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Guardian #2
Waking Lazarus
Jake Harris' life hasn't turned out the way he planned. Battling his addictions, and the shattered pieces of his family, he is hired to ghostwrite a memoir. From the 1920's story of a controversial evangelist, to the present day mystery of a former District Attorney, everything changes when his search for the truth leads to an atrocity hidden from history. With a past he can't remember, he begins to discover that he is not the person he believed himself to be. Rather, he is a threat to a secret society that has remained in the shadows for nearly a century. Jake is drawn deep inside a world he never knew existed that brings him closer to his own extraordinary destiny.
Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2016
25 people are currently reading
548 people want to read
About the author
D.J. Williams
9 books115 followersWith the DNA of a world traveler, D.J. Williams was born and raised in Hong Kong, igniting an adventurous spirit as he ventured into the jungles of the Amazon, the bush of Africa, and the slums of the Far East. His global travels submerged him in a myriad of cultures, providing a unique perspective that fuels his creativity.
As a fresh voice in mystery, suspense, and YA fantasy, his novels have climbed the charts ranking as high as #1 on Amazon Hot New Releases. His books The Auctioneer and Hunt For Eden’s Star have received stellar reviews from Kirkus Reviews, the most trusted voice in book discovery. Williams has also been featured in Publishers Weekly and Writer's Digest.
Currently living in Los Angeles, D.J. is always on the hunt for the next story as he prepares to launch the next novel in the Chase Hardeman series in 2024, as well as finishing the third book in the Beacon Hill series with tentative release of January 2025.
Follow D.J. on Instagram (djwilliamsbooks) for the latest news.
As a fresh voice in mystery, suspense, and YA fantasy, his novels have climbed the charts ranking as high as #1 on Amazon Hot New Releases. His books The Auctioneer and Hunt For Eden’s Star have received stellar reviews from Kirkus Reviews, the most trusted voice in book discovery. Williams has also been featured in Publishers Weekly and Writer's Digest.
Currently living in Los Angeles, D.J. is always on the hunt for the next story as he prepares to launch the next novel in the Chase Hardeman series in 2024, as well as finishing the third book in the Beacon Hill series with tentative release of January 2025.
Follow D.J. on Instagram (djwilliamsbooks) for the latest news.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 6, 2017
Full review at: Bright Copy Book Review
*This book was gifted to me by the author. The below review is my honest opinion*
My brain is on fire from all of the action and information I just absorbed from this book. It definitely had a secret agent/James Bond thing going and I actually think the plot would make an even better movie. Keep in mind that this book can be read as a standalone, which is what I have done but it's actually the second book in the Guardian Novel series and with the way the book left off, there will be more to come.
I'm not a huge action/adventurer which is the only reason why I gave this book what could be seen as a low rating. I thought the plot was very well thought out, if not a bit confusing at times. One major thing for me was the characters, I just couldn't get emotionally attached because I wasn't a huge fan of the main character, Jake and I felt like most of the characters just fell flat because the book was focused more on the plot.
For those of you that like secret societies and political warfare, this will suit you well. Although the genre really just isn't for me, it didn't stop me from enjoying the book.
*This book was gifted to me by the author. The below review is my honest opinion*
My brain is on fire from all of the action and information I just absorbed from this book. It definitely had a secret agent/James Bond thing going and I actually think the plot would make an even better movie. Keep in mind that this book can be read as a standalone, which is what I have done but it's actually the second book in the Guardian Novel series and with the way the book left off, there will be more to come.
I'm not a huge action/adventurer which is the only reason why I gave this book what could be seen as a low rating. I thought the plot was very well thought out, if not a bit confusing at times. One major thing for me was the characters, I just couldn't get emotionally attached because I wasn't a huge fan of the main character, Jake and I felt like most of the characters just fell flat because the book was focused more on the plot.
For those of you that like secret societies and political warfare, this will suit you well. Although the genre really just isn't for me, it didn't stop me from enjoying the book.
October 10, 2016
This is a very well thought out and action filled thriller. I liked the plot and the characters of Jake, Kate and Scarlett are well rounded, mesh well with the story and each other. This is a plot that is constantly shifting and evolving, and this is a book you have to pay attention to. There are a lot of elements in the book and if you aren't giving it your full attention, it is easy to get lost or confused. There is a lot going on in this book! My only real negative is that it had so many parts and subplots that it did get confusing at times. However, it was still a good book and I enjoyed reading it greatly. While at first Jake's character grated on my nerves, his evolution felt natural and it was easier to connect to him. I found that by the time I got half way through, I didn't want to put this down.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2016
Waking Lazarus—A Review
This is my first experience with D. J. Williams and all I can say is “Wow!”
Waking Lazarus is a fast-paced, twisting story into which the reader enters struggling to understand both the setting, the characters and even the plot. For you, the one reading this review, your first reaction might be, “So, a second book by an inarticulate writer who has idea and communication issues.”
If you are tempted to think that you would be so…. very…. very…. wrong….
D. J. Williams has crafted a series where all assumptions by the reader must literally be left at the doorway to this book. The seemingly innocuous initial motivation of the protagonist is for him to ghost write a book for a man who knew his father. The reader discovers “Jake” had a great life which suddenly “snapped” and he became obsessed with the idea of writing a book. Unfortunately, Jake’s efforts never translated into being published and his obsession drove him into alcohol and a divorce—in which he pours his obsessiveness to avoid, but apparently he is failing in this effort as well.
Unfortunately for Jake, his ghost-writing opportunity becomes a noose; his benefactor is brutally killed and Jake is sucked into a world of death and destruction, of snipers and targets and he is unceremoniously tossed into a past he is unable to remember and a person long forgotten.
It is through Jake’s research into the story the family friend and benefactor, Doc Warren, asked him to write, that Jake discovers there exists a group of people who have taken advantage of a weakness shared by people of every language and culture in order to create unstoppable soldiers. As the story unfolds, the reader begins to comprehend the deaths in Los Angeles have ramifications which lead to the White House and to Hong Kong. And all of this began with his research into a female evangelist named Evelyn Shaw.
I honestly had no idea what to expect when I began reading this book. In the beginning, the story appears to defy any analysis the reader may attempt in order to project where the plot arc will land. Yet as this book unfolds (no metaphor intended—I read everything on my iPad), the reader is inexorably drawn into a labyrinth of mystery which all is strangely connected to a woman who had an ability to heal and the ability to motivate people to change their lives in nothing short of a miraculous manner.
I do not exaggerate—as you read this book you will find yourself torn between putting the book down in order to catch your breath and a deep desire to ignore sleep so you can find out how a female preacher from the early 1900’s ties in with terrorism and death! Journeying to Hong Kong allows Jake to discover who he is which becomes an even greater mystery as the book reaches its denouement. You, the reader, need to be prepared to say “wow” again and again!
Waking Lazarus is a page turning phenomenon; the pace, the character development, the story and the tension makes every part of this book feel palpably real and relevant to our world today. Williams has managed to write a book in which the reader never has to suspend reality. Every part of the story—from kidnappings to the wholesale killings of a bomb—fills the reader’s mind with plausible familiarity.
This is a great book for anyone who loves a great mystery, compelling intrigue and a breathtaking story! Waking Lazarus will definitely make you not want to sleep!
This is my first experience with D. J. Williams and all I can say is “Wow!”
Waking Lazarus is a fast-paced, twisting story into which the reader enters struggling to understand both the setting, the characters and even the plot. For you, the one reading this review, your first reaction might be, “So, a second book by an inarticulate writer who has idea and communication issues.”
If you are tempted to think that you would be so…. very…. very…. wrong….
D. J. Williams has crafted a series where all assumptions by the reader must literally be left at the doorway to this book. The seemingly innocuous initial motivation of the protagonist is for him to ghost write a book for a man who knew his father. The reader discovers “Jake” had a great life which suddenly “snapped” and he became obsessed with the idea of writing a book. Unfortunately, Jake’s efforts never translated into being published and his obsession drove him into alcohol and a divorce—in which he pours his obsessiveness to avoid, but apparently he is failing in this effort as well.
Unfortunately for Jake, his ghost-writing opportunity becomes a noose; his benefactor is brutally killed and Jake is sucked into a world of death and destruction, of snipers and targets and he is unceremoniously tossed into a past he is unable to remember and a person long forgotten.
It is through Jake’s research into the story the family friend and benefactor, Doc Warren, asked him to write, that Jake discovers there exists a group of people who have taken advantage of a weakness shared by people of every language and culture in order to create unstoppable soldiers. As the story unfolds, the reader begins to comprehend the deaths in Los Angeles have ramifications which lead to the White House and to Hong Kong. And all of this began with his research into a female evangelist named Evelyn Shaw.
I honestly had no idea what to expect when I began reading this book. In the beginning, the story appears to defy any analysis the reader may attempt in order to project where the plot arc will land. Yet as this book unfolds (no metaphor intended—I read everything on my iPad), the reader is inexorably drawn into a labyrinth of mystery which all is strangely connected to a woman who had an ability to heal and the ability to motivate people to change their lives in nothing short of a miraculous manner.
I do not exaggerate—as you read this book you will find yourself torn between putting the book down in order to catch your breath and a deep desire to ignore sleep so you can find out how a female preacher from the early 1900’s ties in with terrorism and death! Journeying to Hong Kong allows Jake to discover who he is which becomes an even greater mystery as the book reaches its denouement. You, the reader, need to be prepared to say “wow” again and again!
Waking Lazarus is a page turning phenomenon; the pace, the character development, the story and the tension makes every part of this book feel palpably real and relevant to our world today. Williams has managed to write a book in which the reader never has to suspend reality. Every part of the story—from kidnappings to the wholesale killings of a bomb—fills the reader’s mind with plausible familiarity.
This is a great book for anyone who loves a great mystery, compelling intrigue and a breathtaking story! Waking Lazarus will definitely make you not want to sleep!
January 23, 2017
This book starts with a prologue that does not discuss the protagonist of the story and is set in Mexico. The writing is very dramatic and intense. It sets a tone that I was not sure I was going to like. I started the first chapter- major writing style and tone change. The protagonist is introduced and the setting is now California. I started liking this a bit more. Then the writer starts to feed the reader a little information at a time. Some of this information starts to tie in with other information and some is still questionable. Then I was hooked. I wanted to know how the past and present were connected. As the story starts to unfold the twists and turns begin. And the best part- the story was not predictable! I did not always know what was going to happen!
Waking Lazarus ended up being a face-paced, page turner that kept me guessing. The settings were described well and the characters were developed. The story did jump to and from the perspectives of different characters, but was well organized, so it was not confusing. I was guessing at times what was really happening, but it is clear this was the author's intention, and added to the mystery and suspense. This author has a talent for being able to set a mood. As I was reading, it felt like a movie. The only problem I had with this book was that I had to stop and figure out some of the abbreviations which I didn't want to take the time to do. I realize that's how the characters in the book would talk and think, so this made the story more believable, but I was reading a suspenseful thriller! Also, be aware, this is not a cozy mystery. There is lots of bloodshed.
This book is the second in The Guardian trilogy. Usually I do not like reading a series out of order, but it felt okay not reading The Disillusioned first. The way Waking Lazarus ended, however, I do feel that I will have to read the third in the series. The story had an ending, but there was clearly more to come.
Waking Lazarus ended up being a face-paced, page turner that kept me guessing. The settings were described well and the characters were developed. The story did jump to and from the perspectives of different characters, but was well organized, so it was not confusing. I was guessing at times what was really happening, but it is clear this was the author's intention, and added to the mystery and suspense. This author has a talent for being able to set a mood. As I was reading, it felt like a movie. The only problem I had with this book was that I had to stop and figure out some of the abbreviations which I didn't want to take the time to do. I realize that's how the characters in the book would talk and think, so this made the story more believable, but I was reading a suspenseful thriller! Also, be aware, this is not a cozy mystery. There is lots of bloodshed.
This book is the second in The Guardian trilogy. Usually I do not like reading a series out of order, but it felt okay not reading The Disillusioned first. The way Waking Lazarus ended, however, I do feel that I will have to read the third in the series. The story had an ending, but there was clearly more to come.
August 25, 2016
The book starts by introducing us to the main character who is a alcoholic wanna be author who was invited to write a memoir of his father's work associate,Doc.
Doc is murdered, the contents of his safe are stolen and the real story begins. The FBI is brought in to solve the murder and an international conspiracy is revealed. The story does not end at the end of this book. I'm not sure how many books are planned for this series.
The beginning of the book is a little disorganized, in my opinion, in that it introduces a number of characters with no apparent relationship to one another. While this is a common technique, it seemed confusing in this book. There were also a number of occasions when the author used acronyms that I was not familiar with. I was glad I was reading on the kindle so that I could look them up.
I'm also not sure how I feel about the book switching from first person to third person. I felt like I had to reorient myself often.
Another thing that bothered me throughout the book was referring to a car that was following them as a Denali. A Denali is not a kind of car! It's a trim level for any GMC.
That being said, The story was a great quick read. Once I got into it, I couldn't put it down. I thought the story was fun and reminded me a bit of "Bourne" ( super spy can't remember his past).
I think the story was good enough that the author didn't need to rely on so many instances of redirection. Kate is a major character in the story, we like her. I don't think it's necessary to try and insinuate she can't be trusted ( in the needle scene). If she can't be trusted, all the more reason to not suggest it!
The story carried this book with lots of interesting details and a complex story line. I think the editor needs to help streamline the plot and help keep the story more organized.
Disclosure: I received this book for free or at a discount in exchange for an unbiased review.
Doc is murdered, the contents of his safe are stolen and the real story begins. The FBI is brought in to solve the murder and an international conspiracy is revealed. The story does not end at the end of this book. I'm not sure how many books are planned for this series.
The beginning of the book is a little disorganized, in my opinion, in that it introduces a number of characters with no apparent relationship to one another. While this is a common technique, it seemed confusing in this book. There were also a number of occasions when the author used acronyms that I was not familiar with. I was glad I was reading on the kindle so that I could look them up.
I'm also not sure how I feel about the book switching from first person to third person. I felt like I had to reorient myself often.
Another thing that bothered me throughout the book was referring to a car that was following them as a Denali. A Denali is not a kind of car! It's a trim level for any GMC.
That being said, The story was a great quick read. Once I got into it, I couldn't put it down. I thought the story was fun and reminded me a bit of "Bourne" ( super spy can't remember his past).
I think the story was good enough that the author didn't need to rely on so many instances of redirection. Kate is a major character in the story, we like her. I don't think it's necessary to try and insinuate she can't be trusted ( in the needle scene). If she can't be trusted, all the more reason to not suggest it!
The story carried this book with lots of interesting details and a complex story line. I think the editor needs to help streamline the plot and help keep the story more organized.
Disclosure: I received this book for free or at a discount in exchange for an unbiased review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2016
"A Fast Paced Thriller"
This story is very captivating, fast paced, and an amazing accomplishment for author D.J. Williams. Jake Harris is down and out, not happy at all how his life has turned. He's troubled with alcohol addiction, and his family has fallen apart. Since he's alone now, he is asked to be a ghost writer for a man who is writing a memoir. The shocking story begins by revealing a 1920s controversial Evangelist, Evelyn Shaw, who was also a healer. Her husband Nathan Shaw had died in 1910 in China. During his research, Jake finds evidence of a secret society, which has existed for 1,000 years, and is still functioning, even involving high level politicians. The murder of former District Attorney, Doc Warren, is investigated by FBI Agent Kate McNaughton. She and Jake Harris get swept into many dangerous situations of suspense to discover facts which many people are trying to keep secret. One fact Jake wants to know is just who is Lazarus, and why does Jake Harris have no memory recall prior to 16 years of age? This is like a stampede of a story to read and has many characters I had trouble remembering. However, the reader is enticed to follow Jake and Kate very closely to the shocking, sudden end. It's like a trip to another dark evil world. Author D.J. Williams is certainly very creative and expressive. A bit of a challenge for me to keep up, but I was captivated to read it to the end.
This story is very captivating, fast paced, and an amazing accomplishment for author D.J. Williams. Jake Harris is down and out, not happy at all how his life has turned. He's troubled with alcohol addiction, and his family has fallen apart. Since he's alone now, he is asked to be a ghost writer for a man who is writing a memoir. The shocking story begins by revealing a 1920s controversial Evangelist, Evelyn Shaw, who was also a healer. Her husband Nathan Shaw had died in 1910 in China. During his research, Jake finds evidence of a secret society, which has existed for 1,000 years, and is still functioning, even involving high level politicians. The murder of former District Attorney, Doc Warren, is investigated by FBI Agent Kate McNaughton. She and Jake Harris get swept into many dangerous situations of suspense to discover facts which many people are trying to keep secret. One fact Jake wants to know is just who is Lazarus, and why does Jake Harris have no memory recall prior to 16 years of age? This is like a stampede of a story to read and has many characters I had trouble remembering. However, the reader is enticed to follow Jake and Kate very closely to the shocking, sudden end. It's like a trip to another dark evil world. Author D.J. Williams is certainly very creative and expressive. A bit of a challenge for me to keep up, but I was captivated to read it to the end.
August 30, 2016
A Page-Turning Mystery
If you are a fan of stories that delve into religious extremism, government conspiracy, evil clandestine societies, political corruption, and where wealth, power, and influence can determine one’s fate, then you’ll enjoy reading this edge on your seat thriller. The author weaves into the narrative surprising events from nearly a century ago to present Los Angeles. Through flashbacks, the plot is riveting, bringing together some of the most multifaceted, well defined, diverse characters that you will respect, pity, or abhor. Just when you think you know which course the narrative is taking, you’re thrown lots of curb balls that expose murder, international crime syndicates, betrayal, deception, terrorism, secrets and lies, drugs and human trafficking, leading up to an ending that will leave you flabbergasted.
If you are a fan of stories that delve into religious extremism, government conspiracy, evil clandestine societies, political corruption, and where wealth, power, and influence can determine one’s fate, then you’ll enjoy reading this edge on your seat thriller. The author weaves into the narrative surprising events from nearly a century ago to present Los Angeles. Through flashbacks, the plot is riveting, bringing together some of the most multifaceted, well defined, diverse characters that you will respect, pity, or abhor. Just when you think you know which course the narrative is taking, you’re thrown lots of curb balls that expose murder, international crime syndicates, betrayal, deception, terrorism, secrets and lies, drugs and human trafficking, leading up to an ending that will leave you flabbergasted.
January 16, 2017
Amazing adventure!
This is a new author to me and I am happy to say is a new favorite! This was truly a fun and intriguing adventure with twists and turns and changes. I enjoyed it immensely! I am now needing to get on Amazon and search for more of his work....Guardian Novel Book 1 perhaps? Thank you D.J. Williams for hours of reading pleasure!
This is a new author to me and I am happy to say is a new favorite! This was truly a fun and intriguing adventure with twists and turns and changes. I enjoyed it immensely! I am now needing to get on Amazon and search for more of his work....Guardian Novel Book 1 perhaps? Thank you D.J. Williams for hours of reading pleasure!
August 29, 2016
Got to check out new merge of soundtrack with reading a novel...Exciting development!
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August 28, 2017
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book! All opinions are my own, and you can find more of my reviews on my blog at spinesinaline.wordpress.com
This one’s billed as an action and thriller, which it definitely lives up to, but I found that it was also a really compelling mystery (or series of mysteries). Jake really doesn’t know what he gets into when he agrees to be a ghost writer for his father’s friend and as he tries to figure everything out (it’s a confusing mess!), we get to tag along for the ride.
The book is told from several different perspectives which really helps fill out the story. Our MC is Jake and his perspective is presented in 1st person, with most of the narrative from his POV, but we also switch between several other characters, always in 3rd person. I kind of preferred the 3rd person views because the sentence structure with Jake’s chapters was sometimes clunky and repetitive. Plus he’s not a very likable character – he’s quite selfish and is letting laziness take over any of his actual aspirations. I think it’s purposeful that he’s set up in this way but it was nice to get a break from his voice. 😛
I liked the other characters at first but as the story went on, it was more obvious that the author wanted a love interest for the main female character, which really irks me in this genre (since women hardly seem to get moments to shine on their own). What really bothered me though is who she’s paired with. Though they don’t have much of an overt relationship, it’s implied that Kate, one of the FBI agents on the case, is somehow involved with her boss, and directly stated that he’s the one who gave her promotions to get the position she has now. She works closely with Jake which means that of course we need tension between them as well, even though we’re repeatedly reminded in the first half of the book that Jake would do anything to have a normal relationship with his (soon to be ex) wife and daughter again. Flirting with your government protection is not the way to achieve this, Jake!
My main issue with enjoying this story though was with the constant barrage of new information. I was intrigued with the mystery at the start of the story but each time we seemed to fit another piece into the puzzle, the puzzle grew 3 sizes (am I using this analogy correctly?). It was hard keeping up with all the twists, and more and more in the second half of the story, this new information wasn’t described in as much detail so it was difficult to make sense of it. There also seemed to be some plot points that weren’t fully realized – I won’t spoil anything here but it came across as the author writing from his POV and forgetting that the reader doesn’t know as much as he does.
The book does end with a cliffhanger, it is a series after all, but I felt that the story was contained well enough that it is enjoyable even without getting all the answers to this confusing mystery. I just think the book would’ve fared better if the author had reined in the story and kept closer to a single storyline.
This one’s billed as an action and thriller, which it definitely lives up to, but I found that it was also a really compelling mystery (or series of mysteries). Jake really doesn’t know what he gets into when he agrees to be a ghost writer for his father’s friend and as he tries to figure everything out (it’s a confusing mess!), we get to tag along for the ride.
The book is told from several different perspectives which really helps fill out the story. Our MC is Jake and his perspective is presented in 1st person, with most of the narrative from his POV, but we also switch between several other characters, always in 3rd person. I kind of preferred the 3rd person views because the sentence structure with Jake’s chapters was sometimes clunky and repetitive. Plus he’s not a very likable character – he’s quite selfish and is letting laziness take over any of his actual aspirations. I think it’s purposeful that he’s set up in this way but it was nice to get a break from his voice. 😛
I liked the other characters at first but as the story went on, it was more obvious that the author wanted a love interest for the main female character, which really irks me in this genre (since women hardly seem to get moments to shine on their own). What really bothered me though is who she’s paired with. Though they don’t have much of an overt relationship, it’s implied that Kate, one of the FBI agents on the case, is somehow involved with her boss, and directly stated that he’s the one who gave her promotions to get the position she has now. She works closely with Jake which means that of course we need tension between them as well, even though we’re repeatedly reminded in the first half of the book that Jake would do anything to have a normal relationship with his (soon to be ex) wife and daughter again. Flirting with your government protection is not the way to achieve this, Jake!
My main issue with enjoying this story though was with the constant barrage of new information. I was intrigued with the mystery at the start of the story but each time we seemed to fit another piece into the puzzle, the puzzle grew 3 sizes (am I using this analogy correctly?). It was hard keeping up with all the twists, and more and more in the second half of the story, this new information wasn’t described in as much detail so it was difficult to make sense of it. There also seemed to be some plot points that weren’t fully realized – I won’t spoil anything here but it came across as the author writing from his POV and forgetting that the reader doesn’t know as much as he does.
The book does end with a cliffhanger, it is a series after all, but I felt that the story was contained well enough that it is enjoyable even without getting all the answers to this confusing mystery. I just think the book would’ve fared better if the author had reined in the story and kept closer to a single storyline.
June 1, 2019
Let me say up front that I have not read book 1 in this series, but I was able to get the gist of it and follow along pretty well with the parts of the back story that were mentioned in this story. This is a very detailed, complex story. There is a lot going on here, a lot of action and suspense,
A lot of emotion, and a bit of romance as well. This isn’t the type of story I usually read, but I really enjoyed it. I think the characters are mainly what kept me interested. The fast-moving action was a bit much for me, but I would recommend it for readers who like that type of story.
I listened to the audio version, which I think is one reason I liked it. I probably would not have liked it as much if I were actually reading it. I think I would have ended up skimming parts of it.
Narrator, Josh Horowitz, did a really good job with the narration.
A lot of emotion, and a bit of romance as well. This isn’t the type of story I usually read, but I really enjoyed it. I think the characters are mainly what kept me interested. The fast-moving action was a bit much for me, but I would recommend it for readers who like that type of story.
I listened to the audio version, which I think is one reason I liked it. I probably would not have liked it as much if I were actually reading it. I think I would have ended up skimming parts of it.
Narrator, Josh Horowitz, did a really good job with the narration.
February 1, 2022
I received a free copy of this for review. It's a premise like the Borne series, which I have only seen the movies and did not like.
Jake Harris is hired to be a ghostwriter and ends up witnessing a murder. Somehow this leads to the Brethren, assassins who protect criminal organizations, and the Guardians, a group of child assassins who protect the world from human traffickers and corrupt politicians.
My biggest problem with this book was how it jumped around between the different storylines. I often didn't know what was going on and I was never sure if I missed something, it was in book 1, or was only in the author's mind in an effort to create suspense. There is also so much incest between the two groups that it makes a soap opera look sane.
I did like Williams' writing style. It was an easy read. Lots of twists.
Jake Harris is hired to be a ghostwriter and ends up witnessing a murder. Somehow this leads to the Brethren, assassins who protect criminal organizations, and the Guardians, a group of child assassins who protect the world from human traffickers and corrupt politicians.
My biggest problem with this book was how it jumped around between the different storylines. I often didn't know what was going on and I was never sure if I missed something, it was in book 1, or was only in the author's mind in an effort to create suspense. There is also so much incest between the two groups that it makes a soap opera look sane.
I did like Williams' writing style. It was an easy read. Lots of twists.
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March 23, 2017Let me temper this review by saying that this story is garnering great comments from others and has good review scores. However, it just didn't capture my attention - at all.
When I look at those other reviews, I genuinely feel like I was reading a different book. I didn't find the pacing to be fast; instead, I found it a little bogged down with the back story. I didn't connect at all with Jake, and whilst I will happily admit that the prologue had me intrigued, my interest waned rapidly thereafter.
I have no doubt that the book picks up, having looked at what others have said. And my opinion is by no means representative. But, as I have said before, I think that reading should be a pleasure, not a task. And so, it is with regret that I must report that I didn't finish this tale.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
When I look at those other reviews, I genuinely feel like I was reading a different book. I didn't find the pacing to be fast; instead, I found it a little bogged down with the back story. I didn't connect at all with Jake, and whilst I will happily admit that the prologue had me intrigued, my interest waned rapidly thereafter.
I have no doubt that the book picks up, having looked at what others have said. And my opinion is by no means representative. But, as I have said before, I think that reading should be a pleasure, not a task. And so, it is with regret that I must report that I didn't finish this tale.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
April 1, 2019
audible:This was a good book.It just did not grab my attention like some others have.It had all the magical elements twisted with religion etc. Josh Horowitz was a fine narrator. I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review.
February 9, 2017
STORY-LINE WAKING LAZARUS:
Author D. J. Williams' mystery crime novel, Waking Lazarus, an action packed thriller, enmeshes the reader into a many layered story-line. Jake Harris's commissioned by Doc Warren to write his memoir; Doc's an old friend of Jake's estranged father. Warren begins his narrative with his knowledge of Sister Evelyn, 1920's evangelist. When Jake finds Warren murdered the next day, his life takes on a full tilt drive of a lifetime. Jake received just enough information on Evelyn Shaw to whet his appetite. What started as a memoir quickly morphed into a something much more as the criminal elements of the world realize what has happened. Jake Harris, down and out addict, finds himself involved in a fight for his life.
Deaths, shoot outs, conspiracies, murders, and criminals galore, pepper this deeply involved story. From the highest levels of government, to an organization formed to protect the criminal underground and silence 1920's Evangelist/revolutionary Sister Evelyn Harris, to present day arch criminals. Come along and follow Jake and company as they ferret out the secrets of Sister Evelyn and the impact on the world today. Who or what is Lazarus? That is the sixty-four thousand dollar question, and only by reading Waking Lazarus can you find out!
Grab a comfortable seat, my mystery suspense novel review of Waking Lazarus, follows.
CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, DEVELOPMENT:
Firstly, I must say how enthralled I was with this book. I could not put it down. From one fast paced scene to another, the author leads the reader through a maze of conspiracies, criminals, and deaths. In the beginning I was not sure this book would be my cup of tea. It did not take long before I knew this was a power house of a book. A complicated conspiracy with many deeply driven characters and layers, Williams hooks the reader and does not let go as he leads you through his story. What a story this is!
At center stage, the age-old battle between good and evil with Evelyn Shaw,1920's charismatic evangelistic, as the center piece. Seen as before her time, she forged bonds between white, black, rich, poor, criminal, and citizen. A threat to criminal elements of the world, a hidden agenda of criminals begin their track to dominance. Williams kept the suspense at its highest peak throughout this novel. Also, author Williams developed each characters to its full potential. With many threads to bring together to form this solid mystery suspense novel, Williams skillfully wove his plot lines, revealing them at the right moment.
With pacing, which made my heart race, I read until I fell asleep, and then grabbed the book again. Finally, in concluding my mystery suspense novel review of Waking Lazarus, I found an original story-line, filled with varied and well-developed characters, pacing which made the heart thump and excellent plotting. I would not hesitate to buy this book for my self or a friend.
WAKING LAZARUS RECOMMENDATION: STARS 5
In addition, I felt I could do so less than give this book 5 stars. What a power house! I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a well-written mystery suspense thriller. This book one has found a home on my keeper shelf.
FINALLY, PLEASE NOTE:
Additionally, I received this book from the author and chose to voluntarily review the book with an honest mystery suspense novel/book review. Lastly, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion. Consequently, all book reviews on-line and on my blog, are my opinions. In addition, the ARC did not affect my mystery suspense novel/book review.
Author D. J. Williams' mystery crime novel, Waking Lazarus, an action packed thriller, enmeshes the reader into a many layered story-line. Jake Harris's commissioned by Doc Warren to write his memoir; Doc's an old friend of Jake's estranged father. Warren begins his narrative with his knowledge of Sister Evelyn, 1920's evangelist. When Jake finds Warren murdered the next day, his life takes on a full tilt drive of a lifetime. Jake received just enough information on Evelyn Shaw to whet his appetite. What started as a memoir quickly morphed into a something much more as the criminal elements of the world realize what has happened. Jake Harris, down and out addict, finds himself involved in a fight for his life.
Deaths, shoot outs, conspiracies, murders, and criminals galore, pepper this deeply involved story. From the highest levels of government, to an organization formed to protect the criminal underground and silence 1920's Evangelist/revolutionary Sister Evelyn Harris, to present day arch criminals. Come along and follow Jake and company as they ferret out the secrets of Sister Evelyn and the impact on the world today. Who or what is Lazarus? That is the sixty-four thousand dollar question, and only by reading Waking Lazarus can you find out!
Grab a comfortable seat, my mystery suspense novel review of Waking Lazarus, follows.
CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, DEVELOPMENT:
Firstly, I must say how enthralled I was with this book. I could not put it down. From one fast paced scene to another, the author leads the reader through a maze of conspiracies, criminals, and deaths. In the beginning I was not sure this book would be my cup of tea. It did not take long before I knew this was a power house of a book. A complicated conspiracy with many deeply driven characters and layers, Williams hooks the reader and does not let go as he leads you through his story. What a story this is!
At center stage, the age-old battle between good and evil with Evelyn Shaw,1920's charismatic evangelistic, as the center piece. Seen as before her time, she forged bonds between white, black, rich, poor, criminal, and citizen. A threat to criminal elements of the world, a hidden agenda of criminals begin their track to dominance. Williams kept the suspense at its highest peak throughout this novel. Also, author Williams developed each characters to its full potential. With many threads to bring together to form this solid mystery suspense novel, Williams skillfully wove his plot lines, revealing them at the right moment.
With pacing, which made my heart race, I read until I fell asleep, and then grabbed the book again. Finally, in concluding my mystery suspense novel review of Waking Lazarus, I found an original story-line, filled with varied and well-developed characters, pacing which made the heart thump and excellent plotting. I would not hesitate to buy this book for my self or a friend.
WAKING LAZARUS RECOMMENDATION: STARS 5
In addition, I felt I could do so less than give this book 5 stars. What a power house! I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a well-written mystery suspense thriller. This book one has found a home on my keeper shelf.
FINALLY, PLEASE NOTE:
Additionally, I received this book from the author and chose to voluntarily review the book with an honest mystery suspense novel/book review. Lastly, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion. Consequently, all book reviews on-line and on my blog, are my opinions. In addition, the ARC did not affect my mystery suspense novel/book review.
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