The Penal Colony [NOOK Book]

best book I've read in a long time!

The story line is intriguing, characters are complex, and the writing is superb. This book is over 600 pages of pure captivating dialogue that will keep you guessing until the last sentence!

I'm hooked on Richard Herley's writing style and am looking for more of his books...

3 out of 4 people found this review helpful.

Couldn't put it down

I got this book since I just got my Nook and it was free. It was so good that I would have bought it and am going to check out the author's other books.
The plot was good and the development of the main character was well done. If you like thrillers and "what's going to happen?" stories, this books for you.

3 out of 4 people found this review helpful.

Don't be fooled! This is a Great Read for every Gender!

Originally, I got this for my husband thinking it was directed for the gender of a male. I hoped he'd read it on our last trip since he hasn't found too many books that have truly captivated or interested him.

I decided to "preview" this book to see if he would actually read it. I was a little apprehensive since for some reason the book cover and description didn't describe the book as something I would enjoy. Boy was I wrong! I didn't the book to him until after I finished reading it, LOL.


This was an Intelligent- Interesting- Believable exciting story filled with characters that were relate-able and had you rooting for the "good guys." The story and circumstances that developed within the book made you want to read on.

Terrifically written with believable dialogue throughout the story.

I read along and was even interested in reading the technical rhetoric which I felt only made you understand the obstacles the characters face in the book.

Well written!I found it to be a refreshing story all Genders would appreciate! I hope to find another book that can match it!

3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.

Enjoyed this one

I really enjoyed this book. As scary as the concept is, it's interesting to see how an innocent man accepts "fate" and assimilates into the Village.

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.

A MUST READ!!!

Dont let the fact that this book is free fool you. In fact im pretty darn suprised this book isnt atleast among the decently priced books. Perhaps the movie,"No Escape" , that does it no justice, put it in a bad light. Nevertheless! I was thoroughly intrigued from beginning to finish and would definitely recommend it for readers who are curious of alternative lifestyles cursed by injustice.

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.

Well Worth it!

I had been wanting to get a hold of this book ever since I saw "No Escape" (the movie from the book) back in the 80's. The movie was so-so, but the premise was so original and compelling that I knew the book was going to be fantastic. Back the the book went out of print before I could buy it and thus escaped my clutches. Finally after 20 some-odd years, by chance I found it for my Nook!!!
Upon reading it, it was well worth the wait. Herley transports you directly to Sert and experience it through the eyes and mind of an innocent man cast in to the wild world of the most vile prisoners Brittan has to offer. The solution of ridding the standard jails of these most violent criminals and putting them on a isolated island with no guards, no laws, and no escape was ingenious. Herley is a master of getting into the minds of these men and the societies they create in this wild, unruly place.
The main character struggles to fit into the main village and find his place among them, while giving them his expertize on the one thing they crave most- escape! All the while the prisoners outside the village are plotting an attack, to re-gain their foothold on belongings, revenge or just for something to kill the duldrum.
This book is action packed, psychological thriller and I highly recommend it to everyone!

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.

Fabulous!,

I could not put this one down! Great story, great writing!

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Outstanding!

Excellent read. Well paced and pulls you right in. One of the best books I've read in some time. I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Would make a great movie.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

This was so thrilling. I enjoyed all characters and the story.

This was so thrilling. I enjoyed all characters and the story. Think I'll read Refuge next.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Great book

Great book

Very good. Would read this author again.

Very good. Would read this author again.

Very good read, and unusual

Great story, great characters

Wonferful

Very well written.

Not just for guys!

I read this book only after reading a woman's review. Without that, I would not have read it. This is an amazing read. There is a flow and you want to happens next. You want to know RIGHT NOW.

nice read

..

0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Good Insight & Offbeat Concept

Like an adult lord of the flies...very good insight to the human soul...good read. looking up author for more.

0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Great read, especially for free

I loved this book, such an interesting set up. I'd definitely advise reading it.

Interesting!

Storyline was great, a little too descriptive in parts on the geography of the island vs. the actual plot. The ending was abrupt and left me wanting more....A sequel, perhaps?

Really creative!

Enjoyed the wrting style and really enjoyed how creative the story is....thank you!!

New author!

What a pleasure. I now now anticipate reading the aothor's other novels.