A well-rounded take on Battle Royale that makes the most of each page and gives a fresh SciFi spin that is not derivative of what’s come before. It’s a brotherly love story at its heart, but the author manages to give it colors of romance, take on the fight against oppression, and the meaning of family. The world is fully fleshed out, an accomplishment, given that we never leave the fighting arena. The tech used by the gladiators is fun, seamless to the world, visually appealing, and enhances each moment in battle. But what brings it all together is the lead’s internal monologue; motivations, reactions, and backstory flow organically and bring the character to a fully relatable place. It’s endearing, thoughtful, and fun where it needs to be—looking forward to book 2.

Wow. This was an intriguing read. Bear has the flavor of a dystopian world like that of Hunger Games but with a palette all its own. I love that this is essentially a story of brothers and their bond. In this place the Crown calls all the shots, and if they want to take your parents and break apart your family, they will. And if the Crown wants you to do their dirty work for them and eliminate your own blood, they'll put you both in the games with promises that are equally worthy and will inevitably pit you against your own brother in a precarious battle to the death. I mean, woah. The question is, will they do it? Do they each even know who they're fighting? The world of Bear vs Lynx is both archaic and advanced in technology which gives it a really interesting setting. I'd recommend Bear to anyone who enjoys edgy dystopian tales with strong familial bonds, interesting futuristic tech, action, and peril. I received an arc copy of the book from its publisher, but this review is all my own because I wanted to share my thoughts on the book. Happy reading!

Fiction is the genre I tend to pick up the most. I found this first entry of the series most enjoyable! It checks all the boxes, high intensity, and well-paced, family history, political revolutions, and all the *drama*. I found myself being transported to a far off place- that somehow didn't seem so far off with all its logic and world-building. The characters were relatable & I found the story emotionally invigorating. The author does a great job introducing the players with distinct voices, and despite the challenges facing them at full steam, senses of humor as well. I found my next Book Club Book, and cannot wait for the next release in the series. Perfect book for the cusp of Summer and Fall.

Shades of Hunger Games and Red Rising in the world painted by Merkel. Really looking forward to the next installment in this series.

I just finished reading 'The Fall Gauntlet: BEAR' and I can't stop raving about it! The author has masterfully crafted an imaginary sci-fi world that completely swept e away. The author's creativity in building this sci-fi world is nothing short of extraordinary. From the intricate details of the technology to the vivid descriptions of the landscapes and creatures, I felt completely immersed in the story. It was an incredible experience to explore this imaginative universe and witness the characters navigate its challenges. Looking forward to see the story unfold, I have already order the next book; Rat

Find yourself in J.A. Merkel’s The Bear, the first in an illustrious series celebrating the discovery and contemplation of self in this coming-of-age insta-classic!! The narrative assumes an unassuming stance: skeptical yet hopeful. As we take on the perils of one’s quest to define and validate himself, he encounters overarching questions about what it means to become an adult, to act honorably, and to stay true to yourself. The process of embracing contradictions rather than trying to resolve them is ultimately what we all must do as we struggle to exist outside of ourselves but eventually succumb to gravity of our innate brings. J.A. Merkel shows us how it feels to be within oneself without oneself. This tension of sin, regret and potential redemption sanction a cumbersome storyline, and one that Merkel arbitrates with stark contrast of enlightening irony. Life may not unravel the way we want, but the universe always gives us what we need- whether we come to terms with these truths or not.

The Fall Gauntlet: BEAR is an absolute masterpiece that exemplifies the heights that science fiction literature can reach. From the very first page, I was plunged headfirst into a mesmerizing world that is as vivid as it is captivating, and the journey only intensifies from there. Merkel's writing style is nothing short of a revelation. It strikes the perfect balance between rich, descriptive prose and a propulsive narrative, pulling the reader along on an unforgettable adventure. The way the author crafts each scene, every twist and turn, is a testament to his mastery of storytelling. The pacing is impeccable, keeping the tension taut and the excitement palpable throughout. The characters are complex and relatable. They leap off the page with a vibrancy that makes them feel like old friends. Their growth and development over the course of the story is both moving and believable, adding an extra layer of emotional depth to an already engrossing tale. The universe in which The Fall Gauntlet: BEAR unfolds is breathtakingly expansive, brimming with intricate cultures, technologies, and histories that immerse readers completely. The attention to detail is awe-inspiring, painting a picture that is as realistic as it is fantastical. What truly sets The Fall Gauntlet: BEAR apart is its ability to provoke thought and introspection. Beyond its gripping plot and well-drawn characters, the novel delves into profound themes that will leave readers contemplating the nature of humanity, the consequences of our choices, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity. In a literary landscape crowded with stories vying for attention, The Fall Gauntlet: BEAR stands tall as a shining example of what speculative fiction can achieve. J. A. Merkel's magnum opus is a triumph of imagination, storytelling, and philosophical exploration that will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on all who are fortunate enough to experience its pages. This is not just a book; it's an experience, a journey, and a work of art that will be celebrated for years to come.

Anyone who picks up this book will love it! I started reading and couldn't put it down until I was done. I need more.I need book 2 already. I love reading fiction and this book takes you on an adventure that involves the hero journey. The characters are complex and everyone can relate to this story as it is about family and a fight for survival. A great book that takes you back to being a kid again!