Why I read this book:
Last week, Evo of Podiobook.com put out a call for patrons. Podiobooks.com stores and distributes free, that's right FREE, audiobooks with the encouraged option to donate to the authors. I first discovered this website when I was desperate for the next episode of Nathan Lowell's Owner's Share when it stopped appearing on iTunes. I was one of the hordes of people who led to a server crash at podiobooks that necessitated an upgrade in hardware. Although I don't go to this website much, it is something I am supporting because of the wonderful selection of podiobooks and the ability to donate to the authors without having to track down their websites. The HeavenField by I G Hulme was listed as receiving the Founder's Choice award in 2009. The description and art caught my interest. I listened to the first 5 minutes of the first chapter, and I was hooked.
My one sentence summary:
Scientists produce a gateway to an unknown and horrifying landscape while mysterious forces try to shut down the experiment.
Kudos:
I've got to give the author credit for his artwork (words, images, and podcasting). Visit his website to see some of his great artwork. It's all topnotch, eerie, and completely engrossing. The podiobook starts off like a radio drama. I loved this effect. It can be confusing to follow, but I felt that confusion added to the atmosphere of the story. There aren't a lot of answers here. However, the gateway world and the intrigue back in our world is riveting. Hulme's characters are engaging. With very few details about who they are, I found myself caring for what happened to them. The HeavenField-scape is very creepy. It has a dream-like quality that quickly turns into a nightmare for those trapped there when sabotage takes the gate device offline. I was really interested in the men trying to take the gate device offline.
Quibbles:
This isn't a book. It's a really engaging first part of a book that does contain a rudimentary story arc. However, it feels more like an introduction than a complete book. This the first instalment in a series. Given the length of the first one, I'm hoping that the next books make a complete story. Holy adverbs, Batman! I thought authors were being pedantic when they preached about the evils of adverbs. However, in HeavenField, they stick out like sore thumbs. Perhaps because I listened to this book rather than reading it, but the dialog tags felt intrusive. Hulme is an excellent narrator, and I found the dialog tags unnecessary and distracting.
Final verdict:
I want more. This is the kind of creepy scifi/horror that I love. The HeavenField world is unnerving. Hulme's style is descriptive and fast-pace.