My Journey in Writing
My name is Lynne Stringer and I love writing! Of course, that’s not all I love. I also love reading books, especially ones that take me out of the every day and into a new world. It doesn’t have to be a completely imaginary world, either. Anything with fascinating characters and interesting storylines will do. My first young adult novel, The Heir, was accepted for publication by Wombat Books and released on 1 June 2013. It is the first book in the Verindon trilogy. It’s so exciting to have a real copy of my book in my hands.
The Madness Project is set in the land of Cavnal, which bears a striking resemblance to Earth in the early 20th century. The main difference is that there are people who can use supernatural powers (mages) and the government of Cavnal is trying to get rid of them.
This scenario provides a great premise for what proved to be a fascinating and intricate story full of political intrigue, betrayal and a little bit of romance. I enjoyed reading about Tarik and his journey and I loved Hayli as well, not to mention Zagger, who is a favourite of mine. There were also plenty of characters I loved to hate.
I do think it was just a tad long and sometimes the plot was a bit convoluted. Sometimes it was difficult to remember who was fighting with whom and all the details that went with that, especially if I had to leave the book to participate in Real Life for a while. I'd come back and say, 'Okay, he's meeting with who again? And are they enemies or friends?' It would have been worth keeping notes so that I could refresh my memory before I re-entered that world.
However, don't let that stop you from reading it. It was fantastic and I know many readers thrive on intricate plots like that. It was a wonderful world to inhabit and I will be checking out the next book.
 (Volume 1) - J. Leigh Bralick)