"Regarding Ducks and Universes" (Amazon) was originally entered in the 2009 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award contest. Though it did not win, Neve Maslakovic was later contacted by AmazonEncore (something I will probably be using to find new books) and the book was published in February of 2011.
I really enjoyed the writing style of this book. It actually reminded me a lot of Jasper Fforde. The book follows Felix Sayers, resident of Universe A (Universe B having split off in 1986) and his quest to find his alter (the Universe B version of himself). Along the way he meets various people researching the split, who suspect that he has a lot more to do with the branching of the universes than anyone realized.
The following is my email to Neve Maslakovic:
"I just finished your book, Regarding Ducks and Universes. I just wanted to tell you that I really quite enjoyed it. Your writing style and concept remind me a bit of Jasper Fforde, another one of my favorite authors. The lighthearted nature of your narrative, that stayed consistent even during the darker parts of the novel, was really enjoyable to me. I enjoyed the entire "what if" nature of the work as well. Also, Felix's struggles to sit down and just begin a novel is something many aspiring authors can relate to, and provided a nice subplot.
I saw on your website that you're writing your second book. I will definitely keep an eye out for it. Good luck with your writing!"
I'm not entirely sure what book to read next-I have two to pick from. However, both are relatively short, so I'll probably finish one in the next day or two. So expect a post then! By the way, any recommendations of books to read would be great. Leave a comment!
AmazonEncore? Why have I not seen this before? *Bookmarks*
ReplyDeleteNow, on the matter of recommending an author, I have to point you towards John Green. He's a YA author and I'm not sure whether or not you enjoy that particular genre, but the way I see it a good book is a good book. His first book is Looking For Alaska and I highly recommend it.
John isn't exactly an unknown author (his writing as well as the youtube vlog he does with his brother has spawned a veritable subculture of fans), but I'm sure he'd love to hear what you think.