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Her
Her memory is the key to incredible power, but can She remember who She is before an ancient claims Her soul? She has no name and yet her rebirth will change life as we know it! Found on the brink of death, off the Gold Coast of Australia by Cyrus Dhandi, a fisherman with secrets of his own. With no recollection of Her name or any prior memories, She is enigmatic as She is beautiful. However, both are suddenly thrown together into a chaotic world where their lives are in peril! Threats, supernatural and deadly, attack at every turn. Can the two ill-matched individuals overcome their constant bickering before an ancient evil claims Her once and for all?
170 pages, Paperback
Published June 29, 2016
10 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
Malachi Bailey
2 books23 followersHailing from Long Island, NY, Malachi Bailey has always been unabashedly a lover of books! He fell in love with the Sunday comic strips then quickly moved onto Marvel and DC Comics. Early on, he became a huge fan of the X-Men, particularly Storm! His passion for superhero stories paved the way to online superhero roleplaying where he developed his craft as a writer. The rise of superhero movies only heightened his desire to write and play in the proverbial sandbox of the two comic book titans. This would be the start of his need to write daily.
Over the course of the decade, Malachi written short stories solo and with fellow writers on science fiction and fantasy. For nearly ten years he wrote every day. But for everyday he wrote, he also read book after book. The written word was never far from his hands. He always dreamed of being an author and that day would come.
In May 2015, Malachi was selected to joined the Brown Girls Books team. His upcoming debut novel, HER, was released June 28th 2016!
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
November 5, 2019
“Her” is an extraordinary journey into a new urban landscape filled with lovable characters and page-turning excitement. Malachi Bailey weaves a premiere saga that gives us a fresh new take on the strong woman protagonist; a warrior heroine who is not afraid to show her vulnerability. The African ancestry of the title character is not cliché and instead adds a refreshing level to Her origin story. The budding romance is a wholesome addition to the storyline that adds a bit of spice. However, the real focus is on the building of trust in the growing circle of friends. The beauty of “Her” is that you can easily see yourself as one of the characters or just sit back and watch as an enthusiastic observer. With his debut novel, Mr. Bailey allows us into a new world where we are quickly drawn into the mystery of who she is and then why this has happened to Her. Mr. Bailey gives us fantasy, action, humor, mystery, and drama wrapped up in a thrilling tale. I’m excited to see where this young, talented writer will take us next. I highly recommend this book. It was a joy to experience.
February 28, 2020
I find myself on the second book of 2020 with my “Year of Support” endeavor. This is a gesture to not only support black indie authors, but to commit to reading beyond the occasional suggested work. To read more.
For this month, I chose and finished Her, by Malachi Bailey. As February is short, I thought a novella would be perfect; and since this one caught my eye late last year, with its attractive cover art and smart and catchy title, I knew it would pair well with 28 days.
After reading Her, and having made a short list of list of likes and dislikes, I surveyed other reviews (on Amazon\Goodreads), just to get a sense of other impressions and perhaps to see if anyone may have picked up on its merits and faults as I have. Seemingly, Her leaves different impressions on folks. However, only two or three reviews seemed objectively critical of the work. To the rest, I am left wondering if I read the same title or not.
Nevertheless, Her… First off, let me say the premise of the story is sound. In fact, based on the theme alone, I am reminded of Splash (with Tom Hanks—and I hope I didn’t tell my age.) Yet, the melodrama of Her was more in line with the third act of the Robotech television series, The New Generation, particularly the relationship between the protagonist, Scott Bernard, and his love interest, Marlene. It’s safe to say that at times, the character dialogue reads just like the voice acting of the series. (And I'm a big fan of Robotech.)
NOTE: There is absolutely nothing sci-fi about Her. It is pure speculative fiction of the paranormal kind.
With a theme of self-discovery, or self-identity, it provides a moral lesson within the subject of representation. That’s to say, it goes beyond including a “black setting” or “black characters”, and speaks to an issue that a lot people of color contend with on a daily basis. Especially in a society that makes it a point to erase one’s identity due to the association of who they are to what they are, or their skin color. Of course, Her is certainly intended to appeal to that readership who identify most with “black girl magic.”
In addition, Her is a play on the story of Adam and Eve and infuses an element of Greek mythology, with African gods manipulating the fate of the characters. (Hope that is not a spoiler.)
With that, Bailey has his moments of showing rather than telling; and he certainly knows how to move a story along. However, I think the execution of Her suffered from a lack of structural editing, and it definitely could have been copy edited better as to remove a lot of the passive voice, improve on the POV shifts, simplify the repetition of descriptors and actions, and definitely eliminate some of if not all of the narrator's opinions. To the later, I can see how such wording creates an orator rather than narrator, but I am not interested in the opinion of the narrator; I can form my own, thank you very much. Thus, Her definitely does a lot of spoon feeding, instead of trusting the reader to put two and two together or to remember past details and events—especially when they just occurred. Moreover, I have never come across a book with TWO epilogues; but then, I have to give recognition to this being an indie project. Yet, if Epilogue 1 was instead served up as the prologue, as to foreshadow the motive of the antagonist(s), Her would deliver quite the resolution, providing a better reading experience. (Also, side note to Bailey, the scene breaks are usually represented with three asterisks.)
There are some other little things that I, myself, as a writer would have done differently. For example, if I was to take a character with no name through most of the story, then the pronoun ‘she’ would have been strategically capitalized for emphasis on the character. I would have also been mindful of terms or expressions that would date and lock the work in the period it was written, to which the potential of this story being a classic is very high. And while the characters are diverse, I would have represented them beyond being tropes or clichés—which may speak to some criticism of readers not feeling attached or invested in the characters.
But again, a lot of the shortcomings with Her are offset by Bailey’s ability to tell a story with a very clean premise. Three stars.
For this month, I chose and finished Her, by Malachi Bailey. As February is short, I thought a novella would be perfect; and since this one caught my eye late last year, with its attractive cover art and smart and catchy title, I knew it would pair well with 28 days.
After reading Her, and having made a short list of list of likes and dislikes, I surveyed other reviews (on Amazon\Goodreads), just to get a sense of other impressions and perhaps to see if anyone may have picked up on its merits and faults as I have. Seemingly, Her leaves different impressions on folks. However, only two or three reviews seemed objectively critical of the work. To the rest, I am left wondering if I read the same title or not.
Nevertheless, Her… First off, let me say the premise of the story is sound. In fact, based on the theme alone, I am reminded of Splash (with Tom Hanks—and I hope I didn’t tell my age.) Yet, the melodrama of Her was more in line with the third act of the Robotech television series, The New Generation, particularly the relationship between the protagonist, Scott Bernard, and his love interest, Marlene. It’s safe to say that at times, the character dialogue reads just like the voice acting of the series. (And I'm a big fan of Robotech.)
NOTE: There is absolutely nothing sci-fi about Her. It is pure speculative fiction of the paranormal kind.
With a theme of self-discovery, or self-identity, it provides a moral lesson within the subject of representation. That’s to say, it goes beyond including a “black setting” or “black characters”, and speaks to an issue that a lot people of color contend with on a daily basis. Especially in a society that makes it a point to erase one’s identity due to the association of who they are to what they are, or their skin color. Of course, Her is certainly intended to appeal to that readership who identify most with “black girl magic.”
In addition, Her is a play on the story of Adam and Eve and infuses an element of Greek mythology, with African gods manipulating the fate of the characters. (Hope that is not a spoiler.)
With that, Bailey has his moments of showing rather than telling; and he certainly knows how to move a story along. However, I think the execution of Her suffered from a lack of structural editing, and it definitely could have been copy edited better as to remove a lot of the passive voice, improve on the POV shifts, simplify the repetition of descriptors and actions, and definitely eliminate some of if not all of the narrator's opinions. To the later, I can see how such wording creates an orator rather than narrator, but I am not interested in the opinion of the narrator; I can form my own, thank you very much. Thus, Her definitely does a lot of spoon feeding, instead of trusting the reader to put two and two together or to remember past details and events—especially when they just occurred. Moreover, I have never come across a book with TWO epilogues; but then, I have to give recognition to this being an indie project. Yet, if Epilogue 1 was instead served up as the prologue, as to foreshadow the motive of the antagonist(s), Her would deliver quite the resolution, providing a better reading experience. (Also, side note to Bailey, the scene breaks are usually represented with three asterisks.)
There are some other little things that I, myself, as a writer would have done differently. For example, if I was to take a character with no name through most of the story, then the pronoun ‘she’ would have been strategically capitalized for emphasis on the character. I would have also been mindful of terms or expressions that would date and lock the work in the period it was written, to which the potential of this story being a classic is very high. And while the characters are diverse, I would have represented them beyond being tropes or clichés—which may speak to some criticism of readers not feeling attached or invested in the characters.
But again, a lot of the shortcomings with Her are offset by Bailey’s ability to tell a story with a very clean premise. Three stars.
July 4, 2016
There's a new superhero in town and Her name is...well, you'll just have to read to the final pages of this magical, mystical, kickass book to find out. Author Malachi Bailey has created a singularly smashing story sprinkled with elements of myth, folklore, humor, heartbreak, and pulse-pounding action that begs for sequels and screen adaptations. The beautiful enigmatic stranger of the title appears at the start and soon joins forces with a pink-haired, leather-clad, lollipop-licking bibliophile and a smolderingly sexy but endearing goofball to solve the mystery of HER...and perhaps save the world. Where did She come from? How did She get here? And that awesome power She possesses? No, no no, I won't spoil the story - just jump in and prepare to be washed away in a flood of fantastical fun!
July 22, 2016
Normally, I don't read this type of genre but when I saw the preview, it definitely caught my attention. I'm going to be honest, I've never had to look up so many words in a dictionary before in my life. Lol!! But seriously, even before reading About the Author, I got the Storm vibes from HER. This book was interesting, to say at least, yet intriguing in an mysterious mood. Who doesn't want black girl magic in a super hero type of persona? I found pride in the strength that SHE embodied for self awareness and for her heritage. Overall, I felt completed in the end but yearned for more.
July 2, 2016
Excellent Read!
Wow! HER is such a beautifully written, powerful, and engaging masterpiece. I fell in love with each and every character. The setting is perfect. I was engaged the entire time. HER is a page-turner that left me wanting even more! Readers are definitely in for a treat. I certainly hope Bailey turns Her into a series and I can't wait to see it on the big screen!
Wow! HER is such a beautifully written, powerful, and engaging masterpiece. I fell in love with each and every character. The setting is perfect. I was engaged the entire time. HER is a page-turner that left me wanting even more! Readers are definitely in for a treat. I certainly hope Bailey turns Her into a series and I can't wait to see it on the big screen!
August 6, 2016
A really nicely written story. Having badass PoC in a fantasy book is always a delight :) Even more so when rooted in African and Middle Eastern roots. I think this is the first time I've read anything like this. I had some issues with some heteronormative language, stereotypical characters, and cliches but this was a pretty cool book.
Oh, and the writing style flowed nicely, like water ;)
Oh, and the writing style flowed nicely, like water ;)
November 6, 2019
As much as people would want the phrase “black girl magic” to be cliche, it just won’t happen. And why should it? Simone Biles is killing the game in gymnastics to the point that they make rules around, and against, her. Rihanna makes a move and all of a sudden it becomes popular. Sister Rosetta Tharpe did something moatnsont even know about: birthed rock and roll. Beyoncé speaks for herself (her name auto corrects in my QWERTY). Let us realize and relax: black girl magic is just a way of life.
Malachi Bailey, being the smart man that he is, realized this. So, he reworked his prior novel for a second release. And l swear to all the deities that exist and ancestors that watch over me that this book is a completely enthralling read.
On the surface, this book is about a mystery lady found on the coast of Australia. She is bold, black, and beautiful like a Robert Townsend soap opera parody. However, there is more to here than meets the eye: she is “powerful” beyond belief. And her power derives itself from the elements. And those elements are such a life necessity that she is hard to control once she realizes her full potential. With that said, the story plays like a supernatural, superhero type story at first glance.
Beneath the surface, however, is what the book truly is: a homage to black women. To be more direct, this entire book could be interpreted as an allegory to the harmfulness of a patriarchal society on the greatness of black women. Some may think I’m reaching, while the author feels I’m on the right track. You see, the main character represents a black woman that is more amazing than life itself whose powers derive itself around the most important element of the human body. Yet, black women are always being misused by the “powers that be” for selfish reasons. Still, all must recognize that greatness because the black woman is god(dess). And black women are an essential element to society as a whole. Argument with ya momma: my mom agrees with me.
My suggestion: read the book so we can discuss.
At the end of the day, you have to dig beneath the surface to find the true jewels of knowledge. Malachi figured that out a long time ago. Oh, and black women over everything.
The link to the book will be at the bottom. Support!
Malachi Bailey, being the smart man that he is, realized this. So, he reworked his prior novel for a second release. And l swear to all the deities that exist and ancestors that watch over me that this book is a completely enthralling read.
On the surface, this book is about a mystery lady found on the coast of Australia. She is bold, black, and beautiful like a Robert Townsend soap opera parody. However, there is more to here than meets the eye: she is “powerful” beyond belief. And her power derives itself from the elements. And those elements are such a life necessity that she is hard to control once she realizes her full potential. With that said, the story plays like a supernatural, superhero type story at first glance.
Beneath the surface, however, is what the book truly is: a homage to black women. To be more direct, this entire book could be interpreted as an allegory to the harmfulness of a patriarchal society on the greatness of black women. Some may think I’m reaching, while the author feels I’m on the right track. You see, the main character represents a black woman that is more amazing than life itself whose powers derive itself around the most important element of the human body. Yet, black women are always being misused by the “powers that be” for selfish reasons. Still, all must recognize that greatness because the black woman is god(dess). And black women are an essential element to society as a whole. Argument with ya momma: my mom agrees with me.
My suggestion: read the book so we can discuss.
At the end of the day, you have to dig beneath the surface to find the true jewels of knowledge. Malachi figured that out a long time ago. Oh, and black women over everything.
The link to the book will be at the bottom. Support!
January 31, 2022
This book was really entertaining. I loved the creative universe that “Her” is set in and I look forward to the author’s future projects.
June 12, 2024
When I tell you this book speaks to my soul! The word art and visual imagery just opens up! This author definitely has a way with words! This story reads like movie
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews