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The Recipient
Casey Schillinge is a vivacious young woman on the verge of making her mark on the world. While backpacking, she is struck down by a tropical disease and suffers cardiac failure. But at the eleventh hour, Casey receives a life-saving heart transplant - and a rare second chance to begin again.
Three years later, Casey has become a withdrawn shell of her former self: she is estranged from her loved ones, afraid of open spaces and rides the line between legitimate and criminal work. The worst of her troubles come in the form of violent night terrors; so frightening that she resorts to extreme measures to keep herself from sleeping. When she can take no more, she embarks on a desperate search for the source of her dreams. In so doing, she makes a shocking discovery surrounding the tragic fate of the donor whose heart now beats inside her chest. As she delves deeper into the mystery of her donor, she realizes her dreams are not a figment of her imagination, but a real life nightmare.
Three years later, Casey has become a withdrawn shell of her former self: she is estranged from her loved ones, afraid of open spaces and rides the line between legitimate and criminal work. The worst of her troubles come in the form of violent night terrors; so frightening that she resorts to extreme measures to keep herself from sleeping. When she can take no more, she embarks on a desperate search for the source of her dreams. In so doing, she makes a shocking discovery surrounding the tragic fate of the donor whose heart now beats inside her chest. As she delves deeper into the mystery of her donor, she realizes her dreams are not a figment of her imagination, but a real life nightmare.
416 pages, Paperback
First published May 15, 2016
27 people are currently reading
1582 people want to read
About the author
Dean Mayes
8 books145 followersWhen he emerged in 2010, Adelaide based Intensive Care Nurse and author Dean Mayes, had almost given up on the prospect of ever being published. by then in his 30's with several abortive writing attempts under his belt, Dean believed he had missed his opportunity. But Dean had an idea for one last story he wanted to tell and, rather than allow it to wither and die in his imagination, he decided to blog it instead.
Quite unexpectedly, Dean's blog took off and after a chance encounter with Canadian based publisher Central Avenue in mid 2009, Dean's dream like tale about a young man who discovers he has taken on the memories and dreams of a complete stranger, became his first novel. Dean was signed to an initial two year contract and in 2010 "The Hambledown Dream" was published. The novel has since gone on to receive global attention and critical acclaim.
Dean set about penning a follow up novel that was not merely a repeat performance and in 2012 "Gifts of the Peramangk" a powerful Australian family saga. Chronicling a dysfunctional Aboriginal family in the struggle streets of Adelaide's suburban fringe, "Gifts of the Peramangk" has been described as significant literary achievement. In October 2013, it was nominated as a finalist in the prestigious EPIC Awards for contemporary fiction.
Dean's third feature length novel, a psychological thriller set in Melbourne called "The Recipient", showcased his ability to cross genres and deliver a taut and gripping tome about a heart transplant patient who discovers her organ donor was a murder victim - and that the murder remains unsolved.
Returning to his romantic roots, Dean released his fourth novel, "The Artisan Heart" in 2018. Set in Dean's home town, the novel is described as his most personal story and continues to illustrate Dean's abilities to craft realistic characters and situations.
During the Covid pandemic, Dean took a hiatus from writing to focus on his role as an Intensive Care Nurse. During this time, he managed to bring together a collection of short fiction, poetry and reflections together and will release "The Night Fisher Elegies" in 2022.
He also has plans to write a sequel to "The Recipient".
He lives in Adelaide, Australia with his wife Emily, their two children Xavier and Lucy. An Intensive Care Nurse with over 15 years of clinical experience in adult, paediatric and neonatal medicine, he can often be found lying on a hospital gurney at 3 in the morning - notebook in hand, madly scribbling ideas while on his break.
Dean is represented by Michelle Halket and is published by Central Avenue Publishing of Vancouver, Canada.
Quite unexpectedly, Dean's blog took off and after a chance encounter with Canadian based publisher Central Avenue in mid 2009, Dean's dream like tale about a young man who discovers he has taken on the memories and dreams of a complete stranger, became his first novel. Dean was signed to an initial two year contract and in 2010 "The Hambledown Dream" was published. The novel has since gone on to receive global attention and critical acclaim.
Dean set about penning a follow up novel that was not merely a repeat performance and in 2012 "Gifts of the Peramangk" a powerful Australian family saga. Chronicling a dysfunctional Aboriginal family in the struggle streets of Adelaide's suburban fringe, "Gifts of the Peramangk" has been described as significant literary achievement. In October 2013, it was nominated as a finalist in the prestigious EPIC Awards for contemporary fiction.
Dean's third feature length novel, a psychological thriller set in Melbourne called "The Recipient", showcased his ability to cross genres and deliver a taut and gripping tome about a heart transplant patient who discovers her organ donor was a murder victim - and that the murder remains unsolved.
Returning to his romantic roots, Dean released his fourth novel, "The Artisan Heart" in 2018. Set in Dean's home town, the novel is described as his most personal story and continues to illustrate Dean's abilities to craft realistic characters and situations.
During the Covid pandemic, Dean took a hiatus from writing to focus on his role as an Intensive Care Nurse. During this time, he managed to bring together a collection of short fiction, poetry and reflections together and will release "The Night Fisher Elegies" in 2022.
He also has plans to write a sequel to "The Recipient".
He lives in Adelaide, Australia with his wife Emily, their two children Xavier and Lucy. An Intensive Care Nurse with over 15 years of clinical experience in adult, paediatric and neonatal medicine, he can often be found lying on a hospital gurney at 3 in the morning - notebook in hand, madly scribbling ideas while on his break.
Dean is represented by Michelle Halket and is published by Central Avenue Publishing of Vancouver, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
August 9, 2017
Casey used to be adventurous and full of life until she went on a trip with her friends and contracted a tropical disease, leaving her with a failing heart. Eventually she gets a donor heart and transplant, but along with the heart come nightmares and a certain darkness sets in that wasn't there before. Casey becomes estranged from her parents and spends most of her time alone, abusing drugs to stay up days at a time. Eventually though the dreams get the better of her and send her to the hospital, leading to her search into the life of the girl whose heart she received.
This book was terrible, I feel bad writing negative reviews but obviously not bad enough to not do it. It's just the writing was so immature and I honestly don't even have adequate vocabulary to describe writing so I'm not sure how to explain what bothered me so much about this book. I think a lot of it had to do with the constant telling rather than showing and the way all the characters felt flat and more like caricatures than real people. This book was just missing complexity with the plot and character development. Also I had trouble buying that the nightmares drove Casey to such an extreme and different state of mind, I have nightmares every night and honestly you just learn to sleep through them, like my parents complain about me screaming at night but I wake up well rested so. Also the dream itself didn't seem that bad and I still don't think the reasons she had for hiding them made any sense. I get that she was in pain but it was just hard to believe.
This book was terrible, I feel bad writing negative reviews but obviously not bad enough to not do it. It's just the writing was so immature and I honestly don't even have adequate vocabulary to describe writing so I'm not sure how to explain what bothered me so much about this book. I think a lot of it had to do with the constant telling rather than showing and the way all the characters felt flat and more like caricatures than real people. This book was just missing complexity with the plot and character development. Also I had trouble buying that the nightmares drove Casey to such an extreme and different state of mind, I have nightmares every night and honestly you just learn to sleep through them, like my parents complain about me screaming at night but I wake up well rested so. Also the dream itself didn't seem that bad and I still don't think the reasons she had for hiding them made any sense. I get that she was in pain but it was just hard to believe.
July 16, 2024
4.5★
I read an earlier draft of this almost a year ago, and a year can make a lot of difference—in this case for the better. It was already a very entertaining read, but this time I was able to enjoy the story without stumbling.
In the days of Ernest Hemingway, even the public knew the name of Maxwell Perkins, his editor, who was also Thomas Wolfe’s and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s editor, among others. I know Dean was looking forward to working with his editor, and the wait for the finished product has been worth it. I’ll keep my original review below, so you know I always liked the book!
Meanwhile, I’d like to share a taste of what young Casey Schillinge is going through with her recurring nightmares after being The Recipient of a healthy new heart from a young woman who suffered a “tragic fate”, as it says in the blurb.
She tries not to sleep, because when she does, she finds herself in a storm, at night, on a deserted bitumen road.
“She crashes heavily to the road, opening wounds in her shoulder and legs. She cries out, but it is a silent cry. She tries to get to her feet but slips on the slick bitumen that streams with the falling rain.”
She is both horrified and terrified.
“The moans grow more shrill now. They are wails. They are screams. The viscous rain turns a deep, ruby red and she tastes the metallic flavour of the blood. She lifts her head skywards. The sky is bleeding. The screams become unbearable and then she realises it is she who is screaming.”
It's an involved, complex story involving medicine, IT cracking and hacking, the Victorian Police, and . . . no spoilers! Read it!
My original thoughts, without final suggestions, (because they're no longer necessary!)
+ + +
Dean Mayes is a better story-teller than most, and he sure seems to know his stuff. I thank him for the chance to read a preview copy – great story!
The Recipient is a 5 star story with a 5 star pace. The story is intriguing and well-presented: heart transplant recipient has horrific nightmares. Casey’s an interesting, independent girl, a computer geek (a so-called “grey hat”, neither a good guy or a bad guy, I gather).
She has always marched pretty much to her own drum, but lately, the drumbeat has changed (obviously!), and she tries to stay awake almost to the point of collapse.
It’s a plot-driven story (great plot!), with characters I liked (Pa, Sasquatch), and everything flows well from scene to scene, taking us right along. Lots of medical stuff, plenty of cyber intrigue, scary villains. What I particularly liked is that I didn’t need a chart to keep track of characters, as is sometimes the case these days.
Thanks again, Dean. I look forward to reading more.
I read an earlier draft of this almost a year ago, and a year can make a lot of difference—in this case for the better. It was already a very entertaining read, but this time I was able to enjoy the story without stumbling.
In the days of Ernest Hemingway, even the public knew the name of Maxwell Perkins, his editor, who was also Thomas Wolfe’s and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s editor, among others. I know Dean was looking forward to working with his editor, and the wait for the finished product has been worth it. I’ll keep my original review below, so you know I always liked the book!
Meanwhile, I’d like to share a taste of what young Casey Schillinge is going through with her recurring nightmares after being The Recipient of a healthy new heart from a young woman who suffered a “tragic fate”, as it says in the blurb.
She tries not to sleep, because when she does, she finds herself in a storm, at night, on a deserted bitumen road.
“She crashes heavily to the road, opening wounds in her shoulder and legs. She cries out, but it is a silent cry. She tries to get to her feet but slips on the slick bitumen that streams with the falling rain.”
She is both horrified and terrified.
“The moans grow more shrill now. They are wails. They are screams. The viscous rain turns a deep, ruby red and she tastes the metallic flavour of the blood. She lifts her head skywards. The sky is bleeding. The screams become unbearable and then she realises it is she who is screaming.”
It's an involved, complex story involving medicine, IT cracking and hacking, the Victorian Police, and . . . no spoilers! Read it!
My original thoughts, without final suggestions, (because they're no longer necessary!)
+ + +
Dean Mayes is a better story-teller than most, and he sure seems to know his stuff. I thank him for the chance to read a preview copy – great story!
The Recipient is a 5 star story with a 5 star pace. The story is intriguing and well-presented: heart transplant recipient has horrific nightmares. Casey’s an interesting, independent girl, a computer geek (a so-called “grey hat”, neither a good guy or a bad guy, I gather).
She has always marched pretty much to her own drum, but lately, the drumbeat has changed (obviously!), and she tries to stay awake almost to the point of collapse.
It’s a plot-driven story (great plot!), with characters I liked (Pa, Sasquatch), and everything flows well from scene to scene, taking us right along. Lots of medical stuff, plenty of cyber intrigue, scary villains. What I particularly liked is that I didn’t need a chart to keep track of characters, as is sometimes the case these days.
Thanks again, Dean. I look forward to reading more.
October 24, 2015
4.5 stars
When you receive a new heart could you also acquire the organ donor’s memories? Casey is having dreams of events and places she’s never been. Are these her dreams or is she merely an observer?
The Recipient is an intense thriller that is akin to a roller coaster ride. The story goes along at a steady pace then suddenly you are plunged into a breath holding, heart pumping nightmare.
I was hooked immediately! The Recipient has a well developed plot of intrigue and computer wizardry with an element of mystery and likeable characters and an unexpected twist.
My only complaint, and very minor, was some overly described scenes at the beginning of the book bogged the story down.
I would happily recommend this book to anyone that enjoys Mystery/ Thrillers.
With my thanks to Dean Mayes for my uncorrected copy to read and review.
When you receive a new heart could you also acquire the organ donor’s memories? Casey is having dreams of events and places she’s never been. Are these her dreams or is she merely an observer?
The Recipient is an intense thriller that is akin to a roller coaster ride. The story goes along at a steady pace then suddenly you are plunged into a breath holding, heart pumping nightmare.
I was hooked immediately! The Recipient has a well developed plot of intrigue and computer wizardry with an element of mystery and likeable characters and an unexpected twist.
My only complaint, and very minor, was some overly described scenes at the beginning of the book bogged the story down.
I would happily recommend this book to anyone that enjoys Mystery/ Thrillers.
With my thanks to Dean Mayes for my uncorrected copy to read and review.
August 6, 2019
Emotional and Shocking! Grabs hold of your heart and never lets go!
She screams as pain blossoms through her entire body.
The thunder and the moan meld into what is clearly a female voice. It cries out in terror
Is it her own voice?
The hands disappear into the cavity of her chest. Her fractured mind is curious, despite the terror. She struggles against the grip of the figure. The butumen tears at her skin as she flails impotently. The hands of the figure squelch about inside her. The moans grow shrill now. They are wails. They are screams.
The viscous rain turns a deep, ruby red and she tastes the metallic flavour of blood. She lifts her head skywards. The sky is bleeding.
The screams become unbearable and then she realises that it is she who is screaming.
The hand retracts from her chest and hovers above it. The assailant leans forward to show her the contents within. A disembodied crackle rips through the air, swallowing the horrified screams. Rivulets of crimson course down over a masculine jaw.
She is consumed by terror. Drenched in blood, too paralyzed to move.
Then, suddenly, she is free.
She is now standing a few feet away from the figure, yet it is still straddling someone underneath.
She looks at her hands, staring at them. She cannot understand. She wants to turn and run but the figure's silent magnetism holds her in thrall. The figure turns its face towards her, but the darkness shrouds its features.
The figure beckons with what is held in its hands.
She leans forward to see.
It is a heart.....
********
The Recipient by Dean Mayes has all the adjectives necessary for a strong, enjoyable novel. Thrilling, emotional, enticing, shocking, thought provoking, and ingeniously unique, the story and characters captured my attention, holding it firmly from beginning to end. As the conclusion grew closer, the faster I read. There is some imagination required but as it's a work of fiction I wasn't brotherd by it too much by it and found it to be a very enjoyable, exciting, and a solid 4.5★ novel!
She screams as pain blossoms through her entire body.
The thunder and the moan meld into what is clearly a female voice. It cries out in terror
Is it her own voice?
The hands disappear into the cavity of her chest. Her fractured mind is curious, despite the terror. She struggles against the grip of the figure. The butumen tears at her skin as she flails impotently. The hands of the figure squelch about inside her. The moans grow shrill now. They are wails. They are screams.
The viscous rain turns a deep, ruby red and she tastes the metallic flavour of blood. She lifts her head skywards. The sky is bleeding.
The screams become unbearable and then she realises that it is she who is screaming.
The hand retracts from her chest and hovers above it. The assailant leans forward to show her the contents within. A disembodied crackle rips through the air, swallowing the horrified screams. Rivulets of crimson course down over a masculine jaw.
She is consumed by terror. Drenched in blood, too paralyzed to move.
Then, suddenly, she is free.
She is now standing a few feet away from the figure, yet it is still straddling someone underneath.
She looks at her hands, staring at them. She cannot understand. She wants to turn and run but the figure's silent magnetism holds her in thrall. The figure turns its face towards her, but the darkness shrouds its features.
The figure beckons with what is held in its hands.
She leans forward to see.
It is a heart.....
********
The Recipient by Dean Mayes has all the adjectives necessary for a strong, enjoyable novel. Thrilling, emotional, enticing, shocking, thought provoking, and ingeniously unique, the story and characters captured my attention, holding it firmly from beginning to end. As the conclusion grew closer, the faster I read. There is some imagination required but as it's a work of fiction I wasn't brotherd by it too much by it and found it to be a very enjoyable, exciting, and a solid 4.5★ novel!
May 19, 2017
4.5 Stars
Casey Schillinge is a young woman who is dying. She contracted a tropical disease and now needs a heart transplant. She is fading away .. a little at a time and her parents can do nothing but watch. But then the call comes in the middle of the night and Casey's life is going to change in ways no one can see coming.
Three years later, she is a shell of the young woman she used to be. She's withdrawn from everyone, suffers agoraphobia. She has night terrors and is afraid to go to sleep. She has memories, but they don't seem to be hers. No one understands ... no one believes her.
When she absolutely cannot take any more, she begins research into why she can't sleep. She's tried alcohol and drugs, sleeping pills, exercising hours at a time ... anything to be able to sleep without the nightmares haunting her.
What she first discovers is the donor of her new heart ... and her tragic story. As she seeks and finds more and more information, she realizes her dreams are not dreams .... but a real life nightmare.
It's really hard to pigeon hole this story. It's more than a psychological thriller ... more than a paranormal adventure ... more than a mystery. It's the journey of someone who refuses to quit, will not give up, and pushes herself out the door when she's so frightened she may faint. She is a lot stronger than anyone gives her credit for.
The beginning is a bit slower paced, but it does well in revealing just who Casey is ... and who she was. Once her investigation begins, the action and suspense becomes almost non-stop. WOW! what an ending! The entire story premise is a good one with skillfully defined characters. It's entertaining and riveting!
There have been perplexing reports of organ transplant receivers claiming that they seem to have inherited the memory, experiences and emotions of their deceased donors, and which are causing quirky changes in their personality ( http://www.namahjournal.com/doc/Actua...)
Many thanks to the author / Central Avenue Publishing / Netgalley for the digital copy of this book. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Casey Schillinge is a young woman who is dying. She contracted a tropical disease and now needs a heart transplant. She is fading away .. a little at a time and her parents can do nothing but watch. But then the call comes in the middle of the night and Casey's life is going to change in ways no one can see coming.
Three years later, she is a shell of the young woman she used to be. She's withdrawn from everyone, suffers agoraphobia. She has night terrors and is afraid to go to sleep. She has memories, but they don't seem to be hers. No one understands ... no one believes her.
When she absolutely cannot take any more, she begins research into why she can't sleep. She's tried alcohol and drugs, sleeping pills, exercising hours at a time ... anything to be able to sleep without the nightmares haunting her.
What she first discovers is the donor of her new heart ... and her tragic story. As she seeks and finds more and more information, she realizes her dreams are not dreams .... but a real life nightmare.
It's really hard to pigeon hole this story. It's more than a psychological thriller ... more than a paranormal adventure ... more than a mystery. It's the journey of someone who refuses to quit, will not give up, and pushes herself out the door when she's so frightened she may faint. She is a lot stronger than anyone gives her credit for.
The beginning is a bit slower paced, but it does well in revealing just who Casey is ... and who she was. Once her investigation begins, the action and suspense becomes almost non-stop. WOW! what an ending! The entire story premise is a good one with skillfully defined characters. It's entertaining and riveting!
There have been perplexing reports of organ transplant receivers claiming that they seem to have inherited the memory, experiences and emotions of their deceased donors, and which are causing quirky changes in their personality ( http://www.namahjournal.com/doc/Actua...)
Many thanks to the author / Central Avenue Publishing / Netgalley for the digital copy of this book. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Read
June 25, 2018DNF!
I just couldn't get into this one and haven't picked it up since Feb... thought it was best to mark it off "currently reading" now lol!
Full review to come.
I just couldn't get into this one and haven't picked it up since Feb... thought it was best to mark it off "currently reading" now lol!
Full review to come.
March 25, 2017
I am so confused by all the great reviews for this book because I'm sorry, I thought it was just bad. At first it seemed like it would be OK, but a lot of the plot points and character actions became so unbelievable that it bordered on ridiculous. It was beyond dramatic, overly descriptive and so repetitive. How many times can someone snarl and vomit in an action sequence? I ended up skimming through at the end because it was the only way I could finish it without snarling and vomiting.
May 31, 2017
Found this on Netgalley. And why not I enjoy thrillers, particularly ones of international variety. This wasn't particularly thrilling though and for that matter not all that exotic either, Australia here seems peculiarly American, even if elevators are lifts. A basic plot involves an organ recipient who along with the lifesaving gift receives some interesting extras, like agoraphobia, fondness for art and violent memories, all belonging to the former owner of the said organ. When three years of pot and trying to ignore the situation don't work out, the young woman sets of to investigate what happened to her organ donor. Pretty straight forward plot, executed competently, if not excitingly. I wasn't particularly drawn in by it and it was somewhat too long for what it was, but it was perfectly serviceable and might entertain a less discriminating genre fans. Thanks Netgalley.
April 2, 2016
For more of my reviews, go to http://bookmusterdownunder.blogspot.c...
Every once in a while a really great book comes along and totally sweeps me away. The Recipient is very definitely one of those books and in fact, about a quarter of the way through the book, I even took to Twitter, asking why I had never read one of Dean Mayes’ books before!
The story opens with a heartfelt first chapter – a young woman is bedridden, her caring father in agony over her condition. Then, a phone call – one that will change all their lives in ways nobody could imagine.
One would have thought that this life-saving operation would be the end of three years of pain and fear but after receiving her new heart, Casey is severely agoraphobic and plagued by awful nightmares which affect her so badly that she resorts to the use of drugs and tries her damndest not to sleep while pushing herself physically past the point that anyone with a heart transplant should go.
No longer the carefree young woman and loving daughter she used to be, she prefers to stay within the confines of her apartment, immersing herself in working both sides of the cyber-fence while distancing herself from her parents – a mother who she sees as trying to control her life and a father who constantly worries about her solitary existence and the fact that she only ventures out for her usual doctors’ appointments or a stroll on her favourite beach.
As the nightmares become more pronounced and her sanity slinks towards the edge, she starts to wonder if there is more to them and finally seeks assistance from her psychiatrist. Their discovery and Casey’s suspicions gradually lead her to take up her own investigation which has horrific consequences as she risks her life trying to uncover the truth behind a cold case – what they discover, is both chilling and thrilling!
We've all read stories in the newspapers - "I was given a young man's heart and started craving beer"; "Memory transference in organ transplant recipients"; "Heart transplant patient gets craving for food eaten by organ donor"; "Man given heart of suicide victim marries donor's widow and then kills himself in exactly the same way" (and the list goes on) - so, when I was invited to read and review this novel I just knew it was a book that I wanted to read because cellular memory in organ recipients is a notion that has long intrigued me. I’m so glad that I ventured into this one because Dean’s writing doesn’t disappoint as he presents his story to the reader in a cinematic quality that brings Casey, her life and her surroundings to vivid life – and her dreams into reality.
Putting his own medical training as a Registered Nurse to good use, Dean starts off strong and the strength of the entire narrative doesn’t waiver as he wraps you up in a compelling intensity that doesn’t let up until the final chapters. It’s the kind of book that you can’t put down, even when you want to go to sleep – if you are able to that is!
Casey’s nightmares are absolutely terrifying and delivered to the reader in such a way that a number of times I found myself holding my breath. Her fears and experiences, too, are well-delivered, as is the rocky relationship that exists between her and her mother, Edie; the emotional connection with her father, Peter; the loving rapport she has with Pa; and her easy friendship with Sasquatch (who I really would have loved to see more of).
As Dean takes you on an adrenaline-fuelled ride that twists to a kicker of a climax, ultimately uncovering a tale of human horror that is all too real, he will keep you guessing throughout as you try and figure out just who the good guys and the bad guys are. A word of warning – trust no-one as you race towards the very satisfying conclusion of this gripping psychological thriller!
With a highly original and well-developed plot, Dean has crafted a superior page turner which fans of the thriller genre will enjoy. And, if you think that cellular memory is merely an urban legend, think again because Dean is going to change forever the way natural-born skeptics look at this theory.
Every once in a while a really great book comes along and totally sweeps me away. The Recipient is very definitely one of those books and in fact, about a quarter of the way through the book, I even took to Twitter, asking why I had never read one of Dean Mayes’ books before!
The story opens with a heartfelt first chapter – a young woman is bedridden, her caring father in agony over her condition. Then, a phone call – one that will change all their lives in ways nobody could imagine.
One would have thought that this life-saving operation would be the end of three years of pain and fear but after receiving her new heart, Casey is severely agoraphobic and plagued by awful nightmares which affect her so badly that she resorts to the use of drugs and tries her damndest not to sleep while pushing herself physically past the point that anyone with a heart transplant should go.
No longer the carefree young woman and loving daughter she used to be, she prefers to stay within the confines of her apartment, immersing herself in working both sides of the cyber-fence while distancing herself from her parents – a mother who she sees as trying to control her life and a father who constantly worries about her solitary existence and the fact that she only ventures out for her usual doctors’ appointments or a stroll on her favourite beach.
As the nightmares become more pronounced and her sanity slinks towards the edge, she starts to wonder if there is more to them and finally seeks assistance from her psychiatrist. Their discovery and Casey’s suspicions gradually lead her to take up her own investigation which has horrific consequences as she risks her life trying to uncover the truth behind a cold case – what they discover, is both chilling and thrilling!
We've all read stories in the newspapers - "I was given a young man's heart and started craving beer"; "Memory transference in organ transplant recipients"; "Heart transplant patient gets craving for food eaten by organ donor"; "Man given heart of suicide victim marries donor's widow and then kills himself in exactly the same way" (and the list goes on) - so, when I was invited to read and review this novel I just knew it was a book that I wanted to read because cellular memory in organ recipients is a notion that has long intrigued me. I’m so glad that I ventured into this one because Dean’s writing doesn’t disappoint as he presents his story to the reader in a cinematic quality that brings Casey, her life and her surroundings to vivid life – and her dreams into reality.
Putting his own medical training as a Registered Nurse to good use, Dean starts off strong and the strength of the entire narrative doesn’t waiver as he wraps you up in a compelling intensity that doesn’t let up until the final chapters. It’s the kind of book that you can’t put down, even when you want to go to sleep – if you are able to that is!
Casey’s nightmares are absolutely terrifying and delivered to the reader in such a way that a number of times I found myself holding my breath. Her fears and experiences, too, are well-delivered, as is the rocky relationship that exists between her and her mother, Edie; the emotional connection with her father, Peter; the loving rapport she has with Pa; and her easy friendship with Sasquatch (who I really would have loved to see more of).
As Dean takes you on an adrenaline-fuelled ride that twists to a kicker of a climax, ultimately uncovering a tale of human horror that is all too real, he will keep you guessing throughout as you try and figure out just who the good guys and the bad guys are. A word of warning – trust no-one as you race towards the very satisfying conclusion of this gripping psychological thriller!
With a highly original and well-developed plot, Dean has crafted a superior page turner which fans of the thriller genre will enjoy. And, if you think that cellular memory is merely an urban legend, think again because Dean is going to change forever the way natural-born skeptics look at this theory.
December 8, 2015
Definitive 5 star read. I began reading The Recipient when I had little time to spare and I'm afraid I have less time now because I became completely immersed in the plot. This was a thoroughly captivating story. Dean Mayes has a rare ability to built tension and create memorable characters. It's a skill that is truly enviable and provides no small amount of exasperation to this fellow writer. There wasn't a point that I was completely sure where the narrative would go and the fact that it frequently took me by surprise was a novel experience, especially of late when I am frequently able to predict the ending of the story before I'm even a quarter of the way through.
The whole idea of a donor organ communicating with a recipient was completely novel to me and Mayes handled it brilliantly. Casey is a solid protagonist and the reader is with her the entire story. I found her particularly relatable. Her confusion and struggle to untangle the mystery haunting keeps the reader riding the roller coaster and at the end I put the book down feeling immensely satisfied by the ending.
This was a brilliant read, the tension was riveting, the characterisation spellbinding. I'll definitely be re-reading on a regular basis!
The whole idea of a donor organ communicating with a recipient was completely novel to me and Mayes handled it brilliantly. Casey is a solid protagonist and the reader is with her the entire story. I found her particularly relatable. Her confusion and struggle to untangle the mystery haunting keeps the reader riding the roller coaster and at the end I put the book down feeling immensely satisfied by the ending.
This was a brilliant read, the tension was riveting, the characterisation spellbinding. I'll definitely be re-reading on a regular basis!
June 20, 2017
Sometimes I really hate reading friend reviews of books before I read them because it can sometimes set really high or low expectations. This was the case with The Recipient.
I went in with the expectation that this would knock my socks off. That it was a gritty thriller claiming it's space in the genre by breaking new ground.
Alas it wasn't all that.
It was good, I'd even venture to say it was quite good. The concept interesting and thought provoking, but it didn't knock my socks off.
I really liked the way the technical and medical content was explained, just enough information to explain without over simplifying. The writing was good, the characters believable and the plot well paced.
The sense of Melbourne and it's surrounds was well handled, adding a true Aussie flavour to the story without shoving it down the readers throat.
I think what didn't work for me was the lack of hints along the way. The final reveal was completely out of the blue and as such, felt unrealistic.
I also felt the opening 25% was a tiny bit too slow. There was a lot of set up that might not have needed quite so much room. It's only a little off, it only niggled instead of putting me right off.
Overall, if you like interesting storylines and thriller mystery stories set in Australia, I'd highly recommend this. It's not perfect, but that kind of adds to its charm.
**Note: I was provided an electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
I went in with the expectation that this would knock my socks off. That it was a gritty thriller claiming it's space in the genre by breaking new ground.
Alas it wasn't all that.
It was good, I'd even venture to say it was quite good. The concept interesting and thought provoking, but it didn't knock my socks off.
I really liked the way the technical and medical content was explained, just enough information to explain without over simplifying. The writing was good, the characters believable and the plot well paced.
The sense of Melbourne and it's surrounds was well handled, adding a true Aussie flavour to the story without shoving it down the readers throat.
I think what didn't work for me was the lack of hints along the way. The final reveal was completely out of the blue and as such, felt unrealistic.
I also felt the opening 25% was a tiny bit too slow. There was a lot of set up that might not have needed quite so much room. It's only a little off, it only niggled instead of putting me right off.
Overall, if you like interesting storylines and thriller mystery stories set in Australia, I'd highly recommend this. It's not perfect, but that kind of adds to its charm.
**Note: I was provided an electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
July 26, 2017
Please read all of my reviews at http://ultraviolentlit.blogspot.ca!
Casey is a bright and vibrant student, backpacking with friends when she contracts a deadly tropical disease. Her condition leads to cardiac failure, and she is in desperate and sudden need of a heart transplant. Casey’s parents are devastated, and begin to say their goodbyes to their only daughter – but at the last minute, a viable heart is found and Casey is given a second chance at life.
Healthwise, Casey is back to normal after completing the required rehabilitation – but emotionally, she is like a completely different person. Quiet and withdrawn, Casey begins to avoid her family. Her agoraphobia is brought on by fear and the violent nightmares that keep her awake at night. She resorts to extreme measures to stay awake, including drugs and other borderline criminal activities – even her job as a computer hacker straddles the line of legitimate work, catching the attention of local police. However, no matter what she does, the night terrors continue to get worse.
After Casey injures herself while in the midst of a nightmare, her grandfather comes to live with her in order to monitor her health. With his help, Casey decides that the only way the nightmares will stop is if she discovers their source once and for all. She begins a frantic search to get to the root of the problem, putting her health and wellbeing at risk once again. Along the way, Casey makes a shocking discovery about the donor of her heart, who was killed in suspicious and potentially violent circumstances. As she delves deeper, Casey realizes that her dreams may be based in reality, and she cannot trust anyone around her.
There’s not much else I can say without spoiling the fun of letting this thriller unfold for the reader. Casey’s story has great pacing – it’s plot-driven, but also has interesting characters, even in the background. The medical and technological issues are not completely explained in a convincing way, but it didn’t matter because the story was fun and exciting enough to carry me along. The novel is packed with intrigue, terror and villains, and even though there are paranormal aspects, it’s easy to suspend disbelief and just go with it. It also happens to have an Australian setting, and the backdrop of Melbourne and the surrounding areas are interesting while not distracting from the story. The Recipient has its flaws, but the entertainment value makes it well worth the read.
I received this book from Central Avenue Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Casey is a bright and vibrant student, backpacking with friends when she contracts a deadly tropical disease. Her condition leads to cardiac failure, and she is in desperate and sudden need of a heart transplant. Casey’s parents are devastated, and begin to say their goodbyes to their only daughter – but at the last minute, a viable heart is found and Casey is given a second chance at life.
Healthwise, Casey is back to normal after completing the required rehabilitation – but emotionally, she is like a completely different person. Quiet and withdrawn, Casey begins to avoid her family. Her agoraphobia is brought on by fear and the violent nightmares that keep her awake at night. She resorts to extreme measures to stay awake, including drugs and other borderline criminal activities – even her job as a computer hacker straddles the line of legitimate work, catching the attention of local police. However, no matter what she does, the night terrors continue to get worse.
After Casey injures herself while in the midst of a nightmare, her grandfather comes to live with her in order to monitor her health. With his help, Casey decides that the only way the nightmares will stop is if she discovers their source once and for all. She begins a frantic search to get to the root of the problem, putting her health and wellbeing at risk once again. Along the way, Casey makes a shocking discovery about the donor of her heart, who was killed in suspicious and potentially violent circumstances. As she delves deeper, Casey realizes that her dreams may be based in reality, and she cannot trust anyone around her.
There’s not much else I can say without spoiling the fun of letting this thriller unfold for the reader. Casey’s story has great pacing – it’s plot-driven, but also has interesting characters, even in the background. The medical and technological issues are not completely explained in a convincing way, but it didn’t matter because the story was fun and exciting enough to carry me along. The novel is packed with intrigue, terror and villains, and even though there are paranormal aspects, it’s easy to suspend disbelief and just go with it. It also happens to have an Australian setting, and the backdrop of Melbourne and the surrounding areas are interesting while not distracting from the story. The Recipient has its flaws, but the entertainment value makes it well worth the read.
I received this book from Central Avenue Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2015
This is an excellent book! I was attacted to it as a nurse having heard stories of transplant recipients acquiring memories of their donors. And apparently, those memories have been used in reality to solve some cases. Whoa!
This book is very exciting from the start. The end of the book is especially riveting. You won't be able to put it down.
*I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for a review.
This book is very exciting from the start. The end of the book is especially riveting. You won't be able to put it down.
*I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for a review.
November 11, 2016
Great read. Couldnt put it down at the end. Easy to read and a great story line.
April 28, 2019
After reading The Artisan Heart by Dean Mayes, I wanted to read an earlier novel from the author. I was not disappointed. The Recipient is tense, gripping, and chilling.
University graduate Casey Schillinge spent time traveling in South East Asia and is very unfortunate to contract a disease which causes acute and irreversible heart failure. Without a transplant, she will die. As her health deteriorates, the family get the call they had been hoping and praying for, a replacement heart has been found.
Not long after the transplant, Casey begins to suffer from terrible nightmares and soon falls out with her mother and moves into a place of her own. Being highly skilled in computer jargon, Casey takes on work helping the police with cybercrime. She also takes on work of an illegal nature, mostly to keep herself busy, awake, and away from the dreams that haunt her sleep. But as with everyone, tiredness comes and the nightmares not only take there toll, they become worse. She soon believes there is more to her visions, and her mind is seeing the final moments of the young woman whose heart now sits in her chest.
When she hits breaking point and crashes through her glass doors, she has to convince everybody that it was not a suicide attempt. With the help of her grandfather, Lionel, the one person who can get through to her, they set out to solve the mystery and find there may be more to her terrifying visions than they bargained for. As they close in on what happened to her donor, they uncover something far more shocking, and somebody is out to prevent them from finding out the truth.
Dean keeps the suspense going throughout this compelling story and once again, he's done a terrific job and delivered a suspenseful tale that will leave you dying to know what is going on. There is going to be a sequel to this story and I can't wait to see where he takes us next.
Great work, Mr. Mayes.
University graduate Casey Schillinge spent time traveling in South East Asia and is very unfortunate to contract a disease which causes acute and irreversible heart failure. Without a transplant, she will die. As her health deteriorates, the family get the call they had been hoping and praying for, a replacement heart has been found.
Not long after the transplant, Casey begins to suffer from terrible nightmares and soon falls out with her mother and moves into a place of her own. Being highly skilled in computer jargon, Casey takes on work helping the police with cybercrime. She also takes on work of an illegal nature, mostly to keep herself busy, awake, and away from the dreams that haunt her sleep. But as with everyone, tiredness comes and the nightmares not only take there toll, they become worse. She soon believes there is more to her visions, and her mind is seeing the final moments of the young woman whose heart now sits in her chest.
When she hits breaking point and crashes through her glass doors, she has to convince everybody that it was not a suicide attempt. With the help of her grandfather, Lionel, the one person who can get through to her, they set out to solve the mystery and find there may be more to her terrifying visions than they bargained for. As they close in on what happened to her donor, they uncover something far more shocking, and somebody is out to prevent them from finding out the truth.
Dean keeps the suspense going throughout this compelling story and once again, he's done a terrific job and delivered a suspenseful tale that will leave you dying to know what is going on. There is going to be a sequel to this story and I can't wait to see where he takes us next.
Great work, Mr. Mayes.
May 3, 2016
Note: I was provided with a copy of this book by the author for review.
I was engaged with this story from the beginning; Mayes' narration pulls you in slowly and nicely into Casey's life and the life of those around her. He tells the story with a great varying style and intensity based on what's happening which really helps to enhance what's going on.
Set in Melbourne it was great to read about trams and St Kilda and all these familiar locations, reading stories set in Oz is never tiring. Maye's makes it feel like any other place though, and if you aren't familiar with Melbourne or even Australia it doesn't affect the story because Mayes creates a vivid picture in your mind.
Each character is interesting and defined, while not everyone needed a full back story their placement in the story and Casey's life felt natural and solid. You easily accept the people around her and take them on their face value about who they are as a person. Seeing their patience tested and their love and support for Casey fracture brings them to life and seeing them try to cope with her demons tells you a lot about them and their different relationships. This is also added to by the occasional perspectives we're given of people other than Casey.
These point of view changes are seamless and mostly brief. Mayes doesn't dedicate chapters to different characters; instead he weaves tiny snippets and thoughts around Casey's. These small brief moments of insight into other characters offer so much and offer a nice outside perspective to what she is experiencing. I really loved this because if was so cleverly done, it suited the story so well, but also because it was interesting to see the world outside of Casey's viewpoint. Seeing Casey's struggle, seeing her trying to cope was captivating on its own, but having it offset with thoughts and observations of those around her made it something greater, especially with her reluctance to divulge any information. Casey doesn't know what she is dealing with, but she also doesn't share what she's dealing with either which adds another layer of complexity to the story. Even though we know about the nightmares in part, it's fascinating to see it from the other side, with parents and doctors trying to break through to her and find out what's haunting her.
I loved Casey in this, as terrible as it sounds I loved seeing her struggle and her anguish, I think Mayes tells her story so well you can't help but admire even the bad stuff. Her isolation and her fears come across so well on the page and when she reaches breaking point it feels real and you totally get why she shuts herself down from the world. I loved so many of the characters, even with their flaws, I loved Scott's devotion and Lionel's patience, I loved her parents who try their best but can only do so much. It was wonderful seeing everyone grow and change together, for better and for worse.
There are surprises and twists in this that you really don't expect and the thrill only heightens the closer you get to the end. Mayes takes us on Casey's journey, through the before and the after and from start to finish it helps you understand her, sympathise with her, and want to help her. It's a wonderful read and one that keeps you entertained and guessing all the way through.
A longer version of this review was published on my blog http://wp.me/p3x8rS-1i9
I was engaged with this story from the beginning; Mayes' narration pulls you in slowly and nicely into Casey's life and the life of those around her. He tells the story with a great varying style and intensity based on what's happening which really helps to enhance what's going on.
Set in Melbourne it was great to read about trams and St Kilda and all these familiar locations, reading stories set in Oz is never tiring. Maye's makes it feel like any other place though, and if you aren't familiar with Melbourne or even Australia it doesn't affect the story because Mayes creates a vivid picture in your mind.
Each character is interesting and defined, while not everyone needed a full back story their placement in the story and Casey's life felt natural and solid. You easily accept the people around her and take them on their face value about who they are as a person. Seeing their patience tested and their love and support for Casey fracture brings them to life and seeing them try to cope with her demons tells you a lot about them and their different relationships. This is also added to by the occasional perspectives we're given of people other than Casey.
These point of view changes are seamless and mostly brief. Mayes doesn't dedicate chapters to different characters; instead he weaves tiny snippets and thoughts around Casey's. These small brief moments of insight into other characters offer so much and offer a nice outside perspective to what she is experiencing. I really loved this because if was so cleverly done, it suited the story so well, but also because it was interesting to see the world outside of Casey's viewpoint. Seeing Casey's struggle, seeing her trying to cope was captivating on its own, but having it offset with thoughts and observations of those around her made it something greater, especially with her reluctance to divulge any information. Casey doesn't know what she is dealing with, but she also doesn't share what she's dealing with either which adds another layer of complexity to the story. Even though we know about the nightmares in part, it's fascinating to see it from the other side, with parents and doctors trying to break through to her and find out what's haunting her.
I loved Casey in this, as terrible as it sounds I loved seeing her struggle and her anguish, I think Mayes tells her story so well you can't help but admire even the bad stuff. Her isolation and her fears come across so well on the page and when she reaches breaking point it feels real and you totally get why she shuts herself down from the world. I loved so many of the characters, even with their flaws, I loved Scott's devotion and Lionel's patience, I loved her parents who try their best but can only do so much. It was wonderful seeing everyone grow and change together, for better and for worse.
There are surprises and twists in this that you really don't expect and the thrill only heightens the closer you get to the end. Mayes takes us on Casey's journey, through the before and the after and from start to finish it helps you understand her, sympathise with her, and want to help her. It's a wonderful read and one that keeps you entertained and guessing all the way through.
A longer version of this review was published on my blog http://wp.me/p3x8rS-1i9
August 1, 2016
Dean Mayes tells a good tale and he tells it well. In the early part of the book the author draws on his medical knowledge to give us a good insight into the lives of organ recipients. For those of us blessed with good health it is easy to assume that a donated organ will resolve all issues but Mayes helps us to understand that things are not that simple. In particular he shows us how Casey suffers from the same anxieties and concerns as any young person.
As the book develops Casey gets involved in a mystery where Mayes wraps together her skills, phobias and tenacity to produce an intriguing investigation leading to a dramatic finale.
Mayes skilfully throws in just enough clues for the reader to work out what is happening, and who the perpetrators are without making it obvious. That way we all feel good about ourselves.
The story is almost wholly told from Casey’s perspective and we learn a lot about her character which is extremely strong in some ways and vulnerable in others. Indeed she is like most of us. The associate characters are varied, well described and believable.
If I could fault the story at all it would be for some occasions when you think Casey is recklessly putting herself into unnecessary danger, and for the times when her technical and acting skills all seem a little too convenient to the plot. However, I would not penalise Mayes for that because these factors contribute to the good thriller that we have here.
I heartily recommend this book and I have no hesitation in giving it a five star rating. My only concern is whether Amazon’s download price of £9.14 is competitive when there are many good thrillers available at around half that cost.
Reviewed by Clive at www.whisperingstories.com
As the book develops Casey gets involved in a mystery where Mayes wraps together her skills, phobias and tenacity to produce an intriguing investigation leading to a dramatic finale.
Mayes skilfully throws in just enough clues for the reader to work out what is happening, and who the perpetrators are without making it obvious. That way we all feel good about ourselves.
The story is almost wholly told from Casey’s perspective and we learn a lot about her character which is extremely strong in some ways and vulnerable in others. Indeed she is like most of us. The associate characters are varied, well described and believable.
If I could fault the story at all it would be for some occasions when you think Casey is recklessly putting herself into unnecessary danger, and for the times when her technical and acting skills all seem a little too convenient to the plot. However, I would not penalise Mayes for that because these factors contribute to the good thriller that we have here.
I heartily recommend this book and I have no hesitation in giving it a five star rating. My only concern is whether Amazon’s download price of £9.14 is competitive when there are many good thrillers available at around half that cost.
Reviewed by Clive at www.whisperingstories.com
April 20, 2016
The Recipient is a tense psychological thriller – with real heart. Not only is an actual heart central to the plot, but this story is written in such a sincere and compassionate manner that the true “heart” of the book is the flow of the writing itself. You will sympathize with the characters from the first paragraph – a loving family struck by inexplicable tragedy, and your concern for them grows along with the turbulent danger protagonist Casey encounters on her journey to discover the truth. Entwining very real social issues with fast-paced adventure and fascinating dream sequences, Mayes has created a story that successfully combines suspense, dark humor, cultural references, action and outright horror, an intense examination of what motivates the terrible crimes perpetrated in the novel. Be prepared for a wild ride!
Casey is a strong and intelligent young woman from a tight-knit family, now terribly endangered and searching for truth – and what she discovers is truly shocking. A cast of well-developed characters accompany her on this journey, some who dearly love her, others who wish her only harm. Mayes keeps you guessing right to the end, which makes for an exciting read, and the writing is packed with intriguing symbolism, down to the subtle references to the color red, as if the story itself possesses its own heartbeat. And if you’re a fan of Mayes’ earlier novels, get ready to smile – because there are a few references to some old favorite characters. All in all, The Recipient is riveting, smoothly-written adventure most likely read in one sitting – because you won’t be able to put it down.
Casey is a strong and intelligent young woman from a tight-knit family, now terribly endangered and searching for truth – and what she discovers is truly shocking. A cast of well-developed characters accompany her on this journey, some who dearly love her, others who wish her only harm. Mayes keeps you guessing right to the end, which makes for an exciting read, and the writing is packed with intriguing symbolism, down to the subtle references to the color red, as if the story itself possesses its own heartbeat. And if you’re a fan of Mayes’ earlier novels, get ready to smile – because there are a few references to some old favorite characters. All in all, The Recipient is riveting, smoothly-written adventure most likely read in one sitting – because you won’t be able to put it down.
March 25, 2016
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, and this is my honest review.
This was a great book!!! If you ever thought about what would happen to you if you got a heart transplant, would you feel what the donor felt, then this is a book for you to read. This was a fast pace who done it.
Casey is a girl who is happy with life, until she travels to a foreign country and gets infected with a parasite that badly damages her heart. Now she needs a heart transplant. Finally she gets the call they have a heart for her. After the transplant she lives a very different life then she had before, she has constant nightmares, so bad that she has resorted to doing drugs to keep her awake, or to put her in a non-dream state. Finally she listens to "her" heart and digs a little deeper into who her donor was.
It’s a plot-driven story, with characters I liked (Pa, Sasquatch), and everything flows well from scene to scene, taking us right along. Lots of medical stuff, plenty of cyber intrigue, scary villains. What I really liked is that I didn’t need a chart to keep track of characters, as is the case nowadays.
I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys Mystery/ Thrillers.
Thanks Dean Mayes for such a great read. :)
This was a great book!!! If you ever thought about what would happen to you if you got a heart transplant, would you feel what the donor felt, then this is a book for you to read. This was a fast pace who done it.
Casey is a girl who is happy with life, until she travels to a foreign country and gets infected with a parasite that badly damages her heart. Now she needs a heart transplant. Finally she gets the call they have a heart for her. After the transplant she lives a very different life then she had before, she has constant nightmares, so bad that she has resorted to doing drugs to keep her awake, or to put her in a non-dream state. Finally she listens to "her" heart and digs a little deeper into who her donor was.
It’s a plot-driven story, with characters I liked (Pa, Sasquatch), and everything flows well from scene to scene, taking us right along. Lots of medical stuff, plenty of cyber intrigue, scary villains. What I really liked is that I didn’t need a chart to keep track of characters, as is the case nowadays.
I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys Mystery/ Thrillers.
Thanks Dean Mayes for such a great read. :)
November 21, 2016
I've often wondered if parts of someone or their soul resides deep within their organs. I'm not at all s SciFi buff, but this story address the what ifs of this question and it was good.
What a struggle to be a vivacious, active person and be struck down so quickly with a life or death situation. When you awaken and realize you are given a second chance, but everything about you is not the same, in fact, the complete opposite, how do retain your gratitude for that chance?
Casey is strong and willful and trying to adjust to her new life. She is plagued by nightmares that don't make sense to her, but are taking over her life. I wasn't sure about why she wouldn't reach out for help with these, but as she tries to continue with life, she completely falls apart, and then she begins the journey of piecing together the puzzle of her donor and all that surrounds her death. She is doubting those close to her, but needs their support just as much.
I thought I had a few things figured out, but I was way off base. I'm happy for the ending and found myself cheering for her freedom and the ability to mend her fractured relationships.
This was a great story, action packed, lots of details and thought processes, and a nice touch of feelings.
What a struggle to be a vivacious, active person and be struck down so quickly with a life or death situation. When you awaken and realize you are given a second chance, but everything about you is not the same, in fact, the complete opposite, how do retain your gratitude for that chance?
Casey is strong and willful and trying to adjust to her new life. She is plagued by nightmares that don't make sense to her, but are taking over her life. I wasn't sure about why she wouldn't reach out for help with these, but as she tries to continue with life, she completely falls apart, and then she begins the journey of piecing together the puzzle of her donor and all that surrounds her death. She is doubting those close to her, but needs their support just as much.
I thought I had a few things figured out, but I was way off base. I'm happy for the ending and found myself cheering for her freedom and the ability to mend her fractured relationships.
This was a great story, action packed, lots of details and thought processes, and a nice touch of feelings.
Read
November 6, 2022I seriously admire Dean Mayes' versatility. In The Hambledown Dream he crafted a beautiful and gritty paranormal romance, in Gifts of the Peramangk he brought to life a family saga about Australian race relations, and with The Recipient he's written a scary and fascinating medical thriller. But what he brings to them all is true human emotion, a diverse assortment of characters, and a large and creative dose of imagination. As a nurse (and occasional patient), Dean knows the scientific side of this book inside and out, and I was moved by the realistic emotional and physical fallout undergone by Casey, the protagonist whose heart transplant kicks off the story. Then, pulling us more into the paranormal-thriller side, it turns out the heart has a dark tale of its own to tell about its previous owner, if Casey is willing to listen. Spooky and suspenseful enough to keep me on edge, the story also touched me, because Dean never forgets these are actual humans living through all this turmoil. Well done!
February 25, 2019
The Recipient is about a rare second chance to begin a new life and the issues of organ transplants. Three years after heart transplant Casey Schillinge who was not coping with work or the nightmares she had at night and reached a point where she needed answers to her dreams and started to investigate. The readers of The Recipient will continue to follow the twist and turns in Casey's quest to find solutions to her thoughts.
The Recipient is the second book I read of Dean Mayes, and I loved it. However, it started slowly, but once you passed the slow period, The Recipient is a fantastic book to read. I like Dean Mayes portrayal of his characters and the way they intertwine with each other. The Recipient is well written and researched by Dean Mayes. The description of the settings of The Recipient was done well and ensured that I engaged with the book.
The readers of The Recipient will learn about a tropical disease called Loeffler's Endocarditis and the consequences for the person who has contacted the disease. Also, the readers of The Recipient will learn about "Grey Hat" hackers for commercial industries.
I recommend this book.
The Recipient is the second book I read of Dean Mayes, and I loved it. However, it started slowly, but once you passed the slow period, The Recipient is a fantastic book to read. I like Dean Mayes portrayal of his characters and the way they intertwine with each other. The Recipient is well written and researched by Dean Mayes. The description of the settings of The Recipient was done well and ensured that I engaged with the book.
The readers of The Recipient will learn about a tropical disease called Loeffler's Endocarditis and the consequences for the person who has contacted the disease. Also, the readers of The Recipient will learn about "Grey Hat" hackers for commercial industries.
I recommend this book.
May 14, 2018
The first half was very slow and Casey was not very likeable but once they started investigating the crime it became more interesting but lots of holes in the plot.
September 5, 2017
Didn't feel any connection to the characters, their conflicts seemed forced and juvenile. Also the author uses an excruciating level of detail; could have cut out at least 100 pages. The ending was also disappointing.... without giving anything away (?) I had totally forgotten about that character by the end of the book
July 14, 2017
Review
Last updated on 14 Jul 2017
Very suspenseful. I thought the story dragged in a couple of places but when it caught speed...it flew. Heart recipient, Casey Schillinge, is a great character...not a whiny door mat but a stand up chick that gets a little...okay more than a little... nuts. Add a friend named Sasquatch, a wise grandfather, an over protective father, and sexy but weird doctors and you've a story that will keep you guessing and steal your breath away. I bought this for our library and I have recommended it to many readers. This is a great but dark story.
Last updated on 14 Jul 2017
Very suspenseful. I thought the story dragged in a couple of places but when it caught speed...it flew. Heart recipient, Casey Schillinge, is a great character...not a whiny door mat but a stand up chick that gets a little...okay more than a little... nuts. Add a friend named Sasquatch, a wise grandfather, an over protective father, and sexy but weird doctors and you've a story that will keep you guessing and steal your breath away. I bought this for our library and I have recommended it to many readers. This is a great but dark story.
August 28, 2016
Dean Mayes is a great story-teller; this story is intriguing and has a well-developed plot.
The story follows heart transplant patient Casey Shilling, who is an outgoing and vivacious girl. Her life is on track and going well until she travels to a different county and contracts a virus that destroys her heart. She becomes "The Recipient" of a healthy new heart through transplant surgery. After the surgery, her life starts to spiral out of control due to horrific nightmares and agoraphobia. As a result she attempts to stay awake, almost to the point of her own mental breakdown. As Casey's nightmares get worse, she finally seeks assistance from her psychiatrist, and tries to convince the doctor that she's not just going insane from a lack of sleep. When it seems that there is no one else to turn to for help or and one that will believe her, her Grandfather (a retired detective) shows up and supports her in her endeavors to find the answers she needs.
It was fairly obvious (to me) from the beginning that Casey's nightmares are derived from muscle memory in the organ donor's heart tissue, but that didn't stop me from wanting to continue reading the story to the conclusion. The story mainly revolves around Casey's thrilling and sometimes frightening investigation into the young woman who donated her heart and the tragic fate that befell her.
The story is captivating and the characters interesting. I especially enjoyed Casey's Grandfather and Sasquatch.
The story follows heart transplant patient Casey Shilling, who is an outgoing and vivacious girl. Her life is on track and going well until she travels to a different county and contracts a virus that destroys her heart. She becomes "The Recipient" of a healthy new heart through transplant surgery. After the surgery, her life starts to spiral out of control due to horrific nightmares and agoraphobia. As a result she attempts to stay awake, almost to the point of her own mental breakdown. As Casey's nightmares get worse, she finally seeks assistance from her psychiatrist, and tries to convince the doctor that she's not just going insane from a lack of sleep. When it seems that there is no one else to turn to for help or and one that will believe her, her Grandfather (a retired detective) shows up and supports her in her endeavors to find the answers she needs.
It was fairly obvious (to me) from the beginning that Casey's nightmares are derived from muscle memory in the organ donor's heart tissue, but that didn't stop me from wanting to continue reading the story to the conclusion. The story mainly revolves around Casey's thrilling and sometimes frightening investigation into the young woman who donated her heart and the tragic fate that befell her.
The story is captivating and the characters interesting. I especially enjoyed Casey's Grandfather and Sasquatch.
July 9, 2017
Great Read
This story kept me wanting to turn to the next page. Enough people of interest that you are not able to guess the outcome. Well written scenes.
This story kept me wanting to turn to the next page. Enough people of interest that you are not able to guess the outcome. Well written scenes.
May 11, 2016
I have read other works by Dean Mayes, and I have to say this is his best one yet. The Recipient follows the story of Casey Shillinge, a heart transplant recipient. Since her heart transplant she has suffered from agoraphobia and nightmares. She also happens to be a real bad-ass, so when life turns into one big nightmare she is able to battle her way through. I think this is my favourite aspect to this story - the strength of the main character. That is not to say she is not flawed, because she is. She is just so real, so life-like. I love, love, love stories like this that are about strong, capable women who can be the hero of their own story.
The language of this story is beautiful and nuanced, as can be expected from the author. The story is gripping, the support characters gritty and relatable, and the mystery kept me reading avidly until the very last page. I can highly recommend this book.
The language of this story is beautiful and nuanced, as can be expected from the author. The story is gripping, the support characters gritty and relatable, and the mystery kept me reading avidly until the very last page. I can highly recommend this book.
January 10, 2017
I opened this book on my Kindle with high expectations, and it didn't disappoint.
I loved the premise - that in organ donation some part of the donor lives on in donated organ; in this case, the heart that is transplanted into the heroine Casey, and which saves her life.
A year after her operation, Casey is struck with pain in her chest and ongoing nightmares that threaten her sanity, nightmares in which she gets glimpses of the terrible way in which her organ donor died.
Very well written. Tightly paced. The action is unrelenting as Casey seeks justice for the organ donor she comes to feel she 'knows' as the pages turn.
I'd recommend this book to anyone in the mood for something different, who likes thrillers, and doesn't mind suspense with some vivid (but not overdone) violence... this one isn't for the faint hearted, and it will keep you on the edge of your seat into the small hours.
I loved the premise - that in organ donation some part of the donor lives on in donated organ; in this case, the heart that is transplanted into the heroine Casey, and which saves her life.
A year after her operation, Casey is struck with pain in her chest and ongoing nightmares that threaten her sanity, nightmares in which she gets glimpses of the terrible way in which her organ donor died.
Very well written. Tightly paced. The action is unrelenting as Casey seeks justice for the organ donor she comes to feel she 'knows' as the pages turn.
I'd recommend this book to anyone in the mood for something different, who likes thrillers, and doesn't mind suspense with some vivid (but not overdone) violence... this one isn't for the faint hearted, and it will keep you on the edge of your seat into the small hours.
September 28, 2015
The recipient makes for an interesting read, making the reader wonder- what sort of story will enfold? Will it turn into a tragedy, thriller or paranormal as the protagonist skips her sleep & nightmares. Whose memories are the dreams made of; Casey’s or someone else’s? The Recipient starts off on a clipped pace, flirting with memory transference, cyber security, organ harvesting and suspense. Yet at 400+ pages long, it does not succeed in weaving a web strong enough to fend off questions, why did the relationship with Edie turn sour, what was her role in the entire scheme of things? Is she more than just a bystander or an active conspirator? What about the hyped alter ego- Octogon,rudely used & thrown off. I wish there was additional 50 pages so that all loose ends and vital questions are answered instead of being rushed and hastily tied up with a bow.
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