Independent Book Reviewers

The Prince: Lucifer's Origins

J.M. Erickson has done it again! Wow, I loved the story as much as the others of his I’ve read (check them out… he’s got an AMAZING backlist!) As always the world-building is brilliant, detailed, and puts us right in the story, and the characters are dynamic and fully realized. One thing in particular I enjoy about J.M. Erickson’s writing is not only that he can make the most fantastical settings feel totally believable (this is Sci/fi after all), but I like that he writes such strong women characters, something I don’t see much of in this genre. The book can get fairly complex sometimes, but I like that kind of science fiction, and you still care about the characters. The story touches on so many facets of the human experience: science, religion, history, evolution, biology, physics, good vs. evil… a great experience and I hope this storyline continues! Highly recommend!! (5 stars) Stacy Decker– Goodreads; Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

Having thoroughly enjoyed reading several other books from JM Erickson (his “Birds of Flight” series is amazing!) I Eagerly jumped on the chance to read this one. I admit the title had me a bit curious… was this a religious book? Or more sci/fi/thriller/action/drama like his others? Well, yes. In a way it’s all of it… Complex, riveting, and touches on the deepest corners of the human condition, but is also quite profound at times, but not confusing. I always enjoy the characters in Mr. Erickson’s books, and see what sorts of conflicts they must overcome. I also enjoyed the literary infusion throughout, and now I want to re-read Machiavelli! Thank you, Mr. Erickson, for writing another intelligent and highly entertaining novel, and I very much look forward to your next release. (5 stars) Sam Ryan– Goodreads; Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

I absolutely enjoyed this book and couldn't seem to put it down. I am really picky with anything science fiction related, as so often I read something that seems like I’ve read it a thousand times before! Same plot recycled…same stock characters… blah. But that was definitely not the case with “The Prince: Lucifer’s Origins” by J.M. Erickson. [side note – loved the references to “The Prince” by Machiavelli weaved throughout. Clever!] The whole time I was reading I kept thinking how I hadn’t read anything like this before! It had just this really great mix of so many elements, it’s almost hard to totally categorize this book (but it is definitely science fiction/alternative reality)… This book had some of everything I enjoy in a good book, including some more important overall themes that are relatable on almost every level. So even if you aren’t a die-hard sci/fi fan, there is something in here that you’ll enjoy, and I for one would love to see the story continued. (4-5 stars) Jenna Brewster– Goodreads; Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

This book was amazing! I read a few other books by J.M. Erickson not that long ago, and he is definitely one of those authors that I now feel has “proved’ himself to me in the sense that I’ll read anything that he writes! The stories are always fast paced, intelligently written, great editing, interesting characters, and a great plot But they also tie into the bigger, more universal landscape of life, in this case touching on many broader themes that play out quite brilliantly in this universe he created. I don’t mean to overly gush, but it is rare to find a writer who so consistently delivers and seems to get better each time, so I’m happy to have discovered his books. As much as I enjoyed “The Prince…” This one was a tad more complicated for me than the others, and I definitely appreciated the character bios at the beginning (more authors should do this!). But overall another great read that will appeal to fans far beyond the typical science fiction realm. (4-5 stars). Karen Matthews– Goodreads; Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

This novel, “The Prince: Lucifer’s Origins” by J.M. Erickson is just the type of novel I love to get lost in – original, intelligent, creative escapism that is so clearly not of this world (or is it? ha), but we are very much a part of it in almost every way. I liked Victor, loved Marcia and Regina, loved (hated) how Earth was “Hell” (sad but true), and was super impressed with how the author managed to combine so many elements and themes, but kept the story tightly focused and it all came together so well… at times I worried it would lose focus… but it all worked out in the end. Lots of action and snappy dialogue to keep me hooked. (4 stars) Laura Clarke– Goodreads; Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

I know we’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but I really love this cover! But fortunately what’s inside is even better! I almost feel like I just read 5 books, so much happens and it’s hard to just sum up (but there are several reviews that already describe the plot in detail so I won’t here). The writing is great, and for me that really can make or break a book, even if the plot is “familiar”. But I was constantly surprised by things as they unfolded, and liked that none of the characters were predictable. In fact for me it was the characters who really sold this book for me. Don’t get me wrong, the world-building was great too, I just really enjoyed the relationship dynamics and how they played of one another. I read this book in the span of 3 nights which for me is pretty fast. Will definitely be reading more from Mr. Erickson soon. Highly recommend for fans of sci/fi/ (5 stars) Brenda Maxwell – Goodreads; Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers