What do you think?
Rate this book
Immortal #1
Immortal
From the bestselling author of The Spaceship Next Door:
“I don’t know how old I am.My earliest memory is something along the lines of fire good, ice bad, so I think I predate written history, but I don’t know by how much. I like to brag that I’ve been there from the beginning, and while this may very well be true, I generally just say it to pick up girls.” --Adam the Immortal
Surviving sixty thousand years takes cunning and more than a little luck. But in the twenty-first century, Adam confronts new dangers—someone has found out what he is, a demon is after him, and he has run out of places to hide.Worst of all, he has had entirely too much to drink.
Immortal is a first person confessional penned by a man who is immortal, but not invincible. In an artful blending of sci-fi, adventure, fantasy, and humor, IMMORTAL introduces us to a world with vampires, demons and other “magical” creatures, yet a world without actual magic.
At the center of the book is Adam.
“I have been in quite a few tight situations in my long life. One of the first things I learned was if there is going to be a mob panic, don’t be standing between the mob and wherever it is they all want to go. The second thing I learned was, don’t try to run through fire.” --Adam the Immortal
Adam is a sixty thousand year old man. (Approximately.) He doesn’t age or get sick, but is otherwise entirely capable of being killed.His survival has hinged on an innate ability to adapt, his wits, and a fairly large dollop of luck.He makes for an excellent guide through history . . . when he’s sober.
Immortal is a contemporary fantasy for non-fantasy readers and fantasy enthusiasts alike.
“I don’t know how old I am.My earliest memory is something along the lines of fire good, ice bad, so I think I predate written history, but I don’t know by how much. I like to brag that I’ve been there from the beginning, and while this may very well be true, I generally just say it to pick up girls.” --Adam the Immortal
Surviving sixty thousand years takes cunning and more than a little luck. But in the twenty-first century, Adam confronts new dangers—someone has found out what he is, a demon is after him, and he has run out of places to hide.Worst of all, he has had entirely too much to drink.
Immortal is a first person confessional penned by a man who is immortal, but not invincible. In an artful blending of sci-fi, adventure, fantasy, and humor, IMMORTAL introduces us to a world with vampires, demons and other “magical” creatures, yet a world without actual magic.
At the center of the book is Adam.
“I have been in quite a few tight situations in my long life. One of the first things I learned was if there is going to be a mob panic, don’t be standing between the mob and wherever it is they all want to go. The second thing I learned was, don’t try to run through fire.” --Adam the Immortal
Adam is a sixty thousand year old man. (Approximately.) He doesn’t age or get sick, but is otherwise entirely capable of being killed.His survival has hinged on an innate ability to adapt, his wits, and a fairly large dollop of luck.He makes for an excellent guide through history . . . when he’s sober.
Immortal is a contemporary fantasy for non-fantasy readers and fantasy enthusiasts alike.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2010
About the author
Gene Doucette
37 books416 followersGene Doucette is a hybrid author, albeit in a somewhat roundabout way. From 2010 through 2014, Gene published four full-length novels (Immortal, Hellenic Immortal, Fixer, and Immortal at the Edge of the World) with a small indie publisher. Then, in 2014, Gene started self-publishing novellas that were set in the same universe as the Immortal series, at which point he was a hybrid.
When the novellas proved more lucrative than the novels, Gene tried self-publishing a full novel, The Spaceship Next Door, in 2015. This went well. So well, that in 2016, Gene reacquired the rights to the earlier four novels from the publisher, and re-released them, at which point he wasn’t a hybrid any longer.
Additional self-published novels followed: Immortal and the Island of Impossible Things (2016); Unfiction (2017); and The Frequency of Aliens (2017).
In 2018, John Joseph Adams Books (an imprint of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) acquired the rights to The Spaceship Next Door. The reprint was published in September of that year, at which point Gene was once again a hybrid author.
Since then, a number of things have happened. Gene published two more novels—Immortal From Hell at the end of 2018, and Fixer Redux in 2019—and wrote a new novel called The Apocalypse Seven that he did not self-publish; it was acquired by JJA/HMH in September of 2019. Publication date is May 25, 2021.
Gene plans to continue writing novels for both markets (traditional and self-published) as long as that continues to make sense. His most recent self-published novel is Immortal: Last Call (2020). He is currently at work on a large science fiction world-building project taking place on his Patreon site, the result of which will be a multi-novel series.
When the novellas proved more lucrative than the novels, Gene tried self-publishing a full novel, The Spaceship Next Door, in 2015. This went well. So well, that in 2016, Gene reacquired the rights to the earlier four novels from the publisher, and re-released them, at which point he wasn’t a hybrid any longer.
Additional self-published novels followed: Immortal and the Island of Impossible Things (2016); Unfiction (2017); and The Frequency of Aliens (2017).
In 2018, John Joseph Adams Books (an imprint of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) acquired the rights to The Spaceship Next Door. The reprint was published in September of that year, at which point Gene was once again a hybrid author.
Since then, a number of things have happened. Gene published two more novels—Immortal From Hell at the end of 2018, and Fixer Redux in 2019—and wrote a new novel called The Apocalypse Seven that he did not self-publish; it was acquired by JJA/HMH in September of 2019. Publication date is May 25, 2021.
Gene plans to continue writing novels for both markets (traditional and self-published) as long as that continues to make sense. His most recent self-published novel is Immortal: Last Call (2020). He is currently at work on a large science fiction world-building project taking place on his Patreon site, the result of which will be a multi-novel series.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
March 15, 2021
Odd interesting book. I found (a few years ago) that I like good Urban Fantasy, thus I'm always looking for new "good" Urban Fantasy. This one was suggested on the books like Harry Dresden thread.When I started this novel and began to get acquainted with our erstwhile protagonist the book ran hot and cold for me.
Adam is immortal, he just doesn't age or die. Oh he can get hurt, he believes that (in spite of his rapid healing ability) he can be killed...though up to now that hasn't happened. He's very, very old. He wonders if he's been around from the beginning though as he tells us himself, he only claims to have been around from the beginning to pick up women. Of course Adam is only the name he's currently using. He's pretty sure his first name was something like "Urg". His earliest thoughts are (he thinks) like "ice bad fire good".
I got this in the audio version and must admit for about the first 40 minuets of the book my thoughts were...blah. I was almost convinced that I'd be laying the book aside, I was in a few words, just plain bored.
Then something happened. I found myself interested in the story. The problem was (and is) that we have a triple layered story going here. First our "hero" is relating what's going on in his present, then in flashback he's telling us how he got there...and third in a series of memories we get a view of his background, the world we're operating in, and some of the creatures in it. So, like the previous sentence the early part of the story tends to, "run-on".
Still hang in there for once you manage to forge your way through some of the morass like early set up the book is a good read.
Let me add this caveat, to some this won't matter at all but I want those who may be bothered to know. Our protagonist is pretty much an across the board "insulter of Theists". I'll give him this, he insults not only Christians and Jews, but actually brings in the Islam faith. Most writers who choose to insult religious belief stick with Christians and Jews.
Still, I survived it. Just take it as "it's a story" and go on. The novel is pretty well written and I think most will like it. I'd say give it a shot and see what you think.
Adam is immortal, he just doesn't age or die. Oh he can get hurt, he believes that (in spite of his rapid healing ability) he can be killed...though up to now that hasn't happened. He's very, very old. He wonders if he's been around from the beginning though as he tells us himself, he only claims to have been around from the beginning to pick up women. Of course Adam is only the name he's currently using. He's pretty sure his first name was something like "Urg". His earliest thoughts are (he thinks) like "ice bad fire good".
I got this in the audio version and must admit for about the first 40 minuets of the book my thoughts were...blah. I was almost convinced that I'd be laying the book aside, I was in a few words, just plain bored.
Then something happened. I found myself interested in the story. The problem was (and is) that we have a triple layered story going here. First our "hero" is relating what's going on in his present, then in flashback he's telling us how he got there...and third in a series of memories we get a view of his background, the world we're operating in, and some of the creatures in it. So, like the previous sentence the early part of the story tends to, "run-on".
