What do you think?
Rate this book
Primordials #1
Off Track
Devastated and exhausted, Eden Lucas is the sole survivor of an unfathomable global catastrophe As she grapples with the question of whether to go on alone, a train arrives.
It’s not a normal train, that’s the first thing she notices. For one thing, it’s floating three feet off the ground in a supermarket parking lot. For another, there doesn’t seem to be any place for the driver to go.
Yet it seems to hint at possibilities. Maybe she’s not the only one who was spared. Maybe someone on the train will have answers.
And while she may yet discover what caused the death of her world, nothing can prepare her for just how little she understands about the universe.
It’s not a normal train, that’s the first thing she notices. For one thing, it’s floating three feet off the ground in a supermarket parking lot. For another, there doesn’t seem to be any place for the driver to go.
Yet it seems to hint at possibilities. Maybe she’s not the only one who was spared. Maybe someone on the train will have answers.
And while she may yet discover what caused the death of her world, nothing can prepare her for just how little she understands about the universe.
- GenresScience Fiction
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2021
15 people are currently reading
38 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 15, 2021
This book is AMAZING. It is well crafted, well paced and has complex characters whose interpersonal relationships are realistic and make sense. It is exceptionally fine and as a read brought me a great deal of enjoyment.
June 15, 2021
I wondered what the point was to this story. But as the tale went on, it progressed logically. I admit I was wrong in all of my assumptions on how the story would pan out. I am sure that is a game most readers play.
It starts with a mass destruction of Earth, leaving only one person alive. A magic train that she had dreamed of appears and she boards. One by one others appear and it comes down to trying to decipher how the train runs and ever for what purpose.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It starts with a mass destruction of Earth, leaving only one person alive. A magic train that she had dreamed of appears and she boards. One by one others appear and it comes down to trying to decipher how the train runs and ever for what purpose.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
June 28, 2021This is my book, so I'm not going to rate it :)
It's currently available for pre-order on Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B094H8S42C
And Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B094H8S42C
And you can obtain an ARC if you're interested in that kind of thing: https://booksirens.com/book/7MYWAKD/M...
It's currently available for pre-order on Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B094H8S42C
And Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B094H8S42C
And you can obtain an ARC if you're interested in that kind of thing: https://booksirens.com/book/7MYWAKD/M...
October 17, 2021
From the very start of this story when it all goes wrong you never really know where it's going to take you.
January 3, 2023
An inventive concept with a captivating storyline!
I’ve been following author Neil Bullock for the past year in social media. I’ve read snippets and short fiction posts featuring his characters from Off Track . I was intrigued by the concepts and themes he shared regarding his Primordials series and made it a point to read book one over the Christmas holiday. I could hardly put it down!
My husband also read a copy of the book at the same time, and we’d find ourselves sitting quietly and devouring this fascinating sci-fi novel. I submit that the book also offers up a few elements of fantasy – which I like. Regardless, the author flexed his creative muscles and penned a complex yet easy-to-follow plotline.
The main character in this first-in-series is Eden Lucas, a likable woman in her early 30s, who finds herself losing her friends and family when she survives the end of the world. As she comes to terms with quite possibly being the *only* person left on Earth, we watch her struggle with the questions we all would consider – especially this: Should I go on or should I end it?
In those early chapters, I allowed myself to consider the no-win situation Eden found herself in. This is the beauty of an epic story like Off Track: The reader doesn’t have to actually live through the experience. The character does the hard part for us. We can sink into that sense of hopelessness safely and watch the thought process Eden travels throughout Part 1, and indeed, throughout the entire book.
What author Bullock did next, however, was introduce something even more unexpected than the end of the world. Eden left an abandoned store and found a floating train, hovering three feet off the ground. There was no other person in sight, and she had no idea from where this strange transportation originated. After what she just lived through, it seemed almost natural for her to climb on board. What else did she have to lose?
I don’t want to reveal any spoilers, but what happens next is a journey exploring ideas about the reality we create for ourselves alongside what is working in tandem that we may or may not be aware of within our limited knowledge. Author Bullock offers up some ideas that although not common, might not be so outlandish – because what do we really know? And is our reality – our world – unique? What is real? What exists, and *why* does it exist?
This existential exploration is where author Bullock shines. He takes mind-blowing ideas, injects them into his plot, and makes it easy for the reader to follow. He does not “dumb anything down.” He simply explains things well while keeping the reader immersed in the story.
Other characters are introduced as Eden explores the train. It’s not immediately clear who is a “good guy,” and who might not be trustworthy. The reader, like Eden, must watch carefully and think about what she perceives to be true, and what behavior does not make sense.
Bullock also walks the reader through concepts of time (can we live without it?), the idea of time travel (is it possible?), and the notion of parallel worlds. As Eden and others learn more, they can suss out their own time and place in the universe – but questions will remain.
There are other inventive creations in Off Track. For example, what does the train travel through? What is Grayspace, and what are the curious Grayshapes swirling in the “air” outside the train’s windows? Are they dangerous? I think so, but I’m not entirely sure. The readers will get some ideas, but clearly, there is much more to discover in later installments of the Primordials series.
While this book does not take on any religious themes, as I read, I found myself thinking about the classic novel from C.S. Lewis, The Great Divorce. Like Lewis, author Neil Bullock creates a complex journey with overlapping themes of life and death, people’s perceptions of worthiness (of others and themselves), multiple planes of existence, and how it all connects.
I read my copy of Off Track via Kindle, and at the end of the book, the author included the beginning of the next installment in the series, Earth Twelve. It appears there will be a new protagonist in this second book, Lara Parker – a character introduced in Off Track. Just reading the opening has me chomping at the bit to dive deeper into the next “leg of the journey.”
It's so easy to give this book five stars! A big applause for author Neil Bullock and Off Track. I cannot wait to learn what happens next for Eden and Lara.
I’ve been following author Neil Bullock for the past year in social media. I’ve read snippets and short fiction posts featuring his characters from Off Track . I was intrigued by the concepts and themes he shared regarding his Primordials series and made it a point to read book one over the Christmas holiday. I could hardly put it down!
My husband also read a copy of the book at the same time, and we’d find ourselves sitting quietly and devouring this fascinating sci-fi novel. I submit that the book also offers up a few elements of fantasy – which I like. Regardless, the author flexed his creative muscles and penned a complex yet easy-to-follow plotline.
The main character in this first-in-series is Eden Lucas, a likable woman in her early 30s, who finds herself losing her friends and family when she survives the end of the world. As she comes to terms with quite possibly being the *only* person left on Earth, we watch her struggle with the questions we all would consider – especially this: Should I go on or should I end it?
In those early chapters, I allowed myself to consider the no-win situation Eden found herself in. This is the beauty of an epic story like Off Track: The reader doesn’t have to actually live through the experience. The character does the hard part for us. We can sink into that sense of hopelessness safely and watch the thought process Eden travels throughout Part 1, and indeed, throughout the entire book.
What author Bullock did next, however, was introduce something even more unexpected than the end of the world. Eden left an abandoned store and found a floating train, hovering three feet off the ground. There was no other person in sight, and she had no idea from where this strange transportation originated. After what she just lived through, it seemed almost natural for her to climb on board. What else did she have to lose?
I don’t want to reveal any spoilers, but what happens next is a journey exploring ideas about the reality we create for ourselves alongside what is working in tandem that we may or may not be aware of within our limited knowledge. Author Bullock offers up some ideas that although not common, might not be so outlandish – because what do we really know? And is our reality – our world – unique? What is real? What exists, and *why* does it exist?
This existential exploration is where author Bullock shines. He takes mind-blowing ideas, injects them into his plot, and makes it easy for the reader to follow. He does not “dumb anything down.” He simply explains things well while keeping the reader immersed in the story.
Other characters are introduced as Eden explores the train. It’s not immediately clear who is a “good guy,” and who might not be trustworthy. The reader, like Eden, must watch carefully and think about what she perceives to be true, and what behavior does not make sense.
Bullock also walks the reader through concepts of time (can we live without it?), the idea of time travel (is it possible?), and the notion of parallel worlds. As Eden and others learn more, they can suss out their own time and place in the universe – but questions will remain.
There are other inventive creations in Off Track. For example, what does the train travel through? What is Grayspace, and what are the curious Grayshapes swirling in the “air” outside the train’s windows? Are they dangerous? I think so, but I’m not entirely sure. The readers will get some ideas, but clearly, there is much more to discover in later installments of the Primordials series.
While this book does not take on any religious themes, as I read, I found myself thinking about the classic novel from C.S. Lewis, The Great Divorce. Like Lewis, author Neil Bullock creates a complex journey with overlapping themes of life and death, people’s perceptions of worthiness (of others and themselves), multiple planes of existence, and how it all connects.
I read my copy of Off Track via Kindle, and at the end of the book, the author included the beginning of the next installment in the series, Earth Twelve. It appears there will be a new protagonist in this second book, Lara Parker – a character introduced in Off Track. Just reading the opening has me chomping at the bit to dive deeper into the next “leg of the journey.”
It's so easy to give this book five stars! A big applause for author Neil Bullock and Off Track. I cannot wait to learn what happens next for Eden and Lara.
June 29, 2021
Well written, fast paced and keeps you guessing
Some books are straight forward, but every so often you come across a gem where you can't quite guess how it's going to pan out.
The ending was not at all what I expected and I like that.
Definitely recommend and look forward to more :)
Some books are straight forward, but every so often you come across a gem where you can't quite guess how it's going to pan out.
The ending was not at all what I expected and I like that.
Definitely recommend and look forward to more :)
June 26, 2021
I have to admit, I expected this to be a post-apocalyptic zombie gore-fest... really not my thing. Good job, really, because I was wrong about that. I originally decided to read this book because it was written by the husband of someone we know...
Bottom line, this was excellent. The storyline was original, the characters believable, and the endgame fully emotive.
A deeply meaningful and well-written novel, and I honestly hope that Neil follows this up. This book works as a standalone - really well - but I'd love to see where it goes next.
Bottom line, this was excellent. The storyline was original, the characters believable, and the endgame fully emotive.
