop the next one from happening? Ah...that is the "sixty-four-thousand-dollar question" (is anyone else old enough to remember that TV show?) I was hooked into this story from the beginning. It's a beautiful mixture of supernatural/ fantasy and crime thriller with some mystery thrown in and blended together. The character of Bermuda is drawn in a very realistic way. It made you really feel for the man, not only because of his gift...or curse, as he calls it... but also because he’s been through and lost so much. That is something he’s still struggling to come to terms with. I love how this guy despite hating that he has the ‘knack’ still continues to fight and tries save everyone, all whilst flaunting his lack of respect for his superiors at the BTCO. Great first book and I'm getting the 2nd one... The Absent Man (Stay tuned:)
October 7, 2016
I will openly admit to not being a big reader of fantasy/sci fi novels tending to opt more for crime/thrillers. With Doorways though, I actually get the perfect combination of both genres.
Bermuda is a quite a lonely soul. His gift/burden has left him cutting off all his loved ones as he is scared for their safety due to the world he lives and works in. He is very much misunderstood and prefers to keep himself to himself. You can’t help but feel great empathy for this man, through no fault of his own, his life has been pretty much cursed since he was a child, leaving him quite damaged.
Argyle is his partner who is from the other world. No one in this world can see him, which in parts made for some humorous reading, but it also makes Bermuda come across as being a bit of a weirdo when people see him supposedly talking to himself. Argyle is such a fabulous character, I absolutely loved him. Even though Bermuda may be the main character in this book, Argyle is very much the underdog and just shone through out the story. He actually reminds me very much of Baymax in the Big Hero 6 film. (If you have kids you will know who I mean).
There is certainly quite a bit of action in Doorways. The authors descriptions are very vivid and what I was reading easily played like a film in my head. It would certainly make for quite an epic movie.
Doorways is very much about good versus evil and the constant battle of one man and his side kick trying to stop the bad guys. I have no idea if this is just the first of many in a new series, but it certainly leaves the ‘door’ very much open for one. A highly enjoyable read that will have your heart racing and totally routing for the good guys.
My thanks to the author and Urbane Publications for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Bermuda is a quite a lonely soul. His gift/burden has left him cutting off all his loved ones as he is scared for their safety due to the world he lives and works in. He is very much misunderstood and prefers to keep himself to himself. You can’t help but feel great empathy for this man, through no fault of his own, his life has been pretty much cursed since he was a child, leaving him quite damaged.
Argyle is his partner who is from the other world. No one in this world can see him, which in parts made for some humorous reading, but it also makes Bermuda come across as being a bit of a weirdo when people see him supposedly talking to himself. Argyle is such a fabulous character, I absolutely loved him. Even though Bermuda may be the main character in this book, Argyle is very much the underdog and just shone through out the story. He actually reminds me very much of Baymax in the Big Hero 6 film. (If you have kids you will know who I mean).
There is certainly quite a bit of action in Doorways. The authors descriptions are very vivid and what I was reading easily played like a film in my head. It would certainly make for quite an epic movie.
Doorways is very much about good versus evil and the constant battle of one man and his side kick trying to stop the bad guys. I have no idea if this is just the first of many in a new series, but it certainly leaves the ‘door’ very much open for one. A highly enjoyable read that will have your heart racing and totally routing for the good guys.
My thanks to the author and Urbane Publications for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2018
I have (shamefully) had Doorways on my TBR for a while, so I was delighted when the author contacted me to review it as it meant I could bump it straight to the top of Mount St. TBR! And it is safe to say I was not disappointed!
Doorways is a bit of a genre mash-up. There are elements of the supernatural running alongside a good old crime thriller/ mystery element. Usually I am a bit skeptical with books like this, but after broadening my reading horizons in 2017, I was looking forward to getting stuck in.
Bermuda Jones works for the BTCO, an organisation that deals with the Otherside. The BTCO are supposed to watch over the Otherside, make sure that entities don’t cross over and generally keep the peace. But life is never that simple really, is it?
Called to investigate the disappearance of a missing woman, Bermuda and his partner Argyle quickly learn that someone or something has crossed over, and they begin a race against time as more people begin to disappear. Interestingly, Bermuda is the only one who has crossed to the Otherside, and returned. Because of this, he has extra abilities that mean he can interact with both worlds, but this could have devastating consequences in Doorways.
I really liked Bermuda as a character. He is wry and witty, but there is also a selflessness there underlying his decesions. He has a daughter that he can’t see for fear of putting her in danger, so he is very much isolated from his family for their protection. He is very much a flawed detective type, but it works well in Doorways. It gives the tortured hero a whole new spin, for reasons you’ll see when you read the book!
Argyle is another character that I really liked. He defected from the Otherside, and he seems to be having an internal conflict when he deals with his own kind. Moral dilemmas, if you will, even though he is far from mortal. Argyle is the perfect compliment to Bermuda, and they work really well together as a team.
Doorways was definitely a surprise for me. I don’t know what I was expecting when I picked it up, but once I started it I was hooked. I became invested in Bermuda and his investigation. I really liked the world-building too. The Otherside sounds like an abysmal and dangerous place, and the author has done a great job in creating a world that will make you shudder.
Highly recommended!
Doorways is a bit of a genre mash-up. There are elements of the supernatural running alongside a good old crime thriller/ mystery element. Usually I am a bit skeptical with books like this, but after broadening my reading horizons in 2017, I was looking forward to getting stuck in.
Bermuda Jones works for the BTCO, an organisation that deals with the Otherside. The BTCO are supposed to watch over the Otherside, make sure that entities don’t cross over and generally keep the peace. But life is never that simple really, is it?
Called to investigate the disappearance of a missing woman, Bermuda and his partner Argyle quickly learn that someone or something has crossed over, and they begin a race against time as more people begin to disappear. Interestingly, Bermuda is the only one who has crossed to the Otherside, and returned. Because of this, he has extra abilities that mean he can interact with both worlds, but this could have devastating consequences in Doorways.
I really liked Bermuda as a character. He is wry and witty, but there is also a selflessness there underlying his decesions. He has a daughter that he can’t see for fear of putting her in danger, so he is very much isolated from his family for their protection. He is very much a flawed detective type, but it works well in Doorways. It gives the tortured hero a whole new spin, for reasons you’ll see when you read the book!
Argyle is another character that I really liked. He defected from the Otherside, and he seems to be having an internal conflict when he deals with his own kind. Moral dilemmas, if you will, even though he is far from mortal. Argyle is the perfect compliment to Bermuda, and they work really well together as a team.
Doorways was definitely a surprise for me. I don’t know what I was expecting when I picked it up, but once I started it I was hooked. I became invested in Bermuda and his investigation. I really liked the world-building too. The Otherside sounds like an abysmal and dangerous place, and the author has done a great job in creating a world that will make you shudder.
Highly recommended!
October 10, 2016
Oh. My. God. I cannot believe how much I loved this book. I don't read Science Fiction and to be honest had no idea this book fell into that Genre. By the time it was in front of me and I started reading I actually groaned out loud AND rolled my eyes!!! Now having finished this in 2 sittings, I feel a little foolish. I mean, ME...reading Sci-Fi and LIKING IT?!?!?!?! So yes it seems I have a new genre to add to my 'like' list.
I have no previous knowledge on Sci-Fi books so am probably not the most qualified but the basis of this whole 'world' is that there are three types of people. 'Others' that belong to the other world, 'Neithers' which are stuck in between and us humans! Sounds weird but surprisingly made complete and utter sense when reading it. What made this even more interesting is that the main character Franklyn 'Bermuda' Jones is the only bloke who has the 'knack' of seeing the Neither and Others but is also the only human that has survived a journey to the other side. With that gift (which he feels is a curse) he is an agent for a specialist and very secretive agency known as the BTCO.
Essentially this book sees Bermuda fighting to find a missing woman along with his sidekick Argyl. What makes Argyl a little bit special is that he is a Neither, so he is stuck between the two worlds and only Bermuda can see him. Your every day passer by just thinks Bermuda is a crazy guy. Argyl is a cracking character and I instantly loved him. He is determined to be the warrior that always keeps Bermuda safe. Once the two of them start to investigate the disappearance of the young girl, they realise that this is a lot more than a straightforward disappearance, and this may well be the thing that tips the world over that edge they have stayed so desperately to one side of.
This book had everything to keep me well and truly entertained and nobody is more surprised at this than me! This author has not only written a compelling book, but has literally converted me now, and it's a great feeling that I now know I can enjoy Sci-Fi without the eye-rolling! A fantastic read and one that has now made me want to read the next one...Mr Enright PLEASE tell me there will be another!!!
I have no previous knowledge on Sci-Fi books so am probably not the most qualified but the basis of this whole 'world' is that there are three types of people. 'Others' that belong to the other world, 'Neithers' which are stuck in between and us humans! Sounds weird but surprisingly made complete and utter sense when reading it. What made this even more interesting is that the main character Franklyn 'Bermuda' Jones is the only bloke who has the 'knack' of seeing the Neither and Others but is also the only human that has survived a journey to the other side. With that gift (which he feels is a curse) he is an agent for a specialist and very secretive agency known as the BTCO.
Essentially this book sees Bermuda fighting to find a missing woman along with his sidekick Argyl. What makes Argyl a little bit special is that he is a Neither, so he is stuck between the two worlds and only Bermuda can see him. Your every day passer by just thinks Bermuda is a crazy guy. Argyl is a cracking character and I instantly loved him. He is determined to be the warrior that always keeps Bermuda safe. Once the two of them start to investigate the disappearance of the young girl, they realise that this is a lot more than a straightforward disappearance, and this may well be the thing that tips the world over that edge they have stayed so desperately to one side of.
This book had everything to keep me well and truly entertained and nobody is more surprised at this than me! This author has not only written a compelling book, but has literally converted me now, and it's a great feeling that I now know I can enjoy Sci-Fi without the eye-rolling! A fantastic read and one that has now made me want to read the next one...Mr Enright PLEASE tell me there will be another!!!
February 20, 2018
Do you ever get that feeling of being watched but no matter how hard you look there is nothing there? Well perhaps it isn’t just a feeling, perhaps it is an ‘other’ getting on with their business feeling like they are being watched but see nothing too. Now imagine that from being a small boy you could see things and some things could see you, yep I did say things because these are like the creatures in your worst nightmare and if you can see them you can touch them and if you touch them well they aren’t all friendly or pretty. It would make you a real weird kid that no one wanted to be with. So welcome to the world of Franklyn ‘Bermuda’ Jones, all grown up now and working as a Special Agent among people like himself at the BTCO (or “Behind The Curtain Organisation”). Keeping their eye on the two worlds.
Bermuda is very much the reluctant hero. I mean who the heck would employ a man who would jump at nothing and shout at ‘imaginary’ creatures. To my world and yours he is a bit of a nutter that wonders round London chuntering away to himself. Then the strange thing is he can take off running through bustling streets like he has a purpose with what feels like the wind behind him that arrives seconds after he has gone past or something topples over or even feels like you have bounced off a brick wall. Well that would be his partner from the ‘otherside’ Argyle, that normal people can not see.
Argyle is rather proud of his position in the team but there again he is there by choice but he is seen as a bit of a traitor by his own kind. I loved this 6ft 8ins sort of gentle giant. It is the pairs job to solve cases of missing people, the type that don’t just go missing but really disappear and it is on the increase, hence ‘Bermuda’s’ name. Now to be honest there are some real bad ass others responsible which puts the pair into some pretty sticky situations. All real entertaining stuff.
I love the idea that Robert Enright has created his main character out of a real screwed up and seriously damaged bloke. He is far from perfect, at times cringe worthy and yet I know that he would be the guy fighting my corner. The story has quite a bit of everything from the fantasy side to a criminal case to a romance and it all works brilliantly together. The name Bermuda doesn’t just cover the fact that he hunts down missing people it covers him really well too as he is quite lost himself, being so isolated, with no-one able to break through his fear.
This is the first story in a three book series but book two is just round the corner. I hope that I find out a little bit more about Argyle in the next book. I think his story could be quite an eye opener. A super pacey read and brilliant start to a fascinating series.
Bermuda is very much the reluctant hero. I mean who the heck would employ a man who would jump at nothing and shout at ‘imaginary’ creatures. To my world and yours he is a bit of a nutter that wonders round London chuntering away to himself. Then the strange thing is he can take off running through bustling streets like he has a purpose with what feels like the wind behind him that arrives seconds after he has gone past or something topples over or even feels like you have bounced off a brick wall. Well that would be his partner from the ‘otherside’ Argyle, that normal people can not see.
Argyle is rather proud of his position in the team but there again he is there by choice but he is seen as a bit of a traitor by his own kind. I loved this 6ft 8ins sort of gentle giant. It is the pairs job to solve cases of missing people, the type that don’t just go missing but really disappear and it is on the increase, hence ‘Bermuda’s’ name. Now to be honest there are some real bad ass others responsible which puts the pair into some pretty sticky situations. All real entertaining stuff.
I love the idea that Robert Enright has created his main character out of a real screwed up and seriously damaged bloke. He is far from perfect, at times cringe worthy and yet I know that he would be the guy fighting my corner. The story has quite a bit of everything from the fantasy side to a criminal case to a romance and it all works brilliantly together. The name Bermuda doesn’t just cover the fact that he hunts down missing people it covers him really well too as he is quite lost himself, being so isolated, with no-one able to break through his fear.
This is the first story in a three book series but book two is just round the corner. I hope that I find out a little bit more about Argyle in the next book. I think his story could be quite an eye opener. A super pacey read and brilliant start to a fascinating series.
July 11, 2017
OH MY DAYS what was I thinking.....I am always saying I read anything BUT Sci-fi, After reading this Robert Enright has made me see Sci-Fi in a whole different light. Doorways is mixed with crime so we get the mystery and thriller element in this exciting, action packed story making it the perfect combination.
I have to say what a wicked imagination the author has and delivers one hell of an engrossing read. I was hooked from start to finish devouring it in two sittings.
In this story we meet Bermuda an agent who has passed to the otherside and returned with an ability to see "others" The otherside is watched over by the BTCO, a highly secret government agency. Bermuda and his partner Argyle a warrior from the otherside and they are assigned to a case of a missing woman. As Bermuda delves further into the disappearance, he uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to destroy the truce between two worlds...and finds himself in a race against time to safeguard humanity's very existence.
Doorways is a very entertaining read with descriptions that made me feel right there in the story It would defiantly make a great movie and the title fits perfectly. I love that it also has humor in it.
Bermuda and Argyle make a brilliant team. they are strong likable characters and I am looking forward to read more about them in the next book.
If you are looking for a book that is different, this one certainly fits the bill. Robert will take to to a place that you have never been. What more can I say but I loved it.... giving it 4.5 stars.
Thank you to the author for a copy, in exchange for an honest review
I have to say what a wicked imagination the author has and delivers one hell of an engrossing read. I was hooked from start to finish devouring it in two sittings.
In this story we meet Bermuda an agent who has passed to the otherside and returned with an ability to see "others" The otherside is watched over by the BTCO, a highly secret government agency. Bermuda and his partner Argyle a warrior from the otherside and they are assigned to a case of a missing woman. As Bermuda delves further into the disappearance, he uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to destroy the truce between two worlds...and finds himself in a race against time to safeguard humanity's very existence.
Doorways is a very entertaining read with descriptions that made me feel right there in the story It would defiantly make a great movie and the title fits perfectly. I love that it also has humor in it.
Bermuda and Argyle make a brilliant team. they are strong likable characters and I am looking forward to read more about them in the next book.
If you are looking for a book that is different, this one certainly fits the bill. Robert will take to to a place that you have never been. What more can I say but I loved it.... giving it 4.5 stars.
Thank you to the author for a copy, in exchange for an honest review
February 9, 2017
Bermuda has a rare gift. He can see 'others' monstrous beings from a world living in parallel to earth, called the Otherside. Even more impressive to those int he know is that he has been able to go to the Otherside and has returned. These skills make him one of the top agents at the BTCO, an organisation that monitors and corrects others activities on Earth. For this job he works alongside Argyle, an other that helps protect Earth from his own kind. Together they are a formidable team as they are very good at solving cases quickly, though not always very subtly. When people from all over London start disappearing, seemingly into thin air, Bermuda and Argyle are sure it is the work of an other. However with no connections between the victims and not a lot of evidence there isn't a lot for them to go on. The only thing linking the cases is the appearance of a crude 12 sided start symbol at every place where someone has disappeared and the sudden appearance of a scary other called Barnaby. But what does the 12 sided symbol mean, who is Barnaby and what do either of them have to do with all the missing people. Somehow Bermuda & Argyle have to unravel the mystery before more people disappear.
Firstly I don't tend to read a lot of science fiction but having heard a lot of good reviews on Twitter i decided to read it and i am so glad i did as i genuinely rate this as one of the best books i have ever read!
The reader is thrown straight into the story as the book opens with Bermuda & Argyle investigating a strange others incident. I was immediately intrigued and quickly developed a soft spot for the two very different main characters. I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened next and if they would be ok. They both have other problems, aside from work, which they tackle throughout the book which gives the reader more of a sense of their overall character and makes it easier for the reader to connect with them. Barnaby, the villain, was one of the best villains i have come across as he was very scary and eery. The description of his black eyes will stay with me for a long time. His ability to turn up anywhere without people seeing him helped add to the tension of the book as you were never completely aware of where he was going to turn up next! The banter between the two main characters is very funny, as is Argyle's attempts to understand Earth and the human race. This contributes a lot to the humorous moments in the book and provides some relief from the tense main story. The author shows great skill, in my opinion, in switching seamlessly from scary to funny without it seeming forced. The use of London's landmarks was also really well done. I like how the BTCO headquarters was under the Shard and how the others market was tucked away behind a wall. It helped make the the otherside world seem more real and the idea of another world living in parallel with Earth more plausible.
This is the first book by Robert Enright I have read and it definitely won't be the last especially as, I believe, there is a sequel to this book in the works. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a great story with memorable characters and lots of actions. Don't let the science fiction genre put you off as it is much more than that.
Huge thanks to Urbane publishers, the author and Netgalley for a copy of this book. Read it I don't think you'll be disappointed!
Firstly I don't tend to read a lot of science fiction but having heard a lot of good reviews on Twitter i decided to read it and i am so glad i did as i genuinely rate this as one of the best books i have ever read!
The reader is thrown straight into the story as the book opens with Bermuda & Argyle investigating a strange others incident. I was immediately intrigued and quickly developed a soft spot for the two very different main characters. I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened next and if they would be ok. They both have other problems, aside from work, which they tackle throughout the book which gives the reader more of a sense of their overall character and makes it easier for the reader to connect with them. Barnaby, the villain, was one of the best villains i have come across as he was very scary and eery. The description of his black eyes will stay with me for a long time. His ability to turn up anywhere without people seeing him helped add to the tension of the book as you were never completely aware of where he was going to turn up next! The banter between the two main characters is very funny, as is Argyle's attempts to understand Earth and the human race. This contributes a lot to the humorous moments in the book and provides some relief from the tense main story. The author shows great skill, in my opinion, in switching seamlessly from scary to funny without it seeming forced. The use of London's landmarks was also really well done. I like how the BTCO headquarters was under the Shard and how the others market was tucked away behind a wall. It helped make the the otherside world seem more real and the idea of another world living in parallel with Earth more plausible.
This is the first book by Robert Enright I have read and it definitely won't be the last especially as, I believe, there is a sequel to this book in the works. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a great story with memorable characters and lots of actions. Don't let the science fiction genre put you off as it is much more than that.
Huge thanks to Urbane publishers, the author and Netgalley for a copy of this book. Read it I don't think you'll be disappointed!
January 14, 2018
Set in London, the reader is faced with loss, fear, the unexpected, sadness, love, betrayal, the pursuit of happiness, a hunter vs the hunted feel, good vs evil, loneliness and a journey to save the world. PHEW!
Although Urban Fantasy is not my usual genre, I do dabble in other genres now and then if a blurb captures my interest! What I LOVED about this book was that it mixed that fantasy element with crime fiction, so I ended up not being too far outside of my comfort zone at all! Woohoo! I found this novel to be relatively fast-paced and Go! Go! Go! from the start. I was immediately intrigued and loved the concept of “Two Worlds, One Peace”. Told from the third person POV, you get a feel of where everyone is at in terms of dealing with the Otherworld. I was so engrossed in the storyline, I easily read this book in two sittings.
There are definitely some interesting characters in this novel, and I’ll just mention a few that stood out for me so as not to ruin it for any of you that choose to pick up this book and read it! Let’s start with Franklyn Jones aka Bermuda – a human who has “the knack” which allows him to see the Otherside. Working for BTCO (Behind The Curtain Organisation) he works on cases with Argyle (who is from the Otherside!). Like all protagonists, Bermuda has his own demons to contend with and sacrifices his own happiness…but at what cost? Deemed insane, due to his abilities, Bermuda’s determination, vulnerability, sense of justice are what keep him in the game. Such a great character!
Argyle…well I simply adored him…I want an Argyle in my life! He is a warrior from the Otherside and is partnered with Bermuda on the cases from the BTCO. You get the impression that he wants to be seen, to be a part of this world (he is invisible to humans so you can only imagine how crazy Bermuda must look talking to Argyle!) You also get the impression that he doesn’t understand a lot of what he witnesses in humankind – there is a sadness about him but this does not stop him from his main aim of keeping Bermuda safe!
Barnaby and the “Others” are creatures who come into our world, need us, take us…but for what ends. Soulless, dark, awful looking creatures that hunt but the fact that we can’t see them…make it even more scary! I don’t want to say much more, you need to discover the “Others” for yourself!
So would I recommend this book? Hell yeah! I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the characters and moving outside of my comfort zone. This is a book full of the unexpected, where the lines of reality are blurred but pull you in and keep you turning the pages. If you’re looking for an escape – this could be the book for you! I am looking forward to reading what is next in store for Bermuda!
Although Urban Fantasy is not my usual genre, I do dabble in other genres now and then if a blurb captures my interest! What I LOVED about this book was that it mixed that fantasy element with crime fiction, so I ended up not being too far outside of my comfort zone at all! Woohoo! I found this novel to be relatively fast-paced and Go! Go! Go! from the start. I was immediately intrigued and loved the concept of “Two Worlds, One Peace”. Told from the third person POV, you get a feel of where everyone is at in terms of dealing with the Otherworld. I was so engrossed in the storyline, I easily read this book in two sittings.
There are definitely some interesting characters in this novel, and I’ll just mention a few that stood out for me so as not to ruin it for any of you that choose to pick up this book and read it! Let’s start with Franklyn Jones aka Bermuda – a human who has “the knack” which allows him to see the Otherside. Working for BTCO (Behind The Curtain Organisation) he works on cases with Argyle (who is from the Otherside!). Like all protagonists, Bermuda has his own demons to contend with and sacrifices his own happiness…but at what cost? Deemed insane, due to his abilities, Bermuda’s determination, vulnerability, sense of justice are what keep him in the game. Such a great character!
Argyle…well I simply adored him…I want an Argyle in my life! He is a warrior from the Otherside and is partnered with Bermuda on the cases from the BTCO. You get the impression that he wants to be seen, to be a part of this world (he is invisible to humans so you can only imagine how crazy Bermuda must look talking to Argyle!) You also get the impression that he doesn’t understand a lot of what he witnesses in humankind – there is a sadness about him but this does not stop him from his main aim of keeping Bermuda safe!
Barnaby and the “Others” are creatures who come into our world, need us, take us…but for what ends. Soulless, dark, awful looking creatures that hunt but the fact that we can’t see them…make it even more scary! I don’t want to say much more, you need to discover the “Others” for yourself!
So would I recommend this book? Hell yeah! I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the characters and moving outside of my comfort zone. This is a book full of the unexpected, where the lines of reality are blurred but pull you in and keep you turning the pages. If you’re looking for an escape – this could be the book for you! I am looking forward to reading what is next in store for Bermuda!
October 13, 2016
From the age of 12 till about 45, Science Fiction was a big part of my life. I attended numerous SF-conventions and even became editor of a magazine (that was first published in 1965 and still exists). I've met a lot of my favorite authors too. Then, there came a time all that was published, was Fantasy - and I don't like Fantasy so much. I begun reading more and more thrillers and even the occasional chicklit.
So here I am. Reading a book that ticks almost all boxes!
Doorways is a bit of SF. A bit of Fantasy. It has humor. It is sort of a thriller. And there is even romance.
How wonderful! In Doorways we have an interesting plot and very well described characters. Bermuda, the 'hero' of the story, is quite likable and you cannot help feeling for him during his ordeals. But Argyle! I cannot help but liking him a lot. He reminded me of Fafhrd, the character created in the 1930's by SF-author Fritz Leiber.
Sometimes I had to think of the movie Man in Black and I think Doorways could make a good movie too.
All in all, I hope to read more from this author and certainly more of Bermuda's adventures.
So here I am. Reading a book that ticks almost all boxes!
Doorways is a bit of SF. A bit of Fantasy. It has humor. It is sort of a thriller. And there is even romance.
How wonderful! In Doorways we have an interesting plot and very well described characters. Bermuda, the 'hero' of the story, is quite likable and you cannot help feeling for him during his ordeals. But Argyle! I cannot help but liking him a lot. He reminded me of Fafhrd, the character created in the 1930's by SF-author Fritz Leiber.
Sometimes I had to think of the movie Man in Black and I think Doorways could make a good movie too.
All in all, I hope to read more from this author and certainly more of Bermuda's adventures.
January 7, 2018
This was my first Robert Enright book and I'll admit, not my usual genre. Did pick it up and put it down every few pages thinking it really wasn't 'my thing' but am so glad I persevered.... it was a great read!!!
The plot, the details, the questions all answered were amazing!
Bermuda is such an enigma, he really entices you into wanting to know more about him and understand him. He's moody, dark and mysterious with a curse he cannot escape. My only issue with Bermuda is his incessant need to chain smoke and eat Tic Tacs.
Argyle is so much softer given his strength and power. It is so quick to understand the friendship that they have together and it's ebbs and flows.
The details of the organisations/committee and 'The Otherside' paints such a vivid picture. Some much detail was put in, descriptive to the very last element.
I love the imagination the author has, you kinda start thinking Men in Black but this goes so much deeper and on a more serious level.
I will definitely read more books about the BTCO pairing and would be interested in other stories by the same author.
I read the book in return for an honest review on behalf of 3 degrees of Fiction.
The plot, the details, the questions all answered were amazing!
Bermuda is such an enigma, he really entices you into wanting to know more about him and understand him. He's moody, dark and mysterious with a curse he cannot escape. My only issue with Bermuda is his incessant need to chain smoke and eat Tic Tacs.
Argyle is so much softer given his strength and power. It is so quick to understand the friendship that they have together and it's ebbs and flows.
The details of the organisations/committee and 'The Otherside' paints such a vivid picture. Some much detail was put in, descriptive to the very last element.
I love the imagination the author has, you kinda start thinking Men in Black but this goes so much deeper and on a more serious level.
I will definitely read more books about the BTCO pairing and would be interested in other stories by the same author.
I read the book in return for an honest review on behalf of 3 degrees of Fiction.
March 5, 2018
Absolutely brilliant read! I loved the excitement, detail and character put into this book. It was written so well and really pulls you in from the moment you start reading.
I loved getting to know Bermuda and Argyle. Reading along as the two interacted, working to solve the mystery at hand, I liked seeing how their relationship grew and changed. They have a brilliant, shared sarcasm and competitiveness. They worked well together,even as things started to change, as they uncovered the secret behind the mysteries.
The level of detail put into both the world and the characters really created a book that you could dive into and become fully immersed in the story. I found myself completely hooked on the story because of this, and really struggled to put the book down.
The pace was excellent and really meant that the book flowed well, and as it led to the discovery of a secret, I felt it had built itself up brilliantly, giving a real sense of connection, once you reached the end...shortly followed by sadness because I’d finished the book!
