Literary Titan Award Review
Apostasy : Blood Influence
Apostasy: Blood Influence is a captivating journey into a world where the mystical and the real world intertwine. Lawrance’s writing is immersive and detailed, which draws the reader into a meticulously crafted world. The characterization of Mortella is one I particularly enjoyed. The emotional depth and development of characters like Silas and Felix add layers to the narrative, making their internal and external conflicts resonate with the reader.
The novel excels in its exploration of themes such as power, control, and the struggle against an oppressive system. The Tower, as a symbol of overarching influence and manipulation, is an intriguing element that adds a layer of complexity to the story. Lawrance’s ability to weave a narrative that questions destiny and the price of power is fantastic.
The world-building is a standout feature, with Lawrance creating a vivid and believable fantasy world. The depiction of the Tower and its influence over the inhabitants of the Bowl is richly detailed, offering a sense of scale and history that I think adds to the story’s depth. The novel’s exploration of the unique mental connection between Silas and Felix is another highlight, providing a unique perspective on the bond between siblings and the concept of shared destiny.
Apostasy: Blood Influence is a well-crafted fantasy novel that offers a compelling narrative, complex characters, and a richly detailed world. This book is particularly recommended for readers who enjoy intricate world-building and character-driven stories
Reviewed Date: April, 2024
Now a Multiaward winning Author
Blood Influence and Apostasy : Blood Influence
Literary Titan Award Review
Blood Influence
In Blood Influence, I C Lawrance's debut novel, a compelling narrative unfolds around the enigmatic Tower, a central figure in the lives of three distinct characters. Shan, a simple goat herder, views the Tower as an unwelcome presence to be avoided. In contrast, Molly, aspiring to emulate her mother, integrates it into her everyday life. Meanwhile, Moira, driven by a thirst for power, sees the Tower as her ticket to a new life. These characters, each endowed with the unique ability of Influence, find their fates intertwined in the shadow of the Tower.
Lawrance skillfully crafts a vibrant, textured world, populating it with well-rounded, relatable characters. Despite their differing backgrounds and aspirations, Moira, Molly, and Shan are presented with a depth that makes their choices and motivations credible and engaging. The novel's setting is equally captivating, combining rustic charm with a sense of vitality. The Tower's omnipresence not only shapes the world but also enriches the interactions between the characters and their environment, creating a cohesive and believable universe.
A refreshing contribution to the fantasy genre, this book appeals to both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Lawrance demonstrates a remarkable talent for world-building, creating an immersive and dynamic setting. The characters, with their diverse backgrounds, are portrayed with a realism that resonates throughout their interactions with each other and their surroundings. Each chapter contributes meaningfully to the overall story, keeping the reader engaged and invested.
Blood Influence stands out as a well-executed and enjoyable read. Lawrance's skill in weaving together the lives of Shan, Molly, and Moira promises an exciting future for fans of the genre, leaving readers eager for more explorations into this vividly imagined world.
Reviewed Date: Feb 14, 2024
The Book Commentary Review
5 Stars
Lawrance crafts a thrilling narrative that explores the consequences of possessing a rare gift, introducing readers to a world filled with mystery and characters that are intriguing and richly fashioned.
The author writes in gorgeous prose and the vivid descriptions offer a fully drawn portrait of the Bowl. The Tower is a character in its own right and takes a prominent place in the story, becoming the malignant force that drives the conflict and determines the choices the characters make. The persistent atmosphere of suspense and intrigue carries the story forward and the premise of the Tower selecting girls with Influence sets the stage for an unforgettable fantasy adventure. Lawrance masterfully introduces the characters, particularly Shan, Molly, and Moira, whose lives become intertwined in unexpected ways. The alternating chapters focusing on each girl's perspective augment the suspense while allowing readers to connect with the individual struggles and journeys of the characters.
The scenes within the Tower are captivating, and they depict a dark and isolated place that erodes memories and individuality. The mysterious protagonist's escape using newfound abilities is thrilling in the plot. Lawrance's portrayal of the Tower as an evil force seeking to exploit Influence creates complexity in the story and deepens the sense of the characters' predicaments. As the story moves forward, the relationships between characters, especially Jess and Angus, take center stage. Angus's discovery of Jess outside Town and their subsequent bond create an emotional anchor for the story. The protective and supportive dynamic between Angus, Jess, and Maima brings a heartwarming feel to the tale. Readers will be enthralled by the intricate web of connections between the characters, the stunningly imagined setting, and the strong plot points. Blood Influence stands out not only in its suspenseful plot but also in its exploration of the psychological and emotional depth of the characters who must face their fears, deal with loss, and look forward to uncertainty. This nuanced, well-crafted story had me turning the pages..
Reviewed By: Romuald Dzemo Reviewed Date: January 31, 2024e
All 5 Star Reviews from Readers’ Favorite
I.C. Lawrance dives into a mix of genres to offer fantasy fans an engaging yarn full of magic, mystery, and a tinge of horror. Blood Influence is tailor-made for readers who love stories featuring supernatural entities and imaginative fantastical worlds.
Lawrance's descriptions of the place, at times, feel almost surreal.
A stellar start to a promising fantasy saga.
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Blood Influence by I.C. Lawrance is set in the Bowl, a place where people do not talk about the others who were taken away from them. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, turning the pages as fast as I could.
Blood Influence was beautifully written and was an interesting read.
I was hooked from the start.
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
Author I C Lawrance has crafted a tale that combines wonder and fear, unraveling the mysteries of its plot with strong narrative confidence and a huge amount of chilling atmosphere.
I found it to be a truly immersive experience. Delving into a world where the supernatural collides with the mundane.
Lawrance's writing style captures the essence of mystery and suspense with great pacing and a keen sense of how to shift from one scene to the next in a cinematic fashion, making the reader eager to unravel the secrets that lie within the Tower.
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
All 5 Star Reviews from Readers’ Favorite
Apostasy by I C Lawrance is built around the overpowering influence of a tower on a group of gifted characters.
The mysterious atmosphere captures you right from the start and keeps you hooked completely throughout
Apostasy by I C Lawrance is perfect for readers who love fantasy tales that engender fear and curiosity. Once you've picked it up, the lines between reality and fiction become blurred because of the vivid scenes. Read it at night for the best effect.
Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite
Author I C Lawrance has crafted another excellent dark fantasy work with a compelling narrative that delves even deeper into the complexities of power, destiny, and the role of blood in shaping the characters' fates in this immersive universeApostasy is a dark and enthralling continuation of the Blood Influence series
The author's vivid descriptions create a palpable atmosphere of dread
I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
In Apostasy, I.C. Lawrance created a realistic world with intricate details. The story moved quickly along, thanks to the enduring mystery and fascination that persisted throughout.
The story was masterfully written, and I found the complicated web of links
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
About the Author
Ian C Lawrance
Born in Wollongong in NSW the youngest of three. On finishing school he completed a Medical degree at Sydney University and went on to specialise in gastroenterology and complete a PhD in Molecular Medicine at the Australian National University. From there he undertook at Post-doctoral fellowship in the USA before returning to Australia and moving to Perth where he continued his basic Science and Clinical research as a Professor at the University of Western Australia. He is currently an Adjunct Professor and continues his research work publishing peer-reviewed research papers and book chapters.
With the First Book of the Series - Blood Influence enjoyed by many and with 5 star reviews the second, Apostasy - Blood Influence now continues the saga.
Apostasy - Blood Influence
Book two in the Blood Influence Series
It was always there.
The constant hum for as many years as they remembered had been the background for their every waking moment. They felt the muffled cries of misery that emanated from the structure. Cries of loss and longing, indistinct and ethereal but still poignant and real.
Felix and Silas knew the Tower. It was evil. Holding the inhabitants of the Bowl in servitude. Taking what it wanted … or needed. The best that they could expect was to be left alone. But that now seemed a lot less likely.
Mortella as a child had been endowed with natural beauty. It was a gift not to be squandered with her fiery brushed-bronze hair, emerald-green eyes, and flawless complexion. It had served her well, but now she had been summoned back to the Tower. Curtailed by The Presence and commissioned by The One. Succeed and the Black was regained, fail and … that was not to be considered
Blood Influence Series
The Tower invoked wonder tinged by fear.
Despite living whole generations under its watchful presence very few understood the truth. Overlooking the Bowl, a land of lush pastures and cultivated fields, it observed daily life whilst the people lived and thrived, at least they convinced themselves they thrived.
Shan, Molly and Moira were 13 years old. They had not met, but each had attracted the Tower's attention and that was never a good thing. The Tower needed girls with an Influence; the ability to effect things about them and so it would determine who would be selected and deemed worthy.
Yet things are rarely as straight forward as they appear and the Influence of Blood should not be underestimated.
The first book of the thrilling new fantasy series; Blood Influence.