A deeply meaningful and well-written novel, and I honestly hope that Neil follows this up. This book works as a standalone - really well - but I'd love to see where it goes next.
November 19, 2022
A highly enjoyable, thought provoking novel, which was difficult to put down.
Eden is the sole survivor of a global apocalypse, but before she can completely freak out a floating train turns up. With nothing left for her on Earth she decides to board the train.
And so begins a journey into the unknown. Suspend all beliefs because the universe is even more complicated than you thought and Bullock's exploration and descriptions draw you in as you try to figure out where the train is going and why.
Eden is a wonderfully, strong heroine, and as she explores the train she meets some interesting characters, I especially loved Lara who is smart, sassy and lovable, and Kyle who is not all that he seems.
Prepared to have your mind blown as you travel with Eden and discover all that the train has to offer. Once you start, you won't be able to stop, much like the train!
Eden is the sole survivor of a global apocalypse, but before she can completely freak out a floating train turns up. With nothing left for her on Earth she decides to board the train.
And so begins a journey into the unknown. Suspend all beliefs because the universe is even more complicated than you thought and Bullock's exploration and descriptions draw you in as you try to figure out where the train is going and why.
Eden is a wonderfully, strong heroine, and as she explores the train she meets some interesting characters, I especially loved Lara who is smart, sassy and lovable, and Kyle who is not all that he seems.
Prepared to have your mind blown as you travel with Eden and discover all that the train has to offer. Once you start, you won't be able to stop, much like the train!
August 20, 2022
I wasn't sure what to make of this book at first as the start is, to put it bluntly, rather weird. But you know what? I like weird.
The whole novel is intriguing and puzzling with just the right amount of suspense and action. The characters are fantastic, especially Eden, Lara and Kyle. I loved how they bonded and helped one another.
The sci-fi aspects are clever and well-explained and this was an addictive read; I got through it quickly and didn't want to put it down.
I highly recommend this novel.
The whole novel is intriguing and puzzling with just the right amount of suspense and action. The characters are fantastic, especially Eden, Lara and Kyle. I loved how they bonded and helped one another.
The sci-fi aspects are clever and well-explained and this was an addictive read; I got through it quickly and didn't want to put it down.
I highly recommend this novel.
December 28, 2022
Fascinatingly original story!
To avoid spoilers, I’m not going to write about plot or give any kind of story synopsis. What I will do is heartily recommend this book to anyone who enjoys letting go and having a story propel you forward. I read the book in three sittings. That a very short timeframe for me, but I had a hard time putting it down. Mr. Bullock created believable characters in an unbelievable world, and he made me care about what happened to them. I couldn’t ask for anything more.
To avoid spoilers, I’m not going to write about plot or give any kind of story synopsis. What I will do is heartily recommend this book to anyone who enjoys letting go and having a story propel you forward. I read the book in three sittings. That a very short timeframe for me, but I had a hard time putting it down. Mr. Bullock created believable characters in an unbelievable world, and he made me care about what happened to them. I couldn’t ask for anything more.
July 20, 2022
What a mind bending and magnificent surprise!
Loved it. Not what I was expecting. But what a wild ride. Amazingly real characters, brilliant plot. I'd hate to give any of it away, grab a copy and read it. If you like spooky or dark tales, this one's for you.
Loved it. Not what I was expecting. But what a wild ride. Amazingly real characters, brilliant plot. I'd hate to give any of it away, grab a copy and read it. If you like spooky or dark tales, this one's for you.
November 15, 2023
(Audiobook)
Starting with an apocalyptic ‘end-of-the-world’ feel, the story slowly develops into an intricate puzzle - about the train, its origins, purpose, destination, and the interconnection of the characters. The sci-fi concept is clever but the story is slow and the ending inconclusive.
Starting with an apocalyptic ‘end-of-the-world’ feel, the story slowly develops into an intricate puzzle - about the train, its origins, purpose, destination, and the interconnection of the characters. The sci-fi concept is clever but the story is slow and the ending inconclusive.
September 26, 2023
Interesting concept but the story seemed to drag a bit.
Read
November 6, 2023I enjoyed this sci-fi. It kept up a good pace and explored some interesting creation ideas. It ends with a perfect set up for a sequel which I'm looking forward to reading.
March 5, 2024
Great mystery and wild science fiction! Very fun!
March 25, 2024
A very interesting start to this series with some intriguing and mind bending aspects to keep you reading.
March 9, 2023
Another book/series I highly recommend! I will say, grab the tissues for the very beginning of the story. The female character is a strong character and I love her!
Even if Sci-Fi isn't your genre, read OFF TRACK anyway, you will enjoy it and want to read the other books in the series!
Even if Sci-Fi isn't your genre, read OFF TRACK anyway, you will enjoy it and want to read the other books in the series!
November 8, 2022
I love the amount of detail that went into the outbreak and Eden’s arrival on the train. You never really know who you can trust or what’s going to happen next because everybody’s stories are so vastly different. The description of the gray is especially unsettling and I enjoyed the scenes with Eden, Kyle, and Lara.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews