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Driven to the Hilt Book #2
Driven to the Hilt: Forging the Blade
He may have escaped several deadly encounters, but both the colony’s underworld and New Cincinnati’s police continue to search for Joshua. He can hide in The Swamp only so long before he is forced to make a supply run into the city. On the way out, he has an unusual encounter with the mysterious Hobo, who presents him with a tantalizing opportunity. But can he trust Hobo? His answer to this critical question will take Joshua in a completely unexpected direction. Thrust into a group of complete strangers, his efforts to find acceptance are complicated by shadowy observers, who manipulate events towards their own unknown ends. Joshua’s struggle to survive continues.
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Published June 16, 2018
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About the author
D.G. Lamb
4Ìýbooks14ÌýfollowersDavid Lamb is a board certified clinical neuropsychologist. His day job involves helping people to become more independent after some type of neurological injury. In addition to a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, he has a Master’s in Art Therapy. David has also worked with law enforcement officers to deal with PTSD after critical incidents. While recovering from prostate cancer surgery, his son suggested he try his hand at creative writing. Although his professional experiences certainly informed aspects of this story, he also drew upon his love of cooking and backpacking the mountain trails of Arizona (where unlike Cypress Grove, it rarely rains). This is his debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
May 31, 2018
There’s nothing more satisfying than a fully-realized hero with heart and depth. For me, Joshua Vernon is that character. In this sequel, in spite of personal setbacks, Joshua nurtures the seeds of virtue and basic decency planted by his parents. I loved him in the first book, and—in the sequel as well—he’s a boy you love to love.
Thrust into a new situation, , Joshua struggles against the ghosts of the past while battling present doubts and new enemies. I thoroughly enjoyed his inventive solutions to problems� his interactions with others� his self discovery on the road from boy toward man.
Joshua's sense of inadequacy was heart rending. And yet, the pain doesn’t come without satisfaction. New friendships are forged—as well as new skills� My heart leapt when he reached a victory he hadn't expected. In my opinion, the author does an excellent job of balancing the emotional highs and lows. If readers had been left too long in the doldrums, the story would’ve been oppressive, but it's not. I love the emotion; I love the sense of hope even more. I love the way this story feels like something that's never quite been done before.
Though the plot is vastly different from book 1, many of the qualities I enjoyed in Joshua's original adventure hold true for this book as well. By way of comparison to my book-1 review, the kindle edition still has some strange formatting. The language is less frequent. I didn't have any personal content concerns, though there are some mild hints of sexuality in the context of Joshua's imminent adolescence, including a few strange scenes with a troubled girl that didn't amount to anything especially shocking or offensive.
On a related note, though their society views sex among consenting adults as being somewhat casual (this is only mentioned, not shown), the story in no way glorifies this view—quite the opposite in fact. The monogamous commitment between Joshua's parents is set up beautifully as something to be desired.
“Forging the Blade's� psychological depth alone is intriguing, but the creativity of world building details elevates it to a whole new level. I loved the vivid descriptions of The Grotto in particular. It's clear the author has given his world much thought� That’s not to say there weren’t a few moments of confusion here and there (with acronyms, descriptions, planetary history, etc). In fact, those periodic moments of confusion are the only reason I didn’t award the full 5 stars. NEVERTHELESS!
I love this story, I’m invested in Joshua as a character, and you better believe I’ll be following this series to the end! I sincerely hope you'll check it out.
Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a review. My opinions are my own.
Thrust into a new situation, , Joshua struggles against the ghosts of the past while battling present doubts and new enemies. I thoroughly enjoyed his inventive solutions to problems� his interactions with others� his self discovery on the road from boy toward man.
Joshua's sense of inadequacy was heart rending. And yet, the pain doesn’t come without satisfaction. New friendships are forged—as well as new skills� My heart leapt when he reached a victory he hadn't expected. In my opinion, the author does an excellent job of balancing the emotional highs and lows. If readers had been left too long in the doldrums, the story would’ve been oppressive, but it's not. I love the emotion; I love the sense of hope even more. I love the way this story feels like something that's never quite been done before.
Though the plot is vastly different from book 1, many of the qualities I enjoyed in Joshua's original adventure hold true for this book as well. By way of comparison to my book-1 review, the kindle edition still has some strange formatting. The language is less frequent. I didn't have any personal content concerns, though there are some mild hints of sexuality in the context of Joshua's imminent adolescence, including a few strange scenes with a troubled girl that didn't amount to anything especially shocking or offensive.
On a related note, though their society views sex among consenting adults as being somewhat casual (this is only mentioned, not shown), the story in no way glorifies this view—quite the opposite in fact. The monogamous commitment between Joshua's parents is set up beautifully as something to be desired.
“Forging the Blade's� psychological depth alone is intriguing, but the creativity of world building details elevates it to a whole new level. I loved the vivid descriptions of The Grotto in particular. It's clear the author has given his world much thought� That’s not to say there weren’t a few moments of confusion here and there (with acronyms, descriptions, planetary history, etc). In fact, those periodic moments of confusion are the only reason I didn’t award the full 5 stars. NEVERTHELESS!