Overall, this is an excellent book and one I highly recommend!
I loved getting to know Bermuda and Argyle. Reading along as the two interacted, working to solve the mystery at hand, I liked seeing how their relationship grew and changed. They have a brilliant, shared sarcasm and competitiveness. They worked well together,even as things started to change, as they uncovered the secret behind the mysteries.
The level of detail put into both the world and the characters really created a book that you could dive into and become fully immersed in the story. I found myself completely hooked on the story because of this, and really struggled to put the book down.
The pace was excellent and really meant that the book flowed well, and as it led to the discovery of a secret, I felt it had built itself up brilliantly, giving a real sense of connection, once you reached the end...shortly followed by sadness because I’d finished the book!
Overall, this is an excellent book and one I highly recommend!
March 28, 2017
I read this a few months ago, and I've taken my time putting down this review.
I had split feelings about this read, and continue to do so.
In the beginning I liked the character development and where I thought the story was going. The BTCO agents are a few humans who have the ability to communicate with the Otherside, ghostly beings in another time and dimension.
Again I liked the early development but, in time, found it hard to take the story seriously. And the slow build up, to a major fight between beings on both worlds, was completely lost to me. And for what reason?
For a while I enjoyed the story. And later, knowing I had to review the book, I endured.
Similar 'otherworld' ideas I've read in the past, but I interpreted these characters and their development as original. But the middle to end left me wanting; it didn't quite feel adult enough to me.
I had to ask myself: if I hadn't made a commitment to review this book, would I have finished it?
I think not.
Thanks to Robert Enright, and NetGalley for the opportunity to provide this unbiased review.
I had split feelings about this read, and continue to do so.
In the beginning I liked the character development and where I thought the story was going. The BTCO agents are a few humans who have the ability to communicate with the Otherside, ghostly beings in another time and dimension.
Again I liked the early development but, in time, found it hard to take the story seriously. And the slow build up, to a major fight between beings on both worlds, was completely lost to me. And for what reason?
For a while I enjoyed the story. And later, knowing I had to review the book, I endured.
Similar 'otherworld' ideas I've read in the past, but I interpreted these characters and their development as original. But the middle to end left me wanting; it didn't quite feel adult enough to me.
I had to ask myself: if I hadn't made a commitment to review this book, would I have finished it?
I think not.
Thanks to Robert Enright, and NetGalley for the opportunity to provide this unbiased review.
January 14, 2018
Absolutely brilliant read! I loved the excitement, detail and character put into this book. It was written so well and really pulls you in from the moment you start reading.
I loved getting to know Bermuda and Argyle. Reading along as the two interacted, working to solve the mystery at hand, I liked seeing how their relationship grew and changed. They have a brilliant, shared sarcasm and competitiveness. They worked well together,even as things started to change, as they uncovered the secret behind the mysteries.
The level of detail put into both the world and the characters really created a book that you could dive into and become fully immersed in the story. I found myself completely hooked on the story because of this, and really struggled to put the book down.
The pace was excellent and really meant that the book flowed well, and as it led to the discovery of a secret, I felt it had built itself up brilliantly, giving a real sense of connection, once you reached the end...shortly followed by sadness because I’d finished the book!
Overall, this is an excellent book and one I highly recommend!
I loved getting to know Bermuda and Argyle. Reading along as the two interacted, working to solve the mystery at hand, I liked seeing how their relationship grew and changed. They have a brilliant, shared sarcasm and competitiveness. They worked well together,even as things started to change, as they uncovered the secret behind the mysteries.
The level of detail put into both the world and the characters really created a book that you could dive into and become fully immersed in the story. I found myself completely hooked on the story because of this, and really struggled to put the book down.
The pace was excellent and really meant that the book flowed well, and as it led to the discovery of a secret, I felt it had built itself up brilliantly, giving a real sense of connection, once you reached the end...shortly followed by sadness because I’d finished the book!
Overall, this is an excellent book and one I highly recommend!
November 7, 2017
I was caught in two minds about posting review on this but here goes.
I wanted to give this at least three and a half stars, and if you are less picky than me... I recommend it for a fun story, a good tortured main character and a somewhat novel take on the fantasy genre. The villain is also quite memorable and well done.
The main reason I have to mark it down though is after the first quarter of the book the typos or correctly spelled but incorrect words being used really got to me to the point I struggled to finish it. The author needs to get some better people to review his work before publishing or a proper copywriter I am afraid as despite having a physical copy of the book it seemed like an unedited self pub. It is a real shame as the writing itself was good, but the errors ... :(
The ending had one plot hole that bugged me too, but hey, the story itself was enjoyable and I would read more of the authors work if future stuff is better edited/checked.
I wanted to give this at least three and a half stars, and if you are less picky than me... I recommend it for a fun story, a good tortured main character and a somewhat novel take on the fantasy genre. The villain is also quite memorable and well done.
The main reason I have to mark it down though is after the first quarter of the book the typos or correctly spelled but incorrect words being used really got to me to the point I struggled to finish it. The author needs to get some better people to review his work before publishing or a proper copywriter I am afraid as despite having a physical copy of the book it seemed like an unedited self pub. It is a real shame as the writing itself was good, but the errors ... :(
The ending had one plot hole that bugged me too, but hey, the story itself was enjoyable and I would read more of the authors work if future stuff is better edited/checked.
January 13, 2018
This book made a refreshing change for me, whilst I enjoy most genres I find myself often reading romance novels. Whilst this story touches the surface of romance and love, its main theme is that of sci-fi, fantasy and crime/thriller.
The main lead character is Bermuda, a bitter young man but one with a gift, a gift that dominates his life. What I liked about Bermuda was that he seemed so genuine. In fact the whole setting was a London that I know.
Well written, this was one story where I had moments of true bliss, escaping into a familiar and yet new world whilst reading.
Doorways is the start of a new series, where another world is secretly existing within our own. The "gift" that Bermuda has feels like his own personal curse. Working for a secret agency, it is Bermuda's job to keep the others in order. This story was full on and I'm curious to see what the character has to face next.
This is a book for anyone who wants something different and that does not "like" science fiction, give this book a go, I think you will be surprised!
The main lead character is Bermuda, a bitter young man but one with a gift, a gift that dominates his life. What I liked about Bermuda was that he seemed so genuine. In fact the whole setting was a London that I know.
Well written, this was one story where I had moments of true bliss, escaping into a familiar and yet new world whilst reading.
Doorways is the start of a new series, where another world is secretly existing within our own. The "gift" that Bermuda has feels like his own personal curse. Working for a secret agency, it is Bermuda's job to keep the others in order. This story was full on and I'm curious to see what the character has to face next.
This is a book for anyone who wants something different and that does not "like" science fiction, give this book a go, I think you will be surprised!
August 7, 2017
From the start, this book pulled me in...a hidden world parallel to our own; a secret government agency watching over events and 'keeping the balance' certainly made for a fascinating read. The main character Bermuda has the ability to interact with both worlds, working alongside his Warrior team mate, Argyle, who is invisible to those that don't possess 'The Knack' to 'see'. Together, they are assigned to several mysterious 'missing persons' cases. I loved both characters, finding the banter between them quite funny at times. The only criticism is that I felt the book lacked a good editor; hence giving it 4.5 stars. The actual idea though for me was 5 stars...it's clear the Author has talent and I would definitely read his books in the future.
December 22, 2017
I knew I would like this book after the first couple of pages - it has everything I love in a book - the supernatural and monsters, a handsome yet troubled hero, and the fact that all this happens in the real world, rather than some wildly fantastical place that doesn't exist.
I loved the back story of the main protagonist, and his stoic side-kick. It was such an intriguing, mysterious story that reminded me of a mix between Constantine and Supernatural.
It kept a good pace throughout the book - it didn't sag in the middle like some do, and the imagination of the author was really impressive.
I can't wait to read the rest of these casefiles when they come out!
I loved the back story of the main protagonist, and his stoic side-kick. It was such an intriguing, mysterious story that reminded me of a mix between Constantine and Supernatural.
It kept a good pace throughout the book - it didn't sag in the middle like some do, and the imagination of the author was really impressive.
I can't wait to read the rest of these casefiles when they come out!
February 13, 2017
Like the premise and set up, but not sure the second half was as good. Never really understood why the end of the world was at stake!
March 27, 2017
Interesting
Maybe not my thing but I did enjoy it. Written by a man who obviously appreciate s good ale. Bermuda and Argyle have a unique relationship, as one of them is invisible to most humans. And apparently that is the safest way.
Good fun
Maybe not my thing but I did enjoy it. Written by a man who obviously appreciate s good ale. Bermuda and Argyle have a unique relationship, as one of them is invisible to most humans. And apparently that is the safest way.
Good fun
November 20, 2016
I loved the cover art, the description, the title – I love world-behind-the-world books. I’m fascinated by the concept of a secret connection between worlds/experiences of the world, and really enjoy reading different authors’ spins on explaining the inexplicable. I’m generally a fan of the anti-hero, who struggles to save both the world and himself. Yet despite all that, this one only gets a mediocre recommendation in the end…
I quite liked the start and set-up. The underlying concept – that some people have “The Knack”, an ability to see extra-world beings (aka monsters) that have made their way to our “regular” world – was interesting. The main and supporting characters were well developed and most continued to grow and develop throughout the story – even if that growth occasionally felt a bit stereotypical. The villain also felt like a bit of a stereotype, but that’s often the role of the villain, particularly in supernatural/paranormal type stories. There were some unexpected moments in the story. There wasn’t anything wrong or missing, but still somehow by the end I was rather tepidly interested and just trying to finish it so I could move on…
There were a handful of very nice linguistic tidbits wound into the story. Stumbling upon them was a delight… My favorite examples:
-- Bermuda had tried to stay within the realms of a “normal” life, but it didn’t work. His ex-wife, Angela, tried her hardest to understand. But when you are the only one in the room who can see the demon hanging from the ceiling, you tend to become the only person in the room.
-- …the stress of the day hung from her like wet clothes.
-- Students woozily went by, dragging their feet as if they were attached to a hangover and clinging 0n for dear life.
The writing wasn’t, otherwise, what I’d call terribly original in style. That’s not a criticism, just a comment. The book is described as a “book 1” (there seems to be a disturbing trend to make every book a “book 1” lately – what happened to the single volume story??). I’m not going to stand in line for the next book, but if it happens to be a daily deal, I’d probably check it out. There’s promise here, I’m just not sure this first volume delivered at quite the level I wanted it to…
My review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
I quite liked the start and set-up. The underlying concept – that some people have “The Knack”, an ability to see extra-world beings (aka monsters) that have made their way to our “regular” world – was interesting. The main and supporting characters were well developed and most continued to grow and develop throughout the story – even if that growth occasionally felt a bit stereotypical. The villain also felt like a bit of a stereotype, but that’s often the role of the villain, particularly in supernatural/paranormal type stories. There were some unexpected moments in the story. There wasn’t anything wrong or missing, but still somehow by the end I was rather tepidly interested and just trying to finish it so I could move on…
There were a handful of very nice linguistic tidbits wound into the story. Stumbling upon them was a delight… My favorite examples:
-- Bermuda had tried to stay within the realms of a “normal” life, but it didn’t work. His ex-wife, Angela, tried her hardest to understand. But when you are the only one in the room who can see the demon hanging from the ceiling, you tend to become the only person in the room.
-- …the stress of the day hung from her like wet clothes.
-- Students woozily went by, dragging their feet as if they were attached to a hangover and clinging 0n for dear life.
The writing wasn’t, otherwise, what I’d call terribly original in style. That’s not a criticism, just a comment. The book is described as a “book 1” (there seems to be a disturbing trend to make every book a “book 1” lately – what happened to the single volume story??). I’m not going to stand in line for the next book, but if it happens to be a daily deal, I’d probably check it out. There’s promise here, I’m just not sure this first volume delivered at quite the level I wanted it to…
My review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
January 11, 2017
In Robert Enright’s first paper novel, Detective Bermuda Jones and his sometimes bemused assistant, Argyle, find themselves defending the world from a catastrophic collision with the hellish ‘Otherside’.
Intrigue grabs you from the off. The filmic fluidity of Enright’s writing keeps the narrative punchy, and the action springs effortlessly from the page. The story is excellently paced, and as you follow Bermuda’s investigation, more is gradually revealed about the world he inhabits.
Joining Bermuda is his partner and protector, Argyle. Argyle is an outsider in a strange world with strange people and strange culture. The wealth of these differences is neatly explored in conversation between the two heroes; their bond grows as the similarities between them become more apparent. Both are outsiders, not welcome anywhere, but better together.
Doorways taps into the driving idea behind most great narrative Sci-Fi: take a normal, relatable character and drop them into a strange world where they have to fight to survive. Well, Bermuda and Argyle, in their own different ways, definitely fit that description, and they more than put up a fight. Something that Doorways does beyond this, is to show Bermuda's struggle with his secret, and the reality of his life. He strays delightfully into 'antihero' territory, and, in the otherworldly elements of his life, it's Argyle that grounds him.
The story’s permeated with a wry humour, and Enright has a talent for brevity in his world building. The more fantastic elements of the story very rarely feel under-explained or contrived, though there was the odd moment where I was left uncertain.
The novel’s few flaws never affect the storytelling, but on occasion I found myself frustrated that a misplaced word or underwhelming description had been overlooked in editing. It probably registered with me more because there’d then be inventive little turns of phrase scattered throughout the novel that brought a smile to my face. A genuine sense of intelligence and warmth comes through, and this emotional depth makes Doorways what it is.
As the story draws to a close, there are enough unanswered questions to keep us waiting for the planned sequel. Bermuda’s sincere humanity might be what makes me want to read on most.
Doorways is an excellent start to the series, and I hope to read more soon.
Intrigue grabs you from the off. The filmic fluidity of Enright’s writing keeps the narrative punchy, and the action springs effortlessly from the page. The story is excellently paced, and as you follow Bermuda’s investigation, more is gradually revealed about the world he inhabits.
Joining Bermuda is his partner and protector, Argyle. Argyle is an outsider in a strange world with strange people and strange culture. The wealth of these differences is neatly explored in conversation between the two heroes; their bond grows as the similarities between them become more apparent. Both are outsiders, not welcome anywhere, but better together.
Doorways taps into the driving idea behind most great narrative Sci-Fi: take a normal, relatable character and drop them into a strange world where they have to fight to survive. Well, Bermuda and Argyle, in their own different ways, definitely fit that description, and they more than put up a fight. Something that Doorways does beyond this, is to show Bermuda's struggle with his secret, and the reality of his life. He strays delightfully into 'antihero' territory, and, in the otherworldly elements of his life, it's Argyle that grounds him.
The story’s permeated with a wry humour, and Enright has a talent for brevity in his world building. The more fantastic elements of the story very rarely feel under-explained or contrived, though there was the odd moment where I was left uncertain.
The novel’s few flaws never affect the storytelling, but on occasion I found myself frustrated that a misplaced word or underwhelming description had been overlooked in editing. It probably registered with me more because there’d then be inventive little turns of phrase scattered throughout the novel that brought a smile to my face. A genuine sense of intelligence and warmth comes through, and this emotional depth makes Doorways what it is.
As the story draws to a close, there are enough unanswered questions to keep us waiting for the planned sequel. Bermuda’s sincere humanity might be what makes me want to read on most.
Doorways is an excellent start to the series, and I hope to read more soon.
November 6, 2016
Superb!
This is a superb fantasy thriller. I found it took a few chapters to get into, but afterwards I could hardly put it down. Packed full of action (and "Others"), the book falls into the fantasy genre but possesses a certain frightening plausibility, mainly I suspect because most incidences occur at locations familiar to many of us. It is based around the concept of two different dimensions existing on Earth, invisible to one another, knowledge of which is known to but a few and portals between the two dimensions carefully monitored to control transference.
Robert Enright strikes the correct balance between real world and Other world characters as he introduces and develops the personalities of the lead character "Bermuda" Jones and his BTCO partner (and protector), Argyle. The novel is based in London (and Hertfordshire) and centres on resolving the recurring mystery of persons who go missing in mysterious circumstances every second day. The police are at a total loss to explain the reasons for their disappearance and possess no clues as to where the victims are.
Step in reluctant BTCO (Behind The Curtain Organisation) Agent, Bermuda Jones and his assistant Argyle. They face an evil culprit whose objectives have frightening implications. Both lead characters have depth and Bermuda a rustic sense of humour and a very non PC approach to life. I don't usually read books of this genre but really enjoyed "Doorways". Without hesitation I would recommend this book to readers looking for a novel with a difference. It is a very entertaining and imaginative read.
(My review was based on an eBook file provided to me free of charge by the publisher. My review is totally independent.)
This is a superb fantasy thriller. I found it took a few chapters to get into, but afterwards I could hardly put it down. Packed full of action (and "Others"), the book falls into the fantasy genre but possesses a certain frightening plausibility, mainly I suspect because most incidences occur at locations familiar to many of us. It is based around the concept of two different dimensions existing on Earth, invisible to one another, knowledge of which is known to but a few and portals between the two dimensions carefully monitored to control transference.
Robert Enright strikes the correct balance between real world and Other world characters as he introduces and develops the personalities of the lead character "Bermuda" Jones and his BTCO partner (and protector), Argyle. The novel is based in London (and Hertfordshire) and centres on resolving the recurring mystery of persons who go missing in mysterious circumstances every second day. The police are at a total loss to explain the reasons for their disappearance and possess no clues as to where the victims are.
Step in reluctant BTCO (Behind The Curtain Organisation) Agent, Bermuda Jones and his assistant Argyle. They face an evil culprit whose objectives have frightening implications. Both lead characters have depth and Bermuda a rustic sense of humour and a very non PC approach to life. I don't usually read books of this genre but really enjoyed "Doorways". Without hesitation I would recommend this book to readers looking for a novel with a difference. It is a very entertaining and imaginative read.
(My review was based on an eBook file provided to me free of charge by the publisher. My review is totally independent.)
December 26, 2016
Doorways by Robert Enright is a mystery and thriller and sci-fi and fantasy read.
The Otherside is located at the fringes of our world, hiding in plain sight and existing within our shadows. Shielded from humanity, the Otherside is watched over by the BTCO, a highly secret government agency. BTCO agents are the few humans who possess 'The Knack', a genetic anomaly that allows them to see the truth of existence. Franklyn 'Bermuda' Jones is the BTCO's finest agent, the only human to have passed to The Otherside and returned. Gifted with the ability to physically interact with The Otherside, Bermuda reluctantly stands between both worlds, pining for the life he had to leave behind and the daughter he can no longer see. Teamed with Argyle, an enigmatic Otherside warrior, Bermuda is assigned the case of a missing woman who has vanished under mysterious circumstances. As Bermuda delves further into the disappearance, he uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to destroy the truce between two worlds...and finds himself in a race against time to safeguard humanity's very existence.
This was a good read. Little slow in places but I managed to read it. Predictable. 4*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
The Otherside is located at the fringes of our world, hiding in plain sight and existing within our shadows. Shielded from humanity, the Otherside is watched over by the BTCO, a highly secret government agency. BTCO agents are the few humans who possess 'The Knack', a genetic anomaly that allows them to see the truth of existence. Franklyn 'Bermuda' Jones is the BTCO's finest agent, the only human to have passed to The Otherside and returned. Gifted with the ability to physically interact with The Otherside, Bermuda reluctantly stands between both worlds, pining for the life he had to leave behind and the daughter he can no longer see. Teamed with Argyle, an enigmatic Otherside warrior, Bermuda is assigned the case of a missing woman who has vanished under mysterious circumstances. As Bermuda delves further into the disappearance, he uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to destroy the truce between two worlds...and finds himself in a race against time to safeguard humanity's very existence.
This was a good read. Little slow in places but I managed to read it. Predictable. 4*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
November 6, 2016
The only other 'sci fi' books I've ever read were The Hunger Games series which were amazing. Other than those, this is not my genre of choice at all.
However I read this after seeing some five star reviews and recommendations.
This book was interesting and intriguing and the descriptions have me a real sense of the characters and the suspense of the Others and their dark world.
Bermuda was a great character (although I'm not sure we needed quite so many descriptions of his tattoos!)
The book was engaging and I did enjoy it although fans of sci fi will no doubt score it much higher.
Thanks to Netgalley for the copy to read. This is my no strings attached review.
However I read this after seeing some five star reviews and recommendations.
This book was interesting and intriguing and the descriptions have me a real sense of the characters and the suspense of the Others and their dark world.
Bermuda was a great character (although I'm not sure we needed quite so many descriptions of his tattoos!)
The book was engaging and I did enjoy it although fans of sci fi will no doubt score it much higher.
Thanks to Netgalley for the copy to read. This is my no strings attached review.
November 14, 2016
First off, a couple of disclaimers; I had a review copy of Doorways via Netgalley, where it was a featured title & I have met the author previously in real life (nice chap, I'm relieved the book was good).
I really enjoyed Doorways from the outset, a well-built world with characters you can understand/care about quickly - I'm looking forward to reading more Bermuda Jones stories and would recommend Doorways.
It's an Urban Fantasy novel set in modern London - If you imagine a setting in a broadly similar vein to the Felix Caster (Mike Carey) & Rivers of London (Ben Aaronovitch) books you will have a good idea of what to expect.
Well paced and fun.
I really enjoyed Doorways from the outset, a well-built world with characters you can understand/care about quickly - I'm looking forward to reading more Bermuda Jones stories and would recommend Doorways.
It's an Urban Fantasy novel set in modern London - If you imagine a setting in a broadly similar vein to the Felix Caster (Mike Carey) & Rivers of London (Ben Aaronovitch) books you will have a good idea of what to expect.
Well paced and fun.
December 8, 2016
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley.
This is another good vs. evil fantasy set in London. Nothing particularly new or outstanding but a mostly okay read nonetheless.
This is another good vs. evil fantasy set in London. Nothing particularly new or outstanding but a mostly okay read nonetheless.
August 3, 2018
I received a free copy of this book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
Bermuda Jones is a different man. He has been different since he was a child and it all he remembers. It has colored his whole world and disturbed his whole life. Everything he dreamed of and wanted for himself has been taken away. Why?
Because Bermuda sees things no other human sees. He sees aliens from other worlds, many other worlds. When he tries to warn people, he is not believed. He is removed from his family and locked up as insane. But he’s not! He really does see alien beings.
Bermuda Jones becomes an agent for Behind the Curtain Organization (BTCO), a group of humans and aliens, working together, to save Earth. Bermuda is different, he’s different from ordinary humans and aliens. He has very special abilities, undergoes training, and takes on assignments to protect both Earth and alien worlds. Battling frightening creatures, horrific evil, and impending doom, Bermuda and his alien counterpart must succeed, or the world will cease to exist as we know it and everyone will die.
Mr. Enright’s characters are real, interesting, believable and I enjoyed them immensely. They fill out the story with love, friendship, loyalty, craziness and a wide spectrum of human emotions. Even fill-in characters are part of the believable world and bring humanity to the forefront. I look forward to more of his writing and more of his books.
Bermuda Jones is a different man. He has been different since he was a child and it all he remembers. It has colored his whole world and disturbed his whole life. Everything he dreamed of and wanted for himself has been taken away. Why?
Because Bermuda sees things no other human sees. He sees aliens from other worlds, many other worlds. When he tries to warn people, he is not believed. He is removed from his family and locked up as insane. But he’s not! He really does see alien beings.
Bermuda Jones becomes an agent for Behind the Curtain Organization (BTCO), a group of humans and aliens, working together, to save Earth. Bermuda is different, he’s different from ordinary humans and aliens. He has very special abilities, undergoes training, and takes on assignments to protect both Earth and alien worlds. Battling frightening creatures, horrific evil, and impending doom, Bermuda and his alien counterpart must succeed, or the world will cease to exist as we know it and everyone will die.
Mr. Enright’s characters are real, interesting, believable and I enjoyed them immensely. They fill out the story with love, friendship, loyalty, craziness and a wide spectrum of human emotions. Even fill-in characters are part of the believable world and bring humanity to the forefront. I look forward to more of his writing and more of his books.
March 9, 2018
I’ve been really lucky, and I’ve met Rob. He was a signing in Peterborough last October, this was the first time I had ever heard about him. He’s a lovely bloke, my only regret was not purchasing a signed copy of his books, maybe next time though.
This is the first of Rob’s books that I’ve read, and it will not be the last one!
Bermuda Jones is different he has the ‘knack’; the ability to see what other people can’t. It is because of this that Bermuda works for a government agency that is so secret almost no one knows it exists. When people start going missing Bermuda and his partner Argyle are sent to investigate the disappearances and put them to put an end to them. Will they be able to get one step ahead and stop the next one from happening?
This book had me utterly hooked from the start. Doorways to me is a mixture of supernatural/ fantasy and crime thriller with some mystery and I think it works really well. I have loved how Doorways brings together the fantasy/supernatural world as well as the real world. The book is set in the real world but with creatures from the ‘otherside’ in it too. Doorways explains these ‘others’ as creatures from the ‘otherside’ that exist in the real world but can’t be seen by everyone. The ‘neithers’ are creatures from the ‘otherside’ who work and fight for the real world like Argyle and Vincent.
Even though the ‘others’ and the ‘otherside’ are thought to be fantasy and made up, I found myself more than once thinking what if they are real? what if they do exist but we just can’t see them? Rob has given these ‘other’ characters a life which is very believable, Bermuda is portrayed in a very realistic way, I really do feel for the guy, because of his gift (or curse as he calls it) he’s been through and lost so much, and that is something he’s still struggling to deal/cope with. I love how this guy despite hating that he has the ‘knack’ still continues to fight and tries save everyone, all whilst flaunting his lack of respect for his superiors at the BTCO.
I found Rob’s writing to be very informative and descriptive, which makes envisioning the story really easy, it’s almost like watching a movie in your own mind! It’s clear that Rob has invested a lot of energy, time, love and care into writing Doorways.
Doorways is packed full of mystery action and humour too; the humour does break-up the more serious tense moments incredibly well.
I feel that Doorways is a great start to the Bermuda Case Files Series and I’m itching to see just what happens next.
On to The Absent Man!
This is the first of Rob’s books that I’ve read, and it will not be the last one!
Bermuda Jones is different he has the ‘knack’; the ability to see what other people can’t. It is because of this that Bermuda works for a government agency that is so secret almost no one knows it exists. When people start going missing Bermuda and his partner Argyle are sent to investigate the disappearances and put them to put an end to them. Will they be able to get one step ahead and stop the next one from happening?
This book had me utterly hooked from the start. Doorways to me is a mixture of supernatural/ fantasy and crime thriller with some mystery and I think it works really well. I have loved how Doorways brings together the fantasy/supernatural world as well as the real world. The book is set in the real world but with creatures from the ‘otherside’ in it too. Doorways explains these ‘others’ as creatures from the ‘otherside’ that exist in the real world but can’t be seen by everyone. The ‘neithers’ are creatures from the ‘otherside’ who work and fight for the real world like Argyle and Vincent.
Even though the ‘others’ and the ‘otherside’ are thought to be fantasy and made up, I found myself more than once thinking what if they are real? what if they do exist but we just can’t see them? Rob has given these ‘other’ characters a life which is very believable, Bermuda is portrayed in a very realistic way, I really do feel for the guy, because of his gift (or curse as he calls it) he’s been through and lost so much, and that is something he’s still struggling to deal/cope with. I love how this guy despite hating that he has the ‘knack’ still continues to fight and tries save everyone, all whilst flaunting his lack of respect for his superiors at the BTCO.
I found Rob’s writing to be very informative and descriptive, which makes envisioning the story really easy, it’s almost like watching a movie in your own mind! It’s clear that Rob has invested a lot of energy, time, love and care into writing Doorways.
Doorways is packed full of mystery action and humour too; the humour does break-up the more serious tense moments incredibly well.
I feel that Doorways is a great start to the Bermuda Case Files Series and I’m itching to see just what happens next.
On to The Absent Man!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews