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Read Along And Q & A with David Staniforth - Imperfect Strangers - From September 1st
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Jean
(last edited Sep 18, 2015 09:04PM)
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Sep 18, 2015 09:01PM
I just spent half an hour catching up on this thread. I don't know how I got so far behind. Anyway, I don't consider reading fantasy "crossing over to the dark side." I've read other bits of fantasy off and on over the years, and it's quite magical, as Chris said. While I have not read David's trilogy, only Alloria and Eye of Dominion, his descriptions, plot, and characters are quite engaging. I'm looking forward to the new book, and I will also read your trilogy (sooner rather than later, I hope, David).
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Christine wrote: "I initially found it hard to say which element--characterization, plotline or writing style--is most important. After a lot of thought, I think characterization is most important to me as I find i..."Agree with you on this including the Edwards comment. This is my second book from him as well and I'm recognizing his style.
Jean wrote: "I just spent half an hour catching up on this thread. I don't know how I got so far behind. Anyway, I don't consider reading fantasy "crossing over to the dark side." I've read other bits of fantas..."Fantasy is not my genre but I'm willing to give it a go with such great recommendations! :)
Thanks Chris and Jean, for both reading and recommending my fantasy titles. I'm surprised Janet hasn't happened along with her promise to tease me, or threatened me with jail.I've had Mark Edwards on my TBR list for a while, I see I'm going to have to bump them up a little.
Maybe you are right, David. I guess what I meant to say was that there's no such force as hits me when I read something by S.S. Van Dine or by Patrick Suskind or Dorothy Sayers and the likes. I agree that the uniqueness the authors have today is very subtle but sometimes it is just a bit too subtle for my taste. I have come across some authors who're extremely unique in this century. Often their writings reminded me of an author from the centuries past, often they don't. I like that. It's refreshing. So what I'm saying is I enjoy being able to distinguish one author from another in terms of how they pen their thoughts, so even though I could do that with some new age authors, I cannot always do that. The genre of Crime & Thrillers provides so much scope!
Quite coincidentally, Ishita, as you mention modern authors that remind you of writing from the past, I'm currently reading one just like that: The Shadow of the Wind. It was published in 2005, but reads as if it was written a century ago.
That book has long been on my TBR, David. Maybe it's time to pick it up! :)I've put my review to your book, BTW. Sorry for the delay, I had a busy week.
Worth a read Ishita, I'm really enjoying it so far.And thank you for your well written review, I'm pleased you enjoyed certain aspects of the book.
Thank you David. All the best for your future endeavors!
Mod
You will enjoy The Magpies.
Mod
Firstly, can I say congratulations, David, I think this has been a success in getting members talking about your book. Some thought provoking and intelligents comments have been made here. Interesting stuff!
I read the book a while ago. My review is here https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My overriding memory (sketchy and rubbish as my memory is. So many books start to merge after a while! :\ ) was that I didn't particularly care for Sally, couldn't bear her best friend, Kerry, and had mixed feelings about Keith insofar as I felt sorry for him, but I didn't. I won't repeat what I said in my review but I'm glad many of you thought it was a really good read. I don't really have to 'like' characters to like a book to they do have to be plausible and here they were.
On a personal note, I've been really busy of late, so my teasing has had to take a backseat. Shame really, because I'm so good at it!! ;0))
You guys mentioned Mark Edwards. I've read The Magpies and Forward Slash (his collaboration with Louise Voss). Hhmmmm on reflection I think I was generous with my rating of The Magpies and in reality it probably stands at a 3 - 3.5 star rating. I'm guessing his writing has improved. Got some more of his to read.
One thing some authors cannot bear and do make fun of (which I have seen on social media) is when readers say they're giving an 'unbiased and honest review' because they got an ARC or something. They're saying that EVERY review given should be unbiased and honest regardless of how the book was acquired. I do see the point of what they're saying. Thoughts anyone?
I always say that Janet. More because some of the publishers actually request that wording in the review. Those exact words... I've never really thought about it before.
It's a habit now, if I get the book for free I put it in there :-)
Melissa wrote: "I always say that Janet. More because some of the publishers actually request that wording in the review. Those exact words... I've never really thought about it before."Ditto Melissa...this is the verbiage that comes directly from the publishers. I have received copies from authors directly that only request that I post my review on Amazon as well as here, no request to add the 'in exchange for an honest review’ at all. Must be a publisher thing.
Yep, I was told to do it, but I see your point, Janet. I guess publishers and authors giving free books just want that point emphasized. It doesn't bother me.
I just want to ask Mr. Cam if you really think Keith is truly a "very weak and unmemorable" character. To me, Keith is one of the best written and most memorable characters I have come across in my two years of intensive reading. I find him incredibly complex, a guy who makes you want to smack him, hug him, kill him, love him, kick his ass, take good care of him. I think his thought processes are every bit as intriguing as his unpredictable actions. His interpersonal relationsips are fascinating. Basically, Keith really made me think as I was reading the book, and I like that. I am just curious, Cam, as to why you think he is weakly portrayed and unmemorable. Just trying to understand what you are saying. Can you give me an example of a fictional character who you find strongly written and very memorable?
Janet wrote: "Blimey! I had a lot to catch up on!!Firstly, can I say congratulations, David, I think this has been a success in getting members talking about your book. Some thought provoking and intelligents comments have been made here. Interesting stuff!..."
Thanks Janet. I agree, some interesting thought provoking stuff, with diverse points of view. I've been quite blown away, by the passion many readers here embrace a book. Really hope it continues to the end of the month.
It's all gone quiet…Anyone still reading? Any more questions or observations?
Mod
I didn't hear the pin, but I did hear the resulting echo ;~)
Christine wrote: "I just want to ask Mr. Cam if you really think Keith is truly a "very weak and unmemorable" character. To me, Keith is one of the best written and most memorable characters I have come across in m..."Hey Christer:
Yes, I still believe Keith to be a very weak and unremarkable character. However, we are speaking of two different things here. I think that David did an outstanding job of writing Keith's character. And I agree with you that he is one of the better written characters that I have come across in a long time. This is part of the reason why I inserted the impressionistic art comparison for my response to Jan. However, what one thinks of how a character is written and what one actually thinks of that character are two entirely different things. I guess this is where I misunderstood Jan and others and was on the wrong track. Great timing and clarification on the question here Christer. (and putting me on the right track) Pardon my misunderstanding Janster.
Oh, OK, Cam. I found it hard to believe you thought the character was not well-written. We will agree to disagree though about Keith being unmemorable or not. I think he is very memorable!
Good to see harmony restored, and thank you both for complimenting the writing of Keith. I have to say, he was fun (for want of a better word) to write, as was Keith's mum. I think I may have already mentioned, but they were close to becoming characters from my fantasy novels; for those that have read them: almost as much fun as Glebester and Grizzle.
Gleb and his sluggy drippy lips. Gag....
Christine wrote: "Gleb and his sluggy drippy lips. Gag...."Ha ha. Didn't claim he was attractive, just fun to write :~)
Mod
David wrote: "Good to see harmony restored, and thank you both for complimenting the writing of Keith. I have to say, he was fun (for want of a better word) to write, as was Keith's mum. I think I may have alrea..."David, I think that it was more of an effort of getting me on the right track. I don't believe that harmony was ever at risk. But, good of you to think of us.
No worries, Cam. Makes you realise, too, if a small message on here can easily be misread, there's no wonder that different readers interpret the same book differently.As an example, here are two completely different reviews from Amazon for Imperfect Strangers:
5.0 out of 5 stars A Terrifying Psychological Thriller
By Believer TOP 1000 REVIEWERon March 23, 2015
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
"Imperfect Strangers" by David Staniforth is a chilling psychological thrill ride that begins when a socially inept security guard plagued by multiple personalities becomes obsessed with Sally Bradwell, a young woman working in his building. Having suffered a childhood filled with the cruelty and abuse of a mentally ill mother Keith Pursehouse gravitates to Sally's unplanned acceptance and friendship, wanting more than she's willing to give.
Sally, the object of Keith's infatuation has her own problems. Having broken up with her boyfriend and clinging to the generosity, help and consideration of her odd friendship with Keith, Sally suddenly finds herself at odds with her conscience and her friends. What she doesn't suspect is that she may be trapped by a deadly fascination that could endanger her life.
Told from Keith and Sally's perspectives, David Staniforth takes the reader on a journey into the mind of a mentally ill young man who was tortured as a child, wants to forget the past and find love and acceptance with the attractive but vacillating Sally who ignores the sage advice of her friends and her boyfriend's pleas for reconciliation. The events of this captivating plot progress smoothly and quickly as Sally ignores her sixth sense and becomes friends with a man her friends dislike and distrust. In a unique and imaginative encounter between a troubled and broken young man and his victim, the mood is dark and frightening especially when they collide in a sinister and dramatic conclusion.
The characters are well-developed and complex especially Keith who struggles for normalcy in a life shattered by pain and violence. He's highly intelligent, but awkward, quiet and unassuming; disliking people who ridicule his peculiar behaviour and nervous stammering. Childlike, he reaches out to Sally after she smiles at him, becoming neurotic in his need to please her. Sally is the trusting, open and kind-hearted object of Keith's affection. Feeling betrayed by her boyfriend she succumbs to his generosity and consideration, wanting for once to be the center of a man's attention.
Among the other characters who add drama, passion and power to this story are Steve the untrustworthy boyfriend who seems controlling and narcissistic; Kerry the critical and blunt friend; and Mrs. Sewell, the sympathetic and caring old neighbour.
"Imperfect Strangers" is a frighteningly realistic story that grabs your attention and doesn't let go until the startling conclusion. I liked it and highly recommend it
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2.0 out of 5 stars This was one of the most silliest books I have ...
By merlinon 22 September 2015
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
This was one of the most silliest books I have ever read.the characters were not believable and it was very obvious to me anyway what the ending would be.
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No need for me to say which one I prefer, and fortunately most have been like it.
David wrote: "No worries, Cam. Makes you realise, too, if a small message on here can easily be misread, there's no wonder that different readers interpret the same book differently.As an example, here are two..."
Funny! I imagine at times it gives you a chuckle seeing such polar opposite reactions to your book!
Cameron wrote: "David wrote: "Good to see harmony restored, and thank you both for complimenting the writing of Keith. I have to say, he was fun (for want of a better word) to write, as was Keith's mum. I think I ..."We miss you in The Magpie's read Cam!
It does, Jan. It also ensures that one can't take reviews as a personal judgement.
This is what happens when one takes a hiatus from the internet! ARGH. David, looks like an amazingly lively discussion you've instigated. :) Well done. I have just stopped reading this thread backwards because I started getting into spoiler alerts. But, you know, your book is high on my TBR list. I'll get there, I promise. Just a quick note to say congrats on the great thread! And good luck with the next thriller: you've got quite a few fans waiting. :)
Thanks H.N. It has been a great experience. Hope it continues into the next week. :-)
Yes me too, because I'm just halfway through the book.
That's good to know, E. Looking forward to your comments :-)
I have just read a great quote in my current read, which reflects some of the discussion in this thread:'Books are mirrors: you only see in them what you already have inside you.'
David wrote: "I have just read a great quote in my current read, which reflects some of the discussion in this thread:'Books are mirrors: you only see in them what you already have inside you.'"
Nice, love it
Christine wrote: "I initially found it hard to say which element--characterization, plotline or writing style--is most important. After a lot of thought, I think characterization is most important to me as I find i..."I never thought about this in depth but I must say I really like your assessment!!!
Jean wrote: "I just spent half an hour catching up on this thread. I don't know how I got so far behind. Anyway, I don't consider reading fantasy "crossing over to the dark side." I've read other bits of fantas..."Me Too Jean!! LOL Where have I been?
Jan wrote: "Cameron wrote: "David wrote: "Good to see harmony restored, and thank you both for complimenting the writing of Keith. I have to say, he was fun (for want of a better word) to write, as was Keith's..."Janmeister:
I miss it too. It just was not fair to hamper the reading progress as much as I needed to. Thanks for the shout, though.
I notice a great deal of reviews, for many books, have wording to the effect of: the ending was predictable, or a bigger twist would have been better. With Imperfect strangers I actually built in a certain level of predictability, the intention being that the reader is in effect watching the slow progress of an inevitable train crash (you know it's going to happen, and dread the casualty count). In light of this, I was just wondering if the majority of readers need the twists and turns and didn't-see-that-coming ending, or like me can you simply enjoy the journey?
If that was your intention, you nailed it, David. I think with some books you need that- A train crash in the making (love the comparison!) Imperfect strangers was one such. The story was really simple so I guess a lot of twist and turns could've ruined it. I like the way the story progresses.
Mod
That's a good take on it, Janet. I guess the more you read, the harder it is to catch you out, too.
Mod
Janet wrote: "I think it depends greatly on the book. I just want good words put together well on a page because no matter what, a good story is a good story. I'm pretty adept at seeing things coming so when an..."Do I hear a second. Second.
Only a few days left, so unless you wish to visit the dark and dank depths of the archive room, best get any questions or observations in before I'm cast down below. :-)
Mod
a great success, some great comments and I hope this continues with this thread each month.
Sean wrote: "David,a great success, some great comments and I hope this continues with this thread each month."
Indeed, Sean, I wholeheartedly agree. Thank you both to you and Janet for allowing my book to stand this month. And while I'm in that mode, thank you Christine for your assistance in promoting it and encouraging others to participate, and of course all those that have read, reviewed and left lovely and interesting comments. Without you all, I'd just be a lonely writer with a book that nobody's read. A book truly does need readers in order to come to life.
If you have enjoyed the book, please do recommend it to others. It's a tough slog without the backing of a publisher and word of mouth really does make a big difference.
With that out of the way, I'll take a comfy seat over here in the hope of more participation before my exile to the archives…
Please consider visiting me; I hear it's dark and lonely down there…
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Books mentioned in this topic
Imperfect Strangers (other topics)Alloria (other topics)
The Shadow of the Wind (other topics)
Eye of Dominion (other topics)
Alloria (other topics)
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