The End

The Rundown

The End is a book you can read in one day, which is exactly what I did. Not just because it is short, but because you simply cannot tear yourself away from it. For me, this book was a little nugget of perfection. I am still in awe of how much it got right in so few pages. The End is a story about Trevor, an ordinary, hard working young man. Trevor comes from a rich family but is determined to live his life on his own terms. This puts him slightly at odds with his pregnant wife Allison, and his best friend Neil, who both think he is foolish to have turned his back on his fortune, preferring instead to work away at a tedious office job. Trevor is trying hard to please everyone, but at the weekend he rewards himself. He takes his mountain bike and risks life and limb in the mountains of Utah. He records every death-defying, life-affirming moment on his Go-Pro camera so that he can relive them again when he gets home. On this particular day though, he sees something strange and disturbing. His own death, recorded on the camera. How this can be, and what it means for him now, provide the final dramatic chapters. There is a sting in the tale, however, and I felt the author did a tremendous job of setting up the back story and weaving the subtle clues in from the beginning of the story. I appreciated how the background to Trevor’s life was delivered; not through annoying info-dumps, but through conversation with his wife and his best friend. Through snippets of dialogue, we learn that Trevor walked away from a life of privilege, and turned his back on his father who later committed suicide. These pieces of the past provide clues to where the story is heading, but also enable us to believe in and empathize with Trevor. The last few chapters were breathtaking, leaving the reader clinging on, unable to let go. I just had to know what happened next. There is a lot of power packed into this short book. It’s quite incredible that so much can happen, be explored, explained and suggested in so few pages, without any of it feeling like a rush. From the bar scenes between Neil and Trevor, to the obvious tensions in the young couple’s relationship, nothing is hurried or assumed. Everything about this book persuaded me to keep reading; the characters, their motives, the beautifully described mountain bike scenes, and the desire to know how Trevor’s death got onto the camera. I highly recommend this accomplished book to anyone who enjoys action and adventure stories, and for anyone looking for a quick, but fully engrossing and satisfying read.

The Recommendation

The End is a book you can read in one day, which is exactly what I did. Not just because it is short, but because you simply cannot tear yourself away from it. For me, this book was a little nugget of perfection. Trevor is an ordinary young man, working hard to provide for his pregnant wife. At the weekend though, he tests his mountain biking skills to the maximum, in the mountains of Utah. Back at home, Trevor watches the footage recorded on his Go-Pro camera and is shocked to witness his own death. How his own death could be recorded on the camera, and what this now means for Trevor and his family, provide a nail biting rush to the finish. A thoroughly engaging and vivid read with a spectacular twist. Everything about this book persuaded me to keep reading; the characters, their motives, the beautifully described mountain bike scenes, and the desire to know how Trevor’s death got onto the camera. I highly recommend this accomplished book to anyone who enjoys action and adventure stories, and for anyone looking for a quick, but fully engrossing and satisfying read.

The Rating

5 Stars (out of 5): Highly recommended. This book did exactly what it set out to do, with originality, style, and maybe even a twist. It stands out next to popular, traditionally published novels in its genre.

(Originally published on Underground Book Reviews)

In an extremely intriguing work of short fiction, The End: A Novelette of Haunting Omens and & Harrowing Discovery by author Justine Avery, readers will find themselves obsessively turning the pages from the first words all the way through to the very last page. Follow our protagonist, Trevor, an all-round great guy, family man, good friend and valued employee, week in and week out. But on the weekends, Trevor's life is his own, and he spends it on the back of his mountain bike, enjoying freedom and adventure. He records each of his weekend rides with his GoPro, but one weekend, when he goes back to relive his most recent trip, what he finds on the recording is not what he expects. Instead of fun, adventure and dazzling technical feats on the bike, what Trevor finds recorded is something terrifying and nothing he was aware of. What does he find and what does he do? You'll need to read this novelette to find out!

Wow! I so enjoyed The End: A Novelette of Haunting Omens and & Harrowing Discovery. Author Justine Avery has done a fantastic job in creating a story in which not one single word is wasted, and will leave readers hanging onto each of them. This story is fast-paced, exciting, and at times readers will find themselves on the edge of their seats with their hearts in their throats, waiting to see what will happen next. I highly recommend The End: A Novelette of Haunting Omens and & Harrowing Discovery to any reader looking for a great read. I look forward to more from author Justine Avery in the future, and hope that she's already hard at work on her next book right now!

“The End: (a Novelette of Haunting Omens & Harrowing Discovery)” by Justine Avery is a riveting short story about life, trust, and lies, not necessarily in that order. Trevor is just your average normal guy – he is happily married with a baby on the way, is a good friend, and spends his weekdays in a cubicle at his 9-5 job. His life is routine and predictable, and Trevor likes it that way; and while he happily devotes his weekdays fulfilling these normal obligations, Trevor most looks forward to the weekends, which he claims as his own time, to spend doing what he likes best: riding his bike.

What Trevor is not, is your average normal biker. He is a free-ride mountain biker, uninhibited, unafraid, and unrelenting as he pushes his skills to the extreme in the canyon lands of southern Utah. He is at one with the mountains, at peace with all things of nature. Trevor captures all of his rides using his GoPro, a helmet-mounted camera so he can relive these precious moments time after time.

One particular Saturday however, Trevor’s camera captures something absolutely unexpected. Something eerily haunting and horrific - something that actually never happened. Yet. Is the footage captured on the camera an omen of things to come? Is Trevor reconciled to the fate foretold, or can he change his own life story?

Wow. After reading this gripping tale, I was overcome with several different emotions, denial being first, as I refused to believe the story was over. Acceptance quickly kicked in when I realized that the ending was absolutely perfect, and it could not have been written more effectively. Thirst, (is that an emotion?) came next, as I fanatically searched the internet for more works from this author. Finally, satisfaction, when I realized that this is the best novelette I have ever read, period.

The writing is nothing short of brilliant. Avery knows her way around words and uses them with expertise to captivate the audience. Descriptive, fine-tuned, crisply detailed, and polished, I had no trouble imagining every step of Trevor’s journey. I know it’s cliché, but I was on the edge of my seat with wanting to know what happens next, devouring every word. You might think you know how it is going to end, but Avery throws in a complete surprise at the very end.

"The End: (a Novelette of Haunting Omens & Harrowing Discovery)" by Justine Avery is a must read for all fans of the suspense and thriller genres, but will be enjoyed by anyone that covets a well-told, well-written story. That said, I highly recommend this spellbinding tale – to everyone! It only takes a short time to read, but will stay with you much longer as you contemplate and reflect upon your own life. Fantastic story!

Love this little book; easy read, but with complex and emotional twists.

The build up and suspense were well worth it. Indeed, as the other reviewers mention, there was no way I could see the plot twist. The author deserves major credit for this one.

Not predictable, although, one could sense a twist coming because of the obvious nature of the story line.

Enjoy!

Magic is the term that comes to mind first when attempting to describe the impact of Justine’s prose. She has a mastery of expression of created fantasies that ring very closely to contemporary reality – and that is the mark (or one of them) of a first class short story master/mistress.

First a brief summary of this quick piece: ‘One weekday to the next, Trevor quietly fulfills his roles as loving husband and father-to-be, trusted best friend, and dependable employee. He's chosen normality, routine, simplicity, even predictability: everything he never had as a child. And he prefers it that way. And then comes Saturday. The weekends are Trevor's alone. On the weekends, Trevor is king. Charging into the beckoning canyonlands of southern Utah, Trevor seeks out true challenge without hesitation, dares the ever-changing terrain to test his finest skill, and defies death itself as he pushes his mind and body to the max. He is the Weekend Warrior. Master of his machine. Trevor is a freeride mountain biker, and when he rides, the earth is at his command. Of course, he has to capture it all on camera. Trevor never rides without his helmet-mounted GoPro, recording the real-time video of his every triumph and technical maneuver. But this Saturday, the camera captures so much more. When Trevor presses the play button, eager to relive the thrilling moments of his impressive, recent ride, the scene that plays out before him on the television screen ends in an unexpected way. The footage is more than captivating; it's horrifying. They say that, in this age of advanced technology, if it wasn't filmed, it never happened. But what if it hasn't happened—yet—and it's already on film? He has only two options: succumb to his fate the footage foretells or fight—to the death if need be—for his very own life.’

Justine is not only a fine short story writer – she is also a poetic wordsmith – ‘Energized by the utter darkness and reveling in the absolute solitude, Trevor pressed his weight to the heavy door of his time-weathered, miles-battered Chevy station wagon, breaking the pre-dawn silence with that familiar creak that no amount of prescribed lubricant can cure. He yanked himself free of the clutches of the deep, respectable tear in the bench seat's vinyl, unaware of the newly detached bit of foam innards now clinging to his rear. Trevor strode lightly, respectfully, over the fine red dust of the southern Utah canyonlands, released the wagon's swinging tailgate, and lifted the rear window. As the black of night transformed into the distinct deep blue of morning twilight, Trevor traded the well-worn accoutrements of a humble adult life for the highly specialized gear of a weekend warrior, giddily exchanging the daily grind for the enthrallment of the almighty Saturday. Almost enough to make a grown man weep in gratitude.‘

Able to create a fascinating short story that addresses contemporary issues without judgment takes skill and Justine has that gift and more. She is one of our more important young writers. Keep your eye on this winsome lass. Grady Harp, April 17

Extraordinarily clever story by Justine Avery about a man who films his own death one week in advance, or so it appears. Well, that's the hook. What we also get are meditations on how to be true to oneself, some beautifully written prose describing our hero's bike-rides through the canyons of Utah, a comment or two on our current culture's total dependence on a filmed record of events, coming to terms with one's past, forgiving our parents ... oh, and some terrific plotting, on the order of Patricia Highsmith.

Rod Serling also appears to be a major influence on Avery, as the idea of watching one's own future death on video would have fit right in Serling's wheelhouse had he been alive today. (Even when he was alive, he addressed this subject in the comical TZ episode "A Most Unusual Camera".) Avery's hero Trevor, with a wife who has a bun in the oven, finds himself, like most men, seeking a way to hold onto an identity outside the total submersion into domesticity. (Good luck.) He finds peace with his rather dangerous mountain bike riding (and credit to Avery for writing knowledgeably on the subject). He likes to film his rides, "for what was the purpose of of a true adventure -- a fleeting lapse into rebellion -- without proper documentation?" Such is our world today: merely living, having done something, is no longer enough.

Trevor is also a son of wealth who has resolutely rejected this heritage from a hated father. The mystery lover will go, "uh oh".

Those mystery readers will enjoy the story, wondering how Avery will disentangle the various improbabilities, and sharp-eyed readers will note wife Allison's concern about money and telling behavior at various points in the tale, as well as best-friend Neil's unusual solicitude. Trust me when I say it all shakes out in a most satisfying manner.

"The End" has won awards for good reason. This is metaphysical suspense of the highest order. 5 out of 5.

And a quick word of praise about the author: in our new world in which self-published authors teem like plankton in an endless sea, true talent stands out. Avery stands way out. I have read all of her works here on Amazon and have been thoroughly impressed by the variety in her fiction: comic, bloody, fantastical, metaphysical (as here with "The End"), philosophical without pretentiousness, romantic, and just simply well-told. Almost all of her tales have a surprise ending -- a joy for readers. ... we can say we knew her when.

I LOVE surprises. LOVE! Thank you, Justine Avery for providing a story for which I didn't anticipate the ending. I love stories with depth, and The End delivered, for sure! I've often wondered about the role of technology on life right now. We are ever-present online, but less so in life. What parts of our lives are unknown to even us! If you do anything this year, read this BOOK!

Justine Avery Does it Again!

Justine Avery has won me over again!

This is the third book I have read by her and everyone is better than the last. I do not want to give away any spoilers but it is a super quick read for anyone looking for a true page-turner. Once I started I could not put the book down!

I would highly recommend this book, I cannot wait to read the next one!

Absolutely loved it !

I've learned to accept that this author will always have me on the edge of my seat. I think that this book is by far my favorite novel by Avery. She manages to outdo herself once again.

Amazing!

I loved how this book had so many twist and turns! This is a must read and a page Turner! If you like books that keep you on your feet and or on your butt then this would be for you!

Chilling

This was one of the better short stories of hers that I have read. If you have ever watched the show "Black Mirror" you would absolutely love it! similar to some of the episodes in the show the book takes on the idea of technology in a negative light - horrific even. The concept of using day to day technology in our day to day boring lives and having be somethings sinister is chilling. Without giving much away - This is very fast and easy read with a lot packed into it. Trevor is just a basic guy leading the average life that takes an unexpected turn. Often I found her writing to be too flowery and poetic for the pieces she was writing however she was really on point for this piece. I think the idea of technology being the new thing to "fear" is amazing because we all use it. It's very hard to find a short GOOD chilling story but this one did the job.

An easy little roller coaster of a read

I thought of several plot twists when I began reading the story but discarded them as I read further into the book. I am not one to throw up plot spoilers and I will not start now. Just suffice it to say, one plot direction I thought of at the beginning did appear in the end. The story plot reminded me of a modern film noir with the identifiable characters -- a girl (the fem fatale, a supposedly unwitting dupe, and then the other guy (such as a brother, friend, or nemesis). It's an interesting, quick, and easy little roller coaster of a read, that kept me engaged throughout. Just when I thought I had the story figured, a twist presented me with a new potential angle. I liked it, Avery does not disappoint with her offering.

Amazing!

I absolutely love this short story. It was compelling and hard to put down. This had me on the edge of my seat.This is reminiscent of Stephen King's work where you are introduced to the story and the characters with some challenges, but then there is a new, strange challenge. It adds suspense and even a little fear into it. The ending was a bit confusing, and I reread it to make sure that is how I read it, but again, it's so great. It is so much like something Stephen King would write, and I love it a ton. I highly, highly recommend this short story to anyone who likes thrillers, suspense, and is a fan of work like Stephen King's. I love how the entire thing wrapped up as well. Justine Avery did such an amazing job weaving this tale.

Even though this book confused me and left some questions I had unanswered, it was still an engaging read. It rocks your expectations along the way and if you're not paying close attention, you will probably be shocked by the end.

The main character faces the realization of certain death and it changes him from the inside-out. You are shown how within a week, you can become a dramatically different person. The main character "Trevor" goes from being a total pushover into a man and everyone in his world gets affected by it in different ways.

Avery paints very vivid pictures of thrilling bike rides through the rocky canyons and the inner feelings of all the characters throughout the story.

The mystery of it all, the artistically descriptive writing style, and watching how the characters handled this encounter with an inevitable "end" was enough to keep me reading all the way through.

So, turns out GoPros can be freaking freaky.

This is almost exactly the type of ghost story I love to read! Is he or isn't he? Also, as a cyclist obsessed with injury, or potential injury, I found this book to be particularly haunting and creepy! Either writers integrate technology into scary stories really well or really awful. Avery does a good job! I'm sure creepy stuff is captured on GoPros constantly. And that isn't too much of a spoiler alert if you want to read a short, creepy piece!

The story is short and reads in a heartbeat because it flows like real life dialogue, much like other stories by Avery that I've recently read. It's like watching a television show. What's more, I think it's super interesting that the writer focuses on the male perspective in this book because the wife's reactions are pretty stereotypical. That's mostly why I withheld the last star. All that aside, you can tear through this book in one night and you'll likely want to.

"The End" was an unexpected great find. Considering it's a novelette and relatively quick read, it was a pleasant surprise the extent to which it captivated. Justine Avery has a fantastic flow with her prose and builds descriptive imagery in a short amount of time. Character build, twist-ending, and thought-provoking. She doesn't need to provide more details, you're able to see where she's going and make your own assumptions.

Shocking!

I was hooked from the beginning! What I love about these short stories is when you get hooked you don't have to worry about coming back later! You can finish them then and there! This book took my expectations to a completely different level. I couldn't have foreseen the twist at the end and I was shocked. This is one of the best short stories I've ever read.

At first, it seems as though Trevor is living a boring life. He is a loving husband with a child on the way. However, things aren't as they first appear. We follow Trevor as he discovers the truth, and ultimately decides to do what's best for him. I have to admit, at times I was extremely frustrated with the story and almost gave up on it. That being said, I absolutely loved the way it ended.

This is my favorite book by Justine Avery that I have read so far. It was well written for the most part. The plot was exceptional, and kept me on the edge of my seat. As I read it, I felt my emotions were riding that bike in the canyon. This book had me guessing until the very end.

Amazing!

I thought that this book was an exciting, titillating read! The mystery surrounding Trevor's life and his actions really kept the pace of the book going and created intrigue. As a reader, I was hooked on the book from the first few pages because of the author's fluid writing style. The book will leave you asking questions and wanting more, and the author does an amazing job of keeping the reader engaged in the story. The main character is developed nicely and has several personality traits that I recognize in my own friends and family. The reader will understand his motivations and will want to learn more about his life, especially after reading through some of the plot twists! There were several twists and turns, and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in a good read!

I thoroughly enjoyed The End, and couldn't put it down until... the end (sorry). From the first word there was a feeling of mounting dread because, despite the exciting and/or mundane events occurring, I knew that something terrifying was coming. I had to reread the last few pages to fully take in what happened, and I think it's open to interpretation to some extent, while still providing a satisfying conclusion to wrap up the ongoing mystery. If I could, I'd tell readers to avoid reading anything about the story ahead of time, including the description, blurbs, reviews, etc. but even if you do, you'll enjoy the ending.

There's a lot to identify with here, from doubts about impending parenthood, to loving yet strained relationships, to the drudgery of being a cubical drone. Trevor's wife could have easily become a one-dimensional stereotype, the nagging housewife, but there was more to her than that, and more to their relationship than what appeared on the surface. And while Trevor was far from an ideal husband or worker, I wanted things to work out for him (in one way or another). I also enjoyed his friendship with Neil, and the way they pick on each other but are always supportive, which felt true to life.

A real surprise

One of the things that I truly love about a story is the surprise factor. If I ended up being surprised, then it’s definitely a good read. This is one of the books that gave me the goosebumps because of the unexpected twist in the end. I loved it the way it made me feel surprised because I just didn’t see it coming! Apart from that, I found the writing interesting. It wasn’t that 100% flawless and there were some little improvements that were needed to be done but as a whole, it didn’t fail to capture my interest as most of the things were decently described. I also loved how the story left me kind of emotional because of how amazing the main character was. I believe this is one of the books that everyone should pay attention to. It was a quick and easy read and it somehow teaches life lessons. Totally worth it!

"The End" is a tale about Trevor's haunting path to self-discovery thanks to an omen, a vision of his own death. Action packed with plot twists and turns, "The End" is another example of author Justine Avery's ability to create a short story that's able to suck her readers in and send them on a roller coaster of emotions in a single sitting, that will leave them breathless and begging for more. Beautifully written, superbly executed, "The End (a Novelette of Haunting Omens & Harrowing Discovery)" is aptly named and a short story you shouldn't miss. If you like twists and suspense, this will be a book you will find yourself recommending to other readers for years to come.

"The End" by Justine Avery is a storytellers story. Rich description throughout is meant to overwhelm the reader while it discreetly grabs them by the imagination and sends them head first into a tale full of twists and turns they won't see coming let alone be prepared for. To be successful, suspense stories must be able to do just that and "The End" does this and so much more. Justine Avery is a master at the short story, aptly able to take control of the experience she has presented and give you a thrilling ride in a moment of time. Very few authors can accomplish this in the medium of a short story. Justine Avery does it with ease. "The End" is a gripping tale about an adrenaline junkie who is given a glimpse at his own future when his GoPro helmet cam records his own death. What he does with this information and how he deals with the premonition is… well… read the story. Highly recommended!

‘The End’ is a great book if you want to just pick up a book one evening and want a little bit of mystery and intrigue. With the book being relatively short, the author does a great job of pulling you into their world and making you invested in the events that unfold. One of the key strengths of this book is the way that the author makes you care about all the characters involved, so that by the end you really do care what happens.

My only critique would be the ending, I won’t say too much so not to spoil it for you, but I found the it to be a little rushed and, although it is a mystery book, I felt like the reader deserved a little more explanation and closure than they got.

However, the ending still works and it definitely doesn’t take away from the rest of the book. If you have a spare afternoon or evening I would recommend sitting down and giving ‘The End’ a read.

Unexpected twists in an incredibly engaging novella

This is the second book I’ve read by Justine Avery, and her writing style drew me in just as much as before. She is so descriptive that I feel as if I can see through the main character’s eyes. It’s also incredible how, in one small novelette, Avery can develop complex character with such relatable trials and emotions. In this story, she follows the seemingly mundane life of Trevor, whose escapism through freeride mountain biking leads him down a very unexpected path. This book is full of twists and turns, keeping you wondering what will happen next until the very last page. I definitely recommend The End for a quick read that will leave you pondering long after.

Fascinating, unexpected, and addicting!

The End is another short novellete by Justine Avery that deserves major recognition. Avery has a very unique talent of describing events, characters, and emotions in the book in a way that captivates readers into feeling as if they are living the life of the main character. Along with the extraordinary imagery throughout the story, The End hooks the attention of the reader by offering a plot line that develops into something completely unexpected. By the time the twist in the story's plot is revealed, the emotional ties to each character are present which creates a strong reaction to the unexpected plot toward the end. One of the greatest strengths of Justine Avery is the way she is able to create such depth in her stories with only a limited amount of pages. She truly has a gift, and The End is no exception to her list of wonderful stories.

This story is unpredictable, in a good way. At first I had my doubts, but when the action starts it's amazing how it catches you. The protagonist lives a normal life, he is a good father and a good husband. On weekends he likes to ride his bike, as is usual these days, he use a gopro to capture video, but he discover something in the video that change the story.

It is has a lot of twist and turns. Great story.

The Process of Dying: A Meta-physical Approach

What a piece of intense literary testament of a dying process previewed. ... This novelette's theme is preparing for death that feels like dying, leaving nothing to fear, only a sense of tranquil readiness. ... To be read with true understanding. Five Stars!

This short novella is built upon continually increasing the suspense and sense that something is coming. You might not know for sure what that something is, but you are certain that it is inevitable. Trevor is a quiet, unassuming man who believes in doing his duty by his family and he persists in a boring, tedious job because it helps him provide for his family. On the weekends however, Trevor turns to Mountain biking the rough terrains and records each ride diligently on his GoPro. One ride turned out to contain a harrowing event on the feedback camera and Trevor races against time to attempt to prevent it. If I say any more than this I’d be giving too many spoilers. I would say that this novella is a great little escape, the ending is certainly unexpected and worth it. Writing style is very good and I am looking forward to more from this author.

Like any other reader I love a good plot twist. Honestly this author Justine Avery keeps me on my toes. Her work is just so exciting! Although this is a short read it still keeps you entertained. Sometimes I wonder if short stories can keep me wanting to continue to read it and whether or not they actually have a plot line that is still amazing. But, The End has just proved me wrong. This is a definite must read. I look forward to reading more work from this author!

Great read! Lots of interesting twists and a few surprises. Would recommend for a quick entertaining read!

Wonderful Read

The writer's voice is immediately engaging and sets the tone for an incredible ride that involves relationships, human emotions, and the decisions and thoughts that make us who we are. Avery's writing is beautifully moving and instantly connects the reader to her characters. The dialogue in particular is honest and real, and gets at the emotion of the story, which is a rare gift of writing talent in my opinion.

I highly recommend this read for anyone who would enjoy a short ride through a great human story and thoroughly satisfying ending! Avery has found a new fan in myself as a reader.

Justine Avery has found a new fan! I picked short book up and devoured it with a great amount of enjoyment. The writing is what got me hooked initially. Avery's language is perfectly paced and includes just enough detail to give the reader a lucid view from inside the main character's mind. The dialogue is an honest mirror of human love, emotional turmoil, and conflict, along with deep pain and courageousness. It is a very human story, but one with a great twist! I think that anyone who picks up this book to read it will be delighted by its warm sense of great storytelling. 

I highly recommend this book for any fan of good drama and vivid imagery. Takes you out of the ordinary and satisfies to the very end!

As you begin the story, it's hard to know what to expect but the descriptions pull you into the story as piece after piece unfolds for a surprising twist at the end! It took a while to feel connected to the main character but the conclusion was worth hanging on for! Four out of five stars!

Fast-paced and grabbing read!

I was very impressed with my first story by Justine Avery. 'The End' is a quick, fast-paced read, but it grabbed my attention right away! The ending gave me a bit of a shock, I was not expecting it at all! I don't want to give much away, but you will definitely want to invest time and read this novelette. I can't wait to read more from Justine!

Whoa, plot twist!

This book makes your mind wonder from the first page all the way to the last. This was a fantastic book that has a perfect build to a great ending

Couldn't put it down

The End: (A Novelette of Haunting Omens & Harrowing Discovery) by Justine Avery follows Trevor and his daily life, from his thrilling mountain biking, to his mundane office job that he can’t stand. To extend the excitement, Trevor records his rides. However, one night, when watching his recording, he is shocked by what he sees playing on the screen.

From the first sentence, The End: (A Novelette of Haunting Omens & Harrowing Discovery) hooks the reader in and will not let go. Avery has a brilliant writing style that is so descriptive the reader has no trouble at all seeing the beautiful landscape or feeling the range of emotions Trevor experiences as the story unfolds. The twists and turns in the plot keep the reader guessing and second-guessing themselves as they try to figure out what Trevor will do next and how the story will end.

Once I picked this novelette up, I did not put it down until I had read the very last sentence. Aside from having a mysterious and suspenseful plot line, this book also brought up many important issues in everyday life. Too many people follow a flat and humdrum path through their lives, never taking risks. Keeping our heads down and trudging along, many of us are blind to what is truly going on around us. Avery masters these important issues, while weaving them into an enthralling story line that had me at the edge of my seat.

I would recommend The End: (A Novelette of Haunting Omens & Harrowing Discovery) by Justine Avery to any reader. It is short enough for those with limited time to read in one sitting, and it is captivating and exciting enough to read over and over again. I promise, you won’t regret it.

WOW!! This one really keeps you on your toes and wanting to read more and more. Full of action packed twists, this story never leaves you hanging. Everything is perfectly describes from the characters to each scene. From the start of the book, it appears to be your normal plot of a guy who is happily married and have a baby on the way. But do not let that fool you. Before you know you are able to sense something is going to happen. However, that something is definitely not what you expected. This short novel brings in real life and trust issues. This novel will truly not disappoint and will keep you wanting more.

Justine Avery nails this ride!

Obsessed with this book! Avery writes with a fresh, contemporary perspective on a perennial theme of love, loss, and betrayal. She weaves many threads to create a heart-pounding, unpredictable race to the finish. As good as Wharton's Ethan Frome yet even more compelling. I highly recommend this enthralling,satisfying book.

I read, loved and reviewed this book, YOUR TURN

What an ending!!! I did not expect that at all!!! When a man with a horrible childhood is about to become a father himself, his entire perspective shifts as his wife is in her seventh month of pregnancy. With a lackluster job grinding him down all week he seeks out his only form of release, mountain biking. In a lushly described world, you can see through the characters eyes the mountains, trails, terrains. Just wonderfully written, with plenty of twist and a completely surprise ending! Loved it!

The End by Justine Avery is a compelling story about a man who is forced to make the most difficult decision of his life. Trevor loves getting out on the weekends and tearing up the sand with his mountain bike. It is one of the few luxuries he allows himself to have. Since he is living paycheck-to-paycheck and is expecting a child soon, he knows that he can not be blowing money on many of the silly things men his age buy. His bike is his escape, and the weekends is when he makes his escape. He goes out and records everything he does, jumps and turns and speed, with his camera. But, he has decided that he is not going to be wearing his helmet anymore. His friend warns him that doing so is a bad decision. One fall is all it would take to ruin or even end his life. Trevor doesn't heed the warning. Rather, he is focused on living life on the weekends and loving every minute of it. Until he checks the recordings of his latest outing and sees something he can not explain. Something that will haunt him for a long time. Something that shouldn't have recorded because it hasn't happened yet. Or is it destined to happen?

The End is a short read, but a good time. I liked the twist the author threw in and the way that it impacted the main characters. There is lots of foreshadowing in this story, and if the reader pays attention, he can actually figure out a lot about the story very early on. The narrative moves at a steady pace and pulls the reader in. The editing was done very well, and it has created a very polished final product. I look forward to seeing what this author can do with a novel in the future.

The End is thrilling and intriguing ride. The reader follows Trevor in his week of daily routine comprised of work and husband duties. All the while seeming unsatisfied with his life until Saturday. Saturday is his favorite day because it is all for him. He gets on his bike with his GoPro and spends the day riding. Only this Saturday was a little different upon review of his video he is shocked to find something that hadn’t happened to be appearing on the screen. It changes everything going forward for him. With small glimpses in what appeared to be a traumatic childhood and a possible unhappy marriage, or at the very least a disgruntled wife, Allison, the pieces begin to fall in place. I enjoyed the ride with Trevor to the very end. The twists and turns along the way just like the red dirt Utah road he loves to ride. Justine Avery does a fabulous job depicting the events endured by Trevor, his best friend Neil, and Allison. The depths of Trevor appeared to be well hidden secrets that he needed to come to terms with, and as it is revealed to the reader he seems to do just that. A bit of mystery wrapped up everyday life makes the book worth the read.

An excellent read. The story follows a familiar narrative, but poetic descriptions and careful use of foreshadowing elevate it into an entirely fresh experience. Interspersed with themes of escapism, The End: is tale of shifting perspectives. With slight adjustments in attitude, right shifts into wrong, cruel becomes gentle, and freedom becomes a prison.

The story begins with Trevor, an expectant father and avid mountain biker, who uses his weekly outings as a respite from the trappings of contemporary life and as a shield from the uncertainties of the future. With Trevor, the reader will experience a grand adventure in the guise of a simple life, an adventure that focuses on the very real fears and tribulations that plague the life of the average man.

Trevor proves to be fascinating character and an interesting man, but the true star of this book is the Justine's masterfully crafted prose. Her writing draws the reader in and illustrates the scene in a way that few books can. Her sentences and words support each other in a way that feels almost symphonic, allowing the reader to waltz through the narrative as the scenes swell and shift in tone, making for a very natural and fluid story.

It's a very fast read, and one I highly recommend. Next time you're on the bus, or waiting for a meal to finish cooking, take a moment to read through 'The End'. You won't regret it.

Packed with imagery, this short story is a great ride

Readers will feel every jolt and bump of the bike as they ride along with the protagonist through the Utah scenery. And that is just the first chapter. Amazing depth of character for such a short novella, suspenseful and surprising with a whole lot going on. On the surface, a man caught up in mundania who escapes and feels wholly alive only on his bike on Saturdays. But the story is so much more than that. To say any more about the plot is to give it away. Read the book - fans of suspense, twists, vivid outdoor descriptions - this book has something for everyone. A great way to pass an hour or 2.

Unique, thrilling and exciting

There is a very good reason why tropes exist – they’re there because we understand certain storytelling conventions. It takes a fair level of mastery to play with these and produce a story that surprises and thrills and doesn't devolve into cliches and obvious plotlines. Justine Avery is a talented writer whose weird tale is filled with a sense of foreboding, a skewed look at reality and emotional bombs that hit you out of nowhere. This story is so full of surprises, details and twists that it’s very difficult to not write a spoiler-laden review, but do not let that deter you from this story. It isn't overloaded with plot points; there are many, but they weave like a delicate spider’s web, each strand vital and necessary to the story. The twists and leaps are relentless, but not exhausting; they are what make the story exciting and gripping. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more of Justine Avery’s work.

One could easily presume that a novelette simply cannot comprehend complex and somewhat mythical story, especially if that story has a surprise ending. But if we read The End, we will see that it only takes roughly eighty pages (Kindle Edition) for a great book.

So what is it all about? Our main protagonist is a man named Trevor. Well actually, his wife (or girlfriend, man) Allison could also be considered as one of protagonists, but Trevor was a character who was on a bike ride and a character who discovered something on his Go Pro camera.

There are some truly magnificent writers. Writers that know how to attract their readers and writers who know how to say things they want to say and to send the message they want to send. I must say that I was a bit skeptic when I started reading The End. But fortunately, my skepticism was quickly overrun with Avery’s story. It is difficult to write something and not say anything about the story and I do not what to spoil the plot. All I want to say is that if you love E. A. Poe and his style of writing, you will definitely love The End. If you like short and ‘sweet’ novels (actually novelettes), which successfully combine plot filled with surprises, suspenseful mood and developed characters you will definitely love The End. I know I did.

The End: ( a Novelette of Haunting Omens & Harrowing Discovery) by J. Avery was a surprise all the way around. The story pulls you in right from the start as Trevor prepares for and goes on a dirt bike ride in the desert. With great descriptions, and an intuitive sense, Avery creates a wonderful sense of foreboding. You just know something terrible is about to happen. While Trevor seems to be happily married, with a baby on the way, there is a lot more to his mood and demeanor than meets the eye. His job is boring, he had a dismissive yet wealthy father, and riding his bike is his only escape. He often records his sessions on his bike to make sure they are real, because these days if it has been filmed, it hasn't really happened. Therein lies the rub. His camera has recorded something terrible and Trevor must react. A very quick little novelette as described, this story will hold your attention until the fast paced ending.

This was not what I expected. Not in the slightest.

Holy crap, this week has been crazy for me, this is a phenomenal book, I can’t describe how much emotion I felt while I was reading it.

It’s been a while since I was left with this feeling of excitement when I finished a book, just by reading the description I was already feeling this would be a boring lecture session, but the outcome, the real story, was utterly amazing.

A father living a simple life, the one he could not get as a child, he immerse in his family and spent time being a good parent and husband, but on weekends he goes on doing what is the third thing he love the most. Of course every ride it’s recorded with his GoPro, and when he is checking the footage, he discovers something unbelievable.

This book is amazing, I really don’t want to share any details and spoilers in here so I tell you, you MUST read this book as soon as possible.

Unexpected and thought-provoking consequences

A twisted and convoluted haunted mystery novella, the denouement began in a manner I had expected, but quickly diverged into a new channel all its own. I appreciate the character evolution. An almost middle-aged corporate drone, soon to be a first-time father, product of a horrendous upbringing, has only one pleasure: the solitude of mountain biking in the canyons. When his GoPro videos a prediction, Trevor knows he must change predestination--or die trying.

The End is a story that has you hooked until the very last word. Living a mediocre life, Trevor lives for his Saturdays in the canyons; his place of escape, until a GoPro video changes everything. Engaging and shocking, twists and secrets abound!

This type of story is usually out of my usual interests where literature is concerned, but I'm so glad that I picked it up! Once I did, I couldn't put it down until I was finished. I love the way that the story unfolded, complete with what unexpected twists and turns, and found myself adoring these original characters. I will definitely check out more of Justine Avery's work, and I've already recommended The End to friends of mine.

The End, by Justine Avery, is the story of self-discovery, haunting omens, and a need for life. The plot follows Trevor through his day to day life, following the normal routines of an adult in society. But Saturdays are for adventure. The book's characters are relatable as they struggle to find happiness and stability. While following the simple side of life it also throws at you: hardships, relationships, past troubles, and strange and terrifying futures. The book builds up your suspense and gives you an ending that you cannot expect.

This book is quite different from anything else I have ever read. Even though it is a short book, a novelette, the author created a complex main character that makes you both sympathize with him and build a strong interest in what happens to him. Avery’s writing is beautiful and full of detail, which really makes her story come to life. The book as a nice pace that keeps you from being able to put the book down. I highly recommend this book as a quick read that sends you through a summersault of emotions. It is a book that can stand out for being unique and capturing life and the attention of the reader. I only wish there was more!

Trevor was stuck in a rut. His pregnant wife was pushing him to be something he wasn't. His only solace was his Saturday morning ride. Reviewing his latest ride ends up turning everything upside down. Trevor uses this opportunity to become his own person.

This was a well written novelette. I would highly recommend this read to anyone. It was a recommendation that was a departure from my usual, and I loved it. Avery masterfully pulled out all the stops. The characters were well developed as was the plot. Her writing also provided plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader interested. That final twist was a shocker.

It Was Amazing!

The twist ending had my gut twisting, begging for more. My only problem, is that I wish there was more. If there was a longer story and greater chances to connect with the main character, the ending would be so much stronger. That being said, the prose is excellent, written in a way where the language was not so flowery as to distract from the story but enough to paint a detailed picture. The exposition is neither forced or unnecessary. The story is paced in a way that the tension continues to mount and doesn't feel forced or boring in any way.

I have never read a book from this author before, and now, all I want to do is read more. Her writing style is beautiful, her plots are simple, yet the character development is beautiful.

Fantastic Story Full of Suspense.

I wasn't certain what I was expecting when I started reading this story but... I didn't get anything close. I want it to be longer, I want to know what happens now, what happens next. The charecters were real and you knew what they felt if not always why and that was what sucked you into it. Twisty turning... Great Story thanks so much for it and if possible... More Please!!

If you like suspense and twists, this is the book for you!

Usually when someone says “it wasn’t what I expected”, it’s a bad thing. Not this time, this is the first book I’ve read from Justine Avery, and it won’t be the last. I absolutely love books that make me feel like I’m going to miss something if I put it down, so I didn’t.

Trevor is just a nice guy, doing what he needs to, except on the weekends when he takes his mountain bike and tests his limits on some of the roughest terrain in Utah. Using his Go Pro, Trevor likes to capture his rides so he can relive them over the next week, until one Saturday, something totally unbelievable happens, and is there a way for him to stop what happens in the video. I’m not going to give any more away, you need to read for yourself and see why Justine may just be my newest, favorite author.

Let me start by saying this book caught me off guard! It really isn’t my “cup of tea” (lately I’ve had my head stuck in romances) but a friend recommended it to me and I’m so glad she did! I honestly couldn’t put it down and finished it way tooo soon. I will say Justine Avery writing is very detailed and really makes you picture what’s happening on each page.

Trevor is what you would call a boring nine-to-fiver during the week and an adrenaline junky on the weekends. The one thing he always brings along is his trusty GoPro to relive his rides and stunts. As he states, “if it wasn’t filmed, it didn’t happen”. As he was reviewing his latest ride, he comes across something he never expected and it changes everything! I don’t want to give away too much but… what I can tell you it is worth the read. I will be reading some more of Justine’s work very soon!

Great twist!

Shocker! I didn't see the twist at the end. I sensed something was coming, but wasn't able to guess what it was. That's difficult with today's books that seem to mimic plot twists and turns. This book was truly a refreshing spin.

This is an extremely quick read you can knock out in one sitting. It's refreshing to thoroughly enjoy a book even when it is so short. I will definitely be checking out more of this author.

Trevor starts off as your normal everyday guy until his Go Pro shows him something dark. He struggles and battles through his daily tasks and pregnant wife while he fights his uncertainties.

This short novelette by the extremely talented Justine Avery delivers instantly and takes you on the ride of a lifetime. Set in the dusty hills of Utah the main characters offer a glimpse into a mind unravelling right before your eyes. It’s a fresh slice of reading in a world full of cold pizza.

The End was a really good read, the descriptions of the area made you feel you were actually there. Very good twist in the story too.

Another amazing, detailed, entertaining story from this author. The attention to detail that goes into the writing is second to none, you really will feel like you are standing on the sidelines watching the story unfold.