Still hang in there for once you manage to forge your way through some of the morass like early set up the book is a good read.
Let me add this caveat, to some this won't matter at all but I want those who may be bothered to know. Our protagonist is pretty much an across the board "insulter of Theists". I'll give him this, he insults not only Christians and Jews, but actually brings in the Islam faith. Most writers who choose to insult religious belief stick with Christians and Jews.
Still, I survived it. Just take it as "it's a story" and go on. The novel is pretty well written and I think most will like it. I'd say give it a shot and see what you think.
April 21, 2011
Immortal tells a story about Adam, a man who existed (most likely, according to Adam) since the beginning of mankind. He was not your typical immortal superhero guy with superpowers nor was he the most handsome man in the universe. Adam was more or less like a normal human; except that he stopped aging at thirty-two, has a super immune system, and a whole lot more story to tell.
To me, it was a modern book about being immortal. It’s funny and sarcastic (which I love!), and at the same time it’s also mysterious and gripping. I love the author’s take on it; I personally believe it’ll take a whole lot sense of humor to survive centuries on earth (plagues, natural disasters, wars, …!).
I would recommend this book for everyone who likes a funny twist on a fantasy story. Even if you’re not usually into fantasy stories, I’d still recommend this book. Adam will entertain you and make you laugh!
For my interview with Gene Doucette, the author of Immortal, please visit: http://astridparamita.com/2011/04/boo...
To me, it was a modern book about being immortal. It’s funny and sarcastic (which I love!), and at the same time it’s also mysterious and gripping. I love the author’s take on it; I personally believe it’ll take a whole lot sense of humor to survive centuries on earth (plagues, natural disasters, wars, …!).
I would recommend this book for everyone who likes a funny twist on a fantasy story. Even if you’re not usually into fantasy stories, I’d still recommend this book. Adam will entertain you and make you laugh!
For my interview with Gene Doucette, the author of Immortal, please visit: http://astridparamita.com/2011/04/boo...
December 22, 2017
Perfect :) Just....perfect. The humour of this book is the best I've read in some time. I like the language, the writing style.....and I loved the stories the main character tells. I don't like gushing reviews....so I'll just say, that I loved this book, it never bore me, and it made me laugh almost continuously. I applaud the author and thank him for this experience :)
May 21, 2014
5 out of 5 stars! Wow, this book is a true gem. This was tailor-made exactly to my likings. I give props to the author for being very original. It's got contemporary, historical, lust, fantasy, adventure, and mystery - all blended together. I've always been into the whole immortality concept, but I was so glad this time the main character was actually a human!
So Adam, one of the many names he goes by, is an immortal man who's been around for approximately 60,000 years. During that time, language wasn't even invented yet. He soon discovered he doesn't age nor gets sick. He is forced assimilate into every era, while learning the languages of every civilisation he lives in.
The setting is based mostly on the present, but he would often recall fantastic stories about the past events he has lived through. I loved how it was written from a perspective that you'd actually imagine an immortal person to have. Anyway, back to the present, there are people who knows of his nature. They are after him, and he isn't sure who he could trust.
There's also the mystery of a red-haired woman who he keeps seeing around for the past 10,000 years. She's the only other person he knows who is like himself, but she always mysteriously disappears before he is able to approach and speak to her.
I love this book so much and it resonates with me so deeply. If I were asked which fictional character from any book I would pick to live as, Adam is definitely one top of my list right now. I'll be starting book 2 soon. Although I listened to the audio version of this book, I'm seriously contemplating on buying a physical copy. I just want to own my own copy of such an amazing story. Book 3 is supposed to come out soon, and I really hope it does, because I really want to know what happens.
Spoiler alert!!! Don't read after this unless you wish to be spoiled.
So what exactly happened to the young Brenda vampire chick? She was very involved with Adam during the first half of the book, but it seemed like she just written off. I hope she comes back in book 2.
I really like Clara. She seems like a bad ass sexy chick. I was a little shocked when I thought she might have betrayed him, but I'm glad she helps him in the end. And that cliffhanger. What the heck? She was a test subject for the immortality gene too!? I really hope she stays together with Adam, because she's exactly the kind of girl he needs and one who understands him. It was so sweet when she was so supportive of him during the time he stayed in her apartment and I wanted it to last.
Eve, just wow, I didn't expect him to meet her this soon at the end of book 1. I thought she might finally show up in book 2 or 3. So we find out she's actually real after all - not a figment of his imagination. She reveals to him she's actually much older than him, which is why she has her powers to vanish out of thin air when she wants. And apparently Adam will develop those same powers eventually too. But there are still so many mysteries, like we still have no idea why Adam is immortal. The rendezvous with Eve was so brief too. She disappeared with so many unanswered questions. Although I like Adam with Clara, I'm actually hoping Adam ends up seducing Eve too. She's like the only other being out there like him, so it just makes sense they have to have some chemistry of some sorts.
So Adam, one of the many names he goes by, is an immortal man who's been around for approximately 60,000 years. During that time, language wasn't even invented yet. He soon discovered he doesn't age nor gets sick. He is forced assimilate into every era, while learning the languages of every civilisation he lives in.
The setting is based mostly on the present, but he would often recall fantastic stories about the past events he has lived through. I loved how it was written from a perspective that you'd actually imagine an immortal person to have. Anyway, back to the present, there are people who knows of his nature. They are after him, and he isn't sure who he could trust.
There's also the mystery of a red-haired woman who he keeps seeing around for the past 10,000 years. She's the only other person he knows who is like himself, but she always mysteriously disappears before he is able to approach and speak to her.
I love this book so much and it resonates with me so deeply. If I were asked which fictional character from any book I would pick to live as, Adam is definitely one top of my list right now. I'll be starting book 2 soon. Although I listened to the audio version of this book, I'm seriously contemplating on buying a physical copy. I just want to own my own copy of such an amazing story. Book 3 is supposed to come out soon, and I really hope it does, because I really want to know what happens.
Spoiler alert!!! Don't read after this unless you wish to be spoiled.
So what exactly happened to the young Brenda vampire chick? She was very involved with Adam during the first half of the book, but it seemed like she just written off. I hope she comes back in book 2.
I really like Clara. She seems like a bad ass sexy chick. I was a little shocked when I thought she might have betrayed him, but I'm glad she helps him in the end. And that cliffhanger. What the heck? She was a test subject for the immortality gene too!? I really hope she stays together with Adam, because she's exactly the kind of girl he needs and one who understands him. It was so sweet when she was so supportive of him during the time he stayed in her apartment and I wanted it to last.
Eve, just wow, I didn't expect him to meet her this soon at the end of book 1. I thought she might finally show up in book 2 or 3. So we find out she's actually real after all - not a figment of his imagination. She reveals to him she's actually much older than him, which is why she has her powers to vanish out of thin air when she wants. And apparently Adam will develop those same powers eventually too. But there are still so many mysteries, like we still have no idea why Adam is immortal. The rendezvous with Eve was so brief too. She disappeared with so many unanswered questions. Although I like Adam with Clara, I'm actually hoping Adam ends up seducing Eve too. She's like the only other being out there like him, so it just makes sense they have to have some chemistry of some sorts.
August 29, 2015
Still a five star favorite. A completely original, ubiquitously quotable, irreverent romp through history. Adam is that dreamed of dinner guest you ply with wine for stories and secretly hope he never leaves.
February 4, 2022
Publishing Date: 2010
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 3.4/5
Review: This review covers the Immortal series in it’s entirety (1-6).
This was a fairly fun and lighthearted ride behind the eyes of an immortal that is roughly 60k years old. There is a consistent presence of hidden beasties that humanity knows nothing about that is composed of vampires, Trolls, Pixies, Goblins, Elves, Faeries etc. Mostly this is a tale about a man that is pursued for the secrets to immortality while moving back and forth through time within his (Adam’s) memories.