I love this story, I’m invested in Joshua as a character, and you better believe I’ll be following this series to the end! I sincerely hope you'll check it out.
Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a review. My opinions are my own.
June 15, 2018
Joshua felt like he owed Hobo, and he needed the money, so how could he refuse to help him retrieve something? He was only twelve, but his potential had not gone unnoticed, perhaps had he known the true cost of helping him that day his life would have taken a different path. But, again, he needed the money to survive, something statistics suggested would be near impossible. He did everything asked, performed better than Hobo had dared to dream, and his reward had been the loss of his freedom, or had it been the gift of life? A white room, a school like structure, all training him and other Recruits. But for what he didn't know, only that they suggest he was better with them, and perhaps he could agree. But he was always one for questions, and some of them have answers perhaps best unknown. There is one thing he comes to learn, they are been forged, tempered and honed to be part of something bigger, something operating in the shadows.
Forging the Blade is the second Volume in D.G Lamb's Driven to the Hilt. Despite no knowledge of events from the first book I found I had no issues in picking this up as a stand alone tale. D.G. Lamb writes with Dynamic formatting which, if I am quite honest, isn't something I particularly enjoy, but I can certainly see its appeal. Joshua, the main focus of the book, is a fantastically conceived and deep character who shows tremendous strength, resolve, and growth, along with the other Recruits as they learn their place in this new life. The book is written in parts, each one focusing on a particular aspect or area of Joshua's life, and the transitions, and transformations he begins to undergo. This is the kind of book that hooks you immediately and refuses to let go. It has so much to offer, from intellectual discussions, to an injection of comedy. D.G Lamb has created a believable cast, enjoyable plot, and exceptional story with some great descriptions, and incredible development. The choreography of the action scenes, even the subtleties of altering relationships are written brilliantly. There are layers to this plot, both visible and unseen. If you're looking for a character-driven tale of intrigue, and growth then look no further.
Forging the Blade is the second Volume in D.G Lamb's Driven to the Hilt. Despite no knowledge of events from the first book I found I had no issues in picking this up as a stand alone tale. D.G. Lamb writes with Dynamic formatting which, if I am quite honest, isn't something I particularly enjoy, but I can certainly see its appeal. Joshua, the main focus of the book, is a fantastically conceived and deep character who shows tremendous strength, resolve, and growth, along with the other Recruits as they learn their place in this new life. The book is written in parts, each one focusing on a particular aspect or area of Joshua's life, and the transitions, and transformations he begins to undergo. This is the kind of book that hooks you immediately and refuses to let go. It has so much to offer, from intellectual discussions, to an injection of comedy. D.G Lamb has created a believable cast, enjoyable plot, and exceptional story with some great descriptions, and incredible development. The choreography of the action scenes, even the subtleties of altering relationships are written brilliantly. There are layers to this plot, both visible and unseen. If you're looking for a character-driven tale of intrigue, and growth then look no further.
June 13, 2018
Forging the Blade by D.G. Lamb is the second installment in the Driven to the Hilt series, preceded by The Deepest Cut. This book carries on with Joshua Vernon on his own - with the memory of his deceased parents always at the forefront - trying to survive with his integrity intact despite a string of setbacks. When he is offered a $200 deal that, in desperate need of supplies while he remains on the run and in hiding, cannot be reasonable refused, Joshua accepts Hobo's bid. Upon completion, he becomes unknowingly swept up in a world of watchful torment in a challenge that is as psychologically challenging as it is physical.
Forging the Blade by D.G. Lamb is an exceptionally well written second installment of his series, without any of the meandering middle bits that sometimes overwhelm in between. Lamb has also employed the use of what he has named Dynamic Formatting, with font shifts and spacing that bring a reader closer to his vision of Joshua's world. It's a risky move and not everyone will be open to such change, but if you are able to hang in there for the first few pages, it becomes almost second nature to the overall story. Frankly, I loved it. Joshua is a darn good kid who is thrust into so many horrible situations, but Lamb keeps him human and easy to root for. I'd recommend this series to lovers of the science fiction genre who are on the hunt for something a little deeper, a little more intrapersonal, and a lot more fun.
Review written for Readers' Favorite.
Forging the Blade by D.G. Lamb is an exceptionally well written second installment of his series, without any of the meandering middle bits that sometimes overwhelm in between. Lamb has also employed the use of what he has named Dynamic Formatting, with font shifts and spacing that bring a reader closer to his vision of Joshua's world. It's a risky move and not everyone will be open to such change, but if you are able to hang in there for the first few pages, it becomes almost second nature to the overall story. Frankly, I loved it. Joshua is a darn good kid who is thrust into so many horrible situations, but Lamb keeps him human and easy to root for. I'd recommend this series to lovers of the science fiction genre who are on the hunt for something a little deeper, a little more intrapersonal, and a lot more fun.
Review written for Readers' Favorite.
May 31, 2018
I was excited to read the second in this series after enjoying the first Driven to the Hilt: The Deepest Cut very much!
This followup to the first book does not disappoint. Through exciting twists and challenges the young hero is taken to a new place where he will be tested in every way. He is definitely a fascinating and fully developed character you can relate to and cheer for.
I particularly enjoyed the new world created and found the whole concept of The Womb really interesting. The new group of characters as the hero moves into his adolescence are engaging and believable. And sometimes even funny!
The author does a good job of creating suspense even without action - which is not so easy to do. I am guessing action will be building over the next few books in this series though. There are also some mysterious characters lurking behind the scenes that I look forward to learning more about in the next book.
All in all, a very interesting series - well written, a deeply developed character (the writer is a psychologist), and full of satisfying challenges and surprises.
Read the first book first if you can - but that is not necessary to really enjoy this one.
I read an advanced reader copy but was not asked to write a review.
This followup to the first book does not disappoint. Through exciting twists and challenges the young hero is taken to a new place where he will be tested in every way. He is definitely a fascinating and fully developed character you can relate to and cheer for.
I particularly enjoyed the new world created and found the whole concept of The Womb really interesting. The new group of characters as the hero moves into his adolescence are engaging and believable. And sometimes even funny!
The author does a good job of creating suspense even without action - which is not so easy to do. I am guessing action will be building over the next few books in this series though. There are also some mysterious characters lurking behind the scenes that I look forward to learning more about in the next book.
All in all, a very interesting series - well written, a deeply developed character (the writer is a psychologist), and full of satisfying challenges and surprises.
Read the first book first if you can - but that is not necessary to really enjoy this one.
I read an advanced reader copy but was not asked to write a review.
December 21, 2018
When Joshua wakes up in an unknown room facing abusive circumstances, far from Cypress Grove, he believes his already crisis-filled life has gotten worse. Until he meets Dr. Calyse. What started out so wrong, becomes a new direction for Joshua’s life. Dr. Calyse begins the process of helping Joshua work through the PTS brought on by the horrors of the past year while he begins training to become an operative for the Unseen Planet. His life now revolves around physical training and school � and teammates. He is no longer alone; but can he allow himself to step beyond his self-imposed isolation?
D. G. Lamb does a superb job drawing realistic characters. Joshua grabbed hold of my mother-heart in The Deepest Cut (I have three sons); now, following him as he grows into a teenager, I am drawn into his circumstances right along with him. Lamb’s background as a clinical neuropsychologist shines through as Dr. Calyse helps Joshua work through his guilt over his mother’s death and the things he did to survive on Cypress Grove, while facing new challenges and hidden enemies.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. I look forward to following Joshua and his new friends as the trials get more challenging and their enemies more dangerous.
D. G. Lamb does a superb job drawing realistic characters. Joshua grabbed hold of my mother-heart in The Deepest Cut (I have three sons); now, following him as he grows into a teenager, I am drawn into his circumstances right along with him. Lamb’s background as a clinical neuropsychologist shines through as Dr. Calyse helps Joshua work through his guilt over his mother’s death and the things he did to survive on Cypress Grove, while facing new challenges and hidden enemies.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. I look forward to following Joshua and his new friends as the trials get more challenging and their enemies more dangerous.
February 12, 2020
Another great book by DG Lamb! Loving this story
A very different location for Joshua with a lot more interaction with other people. It's exciting to watch him grow up in this environment and get to know his new crew and new life. The characters are believable and fun to read stories about, while seeing what bonds are being formed. I can't wait to see what happens next!
A very different location for Joshua with a lot more interaction with other people. It's exciting to watch him grow up in this environment and get to know his new crew and new life. The characters are believable and fun to read stories about, while seeing what bonds are being formed. I can't wait to see what happens next!
August 21, 2019
After all of the danger and loneliness served up to him by his New Cincinnati neighborhood and the near by Swamp, Joshua wakes to find himself challenged by an entirely new strange domain. Mr. Lamb was very effective in portraying Joshua's isolation and bouts of depression brought on by the feeling of extreme lonliness. This entire narrative was completely overshadowed by the emotions Joshua struggled to control and his guilt for his mother's death. I could feel his distress and wanted him to make friends and find some happiness. I look forward to reading the next installment in this very engrossing tale. Very Enjoyable!!!!!
November 19, 2018
The tale continues.
Great characters, fair world-building, a bit too much telling not showing the story. Dialogue is better than average, action sequences are very good, and there are passages of brilliant composition. What is lacking is a real sense of direction and purpose to the story. There are ever increasing loose ends with no clue as to how many installments are planned.
Great characters, fair world-building, a bit too much telling not showing the story. Dialogue is better than average, action sequences are very good, and there are passages of brilliant composition. What is lacking is a real sense of direction and purpose to the story. There are ever increasing loose ends with no clue as to how many installments are planned.
September 10, 2019
Excellent series!
Exciting worlds and challenges for the protagonist, coupled with his engaging determination, make for enjoyable reading. I'm excited to read the next book!
Exciting worlds and challenges for the protagonist, coupled with his engaging determination, make for enjoyable reading. I'm excited to read the next book!
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
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