RealmShift by Alan Baxter is a gripping, thought-provoking tale that evokes a strong response within the reader, both on an emotional and an intellectual level. It is a dark fantasy that takes the reader on both an adventure-filled ride, but also a spiritual exploration. The main character, Isiah, has the unenviable task of aiding Samuel, a human version of the stuff that gathers in the bottom of a septic tank, in a quest to kill another bottom-feeder. The reason? If Samuel doesn’t fulfill his destiny and kill bad guy number two, that guy is going to kill a good guy, which equals bad news for the human race. Action abounds in this thriller, though the pacing slows at times, particularly when things get too dialogue-heavy. The opening is almost literary in style, and borders on being a distraction for about twenty pages. As the novel progresses, though, Baxter's style emerges and the narrative is consistently solid and well-crafted. The most interesting aspect of this book is the spiritual exploration. Baxter’s premise is that God(s) created neither the world, nor humankind. In fact, the gods are human constructs, and if enough people believe something strongly enough, that belief will come true. This perspective poses interesting avenues of thought: Is there a such thing as “right and wrong”, since there is no perfect superior being to impose a moral code upon the human race? If strength of belief plus number of believers equals deity, how has Elvis not conquered the universe? This book is not for every reader. It is dark fantasy blended with action, adventure and spiritual exploration that in no way falls into the typical Judeo-Christian mold. Some will find the story too graphic, while others might be uncomfortable with the avenues in which spirituality is explored. Personally I found it a gritty, entertaining read that made me think. If you like your speculative fiction a little on the dark side, RealmShift is for you.

Realmshift, by Alan Baxter, is an engrossing tale that breaks the boundaries that I previously thought were impossible. Baxter writes with gusto, heart, and a deep will that takes storytelling to a new level. The characters that he has created are deep and unique, thrust into an intricate plot that grabs you and pulls you in for the ride. I couldn't help but become lost in the colorful and innovative writing style of Alan Baxter. Even though this is his first novel, it may as well have been his fifth, as I can seriously call this man a professional at writing. Great characters, great dialogue, great plotline, and great novel overall- What more could anyone want?

From: http://tcm-ca.com/reviews/885.html

The title draws intrigue. Impressionable cover art, glossed, and a staccato opening – almost literary – clinches it. I must confess, somewhat abashed: my aversion to Lulu is partially smoked. Twice, ensconced in a tram, reading this 452 page tale, I missed my stop. Isiah, the protagonist is an immortal who detects demon sulphur on Earth. Missions all over the world but now one in his own backyard. Isiah is having one ass of a day. Shift of realm, immortals invade, dark forces.

Alan Baxter introduces us to a mystical world, a shadowed realm with forces beyond comprehension or principle. Chasing rain, silvered drops. Zig-zag, left, right, left, always down. Human tumble at the station. Ticket in, click, ticket out, next. Mr. Baxter writes with conviction; he writes differently rather well. Some mid-sections lose their zing, pace and dialogue considerably slow but the overall effect, more so for a first time author, is notably fine. Physical and dimensional conflict is one of the best features of the tale. Effortless script makes gullible the reader, carrying him to a destination, any destination, manic laughter fading. Confrontation, lunacy. Every showdown effective; each madness palpable. Prose flows smoothly, almost poetic. RealmShift is a novel I am loath to put down. A most surprising read. Quite a ride.

Realmshift – Alan Baxter.

In the last few years there has been an ever increasing interest in humanities faith and man’s relationship with religion. This has become even more apparent with the plethora of books being published that deal with the subject. So much so that bookshops are now creating new sections in their stores to accommodate them.

RealmShift, by Alan Baxter, is a novel that sits on the outer edge of the aforementioned genre and drops into the SF and Fantasy genres to spice things up.

Essentially the story is based around Isiah, a once mortal man who has now become a kind of middleman between us mere mortals and those that reside on the other side of the ‘RealmShift’. Be them angels, demons, gods or the Devil himself. Isiah is tasked with guarding a very unsavoury member of the human race to his destiny in the deep South American jungle, for if he doesn’t succeed in getting the mortal to achieve his predestined objective, a chain reaction will ensue ending in the downfall of mankind.

Essentially, what you have is a very fast paced action novel complete with supernatural skills, plenty of martial arts, colourful characters and enough suspense to keep the pages turning into the small hours. However, besides the fantastic screenplay that this novel could easily be adapted to, it’s the plot's underlying thread within the action that sets the story apart.

Isiah, being trapped as an immortal human in a kind of Highlander purgatory must learn to accept his place within the hierarchy and come to believe that everything happens for a reason, whether it's good or bad. This also throws in a brain twisting little paradox – with the central character at the mercy of the forces beyond the RealmShift, he learns more about the ‘system’ at work. However, as he takes Samuel, the wickedly evil mortal (who is the crucible in the coming battle to save the world) across the globe to meet his fate, he imparts certain knowledge about his own relationship to gods and religions. Everyone has the choice to believe in what they wish and if enough people believe in something, it will come true. So the eternal conundrum, I believe, that RealmShift poses is that if Humanity really is in charge of its own fate then it's completely up to us to do what we believe is right since we create everything ourselves.

Without giving too much more away, RealmShift works brilliantly on all levels, as an action novel, as a divine expedition, as a dark fantasy and as a great example of character development within the two key players.

It concludes with a feeling that you have reached the edge of a cliff in a speeding car and come to a direct stop just before the lip, which is perfect as apparently a sequel will soon be on the way.

The preview was very well written, with a unique writing style of description and overall storytelling. I look forward to reading more, as the preview has definitely made this novel promising.

I greatly enjoyed the preview, which indicated that you have considerable ability as a story teller/novelist. Good Luck with this!

I'm very glad that I took the time to read the preview for this book. I found the storytelling to be fast-paced and full of vibrancy, the characters fascinating, and the plot intriguing. I look forward to reading the rest.

Great work!

Maggie Pagratis

This is the first pod book I have ever bought, and if it is any indication of the standard of self published books it definitely will not be the last.

Realmshift is action packed and keeps you wanting more, with a plot that builds to an exciting crescendo. The characters are three dimensional, and you find yourself caring about what happens to the ‘bad guys’ as well as the good.

The clashing of various religions and philosophies adds another depth to the story, and seems to draw influences from a huge number of sources. From Moorcocks view of Hell, to the humorous Angels in the likes of the film ‘Dogma’ and Pratchett and Gamens ‘Good Omens’, a dash of Mayan culture with some Zen philosophy on the side, Baxter keeps the reader both interested and amused.

If you, like me have found yourself getting tired of the usual stuff being churned out by well known authors, then give this book a read. You will not be disappointed.

"A fast-paced storyline that holds the reader right from the start ... nifty devices galore, from RealmShift to the Balance ... and a no-nonsense story-telling approach that lets the unfolding action speak for itself." - Van Ikin.