After reading Andrea Flory’s book Miira (Innerscape: book 1) , I asked her if she’d be interested in a guest post. I expected a cerebral exposition of the fascinating science of virtual reality. What I got was so much more, a sharing of the true beauty of her work, a human story. My review is below, but before heading there, here’s Andrea:
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Andrea Flory
Some people know they want to write from a very young age. It’s all they dream about.
That was never me. I did spend a lot of my childhood daydreaming, but those were private adventures, and I never saw them as potential ‘books’. Books were magical portals created by geniuses with towering imaginations.
How could I ever aspire to write stories?
It was true that I liked words and was good with them, but I was too pragmatic, and much too logical to ever emulate gods like Dostoyevsky and Dumas, LeGuin and Herbert. No, daydreams were for that magical time between waking and sleeping. They were most definitely not suitable for the real world.
And besides, I was busy. I rode motorbikes and went up in gliders, travelled overseas, learned more languages, taught high school French, fell in love with computers, got married, had a child. You know…life.
But neglected passions don’t always wither away, and one day while I was doing tech support, I realised that many of my clients were asking the exact same questions, over and over again.
Ah hah, thought I. I liked writing, and I’d been a teacher, why not combine the two and type up the tech support instead of re-inventing the wheel each time? And that was the start of my technical writing career, but it would still be another ten years before I was brave enough to give fiction a try.
I guess that lack of courage is something I share with Miira, the protagonist in my latest science fiction story. She’s not a coward, exactly, but she’s not brave either, and it’s not until she’s bed-ridden and almost completely helpless that she finally decides to take the plunge and enter the digital world of Innerscape.
At first, Miira only sees Innerscape as a pain free way to die. Once inside, however, she discovers that her healthy young body and the virtual world it inhabits really are indistinguishable from the real thing. But if she has been given this second chance at life, what on earth is she to do with it?
I think this is a question we all have to answer at some point in our lives. For me, the moment came after a brush with cancer some years ago. Until then, I’d felt no sense of urgency; I was learning to write the kind of fiction I loved to read. What was the rush? Besides, I still wasn’t sure my writing would ever be good enough…
After the cancer scare I realised that writing wasn’t a competition. I might never be as good as my heroes, but my best was good enough. For me. The only question that still remained was whether I had the courage to share my best with others.
In 2013 I took a deep breath, closed my eyes and jumped. Four years later, so did Miira Tahn.
My Review
What a beautifully written book. Innerscape is a science fiction story about a middle-aged woman Miira whose disease-ravaged body is dying. She decides to enter Innercape where her body will be pared down to her essential components and preserved while she lives out her life in a virtual world as a younger, healthy version of herself.
The first book in the series covers two aspects of her immersion in Innerscape – first, the preparation of her new body and the tests to prepare for her transition, and second, the transition into the VR world and her orientation. As a series, the story continues beyond the initial book, and Flory hooks the reader with the introduction of several challenging characters, corporate compromises, questionable ethics, and love.
The science is detailed and utterly entrancing, as well as completely understandable to the layperson. The premise and technology also seem entirely plausible, if not now, then in the not-so-distant future. Flory’s writing is meticulous and detailed, and the world she’s created held my fascination throughout.
And all that wasn’t even the best part! Set against the scientific backdrop, is an engrossing human story. Miira is reserved, sensitive, inquisitive, and vulnerable, a beautifully rendered human being undergoing a process that requires complete trust and a step into the unknown. The story is told primarily in her point of view and the immersion in her experience is complete. The Innerscape staff that supports her are multidimensional and believably flawed characters.
The pace is steady and yet I flew through the book because I could NOT put it down. Exquisite writing, gorgeous descriptions, high tech science, and human pathos that grab the reader. I’m a fan and gladly recommend this book to readers of science fiction and anyone who enjoys an unusual human story.
***
If we’ve enticed you to enter the fascinating world of Innerscape and meet Miira, here’s the global link to her story: Miira, Innerscape: book 1
Myths of the Mirror 
This book sounds absolutely fascinating. I am not a sci-fi fan but this reads like something Ithat as a woman I could really enjoy and get into. Diane , as always your review is top notch, the author is lovely, and the book cover amazing!
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It’s beautifully written, Holly, and though the science is fascinating, it’s the human story that’s so compelling. I think you would enjoy it. Andrea’s a fabulous author. Thanks for stopping by. 😀
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That’s what has drawn me in, that this book has a human side and about a woman….sounds wonderful! I’ll be checking this out for sure. 🙂
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Nothing left for me to do but ‘join the chorus’! Just wonderful! ♥
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Thanks Billy Ray. It really is a marvelous book by a talented writer. 🙂 Thanks so much for stopping by to read. ❤
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This sounds like a truly interesting book, Diana. You wrote a most thorough and interesting review. It sounds like something different from the usual. 🙂 — Suzanne
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It is different, Suzanne, and so beautifully written. Thanks for the visit, my friend. 🙂
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PS: I had a long long flight today and I read Book One in way too short a time. I am absolutely hooked and about to download book two!
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I knew it. Isn’t it amazing? I’m so glad you’re enjoying it. Yay.
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I have another long flight tomorrow, and guess what’s (who’s) going to keep me company….? 🙂
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Ha ha ha. You’re ahead of me! I need to catch up. 🙂
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-dance- I’m so happy. 😀 Thank you!
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[…] https://mythsofthemirror.com/2018/01/25/a-human-story-guest-post-with-andrea-flory/ What a beautifully written book. Innerscape is a science fiction story about a middle-aged woman Miira whose disease-ravaged body is dying. She decides to enter Innercape where her body will be pared down to her essential components and preserved while she lives out her life in a virtual world as a younger, healthy version of herself. […]
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Thanks so much for sharing the post, Traci. What a treat. Have a wonderful day.
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Thanks, Traci! -hugs-
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Wonderful story and review Diana. What a remarkable woman
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It’s a very cool book, Paul. I had to rave a little about it on the blog. Thanks so much for stopping by to read the post and review. Always appreciated. Happy Writing, my friend. 🙂
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It was lovely to see your enthusiasm and liking shine through
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Thank you. 🙂
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Andrea’s story of how she started to write is very inspiring. I too used to be intimidated by the masterpieces of people who seem as if they have been born with a pen in hand. Thank you for sharing!
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Thanks for the visit, Basilike. I think most of us suffer self doubt at some points in our journeys, but everyone has to start somewhere and only through practice do we grow and get better. Andrea no longer needs to feel intimidated. Her writing is beautiful. Have a wonderful week, my friend. ❤
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You too, Diana!
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Hi. 🙂
I think Diana’s right, the more we write, the easier the words flow. Not sure if it’s a case of confidence or simple habit, but it works.
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Hi!
Perhaps both. The more you do it, the more confident you become. And, before you know it, its a habit.
Have a great evening!
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lol – yes! It’s morning here again so, have a great evening as well? Or is it still afternoon over there?
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It’s 11:20 at night!
Always forgetting the time difference…
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It does my head in! lol
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Mine too!
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Funny, it was 1:00 in the afternoon here when you wrote your comments. 🙂 I think the 3 of us almost divide the world in thirds!
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Hah! And yet we were almost? in overlap time. I love it when that happens.
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If only we had special powers to influence it for the better!
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This book sounds very unique and fascinating, Diana.
My compliments to Andrea Flory. 🌻💐
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She’s a wonderful writer, Robin, and I was swept away by the book. Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a wonderful week. ❤
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Thank you. I’ll go away and blush now. 🙂
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Aww, you deserve praise! 🙂 🌸
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-hugs- Thank you!
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This is a wonderful joint post Diana. It was lovely to meet Andrea, and your review certainly makes me want to read her book. Hugs all around.
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Thanks so much for stopping by, Teagan. I was captivated by the world and character of this book. It’s worth the read if you decide to give it a try. Happy Writing and have a wonderful week. Hugs.
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Hugs to you too, Teagan. It’s all down to Diana. I’m just along for the ride. 🙂
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Wow, it’s so interesting to see an author whose passion was not books and whose aspiration was not to be a writer one day! And yet she ended up taking up writing many years after, and realizing how important and good she was at it 🙂
These types of people are always inspiring to those who get into writing later in life, and try a few other things in the meantime. Very unique and interesting!
Also, wonderful review, Diana ❤ I'm so glad you enjoyed this one. It sounds incredible!
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I was 50 when I started writing, and it’s affirming to meet so many others who began their journey at the same time or even later! I envy those who got a head start, but absolutely love what I do. Thanks so much for stopping by, Sophie. And I’m glad you enjoyed the guest post and review ❤
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Really??? I always assumed you’d been writing from the moment you could hold a pen. I was almost the same age when I first started my ‘apprenticeship’. High Five, Kindred Spirit!
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*High Five!*
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Thanks, Sophie. I think some of us are ‘late bloomers’, but better late than never, right? -hugs-
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A very interesting post, Diana. Andrea sounds a bit like me, first meandering through life and then technical non-fiction writing before finally arriving at fiction. This book sounds fascinating.
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I used to write procedure manuals! Ha ha. The opposite of what I do now. Yes, somehow we’ve all gotten to this place, Robbie, and how joyful to get to spend time in our imaginations, being creative. Andrea’s book is beautiful and full of heart. Have a wonderful week and Happy Writing 🙂
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You know, I’ve thanked you before for guesting me, but this goes beyond simple thanks. I feel as if I’ve made friends. -huge hugs-
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You’re so welcome and a delightful guest, Andrea. That’s a huge part of the fun 🙂
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-hugs-
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Wow…I knew I’d found a lot of like-minded people here on Diana’s blog, but I never imagined I’d find so many kindred spirits. So lovely to meet you Robbie!
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What a great introduction! I haven’t read SF for years, but this story is intriguing. My TBR list is growing faster than I can possibly read (and I have to fit my writing in there too 😉 ) Good luck with these books, Andrea!
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Thanks, Julie. And I know what you mean about your TBR list. My Kindle is groaning with stories. lol
All the best with your writing too. 🙂
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Isn’t it wonderful, Julie. I’ve stopped playing mindless computer games in order to make room for reading, and I’m slowing digging out of my TBR pile. I’m discovering some buried gems and this was one. Thanks so much for stopping by to read! Happy Writing!
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Oh no! Don’t stop playing entirely, Diana. A bit of playtime is good. 😀
Ahem, what do you play?
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Silly matching-the-cubes games, Andrea, the modern version of Pac Man. I’m not missing much by stopping those. 😀
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-giggles- Oh! One of these days I’ll have to bend your ear about MMOs. You get to play and talk to people at the same time. 😀
Purely for medicinal purposes, of course…
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Darn it Diana!!! Here we go again, with a fantabulous introduction and review. Of course, my curiosity won’t let me pass by this series. My one regret is there just doesn’t seem to be enough time to read all of the books I’ve collected. Thank you for this post. ❤
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Diana’s been wonderful, and so have all of you. Thank you!
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Your intro was amazing and I was thinking “how in the world could you possibly think you couldn’t write fiction?” I can hardly wait to dive into the books. Even though I’m way behind in my reading I continue to add to my collection.
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Self perception and self doubt are funny things. I guess I was terrified I’d be laughed at. I’m better now, but some days it’s still an uphill struggle to introduce myself as ‘a writer’.
Thank you for your very kind words. 🙂
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You’re welcome! 🙂 I agree with you and oftentimes it seems the more competent a person the more self-doubt. There’s a name for the phenomenon unfortunately the name escapes me.
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Thanks, Steph. I suspect it has something to do with ‘knowing what you don’t know’. I’m a perfectionist, so the more I learn about writing fiction the more I feel that my own writing doesn’t measure up. It’s good in one way as it makes me try harder, but it definitely has it’s downside as well!
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I am always saying ‘we don’t know what we don’t know’it’s so true. And to your point I think most people affected by this are perfectionists by nature. It can be exhausting though because nothing ever feels good enough. I’ve had to intentionally pull back.
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Yes, but it’s hard. Every single time I re-read something I’ve written, that inner editor starts waving the dreaded red pen around. 😦
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I understand your pain.
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Ha ha ha. I’m so bad, aren’t I? I’m digging into my TBR pile, Steph, and I’m finding some gems. I think you’ll love this book. It’s fascinating and graceful and so touching. Happy Reading my beautiful friend. ❤
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Thank you ❤
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Diana, this is a terrific post! Andrea, I loved learning how you came to writing, a bit about your life before and how your brush with cancer focussed your attention to sharing your work. Your book sounds extraordinary and from Diana’s passionate and enthusiastic review, one that I want to read. Thank you both so much! 😀
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-blush- Thank you! I feel extraordinarily lucky to have found my passion. It really does give me a reason to get up in the morning. 🙂
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Thanks for stopping by Andrea and for the lovely comment. I think you would thoroughly enjoy this. Miira is a wonderful character and the story is immersive. Have a wonderful week and Happy Writing, my friend. I hope you are still basking in the glow of you new book! ❤
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Diana, I’ve now bought Andrea’s book and look forward to reading it…I’ve got three weeks away at Easter and am hoping to catch up on lots of books then!! I’m just about landed now after the amazing hcectic months…it’s been fun to do some promoting on the ground last week. Wishing you a wonderful week too. ❤️
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That sounds like a great time to relax and indulge in some reading. I know you’ll enjoy this one. 😀
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Thank you, Annika. I know how precious time can be. I hope you enjoy Miira. 🙂
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Lovely review Diana. Wow! this sounds like a fascinating book. Have a beautiful weekend my friend.
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Thanks for coming to say hello. 🙂
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Thanks so much for visiting, Lynne. This book was stunning. Gorgeous writing and cool ideas as well as a engaging character. I had to rave a bit. 🙂 Have a wonderful week, my friend 🙂
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You have no idea how red my face is! 😀
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❤
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Thanks for introducing us to Flory and such a fantastic review…you have immersed yourself into reading Diana! New year resolution? 🙂
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Nice to meet you too. Diana’s friends have been extraordinary. 🙂
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Thanks Balroop. At the first of the year, I stopped playing mindless computer games to make more time for reading. I’m making a little dent in my TBR. (I have one of your books in my pile too – soon). I love reading and raving about these gems. Have a great week and Happy Writing!
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Thank you for sharing Diana!
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Thanks for visiting, Antonia. Have a wonderful week ahead! ❤
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Thank you, you too!
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So glad you are spreading the word about Innerscape!
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Thanks for the visit, Candy. Sorry about the late reply. I was traveling yesterday. You sound like you’re already a fan of this fantastic writer. 🙂 I loved this book and was happy to rave. Have a wonderful Sunday!
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Candy! -huge hugs- Thanks for coming. I’m having Christmas, birthday and Easter all rolled in one.
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Thank you, Diana, for introducing us to Andrea and her work!
On the topic of virtual reality, I just listened to this fascinating podcast on the nature of immersive technologies and how we might bring our bodies with us into the digital realm. If you’re interested in the subject, it’s well worth your time (I wouldn’t recommend it otherwise).
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Hi Sean, if I understand that link correctly, they’re talking about using technology to augment the human body? I suspect this will become the ‘norm’ in the future as the need to stay ‘connected’ overcomes any fears the next generations might have about implants, etc. Not sure I’d want to but…-shrug- Interesting info. Thank you. 🙂
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Thanks for the visit, Sean. Sorry for the delay in responding (I was traveling yesterday). 🙂 I’ll take a look at the podcast. Until reading Andrea’s book I only thought of VR in terms of gaming. The science is interesting and I can see the experience of this character as a reality in the near future. It’s kind of exciting. 😀 Have a great Sunday!
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Love Mira, and AC 🙂 What a great review!
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I’m so glad you enjoyed it. I was enthralled with Andrea’s writing, descriptions, science, characters, and heart. It’s been a pleasure having her here. Thanks so much for stopping by to leave a comment. 🙂
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Hi DV! Thanks for dropping in, and yes, it’s a ripper. 😀
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Thanks for sharing dear Diana!
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You’re welcome, Lynn. A beautiful story and Andrea’s a lovely author. Thanks so much for the visit. I hope you have an amazing weekend!
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You too Diana
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Wow, what an intriguing and thought-provoking concept. This sounds very engaging. Congrats to the author, and thanks for showcasing her work, Diana!
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The science is very cool, Mae, and I can see it slowly becoming a reality. But the book is much more than that. It’s a great read. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful weekend. 🙂
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You too!
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Thanks, Mae. Diana’s been wonderful and I’ve really enjoyed meeting all her friends. 🙂
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Thank you both for a very interesting interview. Andrea’s book sounds very intriguing. 🌼
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Thanks for stopping by, Brigid. It is intriguing and beautifully written. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. Have a lovely weekend. 🙂
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Thank you. 🙂
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You definitely hooked me, Diana! I went ahead and bought the Kindle version, and will read it next after I finish The Sorcerer’s Garden. I went and blew through your Rose Sheild series (OMG Kari’s Reckoning was amazing!), then gobbled up The Bone Wall (dark and intriguing). I am also a fan of sci-fi, and if it’s got your recommendation on it then I’m all in!
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Oh my, Kathryn. Roll that cart into the garage and you turn into a reading machine! Reading time is one of the things I love about our rainy winters, and I’m whittling away at my TBR pile too. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the books! ❤ And I know you'll enjoy Andrea's book as well. It's awesome. Have a fantastic weekend, my friend. 😀
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The weather has been dreadful and I’ve been fighting a cold, so I’m going with the long-standing advice for rest (which includes reading), lol. I hope you have a great weekend too!
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-dance- Thank you! The Bone Wall was my introduction to Diana’s writing and it blew me away as well. 🙂
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❤
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You definitely enticed me, Diane. What a wonderful option whose time needs to arrive sooner than 2110.
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I agree, Jacqui. I can actually see a version of this happening in the next 20 years. The book is very cool as well as an intimate and personal story. Thanks for the visit and enjoy your weekend!
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Hi Jacqui, I wouldn’t mind it arriving sooner either! Thanks for commenting. 🙂
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Goodnight Diana, goodnight everyone! Thank you so much for making me feel so at home today. I’d love to stay but the tyranny of timezones has me in its thrall. Have a great day. -waves-
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This is a highly accurate review of a novel that – for someone who watches scifi, but rarely finds much stuf she likes to read – opened my eyes to a whole new genre. I inhaled the whole series, and then the rest of the back catalogue and loved them – Innerscape and The Vintage Egg are my favourites.
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-massive hugs- Thank you Lady Silversmith!!
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😉💜
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Thanks so much for the comment, Dawn. I can’t wait to finish the series. I’ll have to add Vintage Egg to my TBR too. Andrea is a wonderful writer and it was an honor to get her over here. I’m glad you thought the review was accurate as well. Have a wonderful weekend!
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and Vohktah, I enjoyed that too, but loved Innerscape and TVE.
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Fabulous learning a little about Andrea. And a really fascinating review. It sounds like it could be in a sci-fi niche of its own. Thanks Diana 🙂 xx
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It was so good, Debby. One of the commenters mentioned about the way VR is already being used for people with physical disabilities. Pretty cool. But more than that, the main character is beautifully rendered and the writing is lovely. ❤ Thanks so much for visiting, my friend. Happy Friday.
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Wow! Please, it’s always a treat to visit here for a fabulous read 🙂 Happy weekend my friend. ❤
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Thank you. 🙂
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Most welcome. 🙂
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This is an interesting premise because it reflects a choice that some people have already made. I’ve met seriously disabled people who use VR to make alternate lives. One of the most touching explanations came from a woman who lost the use of her legs: “I can come here and dance.” and indeed the brain learns to accept the virtual body as its own. I’m very much interested in reading the book. Thank you, Diana!
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That’s so cool, Robert. I actually love the premise and firgured the technology wasn’t far off. The VR in Andrea’s book is quite advanced, but it’s that same idea. Thanks for sharing that lovely story of the woman dancing without use of her legs. That’s inspiring! Have a great day, my friend. ❤
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It’s not that far off — I suspect that within the next decade VR will replace the web browser.
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It’s mind blowing for people like me who used to watch b&w TV and type on manual typewriters.
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I don’t know if you’ve seen the ‘Black Mirror’ on Netflix. It’s a 21st Century Twilight Zone. In season 3 is an episode about two elderly women who meet and fall in love in a virtual afterlife in which they become young again. It’s a brilliant story and won quite a few awards.
https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2016/10/black-mirrors-san-junipero-is-the-standout-of-the-season/505049/
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I love that show and remember the episode! It was beautiful and touching. Thanks for reminding me. I need to watch that one again. 😀
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I intend to as well. It’s a great story.
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Definitely have to ask The Offspring for some Netflix time to watch that show.
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🙂
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Hi Robert, I didn’t know that, but I can believe it. Thank you so much!
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You’re welcome. In general, I avoid people who try to make lives for themselves in ‘virtual worlds’ but I do understand using them to compensate for physical losses due to illness.
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I totally agree. My passion for the internet, and more recently VR, sprang from watching my late mother become entombed within four walls as she became older. If she had been able to ‘go online’, even in the most rudimentary way, she would have been free of her physical limitations. 😦
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I know at least two people, who met in VR and formed a lasting relationship. They live in different parts of the world and are housebound but in VR they can go to a swank nightclub, dance, talk and have lives.
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Housebound? Ouch. And yet, yes, with just a little imagination and a bit of equipment, a world of possibilities opens up. I suspect there are a lot of very lonely people who have been saved by this burgeoning technology.
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I would be much more isolated without this. Isolation is a huge problem for people with a chronic illness.
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Yes. Everyone needs that human contact, and if physical face-to-face is not always possible, or not possible /enough/, then online and VR are a godsend.
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Yes, and as with all social media platforms VR can be dangerous we don’t yet understand. Entering the digital body of an avatar involves the healthy use of dissociation. For most people it’s a way to relax. The brain accepts the virtual body as real. There’s a zillion little way that can go wrong.
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Dissociation! Yes. Have you seen this?
It shows people of /my/ generation experiencing VR. The thing I found most amazing was the level of physical reaction they all displayed. And these were people who hadn’t been conditioned by games etc to ‘immerse’ themselves in digital experiences.
It’s a very powerful technology and will blur the lines between real and digital more and more.
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Wow. How wonderful. 🙂
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That’s such a great review and it seems like I’m gonna be adding one more book to my tbr haha.
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Oh, those TBR’s just keep growing. I’ve given up control. Ha ha. Thanks for stopping by and I’m so glad you enjoyed the review. I think you’ll find a lot to love about this book. Happy Reading!
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[…] A Human Story: Guest Post with Andrea Flory […]
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Hi everyone. Apologies for being late but it’s morning here in Australia and I only just realised Diana’s post was live. I’m also still blushing from Diana’s review. I first stumbled onto her writing via The Bone Wall, which absolutely blew me away so this review is praise indeed.
Thank you so much for inviting me here today, Diana. -huge hugs-
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You’re very welcome, Andrea. It seems you have some fans here. And it’s totally my pleasure to have you here with a wonderful guest post and book. Have fun!
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That’s all down to you and your wonderful review! I couldn’t have asked for a better start to my morning. And special thanks to your friends who’ve been kind enough to comment. I’ll be back after a quick coffee. 🙂
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You’re very welcome. The time differences are so interesting, aren’t they? My day is just about ending, but please feel free to keep hanging out and enjoying the company. ❤
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Yes, Australia is literally at the opposite end of the world to most of my friends. It makes real-time interaction difficult except for a narrow overlap.
Thanks again for hosting this wonderful event for me. Sleep well!
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Jeez, Diana. I told myself NOT ONE MORE BOOK on my TBR list. I go to bed resentful of needing to sleep, because during the day, I have so many books I want to read, and so many stories I want to write. BUT, and now I’m talking to Andrea, you hooked me before I even read Diana’s (excellent) review. I felt like you were talking to me right here in my writing nook, and I nodded along with you and (a bit scarily) stated asking you questions – out loud. Now, if you can do that from off-the-cuff ‘about me’ writing, your book and main character must be able to do that to me also. VR scares me in many ways, and one of the ways is thinking I’ll never be able to understand it. Maybe as I follow along with Mira, that fear will go away.
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Thank you! I sometimes feel like such an oddball amidst all these ‘real’ writers. It’s nice to know I’m not the only one. As for VR, I haven’t tried it yet because it’s still rather expensive, but having been a gamer for more years than I care to admit, I know what it feels like to become immersed in a digital world. More importantly, I know what it feels like to make digital friends and share ‘adventures’ with them.
That is the true value of VR, but when you think about it, we’re doing a 2D version of VR already. We meet at each other’s blogs and we make friends with people we may never meet. Adding the 3D part will only make that experience better. 🙂
-cough- Okay, apologies, the techie geek took over for a minute. 😀
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I enjoyed your explanation here, and I agree! I guess the scary part for me (besides the idea that I, and others, could become more enthralled with the VR world and end up sitting like lumps in the ‘real’ world), is that VR could be one more reason that people stop interacting in ‘real time.’ We shall see. In the meantime, I’m looking forward to reading your book!
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Yes, disengaging from the real world is always a threat. I hope we manage to integrate the best of both worlds. 🙂
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Ha ha ha. I know the feeling, Pam. But this book is well worth making room for in that overflowing TBR pile. The writing, characters, descriptions, science… all wonderful. Andrea is talented as well as a kind person. Enjoy!! Happy Reading…
Oh, by the way. I think I remember you talking about a fitbit. I got one and funny thing… when I’m reading, it thinks I’m sleeping! My step #s are Not funny. Ugh.
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No, they’re not funny, Diana. I shake my Fitbit bracelet (Ringly) arm a bit when I’m reading so it figures out I’m still alive. Tee Hee. It’s a little war, between the two of us. I hope you and your Fitbit find a friendship. 🙂
I downloaded Andrea’s book for my little ‘get away.’ I think it will really make me get far away!
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Oh good. I know you’ll enjoy it, Pam. Have a wonderful getaway!
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What a wonderful review, Diana.I always enjoy reading a writer’s path to publication. Thanks for the introduction!
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Thanks for visiting, Jill. I was clearly entranced by the book and Andrea’s beautiful writing and characters. And the science was so “real.” Have a wonderful day and Happy Writing!
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What a lovely review, and I enjoyed reading about Andrea’s path to writing. I rarely read science fiction, but I just bought Innerscape, book 1 because it sounds really good. I don’t suppose the rest of the unread ebooks waiting for me on my iPad will be happy, but they’ll have to make room for a new friend. 😁
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I know, Carrie. All those ebooks having to slide over. Mine have the same problem, constantly. I’m so glad you’re giving this book a try. I think you’ll really like it. Happy Reading!
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-hugs-
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Awww…,Carrie! -hugs- You make me smile. Maybe I can entice you over to the dark side?
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Haha, I read plenty of dark stuff, just not much sci fi. 😄
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Speaking of dark…I’m getting so close to the end of The Bone Curse…and I’m loving it!
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Wowsa, that was quick! You’re so awesome. Lately I’m lucky if I get ten pages of something read. My January is off-kilter, but once it gets back on track, so will my reading. Thank you so much for letting me know! Glad you won the contest. 😊
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lol – the story is kinda gripping. I should complain about lack of sleep. :p
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😊😊😊
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Oh good. I want to read that too!
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I’m reading an ARC but I think it’ll be out in..March?
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Yes. I saw that you won a copy. Lucky! I’m certain Carrie will let us know when it’s available 🙂
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😀
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Another glider driver and author. A rare bunch we are!
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Thanks for stopping by, Mike. I like all these authors with years of experience tucked in their belts. I think it comes through in the depth of their work. Congrats on the new release!
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Thanks.
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Hi Mike! I only went up in gliders as a passenger, but I’ve never forgotten how utterly safe I felt once the tow cable disconnected and we were flying free. Part of that was my total trust of the pilot, but most of it was from the sensation of gliding itself. In small planes I always fear the engine will fail, but with gliders nothing [much] can fail so what’s to fear?
lol
Nice to meet you!
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I did some hang-gliding lessons one summer, and I felt like a bird, the wind in my wings was so amazing. I imagine gliding is similar. 🙂
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Eek! Now that is brave! I’m not sure my fear of heights would let me try hang-gliding, but I imagine the sensation of flight would be even more pronouced. Gliders do get to go higher though, and that is an experience in its own right. 🙂
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We never went very high. So when we crashed, which we did, we didn’t get hurt too badly. 🙂
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lmao – you say that so calmly! How much is ‘too badly’??
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One woman in our group broke her arm, but that was it. I loved it, but lessons were expensive. *Sigh*
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Broken arm…gulp…mmm….
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I do not fly anymore. I miss it dearly. But I write about it in my novels and try to pass that feeling along to the reader. There is no other feeling that can match turning tightly into a strong thermal and rising to cloud base.
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-nods- I haven’t been up in years either, but like you, I tried to put the feel of ‘flying’ into my first book. The flyers are aliens but I think the majesty comes through. There is nothing else like it.
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More tha persuasive! Ordered and already delivered. Sound very much up my street. Thanks Diana
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I’m so glad, Philippa. This is right up your street. The feel of it is very much like Acer. I just know you’ll enjoy it. Thanks for the visit, my friend. I hope you’re doing well and writing!
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Thank you. Just…thank you.
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Andrea is an exceptional author and Mira a great character.
xxx Huge Hugs xxx
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Thanks for stopping by, David. It sounds like you’ve read the book. 🙂 I’m a big fan of Andrea’s too. Have a wonderful day, my friend.
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Thank you, Daud. -ginormous hugs right back-
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Wonderful review and guest post!
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Thanks, Bette. I was my pleasure reading Andrea’s book, and she was nice enough to accommodate my pestering for a guest post. Ha ha. Have a wonderful day and lovely weekend!
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Thank you Bette. 🙂
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What a lovely review. This book sounds like it is right up my alley.
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It’s wonderful, Jan. I was so impressed and happy to share. The characters’ inner journey is as mesmerizing as the one she undergoes in entering the virtual world. I don’t think this science is that far away either! Thank for stopping by to check out the post and review. 🙂
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Thank you. 🙂
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What a fantastic review and lovely insight into Andrea Flory. Her story gives me so much hope as a writer who came to the art later in life. How inspiring! And her book sounds irresistible.
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Thanks Molly. I know you don’t read much speculative fiction but this is one to try out, and I don’t think the science is that far away. Andrea is a sweetheart as well as an amazing writer. 🙂 And cheers to all of us who found this vocation in later life!
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I’m spending some time this afternoon with Catling and am enjoying the book very much. You have helped me appreciate a genre I have not read much, Diana! And yes, cheers to those who didn’t let age tell us not to try our hand at writing!
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Hi Molly, I just turned 65 and I intend to write till I drop…at 110. 😀
As Diana said, we bring a world of experience to our work. That just has to be worth something. -hugs-
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I love it! I started writing at age 62 and I’ll turn 65 later this year. It is great to have others in my age group still writing strong. And yes, we do bring a unique perspective to our writing from decades of experience and wisdom. And for me, a whole lot of silliness! 😘
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-giggles- Silliness is good! It balances the reality with a touch of joy. 🙂
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That is my mission, Andrea. I write humor to help soften reality with laughter. ♥️
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Ah, I like that. 🙂
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Wow! It sounds like Andrea had a great life before turning to writing. Wonderful to get the most of of life whenever you can. Sounds like a beautiful story too! I’ll definitely have to check it out.
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Hi Nicole. I was totally taken by this story – fascinating science, amazing visuals, and the touching human journey. It kept me turning the page. Thanks so much for stopping by to take a look. Happy Reading!
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-grin- Very few of my adventures felt like adventures at the time. I was just enjoying life. Still am. But all those bits of living can weave a surprisingly rich tapestry in later years.
Thanks for reading Diana’s review, and commenting.
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Reblogged this on Ancien Hippie.
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Thanks for sharing, Penney. This is a great read. 🙂
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Thank you!
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i only read a selective few books in the science fiction genre, but i like your view on this one. Imagine, once we’re old and dying , escaping to a virtual world? would i choose this for myself, i wonder.
and who know what might happen with technology in a nother hundred, two hundred years?
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Exactly, Jina. I was fascinated by the futuristic science and don’t really think it’s that far away. But the human story is just as riveting. Thanks so much for swinging by to check out the review. 🙂
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it’s always a pleasure swinging by your blog. there’s always something interesting to read.
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❤ Hugs!
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I think we take ourselves wherever we go. Good people will always react in kind, honourable ways, no matter what sort of world they find themselves in. Sadly the not-so-nice ones stay true to form as well. I know this from years of online gaming. Nevertheless, I think I’d take plunge into a virtual world, just for the sake of the good ‘uns. 🙂
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I’m so glad Duane led me to you! Your book sounds amazing and it is so nice to get to know you! wishing you all the best!
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Thanks for visiting, Holly. 🙂 I think you would enjoy this book. The writing and story is exquisite. And perhaps the science isn’t so far in the future either. Have a wonderful day. ❤
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I would love to add this to my library. Thank you for the review and introduction to a fine author. Have a fabulous day Diane! ♥️
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Thank you. 🙂
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Your review is so enticing I somehow found myself over at Amazon and the first part of Miira’s story is now on my kindle. 🙂 I have two more books to go in the Rose Shield quartet however before getting to it. Must make more reading time …….. ❤
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I hope you enjoy this, Pauline. More speculative fiction in your library! What’s happening to you? Ha ha. I think you’ll like Andrea’s story a lot. It’s beautifully written. Happy Reading , my friend ❤
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-grin- The Rose Shield quartet is /excellent/! Thank you so much for putting Miira in such very good company. Thank you and I hope you enjoy the story. 🙂
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Your review has sparked my curiosity, D – thanks for the recommendation. The Kindle edition of book 1, Miira, is now resting in my library.
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I’m so glad that I hooked you, Shane. This was on my kindle for a long time, and now I can’t wait to finish the series. It’s an exceptional read. Thanks so much for stopping by!
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Thank you. I hope you enjoy Miira. 🙂
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I look forward to reading it!
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😀 😀
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