4 Star Review
Click HERE to Purchase Your Copy Today!
Editorial Book Review:
by Lynda
The Site by Carlos Varland is a mesmerizing foray into the clandestine world of government agencies and their covert dealings with formidable corporations. At the heart of this intricate tale is Cicely Denfeld, a London schoolteacher whose life takes a surreal detour when she starts experiencing vivid and disconcerting dreams that seem to hold the key to a hidden reality.
The narrative's outset is shrouded in mystery, introducing us to Cicely's vivid dreams, which serve as windows into the lives of two strangers, Charles Ryder and Vivian Venables. Their mission to recover a classified document stolen from an American government contractor propels the plot forward, interweaving their journey with Cicely's quest for self-discovery.
The strength of Carlos Varland undoubtedly lies in its compelling plot. This novel expertly melds elements of science fiction, espionage, and alien contact to deliver a narrative that keeps readers perpetually intrigued. The transitions between settings, ranging from the familiar locales of London to exotic Caribbean islands and shadowy Miami offices, are executed seamlessly, providing a diverse canvas for the unfolding drama. The author's vivid descriptions breathe life into every scene, whether it's the hushed ambiance of a university library or the enigmatic allure of The Red Chalice.
The story takes a daring turn as it leads readers to the Tehachapi Mountains, an almost mythical location. This is where Carlos Varland truly comes into its own, capturing the imagination with its depth and complexity.
Cicely Denfeld, our central protagonist, is a triumph of character development. Her inner turmoil and relentless pursuit of understanding add a layer of authenticity to her character, making her a relatable and engaging focal point. In contrast, Charles and Vivian are enigmatic figures, each harboring their own secrets and motivations. Their complex backgrounds and hidden agendas infuse the narrative with an air of mystery, keeping readers guessing about their true intentions.
Yet, Carlos Varland is not without its challenges. The intricacies of the plot, while engrossing, may occasionally border on convolution, demanding the reader's full attention to navigate the myriad twists and turns. The pacing, too, fluctuates, with moments of high-octane action juxtaposed with quieter, more introspective interludes.
In sum, The Site by Carlos Varland is an exhilarating exploration of government secrets, extraterrestrial enigmas, and the boundless potential of the human mind. The complex plot, coupled with the richly drawn characters and vivid settings, makes it essential reading for fans of science fiction and espionage thrillers. While it may require a patient reader to fully unravel its mysteries, the payoff is an immensely rewarding and absorbing literary experience. The Site is a testament to the author's storytelling prowess and creativity, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next hidden reality that may await them in their future works.
About the Author
Carlos Valrand
Carlos Valrand is a writer living in Texas. He is the author of The Site, a science fiction thriller, and is working on a historical mystery novel to be published soon. Valrand is a contributor to the website Internet Looks (internetlooks). He has authored various aerospace system functional requirements documents and technical papers, and has developed and taught courses in aerospace-related subjects.
Comments