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Vivian Amberville #1
The Weaver of Odds
"As the Weaver, so is the Thread"
Vivian Amberville® is a bestselling philosophical fantasy book series about a girl whose imagination can reshape reality.
THE BOOK
First in the Vivian Amberville fantasy series, "The Weaver of Odds" introduces 13-year old Vivian to her unique if hazardous power of altering odds, outcomes and the very substance of reality.
The main protagonist, Vivian is an orphaned child who uncovers her imagination can influence certain events, and even twist reality into impossible shapes - a mind-over-matter ability called “Weaving”
But Vivian’s powers prove hazardous to keeping the universal balance. Beyond the fabric of reality, she finds herself in the custody of the original Weavers, thrown head-first into the most dangerous competition the multiverse has ever known: The Weaver Trials.
The universe that spanned millions of fans worldwide and captured readers imagination all around the world invites you to journey alongside unforgettable heroes you would want to take home. Fantasy like never told before: a mythical fiction of friendship and acceptance; of fate and free will; of destiny and despair; of extraordinary ordinary heroes and their reality-changing journeys.
SYNOPSIS
Vivian lives in a cage, in Ala Spuria's Shelter for Strays and has never tasted real food. When one of the other orphans gives Vivian hope, she discovers a hidden power to reshape her circumstances completely.
From the English town of Milton Keynes, Vivian discovers a neighbouring universe, where Alarian Weavers - an ancient race of powerful beings - have perfected a way of altering reality. By weaving Threads into the fabric of the cosmos, the Weavers strive to imprison freewill, banish Chaos and bring balance to cosmic reality.
Faced with a sudden hole in the Pattern of Threads that threatens to consume the substance of everything, it is up to 13-year-old Vivian Amberville to repair the damage. Believed to be a formidable weaver of odds and circumstances, Vivian must now attend the Weaver Trials and master the mysterious art of "Weaving into reality" in hope of preventing the impending apocalypse.
Together with her friends, Patricia Kate, Lucian Blossom and Acciper Sparrowhawk, Vivian stumbles upon terrible insights into her identity as she explores what lies beyond the fabric of reality.
GENRE: epic philosophical fantasy, Jungian allegory;
CATEGORY: young adult, coming of age, adventure voyage, social satire;
SETTING: double-dystopia: futuristic dystopia and fantasy world;
SUBJECTS: responsibility over the act of Creation, time travel, parallel universes, mind over matter, matter manipulation;
THEMES: free will vs. determinism, freedom and responsibility, the burden of being, death, friendship and sacrifice;
TAGS: post-apocalyptic, multiple realities, inter-dimensional travel, journey within;
Vivian Amberville® is a bestselling philosophical fantasy book series about a girl whose imagination can reshape reality.
THE BOOK
First in the Vivian Amberville fantasy series, "The Weaver of Odds" introduces 13-year old Vivian to her unique if hazardous power of altering odds, outcomes and the very substance of reality.
The main protagonist, Vivian is an orphaned child who uncovers her imagination can influence certain events, and even twist reality into impossible shapes - a mind-over-matter ability called “Weaving”
But Vivian’s powers prove hazardous to keeping the universal balance. Beyond the fabric of reality, she finds herself in the custody of the original Weavers, thrown head-first into the most dangerous competition the multiverse has ever known: The Weaver Trials.
The universe that spanned millions of fans worldwide and captured readers imagination all around the world invites you to journey alongside unforgettable heroes you would want to take home. Fantasy like never told before: a mythical fiction of friendship and acceptance; of fate and free will; of destiny and despair; of extraordinary ordinary heroes and their reality-changing journeys.
SYNOPSIS
Vivian lives in a cage, in Ala Spuria's Shelter for Strays and has never tasted real food. When one of the other orphans gives Vivian hope, she discovers a hidden power to reshape her circumstances completely.
From the English town of Milton Keynes, Vivian discovers a neighbouring universe, where Alarian Weavers - an ancient race of powerful beings - have perfected a way of altering reality. By weaving Threads into the fabric of the cosmos, the Weavers strive to imprison freewill, banish Chaos and bring balance to cosmic reality.
Faced with a sudden hole in the Pattern of Threads that threatens to consume the substance of everything, it is up to 13-year-old Vivian Amberville to repair the damage. Believed to be a formidable weaver of odds and circumstances, Vivian must now attend the Weaver Trials and master the mysterious art of "Weaving into reality" in hope of preventing the impending apocalypse.
Together with her friends, Patricia Kate, Lucian Blossom and Acciper Sparrowhawk, Vivian stumbles upon terrible insights into her identity as she explores what lies beyond the fabric of reality.
GENRE: epic philosophical fantasy, Jungian allegory;
CATEGORY: young adult, coming of age, adventure voyage, social satire;
SETTING: double-dystopia: futuristic dystopia and fantasy world;
SUBJECTS: responsibility over the act of Creation, time travel, parallel universes, mind over matter, matter manipulation;
THEMES: free will vs. determinism, freedom and responsibility, the burden of being, death, friendship and sacrifice;
TAGS: post-apocalyptic, multiple realities, inter-dimensional travel, journey within;
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2017
6 people are currently reading
603 people want to read
About the author
Louise Blackwick
7 books144 followersLouise Blackwick is a Dutch jungian writer, author of many thought-provoking stories themed on
subjective reality
and
states of altered consciousness.
Her body of work is distinguished by the presence of Jungian themes, concepts and imagery which she superimposes over popular genres like fantasy, science-fiction and psychological thrillers.
Blackwick is particularly known as the author of the international bestseller, VIVIAN AMBERVILLE®, an epic fantasy saga that follows the interdimensional adventures of a teenage girl who can control odds, luck and circumstances. Vivian Amberville is set in a parallel ultra-reality, where people have found a way to "Weave Threads of influence into the very fabric of reality".
Blackwick is also recognized as the creator of a new niche genre of science-fiction she calls NEON SCIENCE-FICTION.
Her first novel to fully fit the neon sci-fi subgenre was "5 Stars", published in 2021, just before the advent of A.I..
While the novel was critically-acclaimed for its postmodern interpretation of Orwellian AI technologies (i.e. virtual glasses that feed into your cognitive bias etc.), "5 Stars" did not manage to escape the small country of the Netherlands, despite it being published globally, in the English language.
Blackwick is a long-term pupil of the psychoanalyst Carl Jung, her writing digging deep roots into JUNGIAN CONCEPTS like: individuation, synchronicity, archetypes, shadow-work and the collective unconscious.
She often enjoys exploring the forgotten teachings of psychoanalysts, alchemists, hermetic philosophers and mystics, which she writes about and publishes weekly on her official Patreon page.
For philosophical views, she draws inspiration from the giants of old - among which Nietzsche, Wagner, Goethe and Schopenhauer may hold the most resemblance.
Other influences: André Breton, Edgar A.Poe, Franz Kafka, J.R.R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, C. Paolini, J.K. Rowling and E.R. Eddison.
Upcoming books include: the humorous science fiction novel "God is a Robot", the sci-fi thriller “29 seconds” and the much-awaited sequel "Vivian Amberville - The Book of Chaos".
Learn more about the Vivian Amberville saga:
Visit her official website:
Become best friends on her socials:
Check out her exclusive work on Patreon:
Her body of work is distinguished by the presence of Jungian themes, concepts and imagery which she superimposes over popular genres like fantasy, science-fiction and psychological thrillers.
Blackwick is particularly known as the author of the international bestseller, VIVIAN AMBERVILLE®, an epic fantasy saga that follows the interdimensional adventures of a teenage girl who can control odds, luck and circumstances. Vivian Amberville is set in a parallel ultra-reality, where people have found a way to "Weave Threads of influence into the very fabric of reality".
Blackwick is also recognized as the creator of a new niche genre of science-fiction she calls NEON SCIENCE-FICTION.
Her first novel to fully fit the neon sci-fi subgenre was "5 Stars", published in 2021, just before the advent of A.I..
While the novel was critically-acclaimed for its postmodern interpretation of Orwellian AI technologies (i.e. virtual glasses that feed into your cognitive bias etc.), "5 Stars" did not manage to escape the small country of the Netherlands, despite it being published globally, in the English language.
Blackwick is a long-term pupil of the psychoanalyst Carl Jung, her writing digging deep roots into JUNGIAN CONCEPTS like: individuation, synchronicity, archetypes, shadow-work and the collective unconscious.
She often enjoys exploring the forgotten teachings of psychoanalysts, alchemists, hermetic philosophers and mystics, which she writes about and publishes weekly on her official Patreon page.
For philosophical views, she draws inspiration from the giants of old - among which Nietzsche, Wagner, Goethe and Schopenhauer may hold the most resemblance.
Other influences: André Breton, Edgar A.Poe, Franz Kafka, J.R.R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, C. Paolini, J.K. Rowling and E.R. Eddison.
Upcoming books include: the humorous science fiction novel "God is a Robot", the sci-fi thriller “29 seconds” and the much-awaited sequel "Vivian Amberville - The Book of Chaos".
Learn more about the Vivian Amberville saga:
Visit her official website:
Become best friends on her socials:
Check out her exclusive work on Patreon:
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 28, 2017
If your a lover of fantasy,sci-fis, and overall genuine good reads than this story is definitely for you. Weaver of Odds meets all expectations. The story line itself was very unique,and the characters/creatures were well developed and endearing. Not to mention, the story is very well written. I can honestly say that there was never a boring moment in this read. No spoilers here, but I must say that for me this story was right up there with Harry Potter, and Lord of the Rings. Simply amazing. This author is now on my radar! A must read!
November 17, 2017
I've intended to write a review for this book since finishing it a few weeks back, but it's such a unique and enthralling read, it's daunting attempting to sum it up in a few short words.
I didn't quite know what to expect to begin with, especially having relatively little experience in the fantasy genre, but by the end of the first part of the book, I was hooked.
It's the kind of story that pulls you in with both hands and doesn't let go until you realise it's been three hours since you last blinked. The twists and turns make it impossible to put down - "just one more chapter", you'll say to yourself, every 10-20 minutes.
Without giving anything away, the story is superbly driven, from start to finish, and for the uninitiated there are a number of points along the way where your hairs will stand on end. The story is spellbinding and you sense that in every chapter, the author has pored over every minute detail, probably for years on end, to create a living, almost tangible experience for the reader. You feel as though you know the characters, particularly the protagonist, and this itself is a reason you want to read on. You want to know how things turn out - or rather you need to know how things turn out.
The characters, as I've already mentioned, are masterfully created. Again, you get the idea that the author has been creating these souls over a long period of time before writing the book, because every idiosyncrasy, every back story and every personality is so well rendered. There is never a hiccup. Never does one character act differently to the way they did in the last chapter, never do they speak differently and never does the author spring a cheap twist by making any of the characters change to suit the plot. All of these details mean that you empathise with the characters and feel as though you have known them for a long time, a sign of a talented author.
Clearly, the author has a keen eye for detail and this book is all the better for it. Hopefully she can weave up something similar for the future books in the series, because I believe Vivian's story will be loved by many readers of all ages.
There are some dark bits that some people may find disturbing, so I recommend reading it yourself before introducing younger children, but having said that, it depends on where in the world you grew up. There are clear influences of Nordic folklore, shades of the brothers Grimm (something I haven't seen compared yet) and those who are familiar and ok with that won't be put off by the darker aspects. Myself, I believe my children would love the story and I think there are some fantastic and inspiring messages sprinkled throughout this book that far outweigh the darker parts. Viv's reality is a reflection of our own and so expect some evil.
Finally, I must say that I fully recommend this book. There are no plateaus in the story, the characters are tangible, the themes are unique and exciting, the world has been painted with expertise beyond the authors (presumed) age and most importantly, the plot just keeps giving.
Please, if you haven't already, buy this book, read it, pass it on and help this talented author receive some much deserved exposure.
I didn't quite know what to expect to begin with, especially having relatively little experience in the fantasy genre, but by the end of the first part of the book, I was hooked.
It's the kind of story that pulls you in with both hands and doesn't let go until you realise it's been three hours since you last blinked. The twists and turns make it impossible to put down - "just one more chapter", you'll say to yourself, every 10-20 minutes.
Without giving anything away, the story is superbly driven, from start to finish, and for the uninitiated there are a number of points along the way where your hairs will stand on end. The story is spellbinding and you sense that in every chapter, the author has pored over every minute detail, probably for years on end, to create a living, almost tangible experience for the reader. You feel as though you know the characters, particularly the protagonist, and this itself is a reason you want to read on. You want to know how things turn out - or rather you need to know how things turn out.
The characters, as I've already mentioned, are masterfully created. Again, you get the idea that the author has been creating these souls over a long period of time before writing the book, because every idiosyncrasy, every back story and every personality is so well rendered. There is never a hiccup. Never does one character act differently to the way they did in the last chapter, never do they speak differently and never does the author spring a cheap twist by making any of the characters change to suit the plot. All of these details mean that you empathise with the characters and feel as though you have known them for a long time, a sign of a talented author.
Clearly, the author has a keen eye for detail and this book is all the better for it. Hopefully she can weave up something similar for the future books in the series, because I believe Vivian's story will be loved by many readers of all ages.
There are some dark bits that some people may find disturbing, so I recommend reading it yourself before introducing younger children, but having said that, it depends on where in the world you grew up. There are clear influences of Nordic folklore, shades of the brothers Grimm (something I haven't seen compared yet) and those who are familiar and ok with that won't be put off by the darker aspects. Myself, I believe my children would love the story and I think there are some fantastic and inspiring messages sprinkled throughout this book that far outweigh the darker parts. Viv's reality is a reflection of our own and so expect some evil.
Finally, I must say that I fully recommend this book. There are no plateaus in the story, the characters are tangible, the themes are unique and exciting, the world has been painted with expertise beyond the authors (presumed) age and most importantly, the plot just keeps giving.
Please, if you haven't already, buy this book, read it, pass it on and help this talented author receive some much deserved exposure.
Read
April 7, 2022Editorial Review (The Book Reader, March 23, 2017)
Vivian Amberville is a bestselling epic fantasy book series centered around a girl whose thoughts can control and reshape reality.
ABOUT THE SERIES
In a genre filled with clichés and cardboard characters, experience a fantasy series unlike anything else in existence! An epic philosophical fantasy with layered, JUNGIAN undertones: a story of friendship and acceptance; of fate and free will; of destiny and despair; of extraordinary ordinary heroes and their reality-changing journeys.
From selfish heroes, to complexly painted villains, the cast of the Vivian Amberville series will captivate you with their reality-shifting talents and their fascinating worldly lore. In a world corrupted by Chaos, journey beyond the fabric of reality, alongside unforgettable heroes you would want to take home.
THE MOST ORIGINAL MAGIC SYSTEM YOU'VE EVER EXPERIENCED IN AN EPIC WORK
In Vivian Amberville's fantastical universe, people can Weave threads of influence into the very fabric of reality. Reading the books, you will find:
- druidic Weavers who manipulate matter and fold reality to their advantage;
- powerful Scribes, who rewrite history by Writing Things True in their special, reality-altering Ink;
- Chaos Weavers, such as Vivian Amberville herself, who can only affect the "abstract and immaterial" side of reality (i.e. odds and circumstances, shadows, abstractions or even chaos itself)
The magic system featured in the Vivian Amberville series is a semi-soft magic system, predicated entirely on the power of imagination (Kaalà) as well as its chaotic caveats (Æbekanta). If one can imagine things of beauty (Order), the same can be said about its polar opposite (Chaos). In the saga, "Weaving", or the ability to affect physical reality from a distance, finds its way into thoughts, symbols, materials, weapons and even living creatures.
Kaap, the Hole-in-the-Wall is a powerful shape-shifter with the ability to tunnel through the Shroud between realities and Weave his Shadowhide skin into any imaginable shape. Kaap is known as Vivian Amberville's sentient companion and inseparable friend.
SUMMARY
Prepare to lose yourself in a unique fantasy series, where the thoughts of today become the events of tomorrow. In a world in which reality can be altered and history can be rewritten, a young hero discovers her powers to "imagine things true" stand between cosmic Order and Chaos
The main protagonist, Vivian is an orphaned child who uncovers her imagination can influence certain events, and even twist reality into impossible shapes - a mind-over-matter ability called “Weaving”. Helped by friends and challenged by foes, she comes to learn her ability to "manipulate odds" can be detrimental in preventing the impending apocalypse.
But Vivian’s powers prove hazardous to keeping the universal balance. Beyond the fabric of reality, she finds herself in the custody of the original Weavers, an ancient race of powerful beings who have perfected a way of altering reality.
Having woven her first Thread of influence into the fabric of the world, Vivian has set in motion a chain of events whose ripples target reality itself.
As the Weaver, so is the Thread.
As a hero’s unwritten tale, so is Vivian Amberville’s journey.
THE SETTING
The book series spans across several planes of existence, from a failed futuristic Great Britain, to the mesmerizing yet decadent Alarian world, Ærria. Located in Non-Existence, a thought away from our current reality, Ærria is a dark fantasy world where reality can be freely manipulated and history itself can be changed.
From the opulent Amberville Manor to the Alarian floating citadel in the sky; from underground prisons to impressive libraries; from surreal arenas to idyllic landscapes, the saga entices the reader's imagination every step of the way.
Vivian Amberville is not a saga to be read.
Vivian Amberville is a saga to be experienced.
Experience the saga:
Vivian Amberville is a bestselling epic fantasy book series centered around a girl whose thoughts can control and reshape reality.
ABOUT THE SERIES
In a genre filled with clichés and cardboard characters, experience a fantasy series unlike anything else in existence! An epic philosophical fantasy with layered, JUNGIAN undertones: a story of friendship and acceptance; of fate and free will; of destiny and despair; of extraordinary ordinary heroes and their reality-changing journeys.
From selfish heroes, to complexly painted villains, the cast of the Vivian Amberville series will captivate you with their reality-shifting talents and their fascinating worldly lore. In a world corrupted by Chaos, journey beyond the fabric of reality, alongside unforgettable heroes you would want to take home.
THE MOST ORIGINAL MAGIC SYSTEM YOU'VE EVER EXPERIENCED IN AN EPIC WORK
In Vivian Amberville's fantastical universe, people can Weave threads of influence into the very fabric of reality. Reading the books, you will find:
- druidic Weavers who manipulate matter and fold reality to their advantage;
- powerful Scribes, who rewrite history by Writing Things True in their special, reality-altering Ink;
- Chaos Weavers, such as Vivian Amberville herself, who can only affect the "abstract and immaterial" side of reality (i.e. odds and circumstances, shadows, abstractions or even chaos itself)
The magic system featured in the Vivian Amberville series is a semi-soft magic system, predicated entirely on the power of imagination (Kaalà) as well as its chaotic caveats (Æbekanta). If one can imagine things of beauty (Order), the same can be said about its polar opposite (Chaos). In the saga, "Weaving", or the ability to affect physical reality from a distance, finds its way into thoughts, symbols, materials, weapons and even living creatures.
Kaap, the Hole-in-the-Wall is a powerful shape-shifter with the ability to tunnel through the Shroud between realities and Weave his Shadowhide skin into any imaginable shape. Kaap is known as Vivian Amberville's sentient companion and inseparable friend.
SUMMARY
Prepare to lose yourself in a unique fantasy series, where the thoughts of today become the events of tomorrow. In a world in which reality can be altered and history can be rewritten, a young hero discovers her powers to "imagine things true" stand between cosmic Order and Chaos
The main protagonist, Vivian is an orphaned child who uncovers her imagination can influence certain events, and even twist reality into impossible shapes - a mind-over-matter ability called “Weaving”. Helped by friends and challenged by foes, she comes to learn her ability to "manipulate odds" can be detrimental in preventing the impending apocalypse.
But Vivian’s powers prove hazardous to keeping the universal balance. Beyond the fabric of reality, she finds herself in the custody of the original Weavers, an ancient race of powerful beings who have perfected a way of altering reality.
Having woven her first Thread of influence into the fabric of the world, Vivian has set in motion a chain of events whose ripples target reality itself.
As the Weaver, so is the Thread.
As a hero’s unwritten tale, so is Vivian Amberville’s journey.
THE SETTING
The book series spans across several planes of existence, from a failed futuristic Great Britain, to the mesmerizing yet decadent Alarian world, Ærria. Located in Non-Existence, a thought away from our current reality, Ærria is a dark fantasy world where reality can be freely manipulated and history itself can be changed.
From the opulent Amberville Manor to the Alarian floating citadel in the sky; from underground prisons to impressive libraries; from surreal arenas to idyllic landscapes, the saga entices the reader's imagination every step of the way.
Vivian Amberville is not a saga to be read.
Vivian Amberville is a saga to be experienced.
Experience the saga:
September 21, 2017
An incomparable book that lives up to the hype. This book takes the reader on a wild ride, climbs and keeps climbing all the way to it's pinnacle,then settles down to a terrific satisfying ending. It leaves the reader sitting pleasantly smiling with plenty of fine thoughts to ponder in the days ahead. I cannot reveal too much about all the wonderful surprises that are weaved throughout the story. You will just have to get the book and find out yourself.I may get more books from this fine writer in the future.
January 23, 2019
I sort of stumbled into this novel by googling around "YA dystopian coming of age fantasy books" and this rare gem fell into my hands. I asked around at my university, and I couldn't believe how many people heard of Vivian Amberville. I was surprised it has so few reviews on goodreads compared to how many people read it and said it was amazing. My own take is that: This book is not only amazing. It's a masterpiece!
-small spoiler ahead:
It's the story of a mysterious, orphaned teenager who learns she can manipulate the outcome of events. She has hallucinations about some hidden world beyond the fabric of space and by some amazing storytelling she ends up in that secret, hidden world a thought away from our own. But that world is dangerous, populated by dangerous beings who have learned how to manipulate reality called Weavers. Vivian's power to reshape odds is a threat to the Weavers, so they sentence her to the Weaver Trials in hope she will die. What comes to happen is the best, most complex story I ever read in my life.
The characters, the settings, everything is masterfully designed. The story was outlined by a genius. So much detail, all of which is relevant in the end. It all took my breath away and I'm going to tell more people about it!
This book deserves a bigger audience and MORE reviews!
-small spoiler ahead:
It's the story of a mysterious, orphaned teenager who learns she can manipulate the outcome of events. She has hallucinations about some hidden world beyond the fabric of space and by some amazing storytelling she ends up in that secret, hidden world a thought away from our own. But that world is dangerous, populated by dangerous beings who have learned how to manipulate reality called Weavers. Vivian's power to reshape odds is a threat to the Weavers, so they sentence her to the Weaver Trials in hope she will die. What comes to happen is the best, most complex story I ever read in my life.
The characters, the settings, everything is masterfully designed. The story was outlined by a genius. So much detail, all of which is relevant in the end. It all took my breath away and I'm going to tell more people about it!
This book deserves a bigger audience and MORE reviews!
September 18, 2017
If you enjoyed or loved any of these following fantasy movies, then you'll love this book.
Bridge To Terabithia (2007)
Flash Gordon (1980)
Harry Potter (2001-2011)
Inception (2010)
Labyrinth (1986)
Midnight Special (2016)
Pan's Labyrinth (2006)
The Adventures Of Sharkboy And Lavagirl (2005)
The NeverEnding Story (1984)
Tomorrowland (2015)
Tron Legacy (2010)
Xanadu (1980)
Similar to these movies, the story of Vivian Amberville will take the reader on a journey through worlds within worlds and into the mind, but in an original and never done before way, you'll be fed more truth than what was slipped into the Star Wars films.
Most of the book covers many abilities never done before in movies, so the four movies that I think describe the abilities in this story the best, would be these.
FAQ About Time Travel (2009)
Firestarter (1984)
Jumper (2008)
Ruby Sparks (2012)
I already see this book being turned into a movie and becoming very popular as more people learn about it. I loved the characters, their conversations, the environments they were placed into, and how everything connected to something to tell a very deep and complex yet easy to understand and fun to read story with lots of emotions and meanings behind everything that was written. I'll be sharing my love for this book with everyone.
Bridge To Terabithia (2007)
Flash Gordon (1980)
Harry Potter (2001-2011)
Inception (2010)
Labyrinth (1986)
Midnight Special (2016)
Pan's Labyrinth (2006)
The Adventures Of Sharkboy And Lavagirl (2005)
The NeverEnding Story (1984)
Tomorrowland (2015)
Tron Legacy (2010)
Xanadu (1980)
Similar to these movies, the story of Vivian Amberville will take the reader on a journey through worlds within worlds and into the mind, but in an original and never done before way, you'll be fed more truth than what was slipped into the Star Wars films.
Most of the book covers many abilities never done before in movies, so the four movies that I think describe the abilities in this story the best, would be these.
FAQ About Time Travel (2009)
Firestarter (1984)
Jumper (2008)
Ruby Sparks (2012)
I already see this book being turned into a movie and becoming very popular as more people learn about it. I loved the characters, their conversations, the environments they were placed into, and how everything connected to something to tell a very deep and complex yet easy to understand and fun to read story with lots of emotions and meanings behind everything that was written. I'll be sharing my love for this book with everyone.
July 26, 2017
Vivian Amberville is a form of meta-fiction that captures the various facets of imagination in a unique manner. It speaks about the responsibilities that come with engaging our imagination in becoming free-willed and then manifestation. In this novel, the mind (as an imagining) realm has also an inner will which is solely molded by the spirit of each Weaver. By doing this we can say that it has an ethical dimension that questions our mode of being in the world through our actions (for a higher purpose). Thinking about alterity through and within the infinite possibilities of the fictional world(s) speaks about the importance that fiction has in our lives on a global scale.Reading it feels like a breath of magical realism and sci-fi, which can proudly stand together with Terry Pratchett, Jose Luis Borges and many others.
September 4, 2017
This book was recommended to me by a friend. At first I was a bit sceptical about the concept of "manipulating events", but after reading a bit from my friend's copy, I bought my own: it's a great story! Right now this author seems a bit no-name, but I can't believe that there's no more reviews here. It's a book that grabs the reader and pulls the reader into the story, I literally cried over some of the scenes, really wonderful book. Looking forward to the next book in the series. I'm keeping an eye on this author, I think this is going to be big.
November 8, 2017
The storyline itself was exceptionally remarkable, and the characters/animals were very much created and charming. There was never an exhausting minute in this read.
January 6, 2019
In dire need of editing. The book felt like a rough draft at certain points.
But, if you can stomach the first few dozen pages, where word choice could have been improved, for the sake of continuity and immersion, there’s a really cute story behind it all. Think of wizards and magic, but with time and destiny instead. And a little girl with the power to tear everything down or build it anew, with greater splendor than ever before.
The main character is the most believable and the despair and anxiety she feels seem to me like something the author actually experienced first-hand. There’s a bit of development here, where courage and resolve come to her as the plot develops. The supporting cast have histories and lives of their own, but their feelings and actions are not so visceral and conflicting.
This is the first book in a promising series. The needed creativity is there, with a lot of interesting world-building and quirky characters, and a flawed main character who still needs to discover and come to terms with the extent of her powers.
But, if you can stomach the first few dozen pages, where word choice could have been improved, for the sake of continuity and immersion, there’s a really cute story behind it all. Think of wizards and magic, but with time and destiny instead. And a little girl with the power to tear everything down or build it anew, with greater splendor than ever before.
The main character is the most believable and the despair and anxiety she feels seem to me like something the author actually experienced first-hand. There’s a bit of development here, where courage and resolve come to her as the plot develops. The supporting cast have histories and lives of their own, but their feelings and actions are not so visceral and conflicting.
This is the first book in a promising series. The needed creativity is there, with a lot of interesting world-building and quirky characters, and a flawed main character who still needs to discover and come to terms with the extent of her powers.
November 18, 2017
This is the first time I've been impressed with a new author and a new release.A very original idea to combine epic fiction with philosophy. I honestly cannot compare this work with anything else. It outruns Matrix by a mile! It is a colourful double universe, science fiction and fantasy all in one with a cast of characters you will fall in love with (or despise) right away.
The author even created fictional languages to make the world more believable and boy, it really shows! The Artisan and Kaap the Hole in the Wall are my absolute favourite characters ever!
The settings are surreal like the dream construct of Inception, fantastical yet realistic and a mix of quirky and whimsical with dark and dramatic. The plot reflects that too. It is very fast paced and contains many memorable and inspiring scenes.
I hope this book becomes a classic like Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter. It surely has all the markings of a classic!
The author even created fictional languages to make the world more believable and boy, it really shows! The Artisan and Kaap the Hole in the Wall are my absolute favourite characters ever!
The settings are surreal like the dream construct of Inception, fantastical yet realistic and a mix of quirky and whimsical with dark and dramatic. The plot reflects that too. It is very fast paced and contains many memorable and inspiring scenes.
I hope this book becomes a classic like Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter. It surely has all the markings of a classic!
November 24, 2017
After passing this book up a few times because I thought it was for YA, I contacted the author on FB to find out if it would appeal to someone my age ( 60 ). A number of readers familiar with the book, informed me that I would indeed enjoy reading Vivian Amberville. I was very glad because the premise intrigued me from the start.
This is a wonderful book. The characters are well-written. Their three-dimensionality is consistently evident to the least of them. There is mystery, fantasy, sci-fi and even some undertones of an historical nature that are seen in the worlds Vivian lives in, yet it is never confusing because the writing is so good.
I loved it so much, I ordered a signed paperback from the author to have in my collection. I had never done this before. Don’t pass up a chance to read Vivian Amberville:The Weaver or Odds. It is the first in what I hope will be a long series.
This is a wonderful book. The characters are well-written. Their three-dimensionality is consistently evident to the least of them. There is mystery, fantasy, sci-fi and even some undertones of an historical nature that are seen in the worlds Vivian lives in, yet it is never confusing because the writing is so good.
I loved it so much, I ordered a signed paperback from the author to have in my collection. I had never done this before. Don’t pass up a chance to read Vivian Amberville:The Weaver or Odds. It is the first in what I hope will be a long series.
January 2, 2019
Welcome to Milton Keynes, a flooded, swampy, disease-ridden dystopia where a little girl has been snatched from the streets and incarcerated in a hellish children’s home. She doesn’t know it yet, but she holds the fate of the known world – and an amazing unknown world beyond – in the palm of her hand.
Louise Blackwick’s extraordinary novel will transport you on wings of shadowhide, through holes in the fabric of reality, into realms both wonderfully plausible and uniquely strange. You will fall in love with her characters and come to revile her villains as you follow Vivian into deadly trials and nightmarish traps. But you will also learn to weave a thread of gold through the intricate pattern of this amazing story and come out the other side reborn and renewed.
If, like me, you find yourself thirsting for a sequel to this epic fantasy, we are promised that ‘Vivian Amberville: The Book of Chaos’ will be published in 2019. I can’t wait!
Louise Blackwick’s extraordinary novel will transport you on wings of shadowhide, through holes in the fabric of reality, into realms both wonderfully plausible and uniquely strange. You will fall in love with her characters and come to revile her villains as you follow Vivian into deadly trials and nightmarish traps. But you will also learn to weave a thread of gold through the intricate pattern of this amazing story and come out the other side reborn and renewed.
If, like me, you find yourself thirsting for a sequel to this epic fantasy, we are promised that ‘Vivian Amberville: The Book of Chaos’ will be published in 2019. I can’t wait!
August 2, 2017
An amazing fiction that takes you by the hand through the dark, yet colorful world of Vivian. An easy read and the characters pop out from the pages. I quite enjoyed reading it and cannot wait for the next books in the series!!!!
September 30, 2021
I'm going to keep this brief since there isn't much to say that hasn't already been said. *clears throat*
I think the reason I waited so long to read this book and begin this series is because I just couldn't imagine myself enjoying reading about a thirteen-year-old girl and her adventures beyond the fabric of reality. I thought it would be too juvenile for my taste. I was so wrong.
I can honestly say that I loved every minute of this. It's a spectacular little romp with funny, courageous, and endearing characters that you can't help but love.
It has a living, talking Hole-in-the-Wall creature, singing Weavers who manipulate the fabric of reality, a knife made out of crystallized thought, a Dungeons & Dragons type die that can roll any number (actually, that's Vivian Amberville's main power), a master Healer who can perform Blood Weaving, whispering roses, ogroid creatures running a mine, Pelsinn mounts, the Alarian race, the Vanara race. . . and probably much more that I'm forgetting.
And then there's the lead characters: Patricia Kate, the young orphan who teaches Vivian the meaning of hope; Lucian Blossom, the conflicted young journalist who falls in love with a library; and then there's Vivian Amberville, of course, the girl who can think things true and who can alter the odds of any event. Vivian is kind to those that deserve it, but suffers from fear (anxiety disorder) although she can be fearless when her friends are at risk. She is hard working and passionate about healing people, while under the tutelage of Lady Saah. She is, however, suffering from a broken past and deeply struggles to balance her two identities: human and Alarian. What's not to love?
A soulful story that is surprisingly dark and layered for the fantasy genre. It reminds me vaguely of Terry Pratchett's "Tiffany Aching" series, but taken 10 notes of epic higher.
Vivian Amberville - The Weaver of Odds is indeed something you need to experience with your own eyes.
I think the reason I waited so long to read this book and begin this series is because I just couldn't imagine myself enjoying reading about a thirteen-year-old girl and her adventures beyond the fabric of reality. I thought it would be too juvenile for my taste. I was so wrong.
I can honestly say that I loved every minute of this. It's a spectacular little romp with funny, courageous, and endearing characters that you can't help but love.
It has a living, talking Hole-in-the-Wall creature, singing Weavers who manipulate the fabric of reality, a knife made out of crystallized thought, a Dungeons & Dragons type die that can roll any number (actually, that's Vivian Amberville's main power), a master Healer who can perform Blood Weaving, whispering roses, ogroid creatures running a mine, Pelsinn mounts, the Alarian race, the Vanara race. . . and probably much more that I'm forgetting.
And then there's the lead characters: Patricia Kate, the young orphan who teaches Vivian the meaning of hope; Lucian Blossom, the conflicted young journalist who falls in love with a library; and then there's Vivian Amberville, of course, the girl who can think things true and who can alter the odds of any event. Vivian is kind to those that deserve it, but suffers from fear (anxiety disorder) although she can be fearless when her friends are at risk. She is hard working and passionate about healing people, while under the tutelage of Lady Saah. She is, however, suffering from a broken past and deeply struggles to balance her two identities: human and Alarian. What's not to love?
A soulful story that is surprisingly dark and layered for the fantasy genre. It reminds me vaguely of Terry Pratchett's "Tiffany Aching" series, but taken 10 notes of epic higher.
Vivian Amberville - The Weaver of Odds is indeed something you need to experience with your own eyes.
May 17, 2019
I picked up The Weaver of Odds by author and despite having the physical book on my shelf for over a year, I was too busy to give it a try. When I did pick it up, I read this 250-pager story in under 2 days. It made me pick up her other novellas and short stories, some of which were free, and I devoured everything in under a week. The Vivian Amberville series in particular is something so epic, well-developed and unique, it comes across as a trendsetter and generations-changer. I also read the "Advent Calendar" microstories she posted on her website, which build Vivian's world in ways most remarkable. Louise Blackwick is a genius of the craft and is officially on my watch list.
EDIT: Fans of her works keep writing to me to ask me whether I knew Blackwick was Dutch, the same country I'm from. No, I had no idea whatsoever, and nothing about her or her writing pointed in that direction. Blackwick writes in British English, and she is a mistress of the language. For the Vivian Amberville series, she even invented several languages and dialects completely from scratch, which shows me we are dealing with a method-writer and a Tolkieneque type of wordsmith. I don't know how this author has such few reviews/rating on this platform, considering her huge library and bookstore spread in countries like the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium, which is what drove me to go out of my way to write this review (I normally stick to ratings on this platform).
EDIT: Fans of her works keep writing to me to ask me whether I knew Blackwick was Dutch, the same country I'm from. No, I had no idea whatsoever, and nothing about her or her writing pointed in that direction. Blackwick writes in British English, and she is a mistress of the language. For the Vivian Amberville series, she even invented several languages and dialects completely from scratch, which shows me we are dealing with a method-writer and a Tolkieneque type of wordsmith. I don't know how this author has such few reviews/rating on this platform, considering her huge library and bookstore spread in countries like the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium, which is what drove me to go out of my way to write this review (I normally stick to ratings on this platform).
March 15, 2019
Vivian Amberville is what Harry Potter was to the 1990: a trendsetter. It's something completely unique altogether, being an epic philosophical fantasy with science fiction traces. You get this little girl whose imagination can reshape reality and everything that happens to her just sucks you right in.
Picked Vivian Amberville, the weaver of odds at the library in my town. It had the trippiest cover and I admit its blurb intrigued me, but nothing prepared me for the awesomeness I experienced while reading it. I actually had to return 4 times to the library to finish reading the book cos I'm a broke ass teen, don't ave no library card to borrow it either, but I really recommend anyone else who's a bit better off than me to invest in this book series. Totally worth the cash, it entertains, makes you laugh, and it makes you think. This author's work is a-mazing! You can actually read some of her stories for free on her website louiseblackwick.com or read the calendar stories which are also free and set in the Vivian Amberville universe.
I recommend this book to anyone who has an open mind and wants to lose themselves in a dark and twisted world where reality is everything you imagine it to be.
Read it and spread the word. Vivian Amberville is a new fantasy series worthy of its fame!
Picked Vivian Amberville, the weaver of odds at the library in my town. It had the trippiest cover and I admit its blurb intrigued me, but nothing prepared me for the awesomeness I experienced while reading it. I actually had to return 4 times to the library to finish reading the book cos I'm a broke ass teen, don't ave no library card to borrow it either, but I really recommend anyone else who's a bit better off than me to invest in this book series. Totally worth the cash, it entertains, makes you laugh, and it makes you think. This author's work is a-mazing! You can actually read some of her stories for free on her website louiseblackwick.com or read the calendar stories which are also free and set in the Vivian Amberville universe.
I recommend this book to anyone who has an open mind and wants to lose themselves in a dark and twisted world where reality is everything you imagine it to be.
Read it and spread the word. Vivian Amberville is a new fantasy series worthy of its fame!
March 7, 2018
What a great surprise reading Viviam Amberville. It is not about imagination but true reality that conquered my heart from this amazingly written book. The true reality I discovered here is that we can alter what we see by believing in justice, freedom and love. This new reality gave us the most powerful tool to shape the future: "WEAVING".
Thank you very much for this treasure reading dear Louise, from the bottom of my heart. Greetings from PERU.
Thank you very much for this treasure reading dear Louise, from the bottom of my heart. Greetings from PERU.
Want to read
August 7, 2021A COMPLETE PACKAGE .. MUST READ NOVEL !!!
the magic and fantasy in harry potter; the excitement and thrill in lord of the rings and avatar; and the psycological experience in vanilla sky were fused into this novel !!! perfect 5 stars for this !!! 😊😊😊
the magic and fantasy in harry potter; the excitement and thrill in lord of the rings and avatar; and the psycological experience in vanilla sky were fused into this novel !!! perfect 5 stars for this !!! 😊😊😊
March 1, 2018
This book is original. I have never read a story like this one! The characters are well thought out and developed. I highly recommend this book!
October 24, 2018
Love this book! Wish there was a sequel!
December 26, 2018
I read this book and I absolutely loved the story. I couldn't put the book down but I highly recommend the book.
October 1, 2024
"Vivian Amberville - The Weaver of Odds"
"Vivian Amberville - The Weaver of Odds" (De Wever van Kansen) geschreven door de Engelse-Nederlandse auteur Louise Blackwick, is een epische fantasyroman die zowel vermakelijk als diepgaand is.
Het boek behandelt complexe thema's, zoals de dood en de vergetelheid, op een manier die de lezer dwingt om na te denken over existentiële vragen. Hoewel ik wist dat de auteur groot is in onze regio, zowel in Nederland als België, was ik aangenaam verrast door de volwassenheid van dit boek en de ongelooflijke kwaliteit van het schrijven.
De magie in "Vivian Amberville" is niet zomaar een ornament, maar een integraal onderdeel van het verhaal dat de wereld tot leven brengt. Blackwick heeft een uniek en goed doordacht magiesysteem gecreëerd dat niet alleen fascinerend is, maar ook bijdraagt aan de diepgang van de plot en de ontwikkeling van de personages.
Elk detail is zorgvuldig uitgewerkt, waardoor de lezer volledig wordt ondergedompeld in de realiteit van Vivian's wereld. De personages zijn evenredig indrukwekkend. Vivian zelf is een complexe heldin die moet navigeren door de uitdagingen en verantwoordelijkheden die haar zijn opgelegd. De interacties tussen de personages zijn rijk aan emotie en ontwikkeling, wat het verhaal nog meeslepender maakt. De relaties zijn authentiek en de dynamiek tussen de personages onthult de vele facetten van de menselijke ervaring.
Wat betreft de plot, deze is boeiend en vol verrassingen. Blackwick weet de lezer op het puntje van zijn stoel te houden met onverwachte wendingen en een zorgvuldig opgebouwde spanning. De thema's van het verhaal zijn zowel tijdloos als relevant, en de manier waarop ze worden gepresenteerd, daagt de lezer uit om dieper na te denken over hun eigen leven en de wereld om hen heen. Met het oog op de toekomst kan ik niet wachten op het vervolg, "Vivian Amberville - The Book of Chaos (Het Boek van Chaos)" dat later dit jaar uitkomt.
De verwachtingen zijn hoog, en ik ben ervan overtuigd dat Blackwick opnieuw zal schitteren met haar meesterlijke vertelkunst. Voor iedereen die van epische fantasy houdt en zich graag laat meeslepen in een wereld vol magie, avontuur en diepere vragen over het leven, is "Vivian Amberville - De Wever van Kansen" absoluut een must-read.
"Vivian Amberville - The Weaver of Odds" (De Wever van Kansen) geschreven door de Engelse-Nederlandse auteur Louise Blackwick, is een epische fantasyroman die zowel vermakelijk als diepgaand is.
Het boek behandelt complexe thema's, zoals de dood en de vergetelheid, op een manier die de lezer dwingt om na te denken over existentiële vragen. Hoewel ik wist dat de auteur groot is in onze regio, zowel in Nederland als België, was ik aangenaam verrast door de volwassenheid van dit boek en de ongelooflijke kwaliteit van het schrijven.
De magie in "Vivian Amberville" is niet zomaar een ornament, maar een integraal onderdeel van het verhaal dat de wereld tot leven brengt. Blackwick heeft een uniek en goed doordacht magiesysteem gecreëerd dat niet alleen fascinerend is, maar ook bijdraagt aan de diepgang van de plot en de ontwikkeling van de personages.
Elk detail is zorgvuldig uitgewerkt, waardoor de lezer volledig wordt ondergedompeld in de realiteit van Vivian's wereld. De personages zijn evenredig indrukwekkend. Vivian zelf is een complexe heldin die moet navigeren door de uitdagingen en verantwoordelijkheden die haar zijn opgelegd. De interacties tussen de personages zijn rijk aan emotie en ontwikkeling, wat het verhaal nog meeslepender maakt. De relaties zijn authentiek en de dynamiek tussen de personages onthult de vele facetten van de menselijke ervaring.
Wat betreft de plot, deze is boeiend en vol verrassingen. Blackwick weet de lezer op het puntje van zijn stoel te houden met onverwachte wendingen en een zorgvuldig opgebouwde spanning. De thema's van het verhaal zijn zowel tijdloos als relevant, en de manier waarop ze worden gepresenteerd, daagt de lezer uit om dieper na te denken over hun eigen leven en de wereld om hen heen. Met het oog op de toekomst kan ik niet wachten op het vervolg, "Vivian Amberville - The Book of Chaos (Het Boek van Chaos)" dat later dit jaar uitkomt.
De verwachtingen zijn hoog, en ik ben ervan overtuigd dat Blackwick opnieuw zal schitteren met haar meesterlijke vertelkunst. Voor iedereen die van epische fantasy houdt en zich graag laat meeslepen in een wereld vol magie, avontuur en diepere vragen over het leven, is "Vivian Amberville - De Wever van Kansen" absoluut een must-read.
September 25, 2019
Vivian Amberville is a new grand fantasy epic who deserves its place among the great and almost-just-as-famous fantasy classics of its genre.
In 2423 when the end of the world had come by water, a little orphan girl from the ghettos of Keynes, England, discovers her mind can bring about certain outcomes, a unique and dangerous power called "the weaving of odds". Imprisoned in the Ala Spuria Shelter for Strays, Vivian uses her power to weave circumstances to "alter" the outcome of a children adoption lottery, of which she herself becomes the winner. Once adopted, Vivian begins her adventures beyond the walls of the orphanage - and soon afterwards - beyond the very fabric of reality in what becomes the most epic, trippy, psychedelic and original fantasy tale I've ever committed to memory.
Between the greatness of Tolkien's world-building and the edge-of-your-seat pacing of J.K.Rowling's "Harry Potter", Vivian Amberville, written by the talented Louise Blackwick, sets the bar even higher by adopting a philosophical standpoint to an otherwise well-developed Young Adult/Coming of Age story. In a world where people can weave Threads of influence into the fabric of reality, Vivian discovers her powers to summon odds and circumstances are a doorway to chaos.
Despite it targetting younger audiences, the story is multi-layered and highly complex, playing on complex themes such as the loss of identity and the adoption of responsibility painted against a colourful and whimsical world where thoughts can become things.
I recommend this story to anyone, young and old, who wishes to experience something deep and soulful and meaningful, while altogether seeking thrill, entertainment and the discovery of new and imaginative worlds.
In 2423 when the end of the world had come by water, a little orphan girl from the ghettos of Keynes, England, discovers her mind can bring about certain outcomes, a unique and dangerous power called "the weaving of odds". Imprisoned in the Ala Spuria Shelter for Strays, Vivian uses her power to weave circumstances to "alter" the outcome of a children adoption lottery, of which she herself becomes the winner. Once adopted, Vivian begins her adventures beyond the walls of the orphanage - and soon afterwards - beyond the very fabric of reality in what becomes the most epic, trippy, psychedelic and original fantasy tale I've ever committed to memory.
Between the greatness of Tolkien's world-building and the edge-of-your-seat pacing of J.K.Rowling's "Harry Potter", Vivian Amberville, written by the talented Louise Blackwick, sets the bar even higher by adopting a philosophical standpoint to an otherwise well-developed Young Adult/Coming of Age story. In a world where people can weave Threads of influence into the fabric of reality, Vivian discovers her powers to summon odds and circumstances are a doorway to chaos.
Despite it targetting younger audiences, the story is multi-layered and highly complex, playing on complex themes such as the loss of identity and the adoption of responsibility painted against a colourful and whimsical world where thoughts can become things.
I recommend this story to anyone, young and old, who wishes to experience something deep and soulful and meaningful, while altogether seeking thrill, entertainment and the discovery of new and imaginative worlds.
December 5, 2022
Unique selling points for “The Weaver of Odds”:
- A grand and epic fantasy I found remarkably good and immersive
- Cool stuff, such as competing against alternate versions of yourself from parallel realities.
- The main character has a pretty unique ability, to control odds and circumstances
- The magic system was based on imagination
- There were elements in this novel that truly and utterly wowed me
Strong spots in the story:
- Huge open world and lovely, enchanting characters
- Good use of themes and story beats
- The main cast of characters were well-rounded and jumped off the page
- A very quotable story, with lots of little snippets of “philosophy”
- Lots of darkness but also lots of wholesomeness
Weak spots in the story:
- I could tell this was the author’s first full length novel. There were a few small details that felt superfluous.
- Some scenes felt a bit too dark and brutal for what you can expect from a Young Adult novel. Could be a strength, depending on what you’re looking for
- Pacing can be a bit off in the first half of the novel. It really gets going fast in the second half.
- The illiterate Martha Burlington, the lady running the orphanage/ Children Shelter/ Ala Spuria shelter for strays, was a bit of a one-dimensional character. I understand this is a dystopian world, destroyed by water, but sometimes she was cruel and sadistic to kids for no real reason.
- A grand and epic fantasy I found remarkably good and immersive
- Cool stuff, such as competing against alternate versions of yourself from parallel realities.
- The main character has a pretty unique ability, to control odds and circumstances
- The magic system was based on imagination
- There were elements in this novel that truly and utterly wowed me
Strong spots in the story:
- Huge open world and lovely, enchanting characters
- Good use of themes and story beats
- The main cast of characters were well-rounded and jumped off the page
- A very quotable story, with lots of little snippets of “philosophy”
- Lots of darkness but also lots of wholesomeness
Weak spots in the story:
- I could tell this was the author’s first full length novel. There were a few small details that felt superfluous.
- Some scenes felt a bit too dark and brutal for what you can expect from a Young Adult novel. Could be a strength, depending on what you’re looking for
- Pacing can be a bit off in the first half of the novel. It really gets going fast in the second half.
- The illiterate Martha Burlington, the lady running the orphanage/ Children Shelter/ Ala Spuria shelter for strays, was a bit of a one-dimensional character. I understand this is a dystopian world, destroyed by water, but sometimes she was cruel and sadistic to kids for no real reason.
March 4, 2020
"Ærinna everly worked passionately at balancing cosmic reality. Her agile fingers stirred to and fro with much ease and visible talent amid billions of wires. They were Threads of intelligent design she wove into the very fabric of reality."
So begins Louise Blackwick's debut novel "The Weaver of Odds", first in the Vivian Amberville series - and the novel that catapulted Blackwick's career as a well-established international author.
Vivian Amberville has since become something of a cult book, popular among fantasy enthusiasts but still far from the mainstream. The "Book Reader" magazine called it "one of the greatest fantasy epics in a decade", and boy, does it live up to it.
One of my favorite things about reading a book is reaching that point where you just can’t put it down. Or when it stays in your head long after you have finished the read. No wonder it created such a cult. It’s always magical to feel immersed in another world, particularly a world where thoughts can become things and history can be rewritten like an open diary. I haven't felt this entranced since I first read Harry Potter.
The Weaver of odds is truly one of the greatest fantasy epics in a decade.
So begins Louise Blackwick's debut novel "The Weaver of Odds", first in the Vivian Amberville series - and the novel that catapulted Blackwick's career as a well-established international author.
Vivian Amberville has since become something of a cult book, popular among fantasy enthusiasts but still far from the mainstream. The "Book Reader" magazine called it "one of the greatest fantasy epics in a decade", and boy, does it live up to it.
One of my favorite things about reading a book is reaching that point where you just can’t put it down. Or when it stays in your head long after you have finished the read. No wonder it created such a cult. It’s always magical to feel immersed in another world, particularly a world where thoughts can become things and history can be rewritten like an open diary. I haven't felt this entranced since I first read Harry Potter.
The Weaver of odds is truly one of the greatest fantasy epics in a decade.
September 30, 2021
A grandiose setting populated by people who can Weave Threads of influence into the very fabric of reality
Let me dream.
I'm reading for the first time this book to my 8 year-old daughter, but for me (38 years old) it's the third time I read "Vivian Amberville - The Weaver of Odds". Everyone should read this book, if only to realize why the phenomenon "Vivian Amberville" has spread so far and so wide. With an essential and enjoyable style, Louise Blackwick catapults the reader into a double dystopian world, one not very unlike our own, and another, more grandiose setting populated by people who can Weave Threads of influence into the very fabric of reality (Weavers). A world where even the most complicated topics, such as identity, purpose or death, are treated with delicate gentleness.
Let me dream.
I'm reading for the first time this book to my 8 year-old daughter, but for me (38 years old) it's the third time I read "Vivian Amberville - The Weaver of Odds". Everyone should read this book, if only to realize why the phenomenon "Vivian Amberville" has spread so far and so wide. With an essential and enjoyable style, Louise Blackwick catapults the reader into a double dystopian world, one not very unlike our own, and another, more grandiose setting populated by people who can Weave Threads of influence into the very fabric of reality (Weavers). A world where even the most complicated topics, such as identity, purpose or death, are treated with delicate gentleness.
June 26, 2023
"Imagine Better."
Original new fantasy story with quirky characters, grand-scale settings and very dark overtones. The author has designed the twin-worlds of Existence and Non-Existence with a lot of good taste and imagination. I'm looking forward to the sequel coming this year.
In short: Most underrated fantasy epic debut I've read in a while. But don't take my word for it. Just go ahead and read it.
Original new fantasy story with quirky characters, grand-scale settings and very dark overtones. The author has designed the twin-worlds of Existence and Non-Existence with a lot of good taste and imagination. I'm looking forward to the sequel coming this year.
In short: Most underrated fantasy epic debut I've read in a while. But don't take my word for it. Just go ahead and read it.
November 16, 2023
Dit boek heb ik opgehaald bij de bibliotheek van Apeldoorn. Het onderwerp 'mensen die invloedsdraden verweven in het weefsel van de werkelijkheid' wekte echt mijn interesse. Ik werd niet teleurgesteld. Vivian Amberville zit vol mysterie en (duistere) magie, en ik heb het in twee dagen verslonden!
Ik hoorde dat schrijfster Louise Blackwick uit de buurt komt, dus ik heb de rest van haar boeken geprobeerd. Ik heb er tot nu toe zeven gelezen en ik kan je vertellen dat ALLE boeken van deze auteur geweldig zijn. Verhalen met een ziel. Ik ben officieel een Louise Blackwick-fan.
Ik hoorde dat schrijfster Louise Blackwick uit de buurt komt, dus ik heb de rest van haar boeken geprobeerd. Ik heb er tot nu toe zeven gelezen en ik kan je vertellen dat ALLE boeken van deze auteur geweldig zijn. Verhalen met een ziel. Ik ben officieel een Louise Blackwick-fan.
December 8, 2023
A really colorful and textured fantasy novel, full of whimsical characters, a touch of darkness and an epic journey beyond the fabric of reality. The author has spent 23 years building its magic system and it shows.
A lot of the interdimensional stuff reminds me of a really dark and twisted Rick and Morty episode, only that instead of sci-fi you have a fantasy world where people Weave threads of influence into the fabric of reality.
I can't wait for the next Vivian Amberville installment in the series.
A lot of the interdimensional stuff reminds me of a really dark and twisted Rick and Morty episode, only that instead of sci-fi you have a fantasy world where people Weave threads of influence into the fabric of reality.
I can't wait for the next Vivian Amberville installment in the series.
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