The Whipstitch Duology Book One — Mark Whiteway

The first part of the duology is a true page-turner as the reader follows Liam in his journey as protector for the girls and negotiator with the mysteriously stubborn Whipstitch and other critical characters from other worlds. The author artfully presents a realistic view of rural Pennsylvania with its likeable and down-to-earth people, all the while weaving in extraordinary science fiction events and characters in a very believable and terrifying fashion. The story presents sensitive subjects including familial loyalties, environmental destruction, extra-dimensional travel, and sentient sub-terrestrial life forms in a fast-paced manner. The reader is left with a mysterious cliff-hanger as the characters prepare for an even bigger adventure in the second part of the duology.I found the book difficult to put down because of how unpredictable and gripping the storyline was. I believe the novel would be best enjoyed by any intelligent reader who is prepared to be gradually carried up out of the reality of today’s world into the edges of the fantastical, all the while seeking resolution for the environmental issues that haunt the most questioning minds.. – Elizabeth Horst. Ghostwriter and Editor.Whipstitch reminded me of reading fantasy and sci-fi classics like A Wrinkle in Time and A Voyage to Arcturus. The story's central themes revolve around family and climate change, but they are tackled retrospectively and philosophically. Throughout the story, Liam and his companions are faced with questions about the nature of humanity and humanity's responsibility to nature. The book presents different species that have their own morals, values, responsibilities, and blind spots as two different planets face catastrophe. Characters like Whipstitch and Moon’Shae offer interesting, juxtaposed positions on the dangers facing humanity and how to correct the situation on earth. This leaves Liam to fight for humanity as well as seek balance.The worlds, creatures, and powers, presented in this book were intriguing and well thought out. I found Liam’s struggle with the power of the cane and his sister to be particularly fascinating to read about. The book is exciting and keeps the tension from beginning to end. I would definitely recommend this book. 4.5 stars. Emerson R Craig BA, MSc.Whipstitch is more than just a tale of humanity facing extinction, it is one of loss and the wavering pathways of grief and the sacrifices made to continue on another day. Moon’shae suffers the loss of her race and the loss of her sanity in her grief; Cara allies with the Others, the very creatures who wish the destruction of her kind in an attempt to protect her family and save their planet.In these tribulations, Mark boldly tackles the aftermath of warfare and interweaves the complicated decisions we must make when a single misplaced word may end in damnation or when, despite our best efforts, we still fail...- Deirdre Boyne, Magazine Editor.In a manner that is both timeless and fresh, the narrative carries the reader along from the very beginning by presenting relatable characters that compel empathy and understanding. The reader is swept up in this heroic tale that explores the bonds of family and the face of humanity in this engaging coming-of-age story.. – Carrie Todd. Editor and Illustrator