Although this plot has been done before, the author makes a jocular and witty attempt at humor through an immortals eyes. The story line moves quickly while Adam is almost disconnected from events being that he has experienced everything thousands of times. When he is actively engaged there is a personal emotional investment (love, vengeance etc.) in the outcome which is a convenient plot vehicle.
Adam, as an immortal man is drawn too simplistically to be readily believable yet since this is fantasy you can throw reality out the door. A fun series that fell in valuation as the grammatical and continuity errors were many and distracting.
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 3.4/5
Review: This review covers the Immortal series in it’s entirety (1-6).
This was a fairly fun and lighthearted ride behind the eyes of an immortal that is roughly 60k years old. There is a consistent presence of hidden beasties that humanity knows nothing about that is composed of vampires, Trolls, Pixies, Goblins, Elves, Faeries etc. Mostly this is a tale about a man that is pursued for the secrets to immortality while moving back and forth through time within his (Adam’s) memories.
Although this plot has been done before, the author makes a jocular and witty attempt at humor through an immortals eyes. The story line moves quickly while Adam is almost disconnected from events being that he has experienced everything thousands of times. When he is actively engaged there is a personal emotional investment (love, vengeance etc.) in the outcome which is a convenient plot vehicle.
Adam, as an immortal man is drawn too simplistically to be readily believable yet since this is fantasy you can throw reality out the door. A fun series that fell in valuation as the grammatical and continuity errors were many and distracting.
August 31, 2010
From author/publisher
"Part science fiction fantasy, part action adventure and thriller, Gene Doucette creates the perfect balance of humor and edge-of-your-seat anticipation in this genre-defying story of an immortal man named Adam, who finds himself battling demons and bounty hunters in his eternal search for Eve, the red haired mystery woman of his dreams. Witty and wonderful, with a bite of sarcasm, Immortal is a five star read for any fiction lover. " (Book Blurb submitted by yours truly!)
I have the extremely amazing honor of being the first person to write a review on Gene Doucette's debut novel, which will be released on Amazon.com October 1st by HIP (Hamel Integrity Publishing).
In "Immortal", we are introduced to Adam, our immortal but not invincible quazi-hero, as he awakens confused and disoriented nursing a massive hangover from beneath a futon at a college frat party, immediately puting his reliability as a narrator into question. But don't worry guys, it's all part of Adam's charm.
Witty sarcasm, quick quips, and an uncanny knack to self-preserve at all costs, our leading man quickly endears himself to you. We find ourselves drawn to him, not unlike the way one is drawn to the scene of an accident, nudging and jostling one another for a better view of the carnage.
Believing he is one of a kind, Adam asks the reader not to mistake him for a vampire. No, he doesn't age and does not get sick, though he is most certainly capable of dying. He has no super powers to speak of, though he is fluent in every language that has ever existed and can blend in with whatever culture he is hanging out in.
And he is searching for a red haired mystery woman who haunts his dreams throughout myriad millennia. Little does he know that while he searches for her, someone else is searching for him, and will stop at nothing to find him - leaving a bloody trail of unfortunate bodies in it's wake.
Adam narrates our novel through two time lines - The italicized text at the beginning of each chapter is Adam's current timeline where he appears to have been captured and locked away with a mad scientist who is determined to discover the why's and how's of his immortality. The main text recaps all of the wild and crazy events that lead up to Adam's eventual capture.
Along the way we meet tricky iffrits, whimsical pixies, sexy vampires, and armored dragons as Adam finds himself on the run on more than one occasion, forced to battle demons and bounty hunters, while trying to uncover who is coming after him.
A rapid fire, unrelenting wild rumpus of a ride - Immortal earned it's spot as the Next Best Book. Everyone will find something to love, and everyone should sign up to purchase a copy come October 1st! Do not miss this hilarious, edge-of-your-seat action packed thriller. Or I will come find you and harass you until you do! You have NO IDEA what you are missing!!!
For additional information on the author and his novel, and to sample a chapter of Immortal - view his website
"Part science fiction fantasy, part action adventure and thriller, Gene Doucette creates the perfect balance of humor and edge-of-your-seat anticipation in this genre-defying story of an immortal man named Adam, who finds himself battling demons and bounty hunters in his eternal search for Eve, the red haired mystery woman of his dreams. Witty and wonderful, with a bite of sarcasm, Immortal is a five star read for any fiction lover. " (Book Blurb submitted by yours truly!)
I have the extremely amazing honor of being the first person to write a review on Gene Doucette's debut novel, which will be released on Amazon.com October 1st by HIP (Hamel Integrity Publishing).
In "Immortal", we are introduced to Adam, our immortal but not invincible quazi-hero, as he awakens confused and disoriented nursing a massive hangover from beneath a futon at a college frat party, immediately puting his reliability as a narrator into question. But don't worry guys, it's all part of Adam's charm.
Witty sarcasm, quick quips, and an uncanny knack to self-preserve at all costs, our leading man quickly endears himself to you. We find ourselves drawn to him, not unlike the way one is drawn to the scene of an accident, nudging and jostling one another for a better view of the carnage.
Believing he is one of a kind, Adam asks the reader not to mistake him for a vampire. No, he doesn't age and does not get sick, though he is most certainly capable of dying. He has no super powers to speak of, though he is fluent in every language that has ever existed and can blend in with whatever culture he is hanging out in.
And he is searching for a red haired mystery woman who haunts his dreams throughout myriad millennia. Little does he know that while he searches for her, someone else is searching for him, and will stop at nothing to find him - leaving a bloody trail of unfortunate bodies in it's wake.
Adam narrates our novel through two time lines - The italicized text at the beginning of each chapter is Adam's current timeline where he appears to have been captured and locked away with a mad scientist who is determined to discover the why's and how's of his immortality. The main text recaps all of the wild and crazy events that lead up to Adam's eventual capture.
Along the way we meet tricky iffrits, whimsical pixies, sexy vampires, and armored dragons as Adam finds himself on the run on more than one occasion, forced to battle demons and bounty hunters, while trying to uncover who is coming after him.
A rapid fire, unrelenting wild rumpus of a ride - Immortal earned it's spot as the Next Best Book. Everyone will find something to love, and everyone should sign up to purchase a copy come October 1st! Do not miss this hilarious, edge-of-your-seat action packed thriller. Or I will come find you and harass you until you do! You have NO IDEA what you are missing!!!
For additional information on the author and his novel, and to sample a chapter of Immortal - view his website
September 27, 2010
Immortal is probably the modern (and historical) fantasy you've been seeking.
By the end of the first chapter I was fairly convinced that Gene Doucette had found this manuscript between seats on the subway because it had clearly been written as a collaboration by some of my favorite authors while they were sharing a bottle of whiskey. He has the wit of Douglas Adams, the sarcasm of Jim Butcher, the droll plotting of Spider Robinson, and the sly twists of Neil Gaiman, just to mention a few. But don't think that this means he seems imitative because he doesn't. "Immortal" was clever, fascinating, and endlessly entertaining.
I'm tempted to quote all the clever parts (which I highlighted because they were that good) but will let you discover them for yourself. As an example, one of my favorite bits from the first chapter: "I was suicidal for two solid centuries once. That was during the early part of what they now call the Dark Ages, in medieval Europe. Suicidal tendencies were de rigueur at the time, and I��m nothing if not trendy."
If there is a God, which is something that main character Adam sincerely doubts, then Mr. Doucette will write a series and get a TV show.
By the end of the first chapter I was fairly convinced that Gene Doucette had found this manuscript between seats on the subway because it had clearly been written as a collaboration by some of my favorite authors while they were sharing a bottle of whiskey. He has the wit of Douglas Adams, the sarcasm of Jim Butcher, the droll plotting of Spider Robinson, and the sly twists of Neil Gaiman, just to mention a few. But don't think that this means he seems imitative because he doesn't. "Immortal" was clever, fascinating, and endlessly entertaining.
I'm tempted to quote all the clever parts (which I highlighted because they were that good) but will let you discover them for yourself. As an example, one of my favorite bits from the first chapter: "I was suicidal for two solid centuries once. That was during the early part of what they now call the Dark Ages, in medieval Europe. Suicidal tendencies were de rigueur at the time, and I��m nothing if not trendy."
If there is a God, which is something that main character Adam sincerely doubts, then Mr. Doucette will write a series and get a TV show.
August 8, 2018
Just make sure you read beyond the first 25% :-)
Admittedly, I was very close to question the ratings on this one until I reached the 24% mark in the book. The first portion is somewhat dull and doesn't quite grab the reader's attention as something that will turn in a "can't drop this novel until I'm done" kinda deal. Luckily, I plowed through and was proven wrong! The rest of the novel is a page turner with solid characters and a good plot. While the back and forth through history and present might be confusing at times, the key is to remember that ultimately there are not many characters to keep track off. I found the reminiscences to the past entertaining and adding up to the credibility of the immortal character. A win then! Highly recommended in the end :-)
Admittedly, I was very close to question the ratings on this one until I reached the 24% mark in the book. The first portion is somewhat dull and doesn't quite grab the reader's attention as something that will turn in a "can't drop this novel until I'm done" kinda deal. Luckily, I plowed through and was proven wrong! The rest of the novel is a page turner with solid characters and a good plot. While the back and forth through history and present might be confusing at times, the key is to remember that ultimately there are not many characters to keep track off. I found the reminiscences to the past entertaining and adding up to the credibility of the immortal character. A win then! Highly recommended in the end :-)
December 7, 2020
he doesn't even try to be good,even for urban fantasy,where incompetence is excepted
just like a whore ,he writes and gives some FUN
30 thousands year old who is a drunk and likes banging young chicks ,with the stamina of a panzer division going through belgium
and quote
(Nice guy, old Mohammed was. A tad zealous and more than a bit touched in the head, but otherwise all right. He and Lester the subway drunk would have gotten along well.)
yeah ,and that
just like a whore ,he writes and gives some FUN
30 thousands year old who is a drunk and likes banging young chicks ,with the stamina of a panzer division going through belgium
and quote
(Nice guy, old Mohammed was. A tad zealous and more than a bit touched in the head, but otherwise all right. He and Lester the subway drunk would have gotten along well.)
yeah ,and that
January 26, 2011
This was an incredibly fun romp. A perfect airplane read, the story moves along at a superbrisk but natural pace, glibly covering thousands of years of history in a tightly woven narrative.
Once I got about 20 pages in, I couldn’t put it down. The story is a first-person narrative following the life and times – and a particularly exciting week or so – in the life of Adam, an ordinary man who happens to never age, get sick or, at least so far, die.
Now I’m a sucker for an immortal life story, and found it refreshing to read one where the immortal is neither a sucker himself nor a serial decapitator. The history is rich, and each flashback stands on its own as a short piece, while still tying into the overall story.
The mix of serious and sarcasm really worked for me. Creating a realistic character thousands of years old is a fascinating challenge. At times, I found the portrait compelling, at times surprising. At times, I wondered (wouldn’t drinking get old after after a few thousand years? If you find someone who really knows, ask em.) But his wit and odd separation from day to day human life struck me as very authentic. It’s a difference from the approach to immortality I've most commonly read, where the hero wallows in depression and jaded disaffection (Anne Rice, I’m talking to you!) or acts like a teenager. Adam is an immortal who still wants to be alive; but his perspective does create a gap - a distance between him and the world of mortals.
But bottom line, he’s a fun guide to go along with on this journey, part adventure, part mystery, part lark. Imagine PJ Wodehouse or Stephen Brust doing a take on immortality, and you have a pretty good idea of the tone and pace of this book. Highly recommended!
Once I got about 20 pages in, I couldn’t put it down. The story is a first-person narrative following the life and times – and a particularly exciting week or so – in the life of Adam, an ordinary man who happens to never age, get sick or, at least so far, die.
Now I’m a sucker for an immortal life story, and found it refreshing to read one where the immortal is neither a sucker himself nor a serial decapitator. The history is rich, and each flashback stands on its own as a short piece, while still tying into the overall story.
The mix of serious and sarcasm really worked for me. Creating a realistic character thousands of years old is a fascinating challenge. At times, I found the portrait compelling, at times surprising. At times, I wondered (wouldn’t drinking get old after after a few thousand years? If you find someone who really knows, ask em.) But his wit and odd separation from day to day human life struck me as very authentic. It’s a difference from the approach to immortality I've most commonly read, where the hero wallows in depression and jaded disaffection (Anne Rice, I’m talking to you!) or acts like a teenager. Adam is an immortal who still wants to be alive; but his perspective does create a gap - a distance between him and the world of mortals.
But bottom line, he’s a fun guide to go along with on this journey, part adventure, part mystery, part lark. Imagine PJ Wodehouse or Stephen Brust doing a take on immortality, and you have a pretty good idea of the tone and pace of this book. Highly recommended!
May 12, 2015
To Hell with time travel, just go with the flow. Adam has been going and flowing since the beginning of time (or, according to him since the genesis of the written word) and that’s beginning enough for me. Adam’s tale hopscotch’s through time and with a Bill Bryson humor relates his adventures in different places and times. The meandering narrative isn’t chronological but like an interesting conversation jumps from one story (name and time) to another. Adam aka Urrr, Rocky, Apollo, Serge (Lord Venice), Antony, Efganie, Amilcar and Seth, reminisces about his past life and adventures with a humor that leaves the corners of the reader’s lips uplifted with the occasional burst of uncontrolled laughter. Encounters of and liaisons with various beings such as vampires, pixies, demons, dragons and iffrits give the story a fairytale sagacity that, to my knowledge, hasn’t ever been attempted (unless J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Ring trilogy might be suggested but in my opinion that would be like comparing an apple to an orchard of oranges; mass versus finesse). If the author, publisher or reader would have to attach a genre to this tale it would be: action, suspense, historic, science fiction, romantic and with a healthy dose of erotic (naked women, vampires and pixies spawn images few have contemplated sober) thrown is to spice up the literary concoction. I enjoyed this book as it serves to refresh and reload the mental batteries by providing a delightful, if not entirely peacefully tranquil, reading interlude. Take a hop through time and readjust your perspective of time by reading Immortal; you won’t regret it.
October 16, 2012
Not only did the good reviews draw me to this book, the Immortal premise attracted me favourably, with its tentative link to time-travel, which I’m a great fan of.
The only concept that made me pause before buying was the inclusion of Demons, Pixies and Vampires etc, which I tend to avoid on a permanent basis.
I needn’t have worried, as they complement the story rather than detract.
I was a bit peeved to see that the book was only available on Kindle, as I’m a book person, who enjoys the solid feel of a real book in my hands. Nevertheless I pursued this book (and the follow-up Hellenic Immortal) through the publishers, and received them in the post in good time.
Despite the extra cost of postage I now, having just finished this book, feel justified in my pursuit – this book is FANTASTIC!
The Immortal’s occasional dip back in time to anywhere in the last fifty thousand years, or whatever, is exciting and enchanting, with previous loves and lives effortlessly brought back to life by his reminiscences; the modern day parts are always intriguing too, and you find yourself moving effortlessly through the pages, enhanced by the author’s comfortable style.
I found myself utterly surprised that the occasional Pixie or Vampire actually slotted in well with the whole Immortal concept, and the fact that the Immortal himself is virtually a non-stop alcoholic! Crazy, I know, but IT WORKS!
If I was to list my top ten books that I’d ever read, this one would be right up there, in the top three at least.
I hope I’ve tempted you to give it a crack.
Magnificent!!!
The only concept that made me pause before buying was the inclusion of Demons, Pixies and Vampires etc, which I tend to avoid on a permanent basis.
I needn’t have worried, as they complement the story rather than detract.
I was a bit peeved to see that the book was only available on Kindle, as I’m a book person, who enjoys the solid feel of a real book in my hands. Nevertheless I pursued this book (and the follow-up Hellenic Immortal) through the publishers, and received them in the post in good time.
Despite the extra cost of postage I now, having just finished this book, feel justified in my pursuit – this book is FANTASTIC!
The Immortal’s occasional dip back in time to anywhere in the last fifty thousand years, or whatever, is exciting and enchanting, with previous loves and lives effortlessly brought back to life by his reminiscences; the modern day parts are always intriguing too, and you find yourself moving effortlessly through the pages, enhanced by the author’s comfortable style.
I found myself utterly surprised that the occasional Pixie or Vampire actually slotted in well with the whole Immortal concept, and the fact that the Immortal himself is virtually a non-stop alcoholic! Crazy, I know, but IT WORKS!
If I was to list my top ten books that I’d ever read, this one would be right up there, in the top three at least.
I hope I’ve tempted you to give it a crack.
Magnificent!!!
May 21, 2014
Witty, captivating and very very interesting story telling, loved this book and will be getting the second book in the series to see how things go with the lead character Adam; very much love to see this series go on and on... it reminded me of the ryira chronicles (mind you only the characters of Hadrian and Royce and their banter) the mood was also similar.. though the story is not.. I wish Gene would have more to tell than just three books for Adam..
July 11, 2016
Warning: This is an adult book for violence, sex, and adult humor.
I am a sucker for funny books, so I when I read the summary I was sold. I mean, a funny immortal guy? I’m there.
There’s also more to the world than just one immortal guy, there’s vampires, iffrits, demons and all sorts of other things, which was cool.
I’m still not sure if I like the main character or not. He’s definitely an antihero; killing when necessary, and not always saving people, though he does feel bad about it later. He’s also a drunk. (He was drunk for like 90% of this book.)
The good:
I liked that for once there was an immortal who liked being immortal, even if he is a bit cynical about everything. He doesn’t want to die, and he’s a unique immortal, because he’s pretty sure that things that would kill a normal person would kill him too, he just doesn’t age or get sick.
There’s an info dump at the beginning telling about his life, but I didn’t mind it at all, because it was well done and witty. I loved his ability to blend into with whatever culture he’s around, his skin tone and hair changing. I wish this had been used more, it was a unique little twist.
He makes many observations about humans that really added to the story and made me believe the whole immortal thing. Like he comments that there are only so many faces out there, so it’s weird running into someone you used to know.
I actually liked the flash backs better than the main story. I understand the need for flashbacks with an immortal character living a long life, but the flash forwards (thankfully done in italics) complicated things a bit too much. Once it stays in one time the pace really picked up and it was a more enjoyable read.
The Bad:
I didn’t like the Iffrit Jerry, I thought he was crude. Fortunately he isn’t in the book much.
Towards the middle of the book it gets into the whole sex thing.
Adam’s done some horrible things in his life, (He always defends himself in parentheses saying it was what everyone at the time did.) but some of those things are pretty unforgiveable.
For instance when talking about his early life (cave man type days) he said: “We won the fight and rewarded ourselves by raping several of their women. It’s what one did. Don’t ask me to feel bad about it if you weren’t there.” This wasn’t funny and was completely unnecessary.
Verdict: Immortal is hard book to rate, because I liked most of it and it’s certainly an amusing book, with some interesting details, but there were aspects that I really didn’t like.
Odd fact: I was watching that new show Forever (which is very good by the way) and at the end of the second episode (Forever spoiler alert) the bad guy says something which totally made me think of this book.
“You want to call me something, call me Adam, feels like I’ve been here right from the beginning.“ – Adam, Forever
“I like to brag that I’ve been there from the beginning, and while this may very well be true, I generally just say it to pick up girls.” -Adam, The Immortal
Visit my blog Woven Magic Books for an interview with the author.
Point of View: First (Adam)
Predictability: 4 out of 5 (Where 1 is George RR Martin (If the characters make a plan or think about the future I know it isn’t going to go that way.) And 5 is Cinder (where I guessed what was going to happen long before it did, but it was still a great book.)
Comedy Scale: 2 amusing, but I didn’t laugh aloud.
My Rating: 5/10 Stars
I am a sucker for funny books, so I when I read the summary I was sold. I mean, a funny immortal guy? I’m there.
There’s also more to the world than just one immortal guy, there’s vampires, iffrits, demons and all sorts of other things, which was cool.
I’m still not sure if I like the main character or not. He’s definitely an antihero; killing when necessary, and not always saving people, though he does feel bad about it later. He’s also a drunk. (He was drunk for like 90% of this book.)
The good:
I liked that for once there was an immortal who liked being immortal, even if he is a bit cynical about everything. He doesn’t want to die, and he’s a unique immortal, because he’s pretty sure that things that would kill a normal person would kill him too, he just doesn’t age or get sick.
There’s an info dump at the beginning telling about his life, but I didn’t mind it at all, because it was well done and witty. I loved his ability to blend into with whatever culture he’s around, his skin tone and hair changing. I wish this had been used more, it was a unique little twist.
He makes many observations about humans that really added to the story and made me believe the whole immortal thing. Like he comments that there are only so many faces out there, so it’s weird running into someone you used to know.
I actually liked the flash backs better than the main story. I understand the need for flashbacks with an immortal character living a long life, but the flash forwards (thankfully done in italics) complicated things a bit too much. Once it stays in one time the pace really picked up and it was a more enjoyable read.
The Bad:
I didn’t like the Iffrit Jerry, I thought he was crude. Fortunately he isn’t in the book much.
Towards the middle of the book it gets into the whole sex thing.
Adam’s done some horrible things in his life, (He always defends himself in parentheses saying it was what everyone at the time did.) but some of those things are pretty unforgiveable.
For instance when talking about his early life (cave man type days) he said: “We won the fight and rewarded ourselves by raping several of their women. It’s what one did. Don’t ask me to feel bad about it if you weren’t there.” This wasn’t funny and was completely unnecessary.
Verdict: Immortal is hard book to rate, because I liked most of it and it’s certainly an amusing book, with some interesting details, but there were aspects that I really didn’t like.
Odd fact: I was watching that new show Forever (which is very good by the way) and at the end of the second episode (Forever spoiler alert) the bad guy says something which totally made me think of this book.
“You want to call me something, call me Adam, feels like I’ve been here right from the beginning.“ – Adam, Forever
“I like to brag that I’ve been there from the beginning, and while this may very well be true, I generally just say it to pick up girls.” -Adam, The Immortal
Visit my blog Woven Magic Books for an interview with the author.
Point of View: First (Adam)
Predictability: 4 out of 5 (Where 1 is George RR Martin (If the characters make a plan or think about the future I know it isn’t going to go that way.) And 5 is Cinder (where I guessed what was going to happen long before it did, but it was still a great book.)
Comedy Scale: 2 amusing, but I didn’t laugh aloud.
My Rating: 5/10 Stars
June 23, 2012
Review on http://passionforpages.blogspot.ca/20...
When I first heard of Immortal I admit I wasn’t all that interested. Not because I didn’t think it could be a good story but because I didn’t think it was a story I would like.
I was wrong.
I cannot even begin to explain how much I loved this book. Absolutely loved it. The plot was captivating, the characters were interesting, it was funny and amusing – just one of those books I didn’t want to put down and once I had to I couldn’t stop thinking about it. At times I felt like I was getting a history lesson but one that was hilarious and kept me wanting to learn more. Let me tell you, if History was anything like this in high school I wouldn’t have had my daily naps.
Doucette created a character in Adam that just made me smile a lot through the story – even when things are taking a turn for the worse. I’m not usually a fan of novels written in first person, but I loved the way this one was done. The narrative style sucks you in and makes you feel like you��re right there. Adam’s wit and storytelling of the past had me laughing out loud so many times, especially when it came to the “real” versions of how things went down years ago. Like David and Goliath? Not being a religious person myself, I found it utterly comical the way Adam described the “truth” to that little tale.
I really enjoyed how so many supernatural beings were involved in the book also. Vampires, demons, dragons, pixies – loved the pixies! Doucette even brought something different to the table with Jerry, the iffrit. Who, I thought was kind of charming in an offensive sort of way in the beginning.
I also really liked how the plot wasn’t all that predictable. And the stuff that I did figure out before it was revealed I didn’t even care that I knew because I was in such a hurry to get onto the next part.
Adam, the alcoholic immortal, is definitely a win in the fictional world.
**I received an ebook copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
When I first heard of Immortal I admit I wasn’t all that interested. Not because I didn’t think it could be a good story but because I didn’t think it was a story I would like.
I was wrong.
I cannot even begin to explain how much I loved this book. Absolutely loved it. The plot was captivating, the characters were interesting, it was funny and amusing – just one of those books I didn’t want to put down and once I had to I couldn’t stop thinking about it. At times I felt like I was getting a history lesson but one that was hilarious and kept me wanting to learn more. Let me tell you, if History was anything like this in high school I wouldn’t have had my daily naps.
Doucette created a character in Adam that just made me smile a lot through the story – even when things are taking a turn for the worse. I’m not usually a fan of novels written in first person, but I loved the way this one was done. The narrative style sucks you in and makes you feel like you��re right there. Adam’s wit and storytelling of the past had me laughing out loud so many times, especially when it came to the “real” versions of how things went down years ago. Like David and Goliath? Not being a religious person myself, I found it utterly comical the way Adam described the “truth” to that little tale.
I really enjoyed how so many supernatural beings were involved in the book also. Vampires, demons, dragons, pixies – loved the pixies! Doucette even brought something different to the table with Jerry, the iffrit. Who, I thought was kind of charming in an offensive sort of way in the beginning.
I also really liked how the plot wasn’t all that predictable. And the stuff that I did figure out before it was revealed I didn’t even care that I knew because I was in such a hurry to get onto the next part.
Adam, the alcoholic immortal, is definitely a win in the fictional world.
**I received an ebook copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Shelved as 'life-is-too-short'
March 19, 2013My decision to stop listening (no audiobook in GR atm, and I may or may not have the energy to add it) was a combination of frustration with the audiobook and the things I didn't like about the book overwhelming those I did. First off, the reader was okay except for when he was reading women - especially the medieval French vampire, which was bad enough that I would have returned the audio if I hadn't listened for quite a while already. But pretty darn close in annoyingness was the modern-day Boston vampire.
The plot meandered a lot, which sort of made sense, given that our protag/narrator has lived since the earliest days of man, and so had a lot of experiences to 'share', every time it might be somewhat relevant. It just took a long time to get from "the first/last time I [did whatever] was back in [whenever]" to back to present situation, especially on audiobook.
This was mildly frustrating, but I was also (mildly) interested in where it was all going, until our brave protag murdered someone. In the context of the story, it was understandable, and he didn't have much choice. But then there was a long digression about the first time he'd killed someone (another hunting group) and how it hadn't caused him any remorse, which was followed by (I'm paraphrasing because I can't just flip to the page to quote) "And we won and then we raped a bunch of their women." Which is first followed by "You weren't there, you don't get to judge me" and then a big long discourse about how civilization hasn't changed much and inside humankind is really savage but most people just don't realise it. Which makes the "you can't judge me for those rapes, because you weren't alive back when we were --- uncivilized" argument fall rather to pieces. I just didn't care enough to keep listening for the mild entertainment I'd found in places. (I did like the pixies though.)
The plot meandered a lot, which sort of made sense, given that our protag/narrator has lived since the earliest days of man, and so had a lot of experiences to 'share', every time it might be somewhat relevant. It just took a long time to get from "the first/last time I [did whatever] was back in [whenever]" to back to present situation, especially on audiobook.
This was mildly frustrating, but I was also (mildly) interested in where it was all going, until our brave protag murdered someone. In the context of the story, it was understandable, and he didn't have much choice. But then there was a long digression about the first time he'd killed someone (another hunting group) and how it hadn't caused him any remorse, which was followed by (I'm paraphrasing because I can't just flip to the page to quote) "And we won and then we raped a bunch of their women." Which is first followed by "You weren't there, you don't get to judge me" and then a big long discourse about how civilization hasn't changed much and inside humankind is really savage but most people just don't realise it. Which makes the "you can't judge me for those rapes, because you weren't alive back when we were --- uncivilized" argument fall rather to pieces. I just didn't care enough to keep listening for the mild entertainment I'd found in places. (I did like the pixies though.)
September 22, 2018
This was an interesting book.
It is a good job that the premise of this novel peaked my interest from the moment I read the blurb. The idea of a man who is older than written history (50-60,000 years old I believe) is something that fascinates me. That fascination is what carried me through a weak opening half.
That first 40-50% was a real struggle to get through. To start with there are 2 separate timelines running side by side mixed in with a number of flashbacks into other various times. Each of those flashbacks were interesting in themselves but it was a struggle to read them out of context which is pretty much how they were written.
About the half way mark though, things begin to grow interesting and soon enough this book becomes a real page turner. Adam (only his most recent name) our immortal protagonist, is being hunted and it is at this half way mark when events really start to flow. It doesn't take a genius to figure out why people might want to hunt down and capture an immortal man but it was well handled in this book and still exciting.
By the end of the book I found that I thoroughly enjoyed what I had read and more importantly, I am interested in reading the next novel in the series. The only thing holding me back was how this book ended. For a relatively wordy book, some aspects of this story were teased and never properly resolved to any kind of satisfaction. I understand that this is probably being set up for future books but there was so little story progression that I felt exhausted waiting for something to happen.
Overall though this was a good book and more importantly it felt fresh. I have read books with protagonists who are thousands of years old before, but never one who has been alive through the entirety of written history and I felt the author dealt well with that.
It is a good job that the premise of this novel peaked my interest from the moment I read the blurb. The idea of a man who is older than written history (50-60,000 years old I believe) is something that fascinates me. That fascination is what carried me through a weak opening half.
That first 40-50% was a real struggle to get through. To start with there are 2 separate timelines running side by side mixed in with a number of flashbacks into other various times. Each of those flashbacks were interesting in themselves but it was a struggle to read them out of context which is pretty much how they were written.
About the half way mark though, things begin to grow interesting and soon enough this book becomes a real page turner. Adam (only his most recent name) our immortal protagonist, is being hunted and it is at this half way mark when events really start to flow. It doesn't take a genius to figure out why people might want to hunt down and capture an immortal man but it was well handled in this book and still exciting.
By the end of the book I found that I thoroughly enjoyed what I had read and more importantly, I am interested in reading the next novel in the series. The only thing holding me back was how this book ended. For a relatively wordy book, some aspects of this story were teased and never properly resolved to any kind of satisfaction. I understand that this is probably being set up for future books but there was so little story progression that I felt exhausted waiting for something to happen.
Overall though this was a good book and more importantly it felt fresh. I have read books with protagonists who are thousands of years old before, but never one who has been alive through the entirety of written history and I felt the author dealt well with that.
January 12, 2013
Immortal is not, perhaps, what one might expect from a novel focusing on a being incapable of death by natural causes. Doucette's writing is fresh, original, and riddled with dry humour. Adam, the frank and somewhat cynical immortal man, does not begin his story with the overdone "first I fell in a vat of radioactive material", but instead asserts that he has, perhaps, been around since the beginning of time; admits that he cannot remember back past a certain point; and assures the reader that he does not possess super powers and is most likely capable of being killed. Indeed, Adam is not too different from the average person - some side-effects of immortality excluded (a poor sense of time, odd social skills, and a great love of alcohol).
While Immortal includes a variety of sub-human species in addition to its immortal narrator, the fantasy aspect ends there. The events occurring within its pages are otherwise not implausible and are set in the ever-relatable present-day world. All Doucette's characters, including minor side-characters, are well-developed and realistic. Adam's story is a page-turner, alternating between detailing the events leading to his present state (as introduced at the beginning of the book) and going off on brief tangents that prove both humourous and informative. In the end, the story ties up nicely, though it may be the sort of novel that requires a second read for some to catch all the details.
Immortal is not a book for children or the easily-offended. While the writing is neither gory nor X-rated, there is some definite crude humour. The character "Jerry" is, himself, a crude joke which might better have been left out of the story, serving only to aid in its realism.
January 9, 2015
This book has an interesting premise and a cool set of immortality rules. There is enough world-building without making it overbearing and it definitely has its laugh out loud moments too!
The character’s main strength is his life-experience. He is not immortal due to an affliction like vampirism (although they do feature) but rather is a man that simply has not died from natural causes.
“I do date, in case you were wondering. I am also – and this I consider a welcome byproduct of my immortality – completely sterile. Imagine if I wasn’t. Between my direct descendants and their offspring, we could people an entire continent. I think of these things.”
The tone is somewhat anecdotal throughout with historical accounts from when the character lived through such times as Pompeii. These were well balanced within the main plot and were actually a fantastic way of revealing some of what makes our main man tick.
“Many hundreds of years later, I got a chance to see a museum exhibit showing some of the artifacts recovered in Pompeii and Herculaneum. It was, to put it mildly, a strange experience, especially since I recognised several of the preserved dead. I also saw my broom on display. I considered reclaiming it but decided it would take more effort than it was worth.”
Fun insights and experiences and doesn’t take itself too seriously. In that, it reads as an effortlessly brilliant novel and I thoroughly enjoyed every word.
“Here’s a little bit of advice if you ever meet an immortal and feel like challenging him to a fight. It is simply impossible to live this long and not pick up a few hand-to-hand combat techniques here and there. I was a black belt before there was such a thing. Not that I’m bragging.”
The character’s main strength is his life-experience. He is not immortal due to an affliction like vampirism (although they do feature) but rather is a man that simply has not died from natural causes.
“I do date, in case you were wondering. I am also – and this I consider a welcome byproduct of my immortality – completely sterile. Imagine if I wasn’t. Between my direct descendants and their offspring, we could people an entire continent. I think of these things.”
The tone is somewhat anecdotal throughout with historical accounts from when the character lived through such times as Pompeii. These were well balanced within the main plot and were actually a fantastic way of revealing some of what makes our main man tick.
“Many hundreds of years later, I got a chance to see a museum exhibit showing some of the artifacts recovered in Pompeii and Herculaneum. It was, to put it mildly, a strange experience, especially since I recognised several of the preserved dead. I also saw my broom on display. I considered reclaiming it but decided it would take more effort than it was worth.”
Fun insights and experiences and doesn’t take itself too seriously. In that, it reads as an effortlessly brilliant novel and I thoroughly enjoyed every word.
“Here’s a little bit of advice if you ever meet an immortal and feel like challenging him to a fight. It is simply impossible to live this long and not pick up a few hand-to-hand combat techniques here and there. I was a black belt before there was such a thing. Not that I’m bragging.”
May 11, 2017
Immortal introduces us to one man whose life spans millennia and his struggles to adapt to an ever changing world. Currently going by the name Adam, his memories seem to predate written history, his earliest that of living in a hunter-gatherer society. He's not sure why he, of all people, has been granted what seems to be eternal life, and has been present as some of historys more noteworthy events. Now in the 21st century, he's trying to continue with his century-old binge when two college students are brutally slain by what appears to be a demon. It soon becomes obvious that someone, or something, is looking for him, and it's only when Clara, a young woman who believes in his tale and a mysterious red-haired woman who is even older than he is are tossed into the mix that Adam pits all his 60,000 years of street smarts against his shadowy foe, and it's anyones guess who will come out on top.
Gene Doucette has put together a grand history of one mans lonely existence, providing the reader with a front row seat to some of historys greatest triumphs and setbacks. The addition of vampires and other supernatural entities really gives this a zest of fantasy that I really wish I could rate higher. However, I really wish we had had less alcoholic-immortal-grudgingly-faces-off-against-the-bad-guys and more rallying-of-the-supernatural-buddies to face off against evil incarnate. I would also have liked a lot more flashbacks where we got to see Adam hanging out in Rome or riding alongside Napoleon or Alexander the Great. Overall, I think it would have been better with a little more substance. I'd recommended everyone give it a try, but I'm on the fence as far as sequels.
Gene Doucette has put together a grand history of one mans lonely existence, providing the reader with a front row seat to some of historys greatest triumphs and setbacks. The addition of vampires and other supernatural entities really gives this a zest of fantasy that I really wish I could rate higher. However, I really wish we had had less alcoholic-immortal-grudgingly-faces-off-against-the-bad-guys and more rallying-of-the-supernatural-buddies to face off against evil incarnate. I would also have liked a lot more flashbacks where we got to see Adam hanging out in Rome or riding alongside Napoleon or Alexander the Great. Overall, I think it would have been better with a little more substance. I'd recommended everyone give it a try, but I'm on the fence as far as sequels.
March 19, 2012
My relationship with alcohol is complicated. Give or take a few days
here and there, I hadn’t been dry since the speakeasy fire in 1922. By all
normal human standards that would make me a raging alcoholic, except
that by those same human standards I would also be dead by now, if not
from old age then from cirrhosis of the liver. But eighty years for me is like
a glass of wine with dinner for anybody else. - Adam
Adam is a thirty-something-year-old mister average with some extraordinary personality traits.
Most of those are the result of the fact that he’s been thirty-something for about 6000 years whereas some are most likely triggered by an abundance of alcohol in his blood.
As an immortal -albeit not invincible- human being he quickly learned that to enjoy his immortality to the fullest, his best bet would be not to die. A trait that is easily mistaken for indifference, since the best way for an immortal to surmount serious problems is to simply turn his back and outlive them.
When things get really messy, Adam slowly realizes that running away is probably no longer an option. Add two measures of females, one measure of megalomaniac and a few slices of magical beings and he doesn’t even have to shake to understand the gravity of his predicament.
Immortal is a fast-paced, historical fantasy novel filled with witticisms and hilarious anecdotes that keep you turning pages from the get-go. Doucette draws a fine line between experience-based philosophy and blunt comedy that only an immortal like Adam can walk … if he’s sober enough.
here and there, I hadn’t been dry since the speakeasy fire in 1922. By all
normal human standards that would make me a raging alcoholic, except
that by those same human standards I would also be dead by now, if not
from old age then from cirrhosis of the liver. But eighty years for me is like
a glass of wine with dinner for anybody else. - Adam
Adam is a thirty-something-year-old mister average with some extraordinary personality traits.
Most of those are the result of the fact that he’s been thirty-something for about 6000 years whereas some are most likely triggered by an abundance of alcohol in his blood.
As an immortal -albeit not invincible- human being he quickly learned that to enjoy his immortality to the fullest, his best bet would be not to die. A trait that is easily mistaken for indifference, since the best way for an immortal to surmount serious problems is to simply turn his back and outlive them.
When things get really messy, Adam slowly realizes that running away is probably no longer an option. Add two measures of females, one measure of megalomaniac and a few slices of magical beings and he doesn’t even have to shake to understand the gravity of his predicament.
Immortal is a fast-paced, historical fantasy novel filled with witticisms and hilarious anecdotes that keep you turning pages from the get-go. Doucette draws a fine line between experience-based philosophy and blunt comedy that only an immortal like Adam can walk … if he’s sober enough.
June 1, 2015
Oh my this was such a fun book. Imagine you can live forever - what would you do?
Adam, well at least that's the name he's using this moment has been alive since - well he doesn't even remember when it was but he remembers that language was mostly grunts and the most advanced weapon was a pointy stick. This book is a wonderful mix of a thriller with humor as we learn that our hero is in a precarious situation and trying to figure his way out but he recounts how he got there and has lots of rambling thoughts down memory lane along the way.
I can totally see how a person who has lived tens of thousands of years will ramble in his thoughts and draw parallels to things he's experienced before. Example: when realizing he should have known when to run he recounts the last days of Pompeii.
I like that while Adam has encountered many historical personages, it isn't the tired trope where he knew EVERYONE of importance or was present and pivotal in every event.
He's survived this long by being below the radar and not trying to run the world. Adam prefers the company of lovely ladies, interesting conversation companions and drink - lots of drink. A man after my own heart.
The world is a lot weirder than normal folks know and the immortal man introduces us to some of the strange sub species that range beneath the radar.
I'm definitely going back and getting more books in this series. If the quality of fun remains as high, I'm going to love every second of it.
Adam, well at least that's the name he's using this moment has been alive since - well he doesn't even remember when it was but he remembers that language was mostly grunts and the most advanced weapon was a pointy stick. This book is a wonderful mix of a thriller with humor as we learn that our hero is in a precarious situation and trying to figure his way out but he recounts how he got there and has lots of rambling thoughts down memory lane along the way.
I can totally see how a person who has lived tens of thousands of years will ramble in his thoughts and draw parallels to things he's experienced before. Example: when realizing he should have known when to run he recounts the last days of Pompeii.
I like that while Adam has encountered many historical personages, it isn't the tired trope where he knew EVERYONE of importance or was present and pivotal in every event.
He's survived this long by being below the radar and not trying to run the world. Adam prefers the company of lovely ladies, interesting conversation companions and drink - lots of drink. A man after my own heart.
The world is a lot weirder than normal folks know and the immortal man introduces us to some of the strange sub species that range beneath the radar.
I'm definitely going back and getting more books in this series. If the quality of fun remains as high, I'm going to love every second of it.
July 20, 2020
This is an engaging and interesting story, and would have gotten a much higher score if it weren't SO SEXIST. Beyond the natural and justifiable complaints other readers have lodged about the casual prehistoric gang-rape references and non-apology, the story is clearly written from a worldview where people are either men, or the women who turn those men on. Male characters are all ages with all kinds of personalities, and you rarely get much in-depth physical description; but ALL female characte are sexy, mostly naked, nubile, young (or young-appearing) temptresses. Sexy vampires. Sexy NYU student. Sexy immortal. Sexy weirdly young Egyptian slaves. Even the pixies have to be hot and naked, despite being tiny and usually moving too quickly to be visible. Still have to throw in a couple sentences reassuring you that yes, they have slamming hot bodies, and don't worry, they totally don't wear clothes. Bro, nice, right?
You just get the impression the author doesn't regard women as useful or interesting if they're not young and bangable, and can't envision a world where even the women might think of themselves otherwise.
You just get the impression the author doesn't regard women as useful or interesting if they're not young and bangable, and can't envision a world where even the women might think of themselves otherwise.
May 7, 2012
This is a very personal first person POV story about Adam. Adam is a fairly normal guy albeit more self aware and honest about himself. He is a professed alcoholic with serious intimacy issues. He avoids thinking about or confronting everything, preferring to lose himself in a glass of beer. Adam is the type of guy who makes a good acquaintance, but a bad friend.
I found the humour to be dry and subtle. There were quite a few chuckle-worthy moments, and even more smile-worthy ones.
The ending left quite a bit open, and yet managed to end the story. There are several unanswered questions about Eve, and obviously some adventures still to come.
Overall, this was a good humour book that still focused on a story. The book was really about Adam, but there was still a complete plot to it, so I can't say it was really a character study book. It had a bit of everything, but was stirred well and read smoothly.
I found the humour to be dry and subtle. There were quite a few chuckle-worthy moments, and even more smile-worthy ones.
The ending left quite a bit open, and yet managed to end the story. There are several unanswered questions about Eve, and obviously some adventures still to come.
Overall, this was a good humour book that still focused on a story. The book was really about Adam, but there was still a complete plot to it, so I can't say it was really a character study book. It had a bit of everything, but was stirred well and read smoothly.
November 3, 2019
This was pretty good, and would appeal to fans of Kevin Hearne and his Iron Druid books. Adam is immortal, he doesn’t know why, But he has been around for thousands of years, before there was even language.
Adam has a lot of experience and a variety of skills, but basically likes a drink and moves on when his welcome has been exhausted. His first person storytelling has a wry wit about it and his memories of his past are both fun and interesting.
In this, someone is after him and rather than just moving on, he decides to take a risk to rescue a girl....
In this entertaining world, the author does not just stick with an immortal man theme, there are creatures of fantasy here too, so this sits in the light fantasy arena for me.
But I did enjoy this, it works and has an interesting concept at its heart and sometimes the looks back at the past are more fun than the present. But still good stuff.
Adam has a lot of experience and a variety of skills, but basically likes a drink and moves on when his welcome has been exhausted. His first person storytelling has a wry wit about it and his memories of his past are both fun and interesting.
In this, someone is after him and rather than just moving on, he decides to take a risk to rescue a girl....
In this entertaining world, the author does not just stick with an immortal man theme, there are creatures of fantasy here too, so this sits in the light fantasy arena for me.
But I did enjoy this, it works and has an interesting concept at its heart and sometimes the looks back at the past are more fun than the present. But still good stuff.
February 22, 2016
Readability 6. Rating 6. Let's face it - immortality is a fun concept. Doucette, while not necessarily producing an epic work, did a solid job with Adam as an immortal who is not invincible. In part, the fact that Adam seems to be as old as language is fun. He's also not a particularly good or likeable person, but he kind of grows on you. And he is pretty resourceful - such as figuring out the reason demons aren't overrunning the Earth is that they are susceptible to disease. I like the supporting characters, like the pacing of the story - someone has figured out that he is immortal and is siccing bounty hunters on him - and like the way the story wraps - Adam gets to be hero without being overly supernatural, and his seeming status as the only immortal is upended with a flourish. Probably worth trying out the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2012
FUll Review: http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/1/post/2...
Without giving away the plot that develops, I can say that the story gently touches on interesting issues of scientific and business ethics without being heavy-handed or preachy. While there are also some scenes of violence, it is not overly disgusting and the other "non-human" creatures that also exist alongside Adam and play parts in the story are interesting as well. Although there are some sex scenes in the book (Adam is quite appreciative of women, even if he is not sure he knows what love feels like anymore), it is not overall a romance as much as it is a mystery and adventure story. I really enjoyed Immortal and look forward to reading about Adam's further adventures.
Without giving away the plot that develops, I can say that the story gently touches on interesting issues of scientific and business ethics without being heavy-handed or preachy. While there are also some scenes of violence, it is not overly disgusting and the other "non-human" creatures that also exist alongside Adam and play parts in the story are interesting as well. Although there are some sex scenes in the book (Adam is quite appreciative of women, even if he is not sure he knows what love feels like anymore), it is not overall a romance as much as it is a mystery and adventure story. I really enjoyed Immortal and look forward to reading about Adam's further adventures.
November 29, 2017
I would give this book 3.5 stars if I were permitted. It's not quite a 4 star book but also not a 3 star book. I generally do not read the second book in a series if I give it 3 stars and I will read the second book in a series if I give it 4 stars. For this book, I will probably read the second book, which is why I wanted to explain the 3 star rating. The character is good, though I'd prefer a more sober lead character. I have no issue with drinking, having enjoyed my fair share throughout my life. I just think the story and character would be more interesting without the blackouts. Overall, I thought the plot was good, and the tempo of the story as well. I liked the introduction of the other beings beyond our immortal and the normal humans. They were an unexpected treat.
June 18, 2015
This is a fun read. Urr, aka Adam, has memories back to the days when humans could barely speak. At the moment he is imprisoned in a laboratory, where he's poked and prodded to discover the cause of his immunity to disease. As he plans his escape, he recounts how he got into this specific dilemma, seasoned with scenes from his very l-o-n-g life. It's clear we can't believe anything in the history books. We also can't believe what we've read about dragons, vampires, pixies, etc.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews