A Stitch in Time (An Astralian Adventure Book 1)

This book has some interesting linguistic representations of Yorkshire dialects (focussed on that of the main (charismatic) character, Michael, who comes from South Yorkshire) in the modern era and also during the 16th century. The link between these two eras is established through some supernatural experiences of Michael's son, John. The author, however, uses a writing style that involves the recounting of almost endless (warm and humorous) dialogues between members of the central family (from Harrogate). The book, if printed, would probably be 800 pages which is why I didn't have the stamina (or time) to read every line, but through skim reading I was able to glean the main plot. The story reveals a comprehensive understanding of the history of Harrogate and places with a mystical past - such as Knaresborough (Old Mother Shipton) and York, and a vivid imagination - but for an average reader the volume of words (and dialogues) is a major hurdle. It also reveals the challenge of faithfully reflecting spoken accents in the written word. The manuscript also has several typos, formatting problems and grammatical errors, which would normally have been removed by a more rigorous publishing and editing/reviewing process (which is what this book really needs in my opinion to capitalise on its potential).

I moved away from the Harrogate area about 20 years ago and it is still a place very close to my heart. Harrogate and the surrounding district, is awash with exciting folk tales and rich mythology, yet there is always room for more, and here we have the latest.Ian Davey has created a world to which we can all relate to...a tale of a family in the late 20th Century and especially their son John, who finds the traumas of adult life sending him unexpectedly into a situation he couldn’t possibly have imagined. His new situation becomes a struggle to return to a familiar environment, using strength of mind, emotion and character, whilst the demons, witches and all manner of danger he faces, should only serve to strengthen him.The author takes us on an amazing journey mixing fact and mythology, using superb Yorkshire dialect to bring a sense of reality to what you are reading.If you like history...buy this.If you like great storytelling...buy this.If you like mythology...buy this.If you buy one book this year...buy this!

This book was so totally amazing it kept me hooked as I only read at work on my break it took me a while to finish it but I was constantly thinking what will happen next. If you can get past the writing as people used to talk in the past then you will get hooked too. Such a brilliant book I just wish they was a sequel

Brilliant read, well done Ian! Looking forward to your next one

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.I had a lot of fun reading this book.Isn't that enough of a review? There are very few books that just leave me feeling like I've taken a relaxing and enjoyable vacation from life. I smiled, laughed, and overall just really enjoyed the plot, characters, and Ian Murray-Watson's writing style.I think that the best way to read this book, in order to ensure optimal enjoyment, is to just sit back and let the author take you for a ride. Set aside your rational and linear way of thinking and trust the author to see you safely to the conclusion of the book.I really can't recommend this book enough, especially if you're feeling overly stressed or have just been taking life too seriously lately. This book will leave you feeling happy and refreshed - at least, that's what it did for me!