A real page turner that kept me up late reading! Those are my kind of books, although my husband isn’t fond of them. ;) This book was engaging and sucked the reader right in. The emotions were dynamic, the word choices superb. I found myself crying at times and laughing at others. This is no fantasy novel, as one can easily relate to the reality of the story. It is full of the realistic ups and downs of life, highs and lows, tragedies, heartaches, but also love and hope. In knowing this was a fictionalized true story, I found myself wanting to know more, read more and know what was true and what wasn’t. I cannot wait to read more from Robert Chandler. Keep them coming!

This is not a funny book...but, you will find yourself chuckling through the prologue, and other passages as Mr. Chandler narrates his fictionalized memoir. This is not a sad book...but, you will find yourself shedding a tear as the author recounts his personal struggle with heartbreak (times two) and his unusual journey navigating life from childhood through adolescence on to adulthood. This is not a self-help book...but, you will draw inspiration from its pages as Mr. Chandler transitions from suicidal desperation to self-awareness, self-respect and resiliency. This could be anyone's story. But, it is not. It is Mr. Chandler's, and he has told it simply and beautifully, maybe in part for his own benefit, but certainly for the greater good of those fortunate enough to pick it up.

This is Mr. Chandler's first book, but it is not his last. He has only whetted our appetite for what comes next.

I thought the book was pretty good. When I first started reading it, I was a bit confused as to the direction the plot was heading, but the middle section and the end cleared that up for me. I liked the clear writing style.

Overall, a good read. I can't wait until Bob finishes his next book. He says it will be even better!

Minus the Imple is a powerful story of coming of age, maturity, and perfectly normal, every-day beauty. The conversational voice telling the story reflects the simple, playful tone of a child narrating early years, moving into that of an adult with accumulated years of life experiences.

The uplifting nature of this book comes from its roots in the all too common realities of loss, despite which the author finds happiness through love and simplicity.

This story, not fanciful or embellished, is refreshingly engaging and honest, shedding light on the dark places in many of our lives, and highlighting a framework of friendships and trust that prove indispensable.

Minus the Imple is a brilliant piece of storytelling, showing the magic and wonder in an ordinary life.

This book is fantastic! I truly enjoyed reading it, and found that I could relate to, one way or another, many of the situations, experiences and emotions so perfectly described in this book. I encourage Mr. Chandler to keep writing.
Knowing this is a fictionalized true story, I found myself wondering what was fictionalized and what was true.
This is a great story, you will enjoy reading it!

The book is great. Once you start reading, you can not put it down. This book moved me, it touched my heart. The more I read the more I felt a kinship with the author, a validation of my own experiences. I could relate to his joys and his heartaches. I would highly recommend this book.

Great book and easy read. The story draws you in and the pages fly by. The prose is simple and straightforward. The themes in the book are quite universal. Childhood, unrequited love, perservance, parents, grandparents, and being a parent. It is clear that although fictionalized the biographic element and sentiments are deeply felt and openly presented. Highly recommended.

Minus The Imple gives us a lucid and colourful insight into the life of its narrator, Robert Chandler. From tragedy in the early death of his parents, Robert’s journey is ultimately one of hope and inspiration, chronicling along the way all the grit and glamour of life that we can all relate to.

From the pitfalls of adolescence, to the complexity of student life and relationships, Robert all the while chases his dreams, whilst at the same time battling with a mysterious phenomena that permeates his life, traced back to a childhood accident.

This phenomena leads him to sight the advice of teachers, doctors, therapists and even a priest, all lost as to a definite answer or clear-cut diagnosis. Through the ‘up’s’ of marriage and kids to the ‘down’s’ of divorce and time inside a psychiatric hospital, Robert continues to gain more insights into his mysterious gift/burden, and slowly but surely manages to build his life back together.

Written in an accessible and flowing prose, the novel is an enjoyable and poignant life-story, full of drama, mystery, pathos and warmth. With contemplations on the depth and meaning of the soul, fused with the kicks and bruises of human nature, I would strongly recommend Minus The Imple to anyone who desires a good read and an affirmation of the loves and losses of everyday life.

Minus The Imple is a book about the pleasure of living and the importance of self-worth. The inaugural novel and fictionalized true story of Robert R. Chandler explores the growth of a boy destined to experience both heartbreak and overwhelming happiness. Throughout the course of first loves, sexual trysts, college inebriation, marriage, and divorce, readers are swept along on a journey of self-discovery rarely initiated by most. Describing a finely crafted tale of phenomenal experiences, Chandler invites readers to question their souls, their strengths, their weaknesses and everything in between. To quote the gifted author: “It’s simple, really…” Recommended for public and academic libraries, as well as anyone searching for perspective on the harsh but joyous realities of life.

-Erin Dorney, May 2008

I'm only 36 pages into the book but already hooked. Robert uses vivid imagery and strong descriptions.

His dialogue is even stronger than the narrative which is concrete. I loved the prologue which sets the tone for chapter 1. The conclusion of the childhood story with the snobby woman and the down-and-out is hilarious. Can't wait to read more later.....recommended

A beautiful, heartfelt story about life, love, and the trials we all face along the way. Robert Chandler has crafted a magnificent piece of art, one that speaks to the reader with such hope and raw emotion. This book touched my heart and provided strength and inspiration in the darkest corners of my life.

Every word on the page draws you in with brilliant force that only Chandler can conjure. Hope radiates off the page, and the book leaves you with a full heart and a feeling of satisfaction.

You will not regret buying this novel. Robert Chandler has a priceless gift and such a marvelous way with words-- I couldn't put his book down. :)

Keep a sharp eye out for Chandler's future works-- his talent is too often overlooked.

Minus the Imple shines with brilliance.
Congratulations, Mr. Chandler, on a magnificent work of art that you should be proud of. :)

This book is an amazing gem. It illustrates the dance between mere mortals and the essence that shapes us all. With honesty and humor, Chandler offers a beautiful tale of hope against all odds. Not your average hubris-filled narrative. Although it is likely not intentional, this work contains a brilliantly understated heroism just the same. This is an every-man novel that will surely connect with anyone who has a heart and ever suspected there is something beyond our physical existence.