Lost in Plain Sight by David Gerard

7/10

The story centralises around Anthony, whose life is flipped upside down at the tragic loss of his wife, the trauma of her death triggers his first out-of-body experience, setting-off paranormal episodes and hallucinations. Lead by Maxim, Anthony spirit guide, the story follows Anthony as he begins to remember and learn how to navigate the Astral Plane and fulfil the prophecy set in motion before he was even born. Along the way we get introduced to a variety of different characters from Jaster, the dwarf-man, to Nefar the Master of the Dark Realm, and his sinister lieutenant Maloda.

There is a lot to like about this book, the author’s lack of description being an interesting feature. Unlike the Tolkien’s and Jordan’s of this world, Gerard tended to keep description to the bare minimum, which I think allows us as readers to have a much more personalised experience when reading as we’re able to shape the characters in our own minds with a great deal of freedom.

Also found the whole concept of out-of-body experience very intriguing, whist the paranormal might not be everyone’s cup of tea (Earl Grey, black, two sugars), I felt that it gave the book that extra little something. Clearly the paranormal aspect of the book was well researched and constructed within the book, especially the scenes between Anthony and Dr Ross. It didn’t take away from the story telling and I personally found it a breath of fresh air within the fantasy genre.

The storyline proceed at quite a pace, which at times is a blessing as it kept the story flowing from one event to another. However, towards the end of the book this fast pace becomes a negative with the story almost out pacing our ability to comprehend the significance of what is happening. I just feel that at the end the pace was being used to disguise the short-comings in the author’s ability to write a well constructed battle scene. For me, more of the battle took place due to my own imagination than that of the author and his writing, which is a shame as the story for me ends on a sour note.

In conclusion, Lost in Plain Sight, will make a wonderful addition to any collection. Whilst being rough and unpolished there is definite potential in his writing, and the book itself will make an enjoyable read to those who enjoy the paranormal or quirky fantasy.