Awesome Character Study
594252
I read the Paladin and was impressed with the characters in the book. Ken held your attention in the book with characters that were totally cruel to characters that your heart went out to.

Action, twist and turns from chapter one to the very end. Just when you thought you had it figured out there was a shot you did not see coming. Never a dull moment and and just the right amount of humor to bring a smile as you see the characters develop.

My first "Urban Legend" type book and I was not disappointed. A captivating read.
1592309
So many novels today don't spend time on background and emotional development of the characters, but this book has you knowing each of the characters enough that you get a feel for what their reaction should be in given situations (and when they're acting out of character for one reason or the other). Erik is definitely my favorite, though, even though he isn't the main character -- what a blend of personality and strength!!
1744832
All I Needed to Know, I Learned from Columbo by Adam Graham
Excellent examination of the strength, foibles, and life lessons from some of our favorite fictional characters.  Graham captured the essence of each character, but from the point of view of what they have to teach us:  We'll learn time management from Nero Wolfe, clear thinking from Sherlock Holmes, devotion from Adrian Monk  And we do.  Graham takes us on a tour of the strengths and weaknesses of Sherlock Holmes, Nero Wolfe, Father Brown, Boston Blackie, Dan Holiday, Columbo, and Monk.  The analysis is an enjoyable read, not just for detective novel readers, but for anyone as we are able to relate to the humanity in each character.  Thoughtful, enjoyable read.  (free reader copy)
2149639
I loved seeing the world through Dons eyes. His character is so well developed, I feel Ive known him. This is one of the wonderful books that I feel I have lived, rather than just read.
1050438
I really love this book because it works on so many levels at once. On its surface it is a fast-paced adventure story. On another level it is a deep character study of a young man facing great adversity. It is also integral to the story that it is a mystery. Each character has a mystery surrounding them that has to come to the surface, and the group as a whole must work together to solve the mystery of the island. The insights into human emotion and relationships are amazing. It is a study of group dynamics, a study of culture and anthropology, and a study of faith all at once. On a literary level there are so many uses of symbols and types -such as the use of Black itself and the concept of "sight". In other words, this book has something for everyone and more than expected for all.
2243662
This book! I have told so many people about it since I first read it. It's so many things all at once -- an engrossing character study, a mystery, a brutal look at the juvenile justice system. And it completely works on all these levels, and more. And let me join in the chorus of people saying that once you get to the last page, you WILL want to turn right back to the first page and start again. A great pick for book clubs, or for anyone who loves character-driven mysteries.
3908224
One of my favorite books last year.  Loved the back and forth in time from first person antagonist viewpoints --I can find this type of writing difficult to follow, in this case it was so well done that it enhanced the story. I was left for days later thinking about the characters, how we go through life, comparing self and how I would react to different situations.  Characters pulled me in and I still love them.  One of my 5 star requirements is a book that I'm thinking about the characters for a few days.  5 star.
2846542
I wanted a study I could do with my four daughters and this perfect. I love the chapter on the Shunammite woman and Job's wife. I can so relate to wanting to surrender to God and wanting to run the show at the same time! It also challenged me to redefine my definition of the goodness of God. Is He good when He does want I want or when He does what is best for me? This study pulls you in right away with the stories of woman we think we know well then challenges your assumptions and makes you dig deeper. Highly recommend.
4713952
James K. Burk busts through the box with this one! Twelve amazing points of view, done with depth and character. The Twelve follows Commander Anton to Valtierra, a city-state that is governed by archetypes. Every two years they choose twelve men and women to wear the masks of a specific character, and to become the council. They've lost their warrior, and though Anton just defeated them in battle, they ask him to replace their fallen council member. It's a tough job to shape Valtierra's army, city and hearts to overcome the enemy that Anton once worked for.

An amazing in-depth character study with intriguing plot and engaging dialogue. Burke pulls off the 12 POV with grace and wit. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! And my husband is reading it for the third time!

DISCLAIMER: This book was gifted to me by the author (through the Goodreads) website in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own, and no money or other compensation was provided for this review.
4562564
I loved the character developement. He helped you understand where the characters came from and their motivations on why they are who they are. Very good.
1629799
This book is very character-driven. All of the characters are interesting, but none more so than the two at the center of the story: Elsa and her grandmother. In fact, both made my list of favorite literary characters. But I don't mean to diminish the story, which is beautifully constructed and very funny.

Though I can't state the basis for this comparison, Elsa reminded me of Owen Meany and the book reminded me a bit of A Prayer for Owen Meany.
3280189
Great study of human character! Highly readable - reads like the best whudunnit, yet highbrow! By highbrow I mean thought provoking, intellectually challenging and sophisticated!
2838517
I absolutely love the character of Lydia in this book - she is the type of character that we need more of in all types of art, including literature. She is one of the strongest female characters that I have come across, in all respects. She risks her own safety and sanity to help save the Valos because she wanted to - not for much of a personal gain. I was absolutely blown away by reading about this character. Of course, there are other characters that were well crafted as well, but Lydia really stands out to me.
If you like reading about strong women, this is a fantastic place to start! Plus, the cover is just really cool.
1094600
I really loved this novel, particularly how the main character's flaws helped to drive the story even as he learned more about himself. I can't wait for the sequel. The writing was well done.
2216898
This book is like three books in one. There's a delightful character study in the first part that inspires you in how to think about your own ancestors In the second part, you learn about attachment  and separation in a very moving way. You get deeper and deeper into how psychoanalysis works, realizing it's not something you "do" it is a way to "BE". I have been in analysis for a long time, but I found  myself thinking and feeling things that haven't occurred to me before. And having great new discussions with my own mother. I cried in parts of this book, it is so moving. The last part of the book is almost like a mystery. Very gripping and moving.  Such an easy to read book for its profundity and what it offers.  You will learn so much without even realizing it. Highly recommend.
333569
Okay, So I love this particular genre. Although this is only tangentially related to LITRPG, it is built around many similar principles such as character and skill progression. This author introduces us to this character in such a rich way that when we learn, much later, about other aspects of his character that might challenge our ability to accept him; I was able to realize that I appreciated this character and was able to accept him as he was. It was an exhilarating experience. The writer is simply brilliant. And I would like to personally thank you for this work. /salute
3544820
Great character study.  Reminds me of Evelyn Waugh's The Loved One.