Perception

*When Minda Blake, a psychic "remote viewer" for a black-ops government contractor, tries to blow the lid off UAP secrets she once helped hide, everything goes terribly wrong. Now she's on the run from her own bosses, relying on the help of strangers in the heart of the hyper-conservative Dutch Reformed community that rules over West Michigan. What Minda and her new friends encounter—with the help of a mysterious mentor—shocks the senses. But time is running out and the world is in peril. This team of unlikely cohorts must find a missing teenager, recover a stolen artifact, and rescue the world from an interdimensional threat. They'll need to bring all their unusual talents to the forefront if they're going to succeed. That is, if unseen forces allow.*

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This book is an exhilarating thrill ride that seamlessly blends science fiction, suspense, and a touch of the supernatural. The protagonist, Minda Blake, is a compelling character whose psychic abilities and moral courage drive the narrative forward in unexpected ways. As she goes from being a key player in a black-ops operation to a fugitive, the stakes quickly escalate, making for an intense and captivating read.

Set in the unique and richly described setting of West Michigan's Dutch Reformed community, the novel adds a layer of cultural intrigue and complexity. The interactions between Minda and the conservative community members she comes to rely on are both poignant and thought-provoking.

The plot is packed with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Minda and her eclectic group of allies race against time to prevent a global catastrophe. The introduction of a mysterious mentor adds an additional layer of mystery and suspense, making the story even more engaging.

What truly sets this book apart is its ability to blend high-stakes action with deep, character-driven moments. The themes of trust, redemption, and the battle against unseen forces resonate throughout, making it more than just a typical sci-fi thriller.

Overall, this novel is a must-read for fans of gripping, high-octane adventures that don't shy away from exploring the complexities of human nature and the supernatural. It's a unique and unforgettable journey that leaves you eagerly anticipating what will happen next.

This was pretty interesting. I don't think I've read a book like this one before. I'm not too familiar with remote viewing since it was recently introduced to me but it's cool. I think it's worth a read

Thank you Lianne Downey, Jolibro Publishing, & Netgalley for this free ARC in exchange for a review.

I enjoyed this spiritual sci-fi adventure novel which had good characterization. I look forward to book two.

Lianne Downey's "Perception" is a thought-provoking science fiction novel that delves into the world of psychic abilities and extraterrestrial encounters. The story centers around Minda Blake, a woman whose unique talents land her in the employ of a shadowy government contractor. Minda's role as a "remote viewer" takes her on a journey that challenges her perception of reality and pushes the boundaries of human understanding.

Downey's world-building is intriguing. She blends elements of conspiracy theory with a touch of mysticism, creating a captivating scenario where psychic abilities hold a key role in national security. The exploration of this concept is sure to spark the imaginations of readers interested in the unexplained.

The fast-paced narrative keeps the story moving, with action sequences interspersed with moments of introspection as Minda grapples with the weight of her abilities and the moral implications of her work. However, the focus on psychic talents might not appeal to everyone, particularly those seeking a more traditional science fiction experience with a strong emphasis on technology.

Overall, "Perception" is a decent read for fans of speculative fiction with a paranormal twist. It offers a unique perspective on alien encounters and the potential role of the human mind in the grand scheme of things. Be prepared for a mind-bending experience that will leave you questioning what you perceive as reality.

Here's what might appeal to you:
A unique take on UFO encounters
A focus on psychic abilities. (but that may not resonate with everyone.)
A fast-paced narrative with action and suspense.
A protagonist with a compelling moral dilemma
The world-building, while intriguing, might lack the depth desired by some readers.

This was interesting and I enjoyed the world building. It was a bit of a slow start for me but the more I read the more interested I became. I look forward to the next book!

Thank you Lianne Downey, Jolibro Publishing, & Netgalley for this free ARC in exchange for a review.

Back in 1909, Mark Twain published a story about a sea captain who accidentally pays a visit to Heaven. There he discovers that the then-popular conception of it – harps and halos – is not what Heaven is like at all.

In Lianne Downey’s new book Perception (Jolibro Publishing, 2024), the protagonist is not a sea captain, but rather a young psychic who’s employed by a secretive para-military group to remotely locate objects. Minda and her fellow agents are sent to the shores of Lake Michigan to retrieve a piece of metal that dropped from an errant UFO. When she touches it with her bare hand (strictly against the rules) she’s suddenly inspired with strange visions that lead her into going rogue and trying to take the alien artifact for a higher purpose. Soon, through accident or purpose, the artifact is lost.

What follows is an intriguing chase through a Michigan landscape being pelted by one of those freak storms that can drop a foot or more of snow overnight. There is romance. There are also kidnappings, torture, betrayals, and betrayals of betrayals. The twists in the story are not what you would expect however, and they lead to a series of cliffhangers that make it hard to stop reading.

As the stakes in the game get higher, the story escalates into an almost Dantean conflict between the forces of good and evil. But while Dante’s work spiraled down into a nether world, Perception spirals up into astral planes and higher dimensions. In the end, the reader might even get a glimpse of Heaven.

Just don’t expect harps and halos.