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201 review is by sajida_ashraff on 11/11/21 - (Pakistan)



The story is a wonderful description of a romantic story that happens probably in a western country.

As a reader, it was never expected that any author in the western world can visualize such a deeply
romantic and sensual relationship between two people who has a huge age difference. We all know
that the West is a part of the world dominated by material and not of feelings. We can generally see it
in most of their relations how abruptly, easily and without any effect accept another person in their life.

The laws regarding the relation of parents and their kids after the age of eighteen show how lesser the
feelings of a person are ignored for the material position. Despite such social programming, depicting
such a strong and affectionate relationship in the novel would always be a surprise.

Another important feature of the novel is the description of the child and how he starts to worry about the
girl he loves. In the eastern world, relations are preferred over any other thing. There are several examples
of ancient romantic stories in the east like Layla Majnoon, Shireen, And Farhad, and many more that are
praised for their undying love and immense sacrifices. This novel seems like one of those folk stories.

The intense worry of the child for his girlfriend shows how the author has deeply presented the inner child
of the child. Keeping the nature of the affair in the mind, the psychological factors involved in such matters
are depicted in the form of scary dreams. Overall, because of the description of the novel, the story seems
appealing and compels even an ordinary reader to read more.

Apart from all these positives of the novel, a few things can be amended for more improvement. The first
of all is the title of the Novel. The title, Embryo Man does not seem a novel but a chapter from a scientific
book or journal. As it is a romantic story, the title does suit it at all.

The second thing is the introductory part at the start. Fiction has a structure. It includes an introduction, climax,
denouement, and conclusion. This is the general structure but mostly, the structure is not followed in this way.
Sometimes, a story can begin from the end or middle and later a flashback helps the author to introduce certain
characters or events. In this novel, right from the start, a small chapter is introduced that is often used in the
articles or essays. In stories, there is often some suspense to let the curiosity prevail in the minds of the reader.

Apart from these changes, there does not seem to be any flaw.

As literary critics say that fiction is always perfect as it depends upon the perception of the reader,
this novel seems to be a hot cake in the market.

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202 review is by juanarossie on 12/11/21 - (Mexico)



"The Embryo Man" is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

It involves a boy between the age of 9 and 10,
and an Indian girl in her matured teen.

I must say that the unique setting and plot of this story, which began
in the 1970s, play a significant role in the beginning of a romance.

The author, Charles Pendleton, used constructive words to bring
the possibilities of romance to life. If you read this book, you should
be prepared to be submerged in the world of a young 9-year-old boy
who is just beginning to build his own world of romance. The erotic
scenes are well fetched and written; if you're the type to be impatient,
you might find it offensive.

This piece fascinated me, and if you want to extract the facts from this novel,
you must not only read but also immerse yourself in the story. Imagine yourself
as the boy and his adventures along the way; you won't be disappointed.

Charles Pendleton wrote this book as a life experience, and it allows you
to feel a true life romance; I'm sure most of us have been waiting for this
one chance, and it's right here, all in "The embryo man."

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))




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203 review is by hind_kadiri on 12/12/21 - (Morocco)



There are always love stories, I've read and heard a lot, but this was the best.
"The Embryo Man" by Charles Pendelton is a unique love story based on his
life. A story that makes Charles and Harmony the epitome of true love.

I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to read it, truly. This
novel is more than just a romance book, but a true love story that will
make you believe and feel every part of it. Their love story was magical,
something that touched my heart, something beyond love.

This was my first vision after the first reading, it is general, because i used
to read books at least twice. I always say read once to see the picture, read
twice to be in it.I really really loved this novel, i will read it again to get
deeper inside of its events and to catch up if i missed something.

highly recommended.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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204 review is by lubainairfan_15 on 12/19/21 - (Pakistan)



The Novel “The Embryo Man” written by Charles Pendelton, is
an interesting and amazing story as I started reading, it takes me
directly to the 70s. All the descriptions are quite well, everything
was wrapped beautifully in the text that I completely lost in it.

"Love" everyone has a different perspective
for this word, everyone feels it differently.

This story is a mixture of love from a different perspective,
care, obsession, full of emotions of maturity and immaturity.
Pure feelings of first love in a child for a teenage woman
having a good age gap. After knowing about the feeling
woman also fall in love with the child purest intentions.

A lot of cute and naughty moments between two lovers, some
moments of exceptional happiness and some of the sorrow.
Stages of maturity and immaturity all indulged in one happening.

I had a lovely and joyfully experience while reading it. I'd definitely
recommend you to read this if you need something new and unique.

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205 review is by alinawalker24 on 12/22/21 - (United Arab Emirates)



The Embryo Man – An Out of the Box Romance
Novel Review (Not Your Outmoded Teen Novel)

It is exceptional when an author comes up with something out of the box
in the romance genre. Love, romance, passion, you name it, it all comes
in numerous shapes and forms. All of them are wonderful, but not all are
remembered. After reading The Embryo Man, I was awe-inspired and out
of words. It is definitely not your mediocre teenage romance novel that
gives every teen butterflies in the stomach.

Instead, it focuses on how a relationship is formed and its stages. It is raw
and will make you feel concupiscence and crave more. The Embryo Man has
broken all the norms of fanaticizing human bodies and over-sexualizing them
in a romance write-up and converged more upon the emotional state of being
in love with your significant other and how that feeling changes your life.

I embraced the fact that the story takes place on Staten Island. It is not
a popular place with much hustle and bustle that you would notice in an
influential city like LA. The world's unrelenting certainty is that the most
elegant love stories are always misremembered, like the lost Islands.
Not numerous people know about them, but they never cease to exist.

And that right there is the beauty of love. I relish how Harmony's beauty was
described while Charles was crushing on her in the novel. South Asian women
have not gotten much esteem regarding their outer beauty in classic prose, but
it is refreshing to see that changing in contemporary write-ups. I could sense
Charle's confusion about being in love throughout the novel, and it was much
amusing. It is because he has childhood traumas and comes from a vicious
background. His parents were always fighting when he was a child.

It was fascinating to explore how it can affect a child's panorama of love
altogether. Holding The Embryo Man made me realize how silly yet righteous
love can sometimes be.You never know where love will take you in your life in
the future. Here Charles was feelinginsecure about Harmony calling him a little
brother, and after a few years, he enjoyedchicken tikka masala and mango lassi
made by Harmony. Even though Harmony saidCharles appreciates her food only
because he loves her, deep inside, she knew Charleswould do anything for her
and never lie while looking into her brown eyes.

The poetry in-between the novel when Charles observed Harmony's beauty was
captivating and not less than magic. It could make anyone believe in love and
crave a profound sentimental kinship, along with setting them up for a journey
to find their soulmate. I would give it 5 stars without any doubt!

Love can do wonders and make you do the things you never thought you would.

The Embryo Man is full of goosebump flashes and awe-inspiring events. But the
fascinating part is that it is set up around how beautifully simple life can be if you
are with the right person. When you are spending the end moment of your life in
the arms of someone who was made just for you, there is nothing more you would
want in that precise second.

Even death would be gratifying and a flawless conclusion at that instant because both
of the divine souls have breathed. And they have breathed utterly and synchronically.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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206 review is by shreya_2001 on 12/23/21 - (India)



 The Embryo Man was an absolute treat to read! I came across this book
through endless scrolling, in search of a gripping romantic novel and I'm so
glad I found it. Pendelton has done a fantastic job with the entire flow of the
novel-there are no abrupt arcs and the entire story is as smooth as it gets.

Another thing I loved about this piece is the character development
of each and every person in the book. Be it the protagonist or just
some side character, the character development of each individual
in this book is something I absolutely loved.

All in all, a masterpiece and definitely worth a read!

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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207 review is by mahaqeel on 12/28/21 - (Pakistan)



This is what I have to say...

A remarkable tribute
By a lover, to his lover
To the memories together
To the suffering together

Mesmerizing tale of love
Forbidden, somewhere hidden
The farther you go on to explore
The deeper it burns inside your soul

How enchanting it was, to unravel this mystery
Heartbreaking as it was, to keep unfolding
How breathtaking it was, to have known Charlie
More so, how purely and truly he loved his Harmony

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208 review is by jihanekasbi on 12/29/21 - (Morocco)



The author knew how to put the feelings, fears, anticipation, and surrender
of a first love.

The characters are rich, the plot predictable, but enjoyable as the book was
around the 2 main characters Harmony and Charles. I felt like you have to fall
in love with the two main characters who are falling in love with each other.

There's just so much that I loved about this book, like I had a feeling
that I would like it because I'm a sucker for slow burn romance.

I love reading romance novels, but I feel like the market is overwhelmed
with overconsumed stories, where the girl/boy falls in love and they live
happily ever after. However, this one is quite unique.

The story takes us to 1970 in Staten Island that is a borough of New York City
where a fascinating south Asian gal moves into the house across the road from
Charles, who is beguiled by her allure and charm. In the process of a friendship,
Harmony was very responsive, they built a strong bond until friendship wasn’t
enough, that’s where it turns to an unconditional love.

I don’t want to give too much details about the book, because you got to read it.
One thing for sure, you’ll fall in love with Charles and somehow you will understand
Harmony’s perspective.

I highly recommend this book, if you’re looking for a romance novel with a story
that’s isn’t overconsumed.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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209 review is by avanigols on 1/1/22 - (India)



Not every story ended up happily
But Happy stories never ended

This beautiful & pure love story tells us about a very simple
thing of life "your innocence makes you beautiful".

Everytime you will read it that child's innocence will win your
heart like anything. He is just following his heart and not caring
for any damm thing in this world . That's what we call a pure love

Harmony realises the honesty of Charles as only a good heart
can feel another good heart . Somehow there feelings merged
into one & they were two body and a soul.

When you get yourself submerged into another world then you won't
feel lost or bored, your every moment will be new and exciting.

If you want to relive a beautiful love story with so many strong emotions
you must buy this book and read it cause unless you yourself feel that thing
you can't get that hidden beautiful meaning of life which lies inside it.

HAPPY READING !

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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210 review is by meghabohot on 1/2/22 - (India)



It's a very unconventional love story, but quite a beautiful one still.

The author starts by explaining his childhood and simple life, like
going school, playing with action figure, and all. But, it changes to
somewhat of a man’s approach when he sees the girl. It almost
feels as if the author is speaking to the reader. It’s very nicely
written and reading it was engaging and enjoyable.

This book takes reader in a place of sweet first love experiences,
to sensual feelings too. Also, it strikes a number of questions for
readers to challenge their concepts about love. I suppose this may
be a topic of controversy for some, but interesting concept for those
who would agree with it.

The erotic parts are amazing. It could very well, even capture
heart of those who may be against the idea of this book.

The story has just the perfect balance of sweet and sensual feeling to.
Such touching writing and concepts are seen here. The topics of feminism,
an abusive household and topic of how women feel in relationships and all
is great, reading it would be very thought striking for the readers.

Rest part of it is very erotic and will be very much enjoyable to the reader.
The ending, leaves a rather emotional feeling, reader can find it quite amusing,
because this is what makes story seem very real. It was a great story.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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211 review is by kadiri04 on 1/5/22 - (Morocco)



Truly, this book is so amazing!!!!!!

I've never read anything like this in my life,
and it left a beautiful imprint on my mind.

‘The Embryo Man’ was about two main characters, Harmony and Charles,
who fall in love with each other. And I fell in love with them both, because the
author knew how to put the feelings, fears, and surrender of the first love.

It is a real unique story with some very creative imagination.

I really appreciate the author's courage who dared to impart
a little love story to a young child (A small heart with pure love,
no demons and no evils) in the world of love.

I agree with the author that's truly something
neither read nor heard before in my life...

And I really love and respect the hard work and dedication of the author
who spend almost 17 years of his life to fully complete this piece of love.

I won't break the surprise that is hidden in every line of this book.
Which comes out of the emotions and feelings of the author...,
because I highly recommend it to you to read it. And believe me you
will love this book, you will fall in love with Charles and Harmony,
and somehow you will understand Harmony's perspective.

Thanks!
Regards!

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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212 review is by lakshmi_priya12 on 1/7/22 - (India)



Artistic, bold, and unconventional.

The Embryo Man is a bold attempt by the author Charles Pendelton of the love story
of Charles and Harmony. This story is set in the 1970s, and just like the author tells the
reader in the beginning, it is truly an unconventional story, and the reader should have
an open mind. The novel unravels an intense and sophisticated romance between a
child, which is Charles, and a teenager, Harmony.

It is unlike any other romance novel where one has to keep an open mind throughout
the book as the love expressed by these two people transcends many typical categories
of our current world. While reading the book, I got to ask myself how would romance be
without all the boundaries that are predetermined as unwritten rules and/or written rules
in our modern society and how we would truly perceive and give love. Honestly speaking,
the book did make me uncomfortable in a lot of instances because the author has explored
and stretched the boundaries of the love we perceive in today’s circumstances.

But, I cannot say that the love expressed is somehow “dirty.”

Also, since the story is set in the 1970s, it is a refreshing and nostalgic experience while
reading the book. I understood we could never go back to a time like that as we have
completely delineated from the past. Expression of love at that time was certainly much
different and rather intimate I would say as I relished the exchange of letters between
Charles and Harmony. On the other hand, the story also explores the interaction between
two completely different cultures.

Although being a little boy, Charles truly has the mind of an adult. This puts Charles as well
as the reader to experience this contrast of having mature thoughts in a child’s body. We can
see the dilemma that Charles has when he navigates through his relationship with Harmony
as he has such intense, erotic, and sensual feelings, yet he is still a little boy. It really took me
aback how Charles had a deeply felt and should I say divine love toward Harmony.

The expression of Charles’ love by the author was indeed poetic and artistic.

The novel takes us through a roller coaster of emotions, and the story ends with a tragedy.
Sometimes, it made me wonder whether is it possible for a child to experience such a vast
range of emotions, or have we repressed emotions due to standards of society? I appreciate
the courageous attempt of the author in expressing such a controversial take on love and
emotions. I also thank the author for letting me read his book, and I had a wonderful experience.

Overall, the novel is unconventional and authentic and lets you explore your beliefs. It stretches the
boundaries and limitations in expressing love and is something unlikely in any other romance novel.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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213 review is by salmalazrak on 1/7/22 - (Morocco)



The Embryo Man by Charles Pendelton is a romantic book that introduces the
reader to the author’s epic love story with Harmony throughout the 1970s.

For readers who are interested in this book, you should brace yourselves
because this book will take you through a rollercoaster of emotions. I admit that
when I started reading the first chapter, I expected this book to border on typical:
childhood friends falling for each other and having their happily-ever-after.

I was wrong.

However, I have to say that the uniqueness of this story borders on uncomfortable,
especially when it comes to the erotic scenes. I'm a big fan of erotica, so it's not the
erotic part that I have a problem with, but more like the explicitness of it considering the
main character's age, and that the narration is from a kid's point of view in those scenes.

Other than that, I can say that this book was fun to read.

I found scenes where Charles did his best to impress Harmony to be very cute. I also
liked that their relationship had evolved at a considerably slow pace as I'm a huge fan
of slow burn romance novels. The ending was very unexpected, which was intriguing.

It's not often a romantic book catches me off guard.

One last thing I may add is that I really loved the author's writing style.
It was easy to understand and yet not too simple to call it boring.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 3-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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214 review is by ckrishcrv on 1/9/22 - (India)



This fabulous and mesmerizing book 'The Embryo Man', packed with happiness,
agony and love, takes us on a journey to the 70s and gives us a real-time experience
of living in that era.

This writing is like a precious treasure of memories–something that can only be
perceived–which not everyone would try to share. These indescribable memories
and feelings are generally cherished in one’s dreams and carried till one reaches
the grave. I am sure many would be able to relate to this love story and would
appreciate the author's courage to reveal it to the world through his book.

The title of the book is apt as it shows how a small boy, who is both lucky and
unlucky to have experienced this love with varied emotions at a very young age,
matures through his love. Harmony, the love of his life, has come back to life
through this perfect and brilliant cover page. The author shows his skill in rendering
the fleeting moments of life. This is a poignant reminder of the transient time, and it
leaves a deepening furrow where no one has ever been before.

The beauty of Harmony has been very elegantly depicted, which makes one imagine
that such a woman really exists, more so in the context of Indian traditional women.

The description of Harmony does instil in one’s mind the need to revisit in dreams,
making it worthy to be shared and understood. The significant aspect of the beauty
mark below the left eye has added more flavour to her complexion. The gratissimum
leaves the readers more astounding throughout to know how this journey of love ends.

The author has penned down this brilliant piece of art depicting the true meaning of love
and its purity, rendering this directly from his soul. As I was reading through the lines of the
book, joy filled my heart and also tears welled up in my eyes continually. Calling it just a love
story would be underrating it; it is the author's life that has come to reality through his choice
of suitable words reflecting his emotions and excruciating pain towards the end.

Harmony may have left this physical realm, but she will remain immortal in the hearts of
all through this masterpiece. The love portrayed is beyond religion, age, culture, time and
imagination, and Charles has proved that love exists and lives on even after death.

Reading this book is an absolute delight and truly deserves to be read, not just once!

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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215 review is by shanaiya99 on 1/9/22 - (India)



 The Embryo Man by Charles Pendleton is in no way an ordinary book.

Written as a memoir, the author seamlessly joins the past and present to
transports the reader to another place and time made hauntingly beautiful by long
cherished memories. An unconventional book with an original story, the author
doesn’t subscribe to clichés but retells his own story beautifully and uniquely.

Snippets of a time gone by, the author leaves the reader reminiscing as the
author details his childhood neighborhood, memories of his family, the collapse
of his parent’s relationship and even how the weather oscillated. Pendleton skillfully
recreates a world where everything was simpler. A world where technology doesn’t
reign supreme keeping us captive in a prison of our own making.

The Embryo Man is an amalgamation of journal entries, notes and memories of
the past. Told from the perspective of a child, the book draws the reader in with
the author’s musings, both as a child and as an adult. It tells the tale of a young
child’s mental, emotional and spiritual journey once he meets the love of his life.

At a young age, Pendleton details how he met his soul mate – Harmony.

Overcome with adoration he befriends her and over the course of a few years their
friendship blooms further. As the author gets closer to Harmony they form a bond
that is insurmountable to the outside world. She teaches him the intricacies of the
female mind and advises him on how a man must display his love for his partner.

As their friendship turns into a relationship, Pendleton explains how Harmony
teaches him the true meaning of love. The author attempts to grow and mature
into a man worthy of the love of his sweetheart. He is faced with the choice of
being an Embryo or a Man in mind and body and readily takes on the challenge
to mature into the type of man worthy of his love, Harmony.

Described as a love so pure no being within the cosmos could
tarnish it, the author writes wistfully in remembrance of his love.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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216 review is by shivi_puri on 1/10/22 - (India)



When I was offered to read this book, the first thing which intrigued me
was its title and I am sure it piqued interest in lots of other readers as well.

The embryo man at times is a lovely insight into a child's heart who has fallen
deeply into not just an ordinary love but a love that has obsession, passion,
innocence, and wildness altogether. At the same time, it is also a bit shocking
for the 'conservative' readers because there were no inhibitions that were kept
while writing this book. The author clearly has poured his heart out into writing
this book, into revealing to the whole world about his love, his relationship with
a girl who was older than her. I do wish that Charles's story didn't have such a
tragic ending rather it would have been amazing if these two wild lovers could
spend more time together and live their dreams as they desired.

Harmony came like a breath of fresh air in Charles's life.

I say this with the utmost respect because Charles's childhood was not a great one.
He was surrounded by parents who had continuously a broken marriage and in fixing
their marriage they forgot about their child their only child. Harmony, however, gave
Charles the love the attention which he deserved. In contrary to Charles's viewpoint
I do believe that Charles loved Harmony more than she may have loved him.

When Charles told me that this book should be read at the reader's own risk
I didn't pay much attention to it however as I dived into the book I understood
what Charles meant by it. If you are a reader who is looking for a book that
challenges your perception and your beliefs and which may start a war within
yourself you should go for 'The Embryo Man' undoubtedly.

Thank you Mr. Charles Pendleton for letting the world
into your private space and giving a peek into your life.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 4-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))




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217 review is by piya05 on 1/11/22 - (India)



"Pure love is rare to find and Embryo Man is filled with it - Fell in love"

Love comes in all shapes and sizes and can happen to anyone at any age,
and "The Embryo Man" written by Charles Pendelton is the biggest and the
most beautiful example of this.

The story begins with Maya (Charles's girlfriend) finds his journal and as he puts it
in the books opens the pandora box that would change his life. The writer is careful
enough to warn us of what was coming because the story is somewhat controversial
since a young boy (7-8 years old) falls in love with a teenage girl much older than him.

Age difference is not a big deal these days, but we consider children to be very
innocent and hence might find it uncomfortable to see or read about them falling in
love, but I found the book to be very comforting and heartbreaking at the same time.

We know from the very start that Harmony has passed away and in spite of knowing how
the story is going to the writer captivated me to root for the young innocent lovers from
the very start. In the first Chapter Charlie meets the love of his life Harmony and is immediately
mesmerized by her beauty. The way this scene is described gave me goosebumps because it
is neither lustful not mature. The innocence of the child is kept intact by the writer and scene is
beautifully written. Harmony is elegant and tenacious but her past experiences with men have
given her some pretty nasty scars and the innocence of Charles helps her heal.

Charles immediately develops intense feelings for Harmony and struggles with them as he is
aware that there is a age gap between them that cannot be neglected. I was very impressed
with the way, the author has kept us inside Charles mind through out the book and helped us
see the world through his eyes. Harmony at first resists but eventually falls for Charles seeing
his tender heart and innocent love.

The love story goes through many ups and downs through the book and many instances it
is perfectly clear that the age gap is playing a huge part in their relationship and the most
heartbreaking scene in the book is when Harmony opens her heart up and accepts that she loves
him and wishes that if she was of age she would marry him. She wants him to be her husband.

Love last's forever but lovers don’t and this is described perfectly in the book. The book comes to
its end and Charles has to face the reality which he was running even when he didn’t know about it.
Harmony is diagnosed with cancer and for his well being she goes away from him and lets him have
his life. The pain in the author's voice is evident and scene is described perfectly. The story comes to
an end at a heart crushing yet very satisfying point and I had tears in my eyes when I kept it down.

The story has perfect pace and vocabulary. The author is very careful with his use of sentences
and always describes Harmony with love and respect even in intimate scenes.

The book, however, sometimes can make readers uncomfortable in the intimate scenes and
especially in scenes where Harmony dominates Charles by spanking him. Dominant and
Submissive relation is purely based on consent and the consent seem to be missing here
since the boy is too young to decide what's right and wrong for him, but Harmony's love for the
boy can be seen most times in the book which makes that part look weak and not worthy noting.

I would like to conclude stating that the author has done a marvellous job in bring out innocent
and pure love in all the turmoil. I fell in love with the book and would keep in my top favorite list.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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218 review is by suvechhamirkap on 1/15/22 - (India)



The book is one of its kind for me for I never ventured beyond light hearted romance
books and had similar taste in other genres. But it kind of forced me changed my
stereotypes and made me realize how stupid it was of me to stick to something the
society crafted to suit it and to make everything go according to its mechanism.

It declared war against so many things I considered true all my life.

I think it was definitely a good read, I would definitely be going back to some of the pages
where some literary and poetic inusuations touched my heart or sparked my interest.

I would be going back to read the childish moments you two had where everything
was so innocent and cute, whenever I’m feeling down. Yes, I prefer a love story that is
innocent. I really liked the sweet little things you did for her- like remembering her birthday
and buying her cards and flowers, listening to her patiently and never forgetting to shower
her with praises- I can assure you these are the things that can win most females’ hearts
(you got to exclude the gold diggers).

I didn’t realize the intensity of the taboo when I was reading the gratisssimum, maybe I was
too eager for my first order and overlooked it, or maybe I’m just too young and inexperienced
to have noticed this I thought I’m completely fine with inter-racial love stories and no matter
how big the age difference is, it’s not like I can’t be broadminded. But the real test of my broad
mindedness was just coming up. The book started off great but slowly when I saw the direction
it was going, like most people, I was horrified, disgusted and mortified. The love between a child
and a woman? But I couldn’t have been more wrong when I realized I was able to feel the feelings
the author is trying to share, and I almost forgot the inhibitions I had in the beginning. When I left
my stereotypes and went along the flow, I realized I am no one to judge when I experienced nothing
these people did. I’m just a viewer.

When I realized the child was so fascinated with the grown lady, I thought it’s okay and who didn't
crush on a handsome or beautiful older person when they were young? But it quickly turned into a
love made of elements more than adoration and affection.

The representation was smooth and touching.
The last two chapters were so artful and full of colors.

It is a masterpiece, the representation, the imagery, the events- everything. I loved the book till half
of chapter 4, my heart felt stifled and heavy reading the last 50-60 pages. It was like I felt the fear the
words told about, I felt the same anxiety the author felt but I also had that clarity about what outcome
was predestined. It was horrible, what you had to go through. I hope nobody faces a fate where they
had to live through the absence of someone they love so dearly. I can still feel the remnants of the
stifled emotions the author's words left in those last pages of the book. The book might have run out
in pages but it still continuing in my mind where certain events and phases play on their own. It was a
wonderful yet painful journey, full of shocks. There are some things that we were never meant to have.

When everything is going too well, it’s like the heavens can't bear the common folks' bright
happiness and rush to extinguish it. Anyways, this is life. There's no other way around.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated ?????)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))


Hi Charles, when I started reading the book, I recorded my
feelings and reactions to each chapter. This is how they go-

Ch- 1
It is fun and interesting. The author’s shenanigans and childish yet mature thoughts
are a delight to the mind. His interactions with Harmony are so playful and light with
a hint of hearty joy that all seem so comfortable and chill. Harmony is a really beautiful
woman and being from Indian descent, what else could be expected?

Ch- 2
He tried to be the adult Harmony needed by behaving like one ( aww so sweet ). Harmony
was lovely, kind, intelligent but very lonely. ( Charles was lonely too. He had no friends and
his parents had no time for him, except for work and fights. ) When he asked why she doesn’t
have a boyfriend, she answers she’s fed up with them, that they are uncaring and impatient
when she seeks the opposite in the person she wants to love. It seems like Harmony was quite
defensive and insecure and didn’t let the author in at first but eventually his wit and charm
allowed him to find a way in to weave into her heart.

His longing for Harmony intensifies so much that its unhealthy. He wanted her to remember him
while she was working, to sing to him, to kiss him. Each action of Harmony sent his heart fluttering
and longing for more. He thought it was called love. But Harmony kept treating him like her little
brother which hurt the him a lot and made him feel discouraged as he was not only attracted by
her beauty but also due to her personality, wit and charm.

Ch- 3
Symbolic dreams that reflected his inner desires and fears. We all have those dreams where
everything seems going to be against u and they usually happen when we are really insecure
and afraid of losing something we value dearly. The feeling of helplessness anxiety seeping
into your bones is not a good feeling.

He feels indignant and dissatisfied with the norm that says that a perfect man definition is on
a whole different level than what the author is presently. He says the only thing that makes
two people perfect for each other is the love between them which I find to be quite true.

Ch-4
It’s really astonishing that the author being so young takes so much care regarding the birthday
card as his anxiety continues to spike the whole day so he prepares for every possible thing that
could go wrong and thinks of ways to sneak it under his parent’s notice without any repercussions.  

I really like how the element of change with time is portrayed so perfectly, with required amount
of nostalgia and lament. The author realizes many things in his journey with Harmony due to her,
faster than his peers. He credits Harmony for this. Such a gentleman is rare to have who isn’t eager
to gobble up all the credit for himself, who praises and spoils his lady to the heavens and even has
the patience to hear her out. Sigh!

I think Harmony had her own psychological problems to deal with.
That’s why she had such mood swings.

Any customary ritual or body purification I would have gladly undergone to be accepted in the eyes of
her parents and adored as their own, but nothing I could do, or say, or even think, could ever change
the fact that I was different from her. –

Indian parents have such a mindset that is almost impossible to change. Though child marriage was a
common thing till the early 2000s, but it was the other way around- the man being much older than the
girl child. The age difference can be as big as 50 years and the girl child can be as young 2 years old.
In your case, if her parents had gotten any whiff of what was going on, they would have thought it was
so blasphemous that they might have gone as far as disowning her, considering how liberal they are
judging they haven’t forced her into marriage until then.

The pain the author faces when harmony’s relatives came to visit her and he wasn’t able to spend much
time with her and the humiliation for not being chosen over her relatives and the betrayal and the implication
that harmony might be ashamed of him just broke his heart. He was still a little boy and still he tried his best
to behave like a grown up in such a situation. He even says he was going live in that miserable state just
after a few years due to the events that unfold in the future. My God, that’s a horrible fate.

Ch- 5
I think he has one of the most colorful dreams a person can have. Such bizarre incidents
happen that I can’t decide whether to laugh at their incredulity or marvel at their uniqueness.

Wow so many Indian references! Feels good to see someone loving our culture’s food.

Ch- 6
Oh my God… poor Harmony, I’m so sorry she had to experience that. No girl deserves such a fate.
Some men are just such beasts in human hide. There is nothing I detest more than a person who
uses his or her strength against someone who is physically weaker than them. I detest bullies, the
husbands who beat their wives and the parents who beat their kids. They are such despicable people.

Ch- 7
This is giving me mixed feelings. The effect the mushrooms have is a little too much like drugs.
It scares me yet I couldn’t stop myself from wishing to have such an exotic experience myself.

Ch- 8
Oh so this is how the title of the book came to be- The Embryo Man! Amazing!

It feels like for him to grow up faster, Harmony gave up her years to fulfill his wish. The light left from her
to reach him. Watching Harmony so lively and cheerful in all the chapters until now, it feels so miserable
to see her so sick and weak. It feels like someone I knew so well was becoming withered in front of me.

Epilogue
I hate this part. This is because I felt the anxiety the author felt, my heart felt stifled and even though
I could already guess the outcome, my heart kept coming up with excuses to deny the obvious. I too
wondered how lonely she must have felt to be on her own when being so sick that moving around
becomes difficult. This chapter made me cry. But I can’t help but feel like this is the most fragile part
of the book. I still remember how the journey started, I never wanted it to end this way.

The symbolic dreams made it so much more haunting. I feel miserable for Harmony,
bad for the author and this leaves me scared to love anyone so deeply. I ask myself,
“Can I bear such departure of someone I love so dearly?”

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219 review is by sohinix on 1/18/22 - (India)



Based during the 1970s 'The Embryo Man' by Charles Pendelton is one of those books
that snags your attention from the very beginning of its plot. Reading the Gratissimum
grabbed my interest with its writer's extremely well versed and inspiring writing style.

The book is structured so that I was presented with vivid images of the events with every
minute detail it describes throughout the entirety of the book. It's storyline is one you don't get
to read every other day in the genre of Romance. It's terrifyingly real and tragically excellent.

Standing high on the alter that proves love really has no barriers, 'The Embryo Man' takes us
deep into the journey of Charles, the writer himself, as a young boy. As I delved deeper into
the young boy's innocent world where he falls for an women much older than his tender age,
a different language of love was introduced my way. The young love of a six year old child
when reciprocated by his older love interest, it told me a tale that was unconventional but
with beautiful narration full of true love, affection, insecurities, eroticism and tragedy.

In society's standards, some might find the story disturbing, as it presents not only emotional
but also physical intimacy between two innocent lovers who are so in love that they break many
barriers in their love's wake. It doesn't just skim through one's feelings of love but rather describes
the whole sweet, enthralling process that love is. Although, the feelings the book talks about are
all felt by rather young individuals, the book reflects the writer's maturity even at such an age with
how deeply and wholeheartedly he deals with his ever growing emotions for Harmony, his neighbour.

Just the right amount of peek into Charles' own family life also indicates how his parents' marital
conflicts affects the young boy who ends up finding the affection he craves from his older neighbour.

The mention of every other character in the story plays an essential role joining the story to its reality
touched roots. Although, unique in its own right, the story is based on a simple plot but with such an
intense emotional journey full of growth that some may find it hard to digest. In my personal experience
of reading the book, I found that it was not a story I would have been able to take in in one sitting.

I had to stop at several parts and continue after few hours of intervals, just to understand the events better.
I did grow a bit uncomfortable when going through its physically intimate sections as the knowledge that this
story is very much a real happening played a role in driving me closer to the characters in a strange way.
The ending of the book had me fall into an emotional state as I felt Charles' loss in my very heart. It was
like waking up from a beautiful dream that could only exist in a world far from this rule-bound one.

Harmony's death was an unexpected tragedy that somehow managed to intensify the whole
experience of reading the writer's personal thoughts in form of well arranged words. I have
felt the insecurities of a young child about his age gap with his lover, the glorious feeling that
innocent love is, the fear that creeps into your mind at the thought of losing such love and the
permanent scar of sadness that losing one's love leaves behind its wake.

This book was a wholesome experience for me; one that has left an impact on my own life
with the writer's views now staining my own.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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220 review is by meenaansari on 1/20/22 - (Pakistan)



The "Embryo man" is a mesmerizing blend of tender romance, delicate emotions
and teen-age hardships in love. The novel has the autobiographical element
because it represents the real life story of the writer, Charles Pendelton.

The protagonist of the novel is a young boy who intensely loves an Indian girl
named Harmony. His innocent affection melts the heart of the beloved who is
already wounded by her past love life. The writer has beautifully portrayed their
bond as a mix of fervent feelings, sweet joys, uncertainties, hurtful twists and
painful disunions. The story is carved in such a captivating way that readers
feel to have lived and rejoiced the experiences of two young lovers.

The tone and diction of the entire novel is very fine and subtle. . The dialogues
are powerful, crispy and enthralling which deeply reflect the intense involvement
of two main characters. Charles is seen highly fond of Harmony's caring nature
because the young boy himself is soft-hearted and kind.

In the character of a young boy who endeavours to seek amour of his beloved, the
writer implies that love is the basic want of human being. When a little boy discovers
his puberty bloom, he naturally becomes the seeker of a true, secured love. Charles
is that young, passionate lover who is ready to do anything for Harmony.

The novel has a classical and philosophical literary style in the romance genre.

The writing is garnered with real human emotions and style is highly sublime.
The novel represents a classical and philosophical literary style in the romance
genre. 'Detailing' of scenes has been a distinguished feature but at the same
time, some part of the novel seems to be excessively elongated.

The "Embryo man" as the title suggests, depicts the feelings and 'metamorphosis'
of love life of a young boy. His pure feelings 'hatch out' from utmost purity and
develop to the fullest in a very dramatic way.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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221 review is by cmgovender on 2/4/22 - (South Africa)



** spoiler alert ** The Embryo Man is a heart-warming and unconventional
true story about a young boy’s first love. Charles Pendelton falls head over
heels for his enchanting neighbour, Harmony, at six years old and recounts
the tale of their relationship in this memoir with over 40 years of hindsight.

Readers will journey with the pair as they navigate the
passions and challenges of a secret (and illegal) love affair.

Pendelton is a skilful writer. The language he uses is beautiful and his
descriptions are vivid. The story pacing is fast enough except for the
occasional scene that seems to drag on, such as some dreams. The
unique story gripped me from the beginning and kept me invested
in the well-developed characters of Harmony and Charles.

There may be some common themes and/or tropes that are found in
romance novels, such as the secret romance, but I have never read a love
story like this before. The Embryo Man is a hard novel to put down because
it is so unconventional. One cannot imagine what lies on the next page.

Definitely an excellent novel to pick up if you are looking for something you
have never read before, but be warned, this story is rather controversial.

Although Pendelton has gifted us with a rare quality of steamy scenes, the 12 year age
gap between Harmony and Charles, and the fact that Charles is still a child at the time,
left me feeling queasy rather than breathless. The introduction and gratissimum cannot
fully prepare readers for the story they are going to digest. It is very real, raw and graphic.

The emotions will hit you almost as hard as the erotica,
all while challenging your morals and view of life.

Overall, The Embryo Man was an interesting read, but it’s not for everyone.

While I am glad I got the chance to read something so well written and unique, some
aspects of the story mortified me. It had the elements to make it great, but I could not
wholly enjoy the story, knowing that both partners were not consenting adults.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 3-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))





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222 review is by kanchanninawe on 2/8/22 - (India)



Writing and storytelling is such an incredible and powerful art that it allows and
engulfs the reader to feel certain kind of emotions and this book has again proved
it right. It is one of those books which has an extremely captivating story that it is
hard to keep the book down, but it is also not one of those usual love story that
you come across everyday. The book is unique in its own way and the story lives
in the mind and heart of the reader even after you finish reading the book.

Author has an interesting style of writing that the reader stays hooked until the end.

Though in second quarter it feels like it is bit stretched and portions feel repetitive
in some manner, the writing is engaging and captivating. The literature is easy to
understand and the sensual scenes are so incredibly and beautifully described.

The joy and happiness of being in love with your soulmate and the agony of parting
away with them, such strong emotions and pain which are hard to describe in words
can be felt through the writing, true love can be felt through the writing.

True love has no boundaries. Breaking the barriers whether its age, race, religion,etc.
that the patriarchal society has forced upon, this book makes us rethink 'Whom should
we love?'and 'How should be loved?', because after all love is love.

Pointing the patriarchal attitude of men towards women and how it has a drastic
impact, right for equal partnership, dignity and respect is brushed upon. A strong
woman character is honestly presented and her demanding equality whether it is
in having control or partnership in love is inspiring.

This heartfelt slow-burn romance left me in tears and I felt grateful to have read
this book. I hope everyone gets to read this piece of art and feel the love.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((No rating is given)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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223 review is by suhanyo_0 on 2/20/22 - (India)



this book has been a rollercoaster ride for me i started reading and was pretty
surprised knowing its about a young boy falling in love with a grown woman.

i anticipated it to be about unrequited love but when harmony reciprocated the
writer's feelings it made me a bit uncomfortable to be honest because for me
the age difference and the writer not being an adult was quite disturbing but as
the story progressed and the beauty it was written with i was hooked.

Though at some points the timeline gets a bit confusing as the writer is writing from
his old journals and memories, it was portrayed beautifully. I actually got a slight hint
of the climax because of the sense of foreboding i was feeling but it still shocked me
and made me cry so much the love they shared was truly the purest of loves and i
truly hope no one has to go through the pain the writer went through because even
if i can never understand what the writer experienced, it awakened some fears in
me of losing my love and i cannot even in my worst nightmare imagine to lose her.

In conclusion this book was something that made me question my morals, the line
between whats right and wrong, whats the meaning of true love and overall life.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 4-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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224 review is by saipriya191 on 3/5/22 - (India)



THE EMBRYO MAN written by Charles Pendelton is mentioned as author’s story .
It is a unconventional story where young child Charles first crush harmony turns in
to love of his life . It is well written story of innocent young boy experiencing true love
and going through all the emotions involved . It is has young boy struggle to impress ,
satisfy ,love the girl unconditionally . which is not just happily ever after story but it
has to face the social norm’s , society , age barriers , true love , fear , lust , jealously
and even pain , agony which comes with separation forever .

It takes place in 1970’s where a young boy Charles intrigued by the new neighbor
harmony was keen about meeting her . The first meeting of the them led Charles like
her and just to be close to her he offered to be a friend and harmony graciously agreed
and journey has begun as friends . By the passed the bond grown stronger and Slowly
Charles has just started to love harmony in every possible . It was a struggle for Charles
to deal with his feeling as he couldn’t confess them . All he could do is flirt with her and
praise her whenever he could . When he was going through all this a bad dream did its part
which led to first kiss of harmony and Charles its then Charles confessed his feeling with
rolling tears with honesty and true love and that,s what harmony fell for honest and true love .

Charles was a young boy but far more mature , loving , caring . He could do anything for
his love but at times struggles with young boy and man’s mind . Days are passing they did
everything they could manage and do for each other , with each other and just being there .
They lived love in every possible way and hoping to live together officially in future and
getting old with each other but destiny has played its own game to separate them .

It is incredible love story of two pure soul’s . Every part of the story is well written and
well described with poetic approach . It has incredible explanation given about women
wants, needs, respect , love they deserve in harmony words to her prince Charles .

There quite good amount of dreams Charles go through are overly explained and discussed
that would make the reader turn pages to next . With less amount of dreams the story must
be much more crisp .

It’s a young boys love story written with utmost honesty , by Charles with gratissimum to her
beloved harmony . It explained how Charles fell in love , fought with fears , understood love ,
learning love through harmony with left him with true love for life with agony and pain .

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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225 review is by teodoraichim on 3/19/22 - (Romania)



As an avid reader, I have read many things in my short life: from thrillers to
adventures to horrors and beyond that. But nothing could have prepared me
for the emotions evoked by this book.

The way Charles Pendelton writes is trully a wonder, something you can only
experiece once in a life time. Everything feels so full of color, so real, so true,
that it almost hurts, and you dont even realize the moment you are stuck in its
vivid nets. To say this book is an emotional masterpiece is an understatement.

This is not only a love story.

What started as a childish crush turned into one of the purest and greatest love stories
I’ve ever read, one that transcented everything we know as humans. The emotions and
love felt by this boy were greater than what most adults will ever feel. I must admit, it
felt strange in the beggining, mostly because I just couldnt understand it.

Now that I’ve finished it, there is one thing I know for sure: that soulmates exist, and that
they are in the form of Harmony and Charles. Over its course of the novel I felt myself get
so close to the characters and their heartwarming story, that it felt like I knew them, maybe
like friends, or even like a part of myself I never knew existed.The way Charles describes
Harmony is so beautiful, and I know every women wishes to be looked at like this at least
once in their life. She takes over his life, his senses, his everything, and he cherishes and
respects her for it. His level of maturity is something I never seen before, and it just struck
me how good he was with her. I love how her culture and heritage is integrated in who she
is as a women and how it only makes her more beautiful in his eyes. Their happiness as a
couple is almost palpable, and its a joy to read about every of their moments together.

The thing that makes this love story even more tragically sweet is how even from the beggining,
everything was against them: age, ciscumstances, life, fate. Fighting it all, they found light in the
darkness, in a love story that felt doomed even since the beggining. As much as I hoped to see
the story come to a happy ending, life isn’t like this. We must accept the beautiful, the amazing,
the ugly and the real all at the same time if we want to be able to live as best as we can.

This book took my breath away in the most gorgeous way and I am happy I’ve had the oportunity
to learn from it. Its unconventional, bold, but this is what happens when an author just lets his mind
pour on the pages: you get to see everything and feel everything to the fullest, even its not what you
thought, even if you don’t like or approve it. Its poethic, full of metaphors that strike your heart and
it is different from whatever you will ever come across.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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226 review is by masoodbakhtawar on 4/13/22 - (Pakistan)



The embryo man raised tones of questions in my mind and gave me
much more than required answers to them as i got on with the book.

Charles pendelton has written with such devotion that such a taboo considered
topic was super intriguing for me. If i talk about the story itself is a very basic story
in the start, the starting phase of any love story. But as we get on with it we find
ourself glued to it, dwelling upon it all the time. I consider myself a slow reader
but the book had so much to learn from about love and devotion that all i did
for the past few days was reading it only.

The best part of the book were the dreams and how beautifully they linked to the reality,
the little hints of future we get to maze out of them were the most riveting thing to do.

The writer have the knack of combining ideas and contraints. And the beautiful
thesaurus used by the writer had me picturing Harmony's beauty at everytime
Charlie was mesmerized by it.

In short this is a book that some or we can say a major part of readers find to
be very bold and disturbing but as you read on and you must, you'll find the
beauty behind them and how such a disturbing thing can woee you out.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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227 review is by fleurnight on 5/10/22 - (India)



This is a story, which is what as a reader we are accustomed to and what we
usually seek out in books. But this is so much more, is what the author assures
us as soon as we begin The Embryo Man. In a move that is simultaneously jarring
and inviting, the author – or rather the author-voice – divulges his writing process
as well as what can be understood to be the personal details of his life.

Though the author-voice warns its potential readers about reading the book due
to what’s described as the “extremely controversial nature of the book”, it serves
to intrigue the readers more than dissuade them.

The story is set in 1970s Staten Island, where the narrator’s younger self first lays
his eyes on the enigmatic beauty that moves in next door. Though the story is about
young love, there are also glimpses of the innocent worldview and wonderment of a
child and their alluring imagination, soft glossy grandmother greetings, disillusioning
disintegration of a marriage, and the all-encompassing cigarette smoke.

At first, it seems like the “controversial-ness” of their love story comes from their different
race - Charles is White and Harmony is of Indian descent. But it is soon revealed that the
love story of the young boy and a teenage girl is not between a 10-12 years old boy and a
13-15 years old girl. Rather the protagonist Charles of a six years old child who becomes
infatuated with Harmony, an eighteen years old legally adult young woman.

This naturally has implications that might be uncomfortable for
some in which case, it is best to heed the author’s warnings.

Another note of significance is the time period and the perception of the narrator.

While it has only been five decades since the 1970s, the socio-political landscape
has tremendously changed. Hence, there are some ideas and expressions used
in the text – from the 1970s narrator’s perspective – that might not be considered
politically correct by today’s standards, mainly the exoticisation and the subsequent
otherness in the descriptors used for Harmony - her skin colour, the Mehendi,
lehenga, etc. Especially considering that the story is told from the child’s perspective,
it is best to readjust one’s expectations of what is considered ignorant.

After all, a child who grew up in 1970s Staten Island would be unaware of Indian
traditional clothing and would probably assume that henna is actually permanent tattoo.

The book is an amalgamation of “fictional” prose, the author’s narration, poetic verses and songs.
Different narrative voices are indicated by stylistic choices of standard, bold, and italics text.

The author’s writing style is dominated by purple prose, which I personally enjoy but may
not be everyone’s cup of tea. The pacing of the story is quite slow and each dress, place,
and emotion is described in great detail. But as the author himself warns, the book is
about appreciating the moments itself rather than getting anywhere in particular.

So, if you enjoy leisurely pacing and don’t mind slow-burn romances,
then this is the perfect book for you.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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228 review is by iqrabashir871 on 5/12/22 - (Pakistan)



‘The Embryo man' comes with a unique combination of the old and modern eras.
The magical world includes the adorable characters named Charlie and Harmony.
Undeniably, the story provides the most realistic vibes you will ever get. Once you
start the book, it will become hard to resist and leave it unread.

The journey describes an incredible relationship between both characters
regardless of age. Usually, the misconception of the age gap blurs out the love.

However, this epic tale has beautifully explained all human emotions. It begins from
the back in 2008. You may find it a bit unique, but that's why you will end up loving it.
Unlike other stories, it is a real-life story that explains the human emotions of a teenage
girl and young boy. The writer has written them in a journal called 'Harmony journal.'

Such a touchy feeling, right? That’s the beauty of this erotic book. The gratissimum part
is about the writer's obsession with harmony. While moving along the timeline up to 1974
will bring you back to the past. The reader will feel like living another life along with them.

What else could be better than a beautiful escape from the bizarre world?

So, Charlie lived with his parents and became a victim of love at first sight when he saw
harmony. The exotic Indian beauty just mesmerized him. Soon, they became friends.
However, Charlie has felt more than just a friend. In addition, Charlie's parents were
not like the happiest couple of towns now though it was a love marriage.

The Embryo Man

Meanwhile, the harmony was raised in India, and she moved to her old parents' home.
She doesn't have any friends. Indeed, Charlie is now his only friend. Even after several
years, he doesn't feel any change in his love for harmony. It all started when his girlfriend
found a box of journals. Several written notes from 1970-1974 while he was in harmony.

It eventually took him back to the past.

Charlie was deeply in love with her even from the beginning. However, it took some time
to realize the feelings of harmony. Here comes the twist now. Harmony is 18 years old,
while Charlie is only six. Surprised, right? I was surprised too. But for me, the more
surprising thing is their love for each other regardless of the age gap. He learned
the emotions, including love, passion, and anger.

While enjoying her company, he always tries to do his best in order to keep harmony happy.

He has an inspiring style of choosing the right words to express his emotions.
The emotional bond moves forward with unexpected twists. The only thing that
made me slightly off the page was 'physical activity.' Maybe it's because I am a
part of a society where it's unethical to do such things until a certain age.

However, apart from that, the story is written beautifully and engages the person deeply.

There were moments when even I felt like crying along with Charlie. The sudden and expected
death of a beloved person is something you just can't forget. It becomes like a trauma. No doubt,
the writer has a brave soul who doesn't hesitate to be portrayed in front of the world.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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229 review is by rumanarimi on 6/18/22 - (Bangladesh)



Charles Pendelton’s “The Embryo Man” is a fantastic love story
I have ever read.

The storyline is different from any other books I have read before.
This novel contains emotions, care, love, family and romance. This
story proved that love doesn’t depend on age.

The background moves along with the narration and gives us small
glimpses of the days back in the 1970s. You realize how different and
more love stories were then. The novel focuses on the story of a boy
named Charles falling in love with a girl named Harmony.

This book is a true definition of love.

It's filled with the innocence and purity of a child's love. It’s the
kind of love where the two souls are fascinated with each other.

It's incredible to read how the author has described the beauty of his
beloved. As the story unfolds, you see a scenario of unconditional love
between two young individuals. However, the worse happened when
Harmony passed away, and Charles was left alone on earth.

It’s not a usual love story with a happy ending. It is a story of a young boy
who struggles to win the affection of a girl he cannot stop thinking of. The
novel is beautifully written with the contrast of delight and tragedy. So if you
are looking for something new and unique to read, this story is a must-go.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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230 review is by kushaniperer265 on 7/14/22 - (Sri Lanka)



The Embryo Man by Charles Pendelton is a recount of the unconventional yet
heartwarming love story of Charles’ own life. This story recounts events from
1970 to 1974 when Charles was only six years old. In his own words, his life
forever changed when he saw Harmony, a teenage girl of Indian descent,
moving into the house across the street one afternoon in August.

Their love story is a whirlwind romance with a forbidden aspect. From the beginning
of the novel, Charles forewarns his readers about the complexity of the story he is
about to tell the world and at the same time manages to provoke the curiosity of the
reader. The little sneak peeks he provided in the Gratissimum were strong enough
for me to take on the journey of their forbidden love.

But I’m not going to lie, I was skeptical at first because of the age gap and it was to
me incomprehensible to read about a love story between a literal child and a teenager.
But the narrative techniques Charles has used have made me time to time wonder
whether I am reading a book through the POV of a child or a man. The constantly
changing narrating perspective of the child and the man was executed very well.

And with the descriptive writing style and use of vivid imagery, while
describing the details of characteristics, scenes and settings make
this novel one of the finest literacy works I had the honor of reading.

“Aside from her physical attributes, I was enthralled in the very makeup of her own
individual characteristics. So appealing was this lady to my senses. How a gentle
woman with unembellished beauty could mesmerize my world and take hold of my
very soul was the mystery of mysteries for me at the time. Unbeknownst to her, she
had gone as far as to open my eyes up to feelings so unique and incredibly real,
that I would literally revel in the thought of waking up in the morning.”

One of the best things about this novel was Charlie’s adoration of Harmony. His way
of loving Harmony. His way of remembering her birthday and asking his cousins about
gift giving between lovers and then later arranging her gift was one of the scenes where
this showcase of pure adoration is shown. His constant need to be a grown-up and
worrying about the outside perspective of their love even at his age shows his maturity.

“Harmony was always singing for me as she played her acoustic guitar, and that made me
feel good, but what I really wanted was for her to sing to me. To feel that bond of togetherness.
That heartfelt cloying of over-exaggerated needs. I think it’s called love”.

Harmony is a woman who deserves all the love one can get. Her past was sorrowful but I think
she gets to experience a form of love so pure without any conditions from Charlie. Her love for
charlie in return also has been unconditional. She must have known that if their relationship is
to be known to society she will be crucified. Even then she chose to love Charlie. I think this
shows she also craved love and she got lucky to be experienced the purest form of love.

The ending just broke me. Even though Charles warned that there would not be a happy ending,
I was not prepared to be that heartbroken. To think that this was real and it happened to Charlie,
who was looking forward to spending the rest of his with Harmony, was just sorrowful.

“What's worse than growing old, than growing old without her? This I ask
myself from time to time, but can honestly think of nothing worse than the
fate I've been predestined to share with those, kind enough to listen. . .”

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))









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231 review is by manvikamal on 7/19/22 - (India)



Such a heart-warming love story. It's a blooming love story between two
people who might be completely opposite to each other. Nevertheless,
they're so connected to each other. It crosses all the boundary of all the
superficial thinking of human mind, social customs, cultures and takes
you to the higher level of pure joy of love.

Charles also succeeded to portray a character of a pre-teen boy who is
experiencing different emotions at such a young age in a totally mature
way. Love is the human's deepest desire. We all want to love and to be
loved by someone. How the boy is completely stunned by beauty and
charisma of her. And how she is affecting her life. Charles meticulously
captures the emotions goes through a child's mind when he is experiencing
these emotions for the first time.

I also really love the aesthetics of the story. This story takes place in 70s.
So you can completely detach yourself from present and go back in time
and live the moment. Such a strong story with strong emotions.

Overall, this story is a must read. Character building is very strong and deep rooted.
The story doesn't deviates from its original timeline. If you want to escape in a different
world and totally indulge yourself in those feelings and for anyone who appreciates the
art of storytelling. An amazing creation by Charles. Highly recommended!

So, just chill, relax, sit back on a cozy couch, grab a cup of coffee or tea or whatever
and enjoy this heartwarming love story which makes you to feel love again:)

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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232 review is by sophie_bae on 7/30/22 - (Nigeria)



I Mire In pain while I cross at the path were they were predestined to pass on, the fight
fought for love among the couple was actually indeed a veritable triumph one, indeed ....

All necromantic absurdity the guy fall for, wretching words of her beloved wife
(like words was told him, he started reminiscing all) keep gushing into his mind.

There,I understand that love is anything that suits one's partner fancy no matter
all misunderstanding issued hoard in corner they will not leave it unsettled ....
they work on it

Could u remember the phrase, where he muttered that "idiosyncrasy women have that men
had to put on emphasis to understand them". He acted overly placid as he heard that from her

Well... the most intriguing part ,that really shoved me to read the book is where she was
eulogizing her  with euphonious voice . Like she is unequivocally the beautiful woman,
two heart are meant to be ensnared and where he keeps inquiring lots of questions from her
in inquiring tone... should I call all those hyperbole or he uttered it coz he truly fell for her.

Well according to the book he uttered it because of his affections towards her

Tears pricked my eye , tears deep my eye... tears gush out the freak from my eye.
Was stunned in silence as I got to find out the charming, amazing, extraordinary
woman (lady) dead .

To be frank, love doesn't diminish when there is true love .

Now, I understand why the lady give the hell life to Charlie.....why he threw
his pant down, out of control ..... oh lol it was on purpose. why she bashed
him unceasingly, why she was jealous ( I understoofd everything fully ).

At first I thought she don't really love Charlie but she was doing that coz
of what she once experienced, encountered at the meet of suffocating
because of what his pestiforous boyfriend did to her ......

Now I really understand why the author was heartbroken, weak, make
discerning statement at the first place. I truly understand all the painful,
stressful thoughts day-moments he had while writing it.

There, I learned true love really exist because the book doesn't
looks like fictional book to me (though it's actually fiction)

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233 review is by mydigisol on 8/2/22 - (Bangladesh)



The Embryo man is an awesome read.

It is all interesting from the beginning to the last page.
What triggers me more is the idea behind the story,
of a kid falling in love with an adult.

It is something unimaginable but was brought to life in this book.

The characters and the dialogue were well detailed.
All emotions are expressed to the full.

I think this is the best conflict of interest.

Not many authors see through the mind of humans to
write a tale. But this book looks beyond the ordinary.
And that is what makes it more interesting.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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234 review is by iqrawarraich418 on 8/16/22 - (Pakistan)



Light some candles, grab your favourite sweet treat, slip into something comfy
and get ready to turn up the heat with one of my favourite book these days.

The Embryo man by Charles Pendelton is an achingly tender story about the
enduring power of love. A story of true and unending love in its purest form,
and the power and magic of love to defy all odds.

The plot of the story is based on two souls falling in love, Charles and Harmony,
in early seventies. Charles is a Six years old school going boy living in New Dorp.
On the other hand, Harmony is 18 years old, exotic and stimulating, young girl with
indian descent who just got shifted in neighbourhood. This is day when they first met
and from that day onwards Charles could not free himself from angelic aura of her.

From stranger to friend and then friend to lover, Charles gallantly walked on the
road to a beautiful destination against all odds. The road where he found Harmony,
his first and last love. Although he was quite young for the age of falling in love, he
was handling his love life like a maestro. While his parents were busy solving their
disputes, he was busy making Harmony happy.

During the journey of his unending love, he countinously had dreams of dark
shadows haunting him from far. The shadows that were chasing him from the
beginning. Ignoring the society, his underage stigma, his parents and those dark
shadows, he was bestowing his unconditional love to Harmony. Together they
were happy. Together they were two stars shining in the sky of their own universe.

Every thing was going fine, until the dark monday came.

The day when everything went upside down. Its now up to the readers to learn what
happened on that monday. Was those shadows were a warning to something horrible?

Would he able to handle the situation?

Every page of this book is full of excitement so once you have opened it you cannot put it
down. I anxiously turned each page waiting to see what became of Charles and Harmony.

This book taught me few lessons that love has no limit, and knows no boundries.
Enjoy every opportunity you have to make new memories that you'll always cherish.
Every single moment of everyday won't always be rainbows and butterflies.

It is a really sweet book that deserves to be read at least once, to
understand how simple, magical and little things love is made of.

Regards
Dr. Iqra

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

This is her rendition of my book cover, and it is so cute!



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235 review is by tiyasaguha351 on 8/19/22 - (India)





I just finished reading this book yesterday and I was so
amused that I could not bring all my thoughts to one place.

This book is at the peak of its excellence in terms of literature.

The entire book is so poetic that it takes you with it without
even trying. This book literally feels like it's flowing and you
just happen to be there while it does so.

It is not a romance novel, it is the story of the making of a "MAN",
it is the story of two souls meeting beyond any known boundaries of
this life, two souls who rebel not to follow any rules of the known world.

But I also understand why it is so controversial. It is not always politically correct, but
I think that the author was not even trying to be politically correct, he just wanted to pour
his heart into this novel which was filled with love even if that makes him a little politically
incorrect sometimes like letting his lover compete with other women that he knows in his
mind, where his lover always won but at the cost of pulling other women down.

So, yes, not everybody is going to find it pleasing always.

But for me, personally, it was a highly captivating experience that made me
forget to get down from bus at my stop and for that it deserves a 5 star rating.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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236 review is by vedikanehe on 8/20/22 - (India)



'The Embryo Man' as the author has very rightly suggested is not everyone's
cup of tea. It's not for ones who get uncomfortable reading or imagining anything
which won't be considered ideal in present times for the the central theme of the
book itself might not be regarded as 'appropriate' in today's day and age.

However the author has nowhere tried to justify or encourage anything happening
in the book. The book might take time to draw you in but is a good read for ones
looking to revisit the much simpler times, times before smart phones and computers.

The book is slow paced and gets erotic and sexual at various points.

The book focuses on how a teenage girl who doesn't belong to the American subcontinent
captures the heart of the author when he is still a kid. Not too long after the author sees the
young lady for the very first time his world begins to revolve around her. Author takes his time
to describe all the features physical and otherwise of his lady love. He is so enthralled by her
beauty and persona that he no longer finds joy in activities kids his age might find exciting.

Soon, his only desire is to grow up and become the man the love of his life would want him
to be. The story progresses slowly but definitely leaves an impact on the reader. The book
is the right choice for anyone wanting to read a not so usual tale of unrequited love!

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated ??? Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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237 review is by ajcartier on 9/15/22 - (Canada)



From the very first moment when young Charles meets Harmony, he’s immediately
taken by her beauty, which spurs him to desire to learn more about this woman who
is unlike any other he had yet encountered in his short life. The pair build a friendship,
that blossoms into love, and so begins an unconventional love story.

Charles says it best himself: This story isn’t for everyone but those
who read it will find themselves changed after experiencing it.

The story unfolds using journals and letters, as well as fragments of memories and
dreams, as the author works to tell the tale of his all too brief love affair with Harmony.

Full of lush, poetic writing that delves deep into the mind of a young man so enraptured
with the woman of his dreams, he exhibits relentless determination to win her heart. The
story at times takes on a dream-like quality (not only due to the actual dreams described
within) that leaves the reader wondering how much of what happens takes place in Charles’
imagination and his dreams, and how much happened as he remembers it.

(That is not to cast doubt of the truthfulness of his recollection, but rather a testament
to the writing style and how it is crafted in such a way it is almost dizzying.)

As we follow Charles and Harmony through the life they start to build together, getting lost in
their hopes and dreams and the ideas of what they hope their future will entail, it’s impossible
to ignore the tug of impending melancholy and tragedy we know we’re tumbling towards.

The Introduction makes clear that this is no typical love story. There will be no happy ending
for Charles and Harmony. There can’t be, based on those early details gifted to us readers. The
implied fragility of what follows makes it all the more compelling, and hard to read in many ways.

I found myself holding my breath, wondering what would happen next and how it might unfold.

It’s no mystery why the Charles of 2003 was unable to resist the pull of Harmony again,
why he became so lost in his reliving of the memories they shared.

Be prepared, this story will change you.
You will never be the same.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))


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238 review is by maleehamo on 10/3/22 - (Pakistan)



We need more books like this

I find the theme of this book rather daring. I have not yet come across
any other media that's willing to accurately portray how feelings of love
(for a relatively older person) develop in young Children. Feel free to
correct me on this, but it almost seems to be a taboo topic of sorts.

There seems to be this pervasive idea that the innocence of childhood
is tainted when love and lust become fixtures within it, when these are
experiences that a lot of young children have.

I really enjoyed reading from Charles' perspective. The way he rationalized
everything (especially the feelings that he didn't yet understand in the earliest
parts) was fascinating. And the writing style of the author also really lent itself
to making the world seem alive, for a lack of a better word. I appreciated how
consistent the style was as well. In my experience, when authors try to be more
daring and experimental with their work, it tends to come of as inauthentic; the
holes aren't difficult to find usually. But here, the prose reads very smoothly
despite how stylized it is. You really get a sense of the author's own authentic
self rather than a watered down version. Honestly, I'd recommend this to anyone
looking for a refreshing writing style.

I do have grievances, though those are rather nitpicky and don't take away from
the overall enjoyment of the story. My biggest issue, is how the book is formatted.

There are several paragraphs that are italicised, and my initial thoughts were that this
must've been done to either convey exceptional importance or to show that this is a
flashback, but the appearance of these chapters was inconsistent and I wasn't able
to pin down a reasoning for this decision. I imagine that for some people, this would
take them out of the reading experience, but truthfully, it was not difficult to adapt to.

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239 review is by rumazaman on 10/4/22 - (Bangladesh)



Have you ever presumed that a simple phrase "Harmony" can melt you just like
a piece of butter?

Yes, I'm talking about the tragic love story 'The Embryo Man' by Charles Pendleton.
This emotional love narrative was originally published on the 9th of September 2018.
The fiction consists of eight chapters. In every chapter, you will come to experience
a new way of rhythmic love, a love that touches your soul.

The author did Justice to the title of his novel 'the embryo man' by depicting the
interracial affection between two human beings of different biological ages.

The novel signifies the matter, that how love, and affection in a relationship should
be between man and woman. The best part of the novel is its phraseology which is
very easy to connect to the character.And there are plots based on the dream in a
dream that seems to me confusing. But the romantic lyrics of the story were superb.

I think every person who believes in eternal love will value the story.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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240 review is by tiffanyvega on 10/26/22 - (United States)



I have to say that when I first picked up this big and read
the author notes about how this book would not leave me
the same I thought that was a tall order to fill.

But as I started to read and then finish the book I realized
that a part of me was not the same. It is indeed like a movie
that changes the way you see love. It is a will written tale
that hits all the spots.

There is the ups and down that we all have in our lives.
A tale of two young people fallen and in the end both of
them are changed for ever.

A love that no one could ever fill again.

If you every have the chance to read this I suggest giving
the book a go. I promise you that you will not be the same
once you are finished.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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241 review is by har_06 on 11/03/22 - (India)



** spoiler alert ** I was about to give this 4 stars thinking it had some moments
where i felt were wrong but the ending changed it all for me thus 5 and more!
                                             (if it were possible)

First of all, Harmony was an Indian and so am I, so understanding the cultural
part of the story came easy to me. You know people will have strong opinions
regarding this book as it covers some sensitive topics but i kindly request you
to read it fully and then share your opinion.

“because whoever I was before died that day. The day Harmony returned.”

I even thought it was wrong at some level but if you think about it, love should
not have an age limit. Charlie loving her since the day they met was pure in all
it’s form and the way he talks about her is the evidence for it.

“If you can imagine how much I loved her, then you're not even close.”

“She was heaven in the form of a woman.
She was everything perfect in the world.
She was my life, my love, and my best friend.”

I have never in my life read about love the way this boy talks about her. It’s pure
in all forms and deep as an ocean, i felt his love for her, his lust for her, his rage
when she died, his feeling of hopelessness when he couldn’t touch her again.
I as a reader felt him BREAKING into pieces!

“In theory, we all live in glass houses.”

“The most ironic part of it all is that once I was terrified of death...
Now I'm terrified of life.

I have never in my life read about love that was beyond a limit. I can’t express in
words how i felt reading it. Sure, there were moments which made me feel wrong
about this story and i almost thought she’d be going jail for this as the author kept
on saying something bad was going to happen but the way the story ended, left
me breathless. I CRIED! I wept reading his words saying how helpless he feels.
I had to pause reading for a moment to catch my breath. I did not think i would
have such strong feelings for these characters but i do now. I almost feel as if
i was there watching everything go down and man i wish i was and had the
power to spare him of this excruciating pain.

“I would die for you if I didn’t have to.”

The way Harmony taught him to be a man, the way she
fooled around with masks to make him laugh, everything
will have a special place in my heart for the rest of my life.

You were right Mr.Chase, this will leave prints in our hearts and minds and
i’m so glad it will. Though it was painful, I’m so glad you wrote this and poured
your heart and soul even though you must have suffered writing this.

“I'm sorry baby, but I refuse to be put into the ground knowing you will be forgotten.
I need the world to love you as I have loved you. To know you as I have known you.”

Thank you so much for giving me a chance and the honour to read this,
i know it must have been hard to exhibit the most vulnerable part of your
life but let me tell you i’m so glad you did!

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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242 review is by creativehandzz on 11/08/22 - (Nigeria)



“The Embryo Man” written by Charles Pendelton is a book that depicts love
in its truest and purest form. This book is a flashback of the writer’s love life.

Written from a journal, this romantic story describes the feelings of two young kids,
Charles and Harmony, who fell in love during the 1970s. The love the writer shared
in this book is rare and hard to come by, especially in this present age. It was so
emotional, and it made me laugh and cry. I was able to relate to the writer’s love life
because I’ve had a similar experience. I met my husband when we were both teenagers
and our love was magical! This book made me appreciate the loved ones in my life,
especially my loving and thoughtful husband. I can’t imagine life without him.

As I started reading the novel, I was skeptical because both partners were not consenting
adults. But as I read on, the author’s superb writing style and tone pulled me in. I couldn’t
stop reading. Charles and Harmony complemented each other so well and they were a
perfect match. Charles’ desperate attempt to show Harmony how much he loved her was
commendable. Even at that young age, Charles knew what he wanted and was never going
to back down. The lack of love and happiness in his parents’ marriage made him rather
unstable and emotional. He needed to fill that void, and he found solace in Harmony.

Charles and Harmony explored each other mentally and sexually. They
learned a lot from each other and their love grew into something beautiful.

Although the story ended in tragedy as Charles lost the love of his life, it was a really good
read. I would highly recommend this book to anyone. It enforces how important it is to love
and not take for granted the people in your life, because no one is guaranteed a tomorrow.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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243 review is by jasminelloyd673 on 11/10/22 - (United Kingdom)



What a beautifully written, completely mesmerising and encapsulating story.

I feel as though I have lived another life through reading this story and experienced
the events alongside the narrator. I was completely enamoured by this book and
besotted by how thoughtfully everything was described.

I have a personal soft spot for pieces set in the past, so the fact that this book was
centred around the 70s really captured my attention. The setting seemed authentic
as even to the minutest details, Charles did a superb job at completely sweeping me
into this world where I can visualise the scenes perfectly. It does not feel forced, nor
does it feel wedged in, in order to achieve scene setting. There was no information
dumping and in my opinion everything flowed smoothly and followed a natural rhythm.

In terms of the plot, I was slightly wary in the beginning as I am an avid reader of
romance books and often find myself stumbling across cliches and repetitive tropes
which can become rather lethargic, and the fact that Charles noted how the book will
defy the nature of an average love story had me feeling cautiously curious. However,
it is safe to say that I am tremendously glad that I took the plunge! This story explored
themes of naivety and purity through a child-like gaze, yet it countered that with themes
of maturity and wishing to be older than what you are in order to be at a different place
in life. The story walked a tightrope strung throughout the story where young Charles
was trying to balance the dilemma of being almost trapped in a child’s body when his
mind is so eager to be moving on to more mature matters such as love. I have never
seen a book written like this before, where the narrator is so young but so enraptured
by his feelings towards another that he inevitably detests the restrictions of his age.
It was immensely interesting to see from this perspective how Charles dealt with
these emotions and how he worked towards trying to overcome this feeling of
perhaps inadequacy due to loving someone older than him at a young age.

Yet, despite all of this, Charles' innocence and pure nature did shine through
within this book. One particular moment that captured my heart was when he
was getting himself slightly worked up over buying Harmony something for her
birthday. I feel as though this pure nature helped contribute to the love between
Harmony and Charles being so untouched and beautiful, where it felt completely
pure and the compassion for one another was untainted. You can really feel in
the writing how much the pair loved one another and it truly makes you believe
that soulmates are a real thing. It has given me hope that love can be found
and people are capable of cherishing others so selflessly.

However, that is not to say that this story is just vacuumed into a love bubble
where everything is sunshine and roses. It explores how social concepts can
restrict characters from following their own desires such as the pressures Harmony
felt. I also liked how the story had layers to it and was not completely two dimensional
and did not present things in a black and white fashion. The characters where given
depth and each had their own tribulation which made them appear more authentic and
relatable. For example, the interesting subplot where Charles’ parents’ love fizzled
gradually over time which led to them arguing constantly, alongside their drive to work
constantly, added nuance to the story where it became more relatable, real and raw.
Overall, this helped make the book appear more grounded and anchored to reality,
where you can really envision this type of scenario happening and the plot does
not appear to be portrayed as this unattainable fantasy.

This story took me on a beautiful journey where I felt the emotions of Charles so vividly
through reading. I experienced all the highs alongside the characters but that also meant
I experienced the lows with them too, and it is safe to say I do not think I will recover from
this book. I felt my heart wrench and my stomach physically twist when I found out about
Harmony’s fate. It really makes you think about how cruel life can be and how something
so beautiful and pure can be ensnared by illness. What really contributed to my heartache
on this matter was the fact that due to Charles’ rather young age, it is such a difficult thing
to be presented with grief at such a young age and how it is so completely confusing to
wrap your head around. When I read about the letter that Harmony left for Charles I felt
completely crushed. I was so encapsulated by the story that I felt as though I was
experiencing Charles's heartbreak and grief first hand. However, to really hammer the
nail into the coffin and stamp on my crushed heart, Harmony confessed that essentially
she would be waiting for Charles in heaven. That was the part that really had me sobbing.

Yet, this is a testament to Charles’ writing, as he has done such a fantastic job at writing such
a stunning story that I have found myself completely attached to the plot and the characters.

You can feel the love through every word that is written in this story, it is truly a masterpiece.
It was such an honour to have been able to read this, as it is such a raw and vulnerable story.
I feel completely humbled and thankful that I had the honour to read it.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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244 review is by mariabusoi on 11/11/22 - (Romania)



This book… I don’t know what I read here. I was promised a unique book and it is true
I got just that. I was promised not to be disappointed and I wasn’t. The "Gratissimum"
was intriguing and it is what drew me in from the start. Paired with the introduction, I
just couldn’t wait to get into it! It took me 3 days to read it - an awesome page-turner!
Had I not had a job and a family to take care of, I would have finished it in a day!

This is the story of Charles falling in love with Harmony. Their love blossomed from 1970 to 1974.
They start off as friends, even though he fell in love at first sight. Because we don’t get to see the
friendship part in too much detail, it seemed to me their relationship started very fast. I felt there
was no tension in the beginning, no suspense. However, suspense does build up soon: their love
is a forbidden one and they try not to get caught. It is this question - “will they get caught?” -
that helps the reader fly through the pages as their relationship evolves.

The voice of the narrator is always an ominous one, cautioning us the end is near at every
turn. This voice, more than anything else, made me sympathetic to their love. It made me
really feel how the hidden, illicit aspect of their love, made it even more powerful.

Timeline

Though the chapters follow the years (1970 up to 1974), the timeline sequences are often
mixed up: we get scenes from the future along with introspective thoughts. This created a
bit of confusion for me at first, but I really appreciated it by the end. The intricate writing is
what augments the secretive atmosphere and adds to the idea of an unreliable narrator.
After all this, reality is intersected by dream sequences and we find ourselves as confused
as Charles when hearing: “The kiss never happened.”. .

Characters

The only characters that are really fleshed out are Charles and Harmony.
Given their age, I certainly understand that: a first love is all consuming.
There is no time for other people. Nothing else matters but our love interest
at such a time - anything else is a hindrance to the time spent together.

It certainly comes across that way, but, as a reader, I felt I needed more of a whole picture.
We have Charles’s parents with sporadic appearances. They aren’t really present in his life
because they have their own troubles. He doesn’t seem affected at all by this and that felt weird
to me. As a child gone through the divorce of my parents, I didn’t understand how Charles doesn’t
talk more about it. He also has cousins who only show up in the novel when Charles needs ideas
for a present for Harmony. All the while, Harmony’s family is barely mentioned.

The main point here is that although the love story is what the novel is about, it shouldn’t be
the only thing that matters. I felt I needed more background, more of a complex understanding
of other characters as well. In order to really be part of this different world, to really picture it
well, I needed more depth to everything and everyone in it.

Charles’s voice felt very mature. The author mentions he will do this from the beginning, and I think
it was the right choice, even if the emotional impact of how it all turns out would have been a lot greater
otherwise. The child comes through in vulnerable moments though, and that was beautifully written.

Harmony is far from the perfect leading lady. I loved the contrast between the way Charles
sees her and her actual actions. She seems chaotic and nervous. She gets easily triggered
and her reactions are disproportionate. This becomes understandable once we learn about
her past, but it doesn’t excuse her behavior.

It is really difficult to create an astounding book with an imperfect protagonist and I really loved
the way it was handled here. It is Charles’s and the narrator’s insistence that everything was very
pure, all the while recognizing how scary it felt, that did the trick for me. I was immersed in the
story because of the two of them.

Likes and Dislikes

What I didn’t particularly like was how their two voices overlap at times. It seems to me the author tried
to distinguish Charles from the narrator by formatting phrases differently (bold or italic), but they aren’t
at all clear. Though an interesting choice, it often got me confused as to whose thoughts I was following.

Something I enjoyed a lot were the political and cultural references of the time - from
Watergate to music, I loved them all! In fact, at the end of this review, you can find a
list of the song references in the book you can listen to while reading, for a complete
immersive experience. I played them all and they really helped me step into that time.

As a non-American, I feel I understood the ‘70s better through the narrator’s eyes,
but I also could identify with Harmony better as she didn’t care at all about politics.
The difference between how she viewed Watergate and how Charles describes it (as
“the end of an era”) made the lack of understanding of each other’s views very real.

Conclusion

Their love story ended abruptly and it left me wanting to read more.
It also left me wishing for a completely different ending.


Would I recommend this book? - Definitely!

Would I also think it should have better trigger warnings? - Definitely!

Is this really a love story? - I really cannot say.

My mind tells me “certainly not”, but the writing convinced me
of how Charles perceived it as a real, true love story and I think
there lies the beauty of this book. You are left wondering.


P.S. If you love listening to music while reading, check out
these songs you’ll find referenced throughout the book:

Gingerbread Man by The Mirror

On This Very Christmas Night by Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

The Gnome by Pink Floyd

Which way you goin’ Billy by The Poppy Family

Ohio Express sing Chewy Chewy

The march of the jingle jangle people by San Francisco Earthquake,

Artificial face by The Hobbits

Catch the wind by Donovan

Will You Be Staying After Sunday by Peppermint Rainbow

While my guitar gently weeps by The Beatles

Forever Changes by Love

My Whole World Ended by David Ruffin

Time in a bottle by Jim Croce

Eres tu by Mocedades

The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd

The Piper at the Gates of Dawn by Pink Floyd

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245 review is by nazra03 on 11/12/22 - (Pakistan)



A book with the essence of originality and reality.

Charles Pendleton’s book Embryo Man is based on the journals or scribes by the
author as a child. The emotions and vivid imaginations of a budding childhood were
enhanced by the author’s retelling of the tale - of his sweet love with Harmony.

For me, the book was none like I had ever read that complies with the author’s wish
of adopting a singular style, just like his unique down-to-earth emotions. The feelings
of a child were sharpened and organized by an adult, giving it a form of completion
as his love tale. Though the author warned in the Gratissimum about the various
topics any reader would encounter, I dared to read it till the end and loved it beyond
words could ever explain.

At the start, the way Charles unfolded the plot and characters with the help of old
memories is fascinating. For me, most amazing part was creation of a fictional
character by fictional characters. Though a fictional character, Timmy was given
the air of an actual one; to shield the forbidden love. I won’t spoil the reader’s
suspense so, by the end the tale was wrapped up by both tragedy and fate of
both Charles and Harmony. Read in one sitting, it had an even flow of the events
(though these were reminisced yet a lot of hard work has been put into the
arrangement of memories) that compelled me to not put the book down until
witnessing the whole everlasting love through the eyes and heart of the author.

Also, the chronological arrangement of the memories and emotions by the
division of dates and time of the year makes the story more real and easier
for beginner readers, marking it as a huge progress in modern literature.

Another thing that made this piece of work a mesmerising read for me, was the
balance between plot, characters and setting. I have read works with illustratory
implemental balance between these which hurts the natural flow either too much
focus on the plot and the setting will be just a blur but in Embryo Man the setting is
clear (as said earlier due to chronological arrangement of events) and the characters
are well shaped inspiring characters. The balance between plot, characterization and
setting was so clear that it made feel like I was reading a classic - without the any
uneasy boundaries of a classic society. So, it was a smooth read for me that only
bumped due to the story turning points and not because of writing style.

Given the human ability to understand things better on the based of comparison,
writer compares his love with that of his parents and in turn shows his undeniable
urge to show the whole world true essence of love (like his with Harmony).

At some point he does compares the cultures of both American and Indian
society, his distinction between both like Harmony dishes shows the singularity
of each piece of work and his appreciation of it in its true form.

Also, I found the authors knowledge of cuisine and cars remarkable; especially
of different cultures. It was like I was absorbing all the knowledge with a vivid
imagination and description. Every topic (from competition, sentimental, narrative,
environment to characters) was so vivid it was almost as if it was all so real.

On the whole it was an enjoyable read mainly due to the original ideas and the
honest expression of author, and illustration of south Asian cuisines and culture
to which I was able to relate to; partially due to the fact that it compelled me to
understand and fall in love with the characters, without judging them or their
mutual attachment based on raw, natural and genuine frame of mind regarding
love. As said earlier, if you want to try a book apart from usual plot or characters,
try this one and trust me you will not be disappointed.

Thank you author for sharing this true and unrequitable love story with us.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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246 review is by shinettesevilla on 11/14/22 - (Philippines)



I will give an HONEST review in this book of novel i read.

In my first impression reading this novel i felt a little bored.but when i
continued reading it, my mind and my impression what i felt is changed..!

from the whole part 1 of the story i felt something different,actually all the
chapter and all the pages is full of twist. For those who likes to read novel
books like me and want a story of real life,I RECOMMENDED THIS BOOK.....

Its contains romance and fantasy, you will feel it for your self .!

I HOOKED in every pages of the story,every chapter is detailed,for those
who really LOVE to READ NOVELS,you can read this one too so you can
understand what i mean and what i felt in this book...

YOU WOULD BE LIKE THE TWO PEOPLE INSIDE OF THIS STORY....
FOR ME I WONT GET TIRED READING THIS BOOK AGAIN AND AGAIN.......
TO THE AUTHOR OF THIS BOOK MAY GOD BLESSED YOU .

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))


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247 review is by hurma33 on 11/25/22 - (Pakistan)



A very emotional story that will rip your heart. A slow moving story about
a young boy who falls in love with a woman much older than him.

"This was more than a carnal attraction.
It was adoration in its purest form."

So *deep breath*, the story starts with Charles, our young protagonist
living in Staten Island in the 70s. Charles is a sweet, smart boy who unlike
other boys of his age is calm, composed and over-all a gentleman.

Then comes drumrolls  Harmony.

She’s 19 years old, a beautiful girl of South Asian descent
who recently moved next-door to Charles. She’s a kind and
loving soul, immediately liked by Charles’ parents.

I was pretty unsure about this book at first, I expected a by the numbers,
cliche, love story. But it changed my expectations, made me believe in
Something, a dream, which did not come true… or maybe it did.

Charles’ initial meetings with harmony are so cute because we get to see
the innocence of a child who is entranced by an older woman, unable to
put his thoughts into words only to end up saying something completely
different. Charles and Harmony’s love story is romantic, powerful, gripping,
and as per writer’s warning it’s bound to make you uncomfortable. And I
hate that it made me smile, so much! And cry, so much!

"sometimes love is just doomed from the start, but if you don’t
take the initiative to at least try to appease the yearning that
has grown in your heart, then you may well live to regret it"

I hate the fact that when I least expected it, the story, the words just
grabbed me and pulled me in so deep that even the thought of ever
resurfacing never entered my mind. I wanted to hate it but I couldn’t.

The story is unlike anything you’ve read, anything you’ve been taught.
It goes against your morality, it makes you uncomfortable to the core
but you won’t want to put it down. At least I didn’t want to put it down.

Now, back to the story. I knew it was going to be a tear-jerkers,
but I did not expect what was coming at the end and how hard
it would hit me, and that I’d be crying my eyes out at midnight.

“In all truth, what we had was simply too beautiful for this world.
It had to be saved for the next.”

It is not your average tale of unrequited love and heartfelt romance.
If I were to describe it in three words:

POWERFUL. ANGUISHING. COMFORTING.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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248 review is by cate_02 on 11/27/22 - (Italy)



“The Embryo Man” written by Charles Pendelton is a book about the unconventional
and unfortunately-timed love story between a little boy and a teenage girl which takes
place between 1970 and 1974, a world totally different from ours.

Charles is a boy who lives in New Port with his family in which his parents have
relationship issues. In 1970 he meets his new neighbour, Harmony, and he knew
from that moment he was hers. They start to spend time together and, in the
meanwhile, to know each others.Harmony has Indian descent and one of the
honourable aspects about that is the boy’s reaction. He doesn’t feel threatened
or superior to her but he admires her culture which has a realistic and detailed
description throughout the book, where we can see a different point of view,
the one of a child who doesn’t judge other’s uses and costumes.

Charles is extremely smart and open minded, he is pretty mature for his age.
This is visible in his thoughts and opinions since he is the first person narrator.

“Just looking into those magical eyes of hers uplifts my soul and takes
me far away from this ordinary place. A place I once called home.”

Love is the main subject in this book and it couldn’t have been described
any better. It isn’t the usual representation of the feeling though: it’s love
against the law, love over prejudices and at the same time there is the
fear of losing it. It’s love behind the eyes of a child who is experimenting
it for the first time and he is creating his own definition of the sentiment.

“Anyone who has a chance to fall in love should take the time and do so.
I myself, could find no harm in it for I was truly smitten. As a female, she
had no faults and was perfect in every aspect of her being. Every woman
it seems has some denotable flaw. Harmony had none.”

We can also see Charles’ infatuation as a journey that starts from superficial aspects
like beauty and physical attraction to the profound aspects of being committed in a
genuine relationship such as being listened to, mutual respect and dedication.

“I didn't think it was insanely difficult to hold down a relationship, providing you
genuinely loved the person you were in the long haul with. You did have to work
on it constantly though. You have to be a good listener. You have to be attentive
to her needs. You have to make her feel like she is the only woman on earth,
and she will reward you for it, in ways you can only imagine.”

Love, beauty, tragedy, friendship, loss, memories, these are the words that
characterise this book. It makes me understand that not all stories have fairy
tale endings but nonetheless they deserve to be written and read.

“Separated we are nothing, but together…Together we are perfect.”

The writing was captivating and unique, there is an actual improvement
in the lyric at the end of the book which helps the reader to feel what is
happening better, for example in the mushrooms scenes. The last chapter
made me cry, it was truly unpredictable even if I knew from the beginning
I should have expected something tragic.

I find brilliant the insertion of the author’s comments within the narration
which conveys such an emotionally intense impact on the reader.

It can be difficult sometimes to talk and remember what happened in the past
that left a significant mark on your heart, I think the author is extremely brave
for writing a story like this. It couldn't have been an easy book to put down
since he decided to expose his memories and emotions he felt back then.

The meaning behind these words touched my heart: writing to remember. It is
at the end that you realize the power of this book because these words cannot
be cancelled from my mind, so thank you for sharing your story with me.

I really like this book and I recommend it to someone who is looking for a real and
pure romance but at the same time an heart-breaking and authentic story, one that
I know will stay on your mind for many days, exactly like is happening to me.

Rating: 5 stars!

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249 review is by amelijak on 12/1/22 - (Macedonia)







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250 review is by flaviamartinezb on 12/1/22 - (Peru)



This novel was surprisingly challenging, in a good way.

From the beginning of its pages, the writing perfectly conveys the
understanding that this piece we are holding in our hands holds an
unexplainable value to the author, one that until now, we are not able
to comprehend. It is with dread, but anticipation, that I eagerly flipped
through the pages. Holding deep inside me the hope to understand
and immerse myself in the feelings the author so fiercely describes.

When I say this novel was challenging for me to read, I mean the themes
it touches are morally conflicting. I was constantly trying to understand the
motivations and deep desires of the characters, and the reasons behind
their actions. This book definitely left a mark on me. I was so distraught
because I didn't know what to feel, or what to think.

The pace can be a little slow at times, but the psychological conflict we can
find within its pages make it worth reading. Both main characters find in each
other an escape from their emotional turbulences, a reassuring message that
love is real, and an answer to their most avid questions.

As I said, this is a very personal book. The author makes it clear from the
beginning that he is sharing a part of his soul in these pages, and as such,
the novel is heavily tinted with his perspective, his feelings and his thoughts.
We read the story through his eyes, and for that, we need to understand there
is a very persistent bias towards the situations happening. This, however, does
not impede us from empathizing with him. Indeed, I think being able to read his
very raw feelings is the reason we feel so much for him.

Because if I can assure you something, is that this book will make you feel.
It may be controversial and uncomfortable feelings at times, as we touch on
themes we are not used to. But they are strong and powerful feelings.

This story is not easy to swallow, especially because throughout the reading we
always keep in mind this is based on a real-life experience. Especially because
we may not agree at all with the main character's view of what is happening.

If you enjoy reading unconventional love stories or being challenged
in your views of the world, then this novel is for you.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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251 review is by michelle_khn on 12/4/22 - (Indonesia)



This is not your average romance novel.

A very unique story, also an eye-opening and a life-changing one. The story is
written in vivid details, which I truly admire. The author’s remarkable ability to
story tell makes you feel like you’re actually in that place, in that certain time,
in that situation, experiencing those certain feelings. I very much appreciate
that the author also explained in details about the situations in the 70s, the
music, the people, the places, the problems that were happening in that era.

I knew that this book is controversial as the author has stated in the gratissimum.

The story line was not like I what I expected. Honestly, I felt a little uncomfortable
during the first few pages, after knowing about how young Charles was. But as
I delve into the story, with an open mind and an open heart, I got to feel and
understand the passion that both Charles and Harmony had and shared with
each other. A forbidden love, that’s what the society may deem this relationship
to be. But Charles and Harmony’s story proved us that love has no boundaries.

I love the parts when Charles explained about his dreams - the anxiety, the anger,
and the sadness that he felt while dreaming also when he woke up. For when we
love someone dearly, we often think about them, and sometimes we unhealthily
worry about the time when they’ll not care about us anymore, or when they’ll
eventually leave us because we fear that we’re not good enough for them.

These dreams are one of the many proofs about how much Charles really cared
about Harmony and how strong his love was. As I ventured deeper, I could also
feel the same anxiety that both Charles and Harmony had. The anxiety that they
both might get caught. Yes, I did mention that I was uncomfortable at first. But the
more I read, the more I found myself to be actually rooting for them both. I very
much admire Charles’s mature thinking at such a young age.

What a gentleman, I always thought to myself.
The love that he expressed to Harmony was very pure.
The love in which you treat a woman with utmost respect and adoration.

The ending brought myself to tears. I felt Charles’s uneasiness when he was away
from Harmony. I could also feel the pain when Charles found out about what happened.
Though, I understand what Charles felt must be hundreds, no, thousands or maybe
millions of times more painful than what I pictured it to be. This is truly one emotional
roller coaster ride.

I would definitely recommend this book to everyone who loves romance.
Read it with an open heart and an open mind, then you’ll be able to feel
and understand the true passion and love that both Charles and Harmony
had for each other. A true love, one that knows no boundaries.

I’m really thankful for the author to share his story with us through this book.

I’m also really glad and thankful to have received the opportunity to read this
masterpiece. It’s been a truly wonderful and an eye-opening journey reading
this book. I pray and wish for all the best to you in life, Charles.

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252 review is by ritika_97 on 12/8/22 - (India)



The Embryo Man by Charles Pendelton

A love story so out of the blue that by the end of it you’ll wonder what in god’s
name just happened (in all the best and worst possible ways). It’s the story of a
young child named Charles and his unadulterated love and devotion for a teenage
girl named Harmony. Written from excerpts taken from journals of young Charles
dating from 1970-1974.

It is an interracial, age-gap romance with Harmony being of Indian descent and
12 years older than Charles. Where many would find that to be immoral, I feel,
in the course of the story, it truly didn’t matter because the essence of the story
was not based on age, race, culture, or any other difference one would deem
important. It simply surpassed everything with one thing as a constant, Love.

Charles was such an adorable, intelligent, and emotionally mature child.
I could actually feel the blush of first love on their first meeting. And how
that innocent infatuation turned into an almost manic devotion over the
course of 4 years. He raised some thought-inducing questions in the book
that made me pause and wonder if the 6-year-old was more enlightened
when it came to love than we were. Age, culture, race nothing mattered
to him. All he saw, all he felt, was pure love.

I liked the fact that it wasn’t just a love story, it was the story of a young child going
through life. Wondering about this, and curious about that. And that made it easier
to believe that the narrator was indeed a child. I also liked that Harmony took the
relationship as seriously as Charles did. She was invested in it more than I expected.

Her past broke my heart and I could understand even
more than before about her decision to be with him.

It’s safe to say, I’ve never read something like this before and that’s saying something
because I thought I had indulged in every flavour of the romance genre. But nothing
could’ve prepared me for what was in this novel. I’d say it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.
But for me, this was a journey I didn’t know I needed to venture on until I did.

And boy, am I glad I did it.

The author has a way with words. I loved how intricately he weaved them and the
emotions lying within, and you couldn’t help but feel the depth of those emotions.
His writing style was so exquisite, it was almost poetic. It was easy to imagine the
story unfolding as if it were happening right before my eyes. The author does not
feel like a novice but someone who has written a plethora of stories before. And
I’d be sad if he decided to put his pen down after this masterpiece.

There were so many instances where my heart was beating out of my chest as
I watched (and yes, not just read, but watched) everything happening in the story.
I was gripped from the very first chapter and the way the book started I was already
anxious to know what was going to happen.

What intrigued me was the clear comparative difference between what love was
for a child and what we see it as being adults. The things we take for granted that
he figured out were important because his whole life revolved around his love for
her whereas, for us adults, it takes a backseat after other “priorities”, and how that
slowly kills the purity of that love. His perspective was a breath of fresh air that, if
one sets aside their judgments, they should learn from him.

The one thing that bothered me personally, was the sex scenes. They made me
a bit uneasy solely because of the age factor, though I still can’t help but point out
how beautifully they were written. Probably the most emotionally engaging intimate
scenes I’ve ever read. Also, I was a bit lost in the scene with the mushrooms as it
dragged on for too long. But other than that, I can’t point out a single fault in the book.

The ending broke me. The way Charles’ anguish was described, it felt as if I was the
one who had lost someone precious to me. I couldn’t have stopped the tears if I tried to.
And I didn’t. I have never, in my decade of reading novels, felt a love so intense. He got
to experience two of the most intense emotions one could ever feel. True love and eternal
loss. I can’t imagine a life like his. Few moments of unparalleled happiness in exchange
for years of mind-breaking agony and then the unrelenting wait for it all to be over.

If given the chance to experience a love like theirs with the caveat of the inevitable loss I
would face, I’d gladly deny feeling such delight for I could not be able to carry the grief that
would follow. Of that, I’m utterly sure.

This is not a book I would ever read again for the sole reason that to feel the magnitude of
emotions it made me feel again would be crushing, but at the same time, I would implore others
to read it because I feel it’s almost necessary to listen to this story at least once in your life.

There were so many things I inadvertently learned from this book that I know
for a fact are going to stay with me forever. And for that, I’m very grateful.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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253 review is by alisoncdk on 12/10/22 - (Canada)



The Embryo Man by Charles Pendleton is a unique novel unlike any I have read before.

The author has a beautiful writing style that really draws the reader in. The story takes place
in the past, in the 1970’s on Staten Island, and we are introduced to the characters through
his childhood journals and memories. At first, I was hesitant in regards to the content, as it
involves an unconventional love story, by current societal standards, but the author tells the
story in such a heartfelt and genuine way that I found myself moved by his narrative. I was
drawn into the story from the first word, and found myself reading on without wanting to
pause, in order to find out what would happen next. The scenes are portrayed so vividly,
and with such detail, it is easy to picture the scene in my mind as I read.

Harmony and Charles enter into a forbidden love affair, where they must hide their love and
devotion to each other for fear of reprisal and anger not only from their families, but the rest
of the world. Their friendship and love grows steadily through the story, leaving the reader
feeling heartbroken upon reaching the end of the novel. It is truly moving to witness Charles’
growth into maturity, and witness the interactions between Harmony and Charles as they learn
about each other, and themselves. While reading I felt myself torn between two feelings:
apprehension and sympathy. I was apprehensive of their relationship due to the age difference
between Charles and Harmony. On the other hand, seeing their tender affections and blossoming
friendship, and the true love Charles felt for Harmony, I also felt sympathy at how difficult their lives
must have been, having to disguise their feelings and relationship. This brought to my mind how
many must have felt at different times in history, where other relationships would have also been
considered wrong, such as interracial or same sex relationship.

The Embryo Man made me question what I thought I knew, how I felt, and what I considered true
love. The story is written so genuinely and emotionally, you can feel the author’s pain through his
words. I was warned that upon reading I would not be able to forget what I had read, and I find that
this was not an empty promise:after finishing the novel, Charles and Harmony’s story occupies a
place in my mind, and I find myself thinking of them as I go about my daily life.

A tale of love, devotion, and eventual heartbreak, The Embryo Man was a thrilling love story that
I would recommend to anyone wanting a refreshing breath from the standard love story novel.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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254 review is by payalgupta135 on 12/12/22 - (India)



The Embryo Man is more than just a novel, as it starts with a very
innocent love growing in an individual, which he could never imagine.

In this story you’ll somehow correlate with yourself as most of us goes
through this phase of our life, I highly recommend you to read this story
from start to end. It gonna astonish you with lots of twists and turns that
you could never think of.

In this story, you gonna learn about the psychology of an individual when
they experience something for the very first time in their entire life and how
it nurtured their mind for further growth and development of someone’s
personality. You’ll also gonna get a glance at how our previous experience
rules our present, future, and every decision we ever made after that incident.

Here, you’ll also see how you find pleasure in some things just because
you were trying to ignore something bad happening in your life. So, it’s
not the true pleasure it’s just a way of escaping from other bad things.

If you are someone who loves to learn about the psychology of the human
mind or the basic human behavior of an individual who is experiencing
something for the very time then do consider reading this story. You’ll also
gonna learn some interesting facts about human nature and how it alters
someone’s personality for the rest of their life.

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255 review is by shannonpring on 12/12/22 - (United States)



Charles Pendelton gives us a fresh new perspective on a
child's young heart beating for another for the first time.

The Embryo Man is a devastatingly profound read. I just could NOT put it down.

It is one of the first books to completely alter my views on 'finding your one true love'
in romance novels & now I can never look back. If you are looking for a book that
shatters all expectations of practical love relationships, then you can count on
Charles Pendelton to finally open your eyes.

The novel begins with 42-year-old present-day Charles, bringing us into the town of
New Dorp, Staten Island. Here we are brought back in time to the 1970s. Here we
experience a much younger Charles straight from the pages of his intimate journals.

In this town is where he meets his new next-door neighbor, Harmony.

"I decided it was time to investigate, not knowing that doing
so would be the moment my life wold change forever."

When they meet eyes for the first time, Charles is immediately
smitten & his devoted love to her blossoms.

"This was more than a carnal attraction.
It was adoration in its purest form.
The sentiment of all rapture."

Charles has such a way with words that respectfully has been given a rightful title.
The Pendelton technique.

I was whisked away by the descriptions of his upmost devotion to this woman & in my
young adult age, would love to experience such words one day. It is a sad but genuine tale
of passionate lovers willing to go through great lengths to preserve their love for one another.

To put it into plain writing. I loved it. It may have been a little too profound for other people my
day in age, but I long for the times when men weren't afraid to show a sentiment to their woman.
Nowadays it is rare to find a book that truly engulfes you with all of our being that you're constantly
rooting for there to be a 'happy fairytale ending.' But you will not get that here.

The plot twist was very heartbreaking in my opinion and had to scavenge for some tissues to wipe
away my tear filled snot bubbles. (I am a young woman and very full of hormones that cannot be
withheld especially when its a love story. Whether it be movie or novel. Do not judge me)

That being said, it was such an honor to have come across such a GEM as this book.
Mr. Pendelton has exceeded all my expectations & I cannot wait to read any new work
he puts out in the near future.

I am eagerly waiting.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
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256 review is by balianmb on 12/16/22 - (Philippines)



An open mind. This is what every reader needs to enjoy this beautifully written story.

I felt like a kid again through Charlie's words and got magically transported into the
70s by the vivid descriptions of such times. The author certainly developed a unique
way of narration that gets you hooked into reading more of Charlie and Harmony's
one of a kind love story.

I laughed and cried and even to an extent understood the kind of love they
fell for each other. As a mother, my heart breaks for little Charlie on those
times he had no one and i hope to God he knows life is still worth living.

Although I am a mother of a 5 year old, after reading this story I cannot judge the
author for what is right or wrong for no one but ourselves have the right to live our
life as we please as long as we are not hurting anyone in the process. I think he
made the right decision in sharing their love story for people to learn.

This story will forever be etched in my mind.
Beautiful and full of life lessons.

Truly a great read.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))


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257 review is by monika_a_m on 12/22/22 - (Bulgaria)



Rating - somewhere between 3 and 4 stars!

This is not your typical love story novel. Oh, it really isn’t.
In the beginning the author warns the readers that this is a
story that is not for everybody and that you will remember
it for a long time. I thought that he might be exaggerating.

I mean, I have read a looot of love stories.
Boy, I was not prepared for this one.

I am sure I will remember it for a really long time.

I liked it and I didn’t like it.
How is this possible?

I will tell you what made me unsure how to proceed with my review.
In its whole, the book is about unconditional love. Love that knows
no borders. Love that lives through the years. Love that can make
your heart stop. I think that the main point in the book was exactly
the love. The writer manages quite skilfully to take us on a jorney
from the beginning to the very end. You can feel every emotion of
the boy. I would normally be overwhelmed with such a love story.

Although, it is tragic, it is pure. And maybe it would have a different
ending. Maybe the years would pass and their love would be allowed.
Maybe this is the ending I wanted. Maybe the writer also longed for it.

Sometimes fate has different plans for us.

The other thing that I actually loved, was the author’s writing style it is like
a melody. The words are flawlessly aligned to make a sentence and each
one of them is in its perect place. Nothing is missing, nothing is more.

The author says that this is his one and only novel and I think that
this is sad, because he definitely has the gift of telling a good story.

Finally, I reach the point of what I didn’t liked.
I couldn’t wrap myself around the idea of their love.

The word disturbing was ringing in my head. I am not judging. We are after
all different people. For me, if there wasn’t such a big age difference, or
maybe if Charles was at least 15 or 18 when it begins, I would have been
okay with that. But, I wasn’t. This really bothered me, as a mother of two boys.

At the end, however, I chose to look beoynd that and focus on the love and
the writing and that I did. This is a book like no other, mainly because it is
really personal and intimate. You should definitely prepare yourself before
starting to read it, because it will infact leave mark in your consciousness.

I applaud the writer for been so brave to let us
in the darkest and brightest moments of his life.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 4-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))


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258 review is by itsdiana on 12/24/22 - (Philippines)



For starters, let me say that you need an open mind if you want to finish
the book, as the author suggests. The Embryo Man is a May-December
romance set in the 1970s in the neighborhood of New Dorp, Staten Island.

It tells the story of a then 6-year-old Charles, who went head over heels
in love with a then 18-year-old Harmony. Being the older one, Harmony
knew it was wrong to get involved with Charles, but why did she do it?
You will have to read and learn the answer yourself.

I think that from a psychological perspective, Charles and Harmony’s family
backgrounds played a crucial role in why they engaged in what most would
call an illicit relationship. Charles’ parents aren’t exactly the best role models
in setting relationship standards, and this possibly created within Charles a
subconscious yearning to see the love he wished to see from his parents at
home (children lost the most in a divorce), or long for something real.

So when the opportunity came, nothing else mattered, not even age.

Harmony, on the other hand, coming from a conservative background and
a dysfunctional relationship, may have felt repressed or deprived of certain
liberties; this may explain why she perceived men as creatures who objectified
women (because she has only met such kind). And this can also be why she
had dominatrix tendencies in the fifth chapter; for by being with someone younger
and had an impressionable mind, she had a sense of power, scaring Charles at
some point (a total contrast to her being the weaker party in her previous affairs).

Honestly, it was a beautiful story that I hope involved two proper adults (as I found
it disturbing to read about Charles’ intimate experiences at a tender age), but since
that’s not the case, I might as well just keep my mind open while going through it.

So anyway, you can’t deny that it is also almost as if Charles is a man trapped in a
child’s body. There were parts where he seemed to be way beyond his years, like an
old soul who knew with absolute certainty that he loved Harmony, whereas Harmony
needed time and a lot of pondering to accept how she truly felt about Charles, whether
it was valid or just out of her loneliness (in the end, Harmony’s feelings were genuine).

Clearly, the connection was cosmic, and their love, indeed pure despite the
circumstances. What the other one lacked, the other one made up for (and
vice versa). Their tale is out of the ordinary, and it might be appalling to most.

But then again, who are we to judge? We are all spectators.

What else? Well, I like how the story also lets us take a peek at a time completely
different from ours, free from the endless distractions that surround us today.

The Embryo Man was thrilling to read. The writing was also personal. It was
piercing and had a distinct vibe that made you feel like you knew the author.
I am sure in another life, where no Earthly societal standards exist, Charles
and Harmony will meet again to pick up where they left off.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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259 review is by nisandi on 12/27/22 - (Sri Lanka)





I recently had the pleasure of reading "The Embryo Man" by
Charles Pendelton and was thoroughly captivated by the emotional
journey of the two main characters, Charles and Harmony.

The story follows Charles, a young man who falls in love with
Harmony, a woman of Indian descent who has moved into the
house across the street from him. Despite the societal taboo
against their relationship, the two form a deep bond of friendship
that eventually blossoms into unconditional love.

One of the things I appreciated most about the book was the realistic
portrayal of the challenges that Charles and Harmony faced as they
navigated their relationship. The author did a fantastic job of bringing
the emotional complexities of falling in love to live, and I found myself
fully invested in their journey.

In addition to the well-developed characters and engaging plot, the
writing in "The Embryo Man" is truly beautiful. The author uses words
to draw the reader in and keep them captivated until the very last page.

Overall, I highly recommend "The Embryo Man" to anyone looking for
a thought-provoking and emotionally satisfying read. It's a beautifully
written love story that will leave you rooting for Charles and Harmony
every step of the way.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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260 review is by hesh_content on 12/30/22 - (Sri Lanka)



This is not a typical love story that we all used to read.
The Story runs from 1970 to 1974.

The main character of the novel is Charles. He is a young boy who fell in love with
a girl who was older than him, named Harmony. Charles is a typical American boy
whereas Harmony comes from the Indian and Columbian descent.  Even though
Charles is a little boy he was able to read people very easily by looking at them. He
first saw Harmony and noted every little detail about her. It is not just love at first sight.
There is more than that. Harmony always sees Charles as her younger brother or a friend.

A love Story between them developed gradually, without hurting each other feelings.

Charles once Said " A Child I may very Well have been, but around Harmony, I felt more
like a man trapped inside a boy's body " It is mezmerisingly described how Charles felt
about Harmony. The chemistry between the two of them gradually developed. As a readers,
we can see that Harmony is his first love and how he fell of her hair, face, eyes and her
fashions. Charles showed the best of his abilities to win her heart. Harmony had a heart
overflowed with love but no one to give to it. How Charles win her heart by facing all the
obstacles?  Do they live happily ever after? All your questions solved at the end.

The most important fact that I saw in this novel was details. Every single detail has been
described. It helped to visualise the complete scene in mind. Therefore, it is like a movie
after completing the novel. It is more Suitable to this era because most of the love stories
are unstable. The story is all about pure love.  It is nicely describes the problems that
young lovers have to face their life. At the end all I have to say is "True love never dies."

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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261 review is by maryamsheikh872 on 12/30/22 - (Pakistan)




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Make sure you have an endless supply of tissues on hand -
because trust me, you'll be needing them.

The Embryo Man is an account of love, lust, heartbreak, and truly what it
means to be human. It has left the greatest impact on me, there is no book
like it. You must approach the book with an open mind in order to fully
immerse yourself into the experience of reading this absolute masterpiece -

but it's so worth it.

I really appreciate how the author stated the book was more so written
to preserve his story, rather than TELL a story. It just makes it so much
more real and raw.

At first I was shocked, but it turned into sympathy, and then heartache,
the more I read on. This novel put a lot of things into perspective for me.
It made me realise all the the things I was taking for granted, the love,
the people, the very sensations of being a human.

I also love the appreciation of South Asian culture and the knowledge
and accuracy the author has approached it with, being South Asian myself.

The only flaw I found in the novel was some scenes were stretched far
more than necessary (Charles' dreams, the trip on shrooms) - but then
again. The reader had been warned that this is an account of what
happened and not written for the entertainment of the reader.

Though it is considered unconventional and perhaps by the majority
as extremely controversial, it reminds us that in the end: love has no
boundaries and it is beautiful.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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262 review is by palaksingh297 on 1/2/23 - (India)



The novel begins by keeping us, the readers intrigued.

In the beginning my mind went to the question "Is this a true story?"
"Where is this story going to lead which is so different"?

The strong emotions of the writer explained in the beginning, makes
you wonder if he actually went through this and this is the clutch that
immediately holds your attention. But by the very first chapter you
realize that the author's word were true, judging by the description
of the woman and the author himself, this doesn't seem like your
'Boy meets girl' lovestory. And the clutch becomes stronger.

Over the first few chapters we are taken through vintage imagery
of the olden days. The main character of the story has that childish
temperament as he should, but on some instances his interactions
with Harmony seem a little too big for his age (maybe because we
are reading this from his eyes?)

As the story progresses you see a sudden shift from the imagery of
a quaint suburban life to a storyline you never thought would occur
between the main characters. Now you finally understand what the
writer meant when he said that "the story isn't for everyone". But by
this time you are gripped and want to know how the story would end.

Even after being scandalous, the story shows us the journey of childlike
innocence. You, as a reader see the story from two sets of eyes. Yours
and that of Charles'. As the story progresses, you can help but wait for
the storm that's been brewing. "I thought I heard the wind blowing outside
and said to myself, there's a storm brewing on the horizon. Oh, you poor
child, thought the winter raven to the moon as his white eyes flickered.

That is no ordinary storm. . ."

By the last few chapters, we see the relationship between the two
characters blossoming but coming to an absolutely tragic end.

Although the story is what you would call 'scandalous', the power of
love portrayed in the story overpowers you and can't help but wish
well for the characters. Although it leaves you with wishing to know
more about their relationship.

The book is great to curl up by the fireplace with a glass of wine.
At least that's what I did!

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))


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263 review is by arp1990 on 1/4/23 - (Bangladesh)



As the name suggests, the novel, The Embryo Man written by Charles Pendelton
has portrayed the feelings, emotions, thoughts and way of life of an adolescent boy.

Falling in love without considering much is very common in that age. Boys and girls
want to grow older but later people want to go back to this age again. The memories
of this age are ever lasting and cherished whole through the life. Taking the little things
very seriously, excessive emotion, strong desire for adult affairs are some of the
common characteristics of this age which has been depicted in a lucid, witty and
humorous narrative.

The novel starts with the falling in love of a six years old boy, Charles, with a 18 years
old girl, Harmony. Then there are day dreaming, fantasizing, physical attraction, infatuation
and taking silly things so seriously by Charles. Harmony also started liking Charles as a
young boy however gradually she also started getting closed to him like that of an adult
relationship. Both of them had some tormenting issues in themselves and they started
finding peace in each other. Then there comes the separation and the agony of solitude.

Charles, being an older person, is passing his days ruminating sweet memories
with Harmony and waiting to reunite with his beloved after death.

The narrative of this novel is so engaging that the readers will certainly go back
to their childhood. Everybody will feel Charles in themselves. We find romantic,
sometimes sensational and even sometimes platonic love in this novel.

The repetitive description of Charles-Harmony love may seem to the readers monotonous
for the time being however, finishing the novel they will find that this has been done to focus
on different dimensions of their love. The use of literary terms, philosophical ideas, simple
expression and the use of emotion has made this novel a masterpiece which people will
not get bored reading time and again.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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264 review is by uzmafaridi on 1/8/23 - (India)



The Embryo Man by Charles Pendelton is a book that is so interesting to
read, not just because of the story but also because of the writing style.
I am glad I got the opportunity to read this!

To begin with, I’ll talk about the story. It is about a young boy who falls in
love with an older woman. It is a controversial and problematic topic in the
modern world, but in the book, it just became gripping. It is commendable
how Charles owned up to the controversial nature of the relationship.

In its entirety, ‘The Embryo Man’ is about unconditional love.
Love that knows no borders. Love that stays alive through the years.

The book has an amazing feel of the 70s. We are often reminded of how much
times have changed. The writing is a little wordy at some points, but, nevertheless,
very beautifully written. Every feeling that the protagonist of the story might have
felt through the entire storyline has been expressed by the writer beautifully and
aptly through words. The writer manages quite skillfully to take us on a journey
from the beginning to the very end.

Charles seems to have many ups and downs in his life. He is immensely distressed by
his parents' bitter relationship and divorce. It was Harmony who gave him the love and
support that he needed during all the pain. But the most terrible thing happens in his life
when Charles gets to know that Harmony has cancer and she does not have much time
to live. Unfortunately, Charles cannot see Harmony during the last days of her life.

While the story in itself is interesting, one cannot ignore the age difference between
Charles and Harmony, especially considering the scenes of erotic nature. It was disturbing
to read them, not just because of the difference in age but because of the general descriptions
given. From a societal point of view, it is understandable that the book will face criticism
regarding this relationship. Having said that, one must acknowledge that it is extremely
brave of Charles to lay out his story in such a raw and honest way.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 4-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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265 review is by tanaya_sani on 1/11/23 - (India)



Initially, when I started reading about it, Charles warned me time and time again
that this is no ordinary love story. However, I thought it was a blatant exaggeration.
The book’s "Gratissimum" had me concerned, but as the story unfolded, it left me
in a painful state, forcing me to rethink what I had known about love.

To be honest, if you are a fan of the "Girl Next Door" trope, you would often find
yourself predicting the story and how it would play out yet this storyline fails to
do so and keeps you wondering. Even though the romance genre in general is
saturated, this book is truly one of a kind. This author has done a wonderful job
of capturing the magic of love at first sight via the written word. The storyline has
been really engaging and doesn't seem like a slog or a routine at all.

When you finish reading the book, you will undoubtedly be affected in some way.
It encourages the audience to think outside the range of what several of them
would consider familiar and is truly an unconventional romance at its finest.

"Whether you go to church or not, sometimes love is just doomed from the start, but
if you don't take the initiative to at least try to appease the yearning that has grown
in your heart, then you may well live to regret it" (on pp. 29–30) is what truly got me.

As the story is true, it makes me feel for Charles. The story's delicate inflection
provides a sketch of the primary mechanism for Charles' attraction to Harmony,
and it's via this drawing that the tale moves forward. It's truly a footprint because,
if he really didn't take the initiative, the story would not unfold like this, if at all.

This book is truly a must-read. It will not only take you on an emotional roller coaster,
but it will also give you a sense of autonomy in which you will feel completely lost in
the book. The entire story of Harmony and the lovely moments they shared together
was heartwarming to read. The author does a good job of persuading the audience
of his thoughts and sentiments, and he also avoids artificially advancing the plot by
allowing events to develop in a way that is organic.

The plot will have you questioning life and the shortcomings of love.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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266 review is by azranisar405 on 1/12/23 - (Kyrgyzstan)



I am an avid book reader, I enjoy reading romance novels.
I have read various romantic books but, Charles Pendelton’s
“The Embryo Man” is not an ordinary love story.

It breaks the conventional boundaries and definition of a love
story that I have been reading in books for years. I enjoyed
reading the book and sharing the storyline with my friend.

Well! she is reading it from the beginning to enjoy it thoroughly.

Readers like me will be shocked to read this book who are
habitual of reading conventional love stories. Therefore, I
would highly recommend you to be open-minded because
the climax is unexpected. The story is a good blend of
emotions, suspense, and feelings. Enjoy its each detail.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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267 review is by zuma_the_pro on 1/13/23 - (Bangladesh)



The Embryo Man was an enthralling love story that told a narrative of love, commitment,
and final heartache. It was a story that I would suggest to anybody looking for an exciting
love story that was different from the typical love story novel. This is not your usual love tale
like the ones that we have all read in the past. The events of the story take place between
1970 and 1974.

Charles is the most important and interesting character in the book. He is a young lad who
fell head over heels in love with a girl named Harmony who was significantly older than he
was. In contrast to Charles, who is a conventional American kid, Harmony is of Indian and
Colombian ancestry. Charles, despite his young age, had an uncanny ability to read people
just by observing their facial expressions and body language. When he first encountered
Harmony, he was quick to take in every aspect of her appearance.

There is more to it than falling in love at first sight. There is further information. Charles will
henceforth be thought of by Harmony as either her younger brother or a buddy. A love story
formed between them over time, without either of them intentionally hurting the other person's
feelings. When Charles was talking about his feelings with Harmony, he once said, "A Child I
may very Well have been, but around Harmony, I felt more like a man trapped inside a boy's
body." The way Charles felt about Harmony is eloquently and mesmerizingly expressed here.

The two of them quickly built a rapport that was marked by strong chemistry. As readers, we
are able to understand that Harmony is his first love, and we can also see how he fell in love
with her hair, face, eyes, and the clothes that she wore. To win over her affections, Charles
performed at the peak of his ability. While I was reading, I couldn't help but feel divided
between two opposing emotions: fear and compassion. Because of the significant age gap
between Charles and Harmony, I had my doubts about the viability of their relationship.

In this narrative, you are going to learn about the mental processes that take place within
a person when they encounter something for the very first time in their entire life, as well as
how that experience can foster the mental capacity of an individual, allowing for further growth
and development of their personality. You will also get a glimpse of how our past experience
governs our present, our future, and every decision that any of us have ever made following
that particular encounter.You'll also learn how you take pleasure in certain things just because
you were attempting to overlook anything negative that was happening in your life. This will
become clear to you here. Therefore, it is not the genuine pleasure; rather, it is only a means
of evading other unpleasant experiences.

If you are the type of person who enjoys gaining knowledge about the psychological workings
of the human mind or the fundamentally human responses of a person who is encountering
something for the very first time, then you might think about reading this narrative. You're also
going to find out some fascinating information about human nature and the ways in which it
may change a person's character for the rest of their life.

This is a novel that just cannot be skipped through.

In addition to taking you on an emotional roller coaster, it will also provide you with a sense of
autonomy, to the point that you will feel entirely lost in the book you are reading. It was quite
pleasant to read about the entirety of Harmony's narrative as well as the beautiful times that
they spent together. The author does a fantastic job of convincing the audience of his views
and feelings, and he also avoids artificially forwarding the storyline by allowing events to evolve
in a way that is organic. Both of these things contribute to the story's success. You will find
yourself pondering the meaning of life and the limitations of love as a result of the narrative.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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268 review is by syedaafrin842 on 1/14/23 - (Bangladesh)




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Sometimes you come across a story that changes your view on life.

This story of Harmony and Charles is very warm as well as heartbreaking.
I couldn’t stop my tears from falling at the end. Even when I started reading
this story, I knew it would be a tragedy, but I couldn’t stop reading.

The author poured his soul into presenting this story.

Sometimes we love a person, and if it doesn’t work out, we move on.
But the rarest of people have the opportunity to be with their loved one
for a brief moment and cherish it for a lifetime. Even if they didn’t get
their happy ending in this life, maybe they will get theirs in the next.

This gives us hope to love and; the courage to love fiercely.

The love we see between Charles and Harmony will be
immortal and transcend the barriers of time and mortality.
Thank you, Charles, for telling us your story.

Thank you for showing us that it’s beautiful to love someone
for the person they are without caring about societal norms.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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269 review is by sowmi3415 on 1/21/23 - (India)



When I got to know the boy age was 6, i actually felt terrible, it's full
of roller coaster emotions of 2 pure souls for 4 years of their together
journey, the pain felt by that little boy and his crave for love has deeply
saddened me when fate made them apart, felt the ending like Almighty
must have given a chance to live their life together to the fullest.

Dreams and reality are so interconnected, the way he expressed his
thoughts on paper in a poetic way is like literally he kept his heart
out to give life to this book of memories.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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270 review is by tawhida560 on 1/21/23 - (Bangladesh)



As a literature student I am passionate about reading and exploring new
kind of writing. 'The Embryo Man' by Charles Pendelton is one of the finest
story I have read so far. I would like confess that he has became my favorite
writer in Romantic Category after William Wordsworth.

The way writer portrays the relation of Charles and Harmony is magical.

Harmony helps Charles to understand the importance of maturity,
how to become a capable man and the value of a woman in men's
life. On the other hand Charles showers the lady love with love,
respect and care. I also love the way how Charles expressed his
love. The audience can easily connect him spiritually.

The story line some time can be a little confusing for the beginners but
eventually it is addictive. However, I am really happy to read the book
because The Writer easily managed to bring me into various emotions.

I blushed in their romantic side, I cried when Harmony dies so it's a roller
coaster of emotions. For this era 'The Embryo Man' can be a new way to
catch new readers attention. I would happily suggest my friends and family.

Waiting for more Mr Charles Pendelton

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271 review is by yashodha_95 on 1/21/23 - (Sri Lanka)


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An Extraordinary Journey of Love: The Embryo Man

If I started with the characters, the writer Charles Pendelton, has
nicely portrayed the main duo, exploring his first hand experiences.
The intimacy, emotions and pure love between Harmony and Charles
invites the reader to revisit the roots of humanity that is mesmerising.

The story is extraordinary and unconventional which make this novel
extra special. Also, it is noteworthy to mention, the way the writer
blends the Asian-American culture, is outstanding.

The techniques and the delicacy of words that Charles has used to
produce this lovable piece of literature, motivates the reader to read
it at a stretch, without keeping his/her mind away, at least for a second.

Here I'm commenting my sincere experience after reading this novel, which
made me feel "bravo!". All we live our lives, do we actually enjoy our lives?
This novel made me realise that, in this short period of our existence, we
have to live in the moment. May be we are too framed in the conventional
frames all the time.

However, I should mention, Charles has gifted with the magical art of writing!

I wish him all the success and I invite all the others to read this lovely novel.
You may feel the universality of love and the existence of different versions
of love, same as the humankind.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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272 review is by nayab_daniels on 1/28/23 - (Pakistan)



This book is life changing.

It sheds light on so many aspects of an adolescents life.
The book and it's story-line made me live a thousand lives together.
The writer has a splendid view about love, pure in all it's beauty.

He brought great change in my perspective about how men differ to
view man in a very very positive manner. Reading this book brought
great joy in my life. I recommend this book to every reader who wants
to feel love at it's highest form and being.

100% recommended.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))



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273 review is by umnasalah on 1/30/23 - (Pakistan)



The Embryo Man is nothing like you probably have read before.

The immaculate details set up the scene perfectly in my head, almost
as if I were watching it all happen before me. The scene setting, taking
us on a complete day journey, is a new experience for me in novels.

As a person of today's generation with a limited attention span, this kept
me hooked for hours, wanting to know more and more about their day.

There are so many relatable aspects touching on topics like existentialism,
spiraling down your thoughts, and coming to uneasy realizations.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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274 review is by befitwithgk on 1/30/23 - (India)



What a book. Initially it takes some time to grasp the essence of the
book but once you reach a point, you are simply hooked to this book.

It’s absolutely true once you read this book there is no going back.

It takes you on a journey you have never been to before. It keeps
you on the edge wondering what will happen next. It truly defines
the meaning of “age is just a number” You can literally feel all the
emotions while reading the book.

It shows a deeper meaning of pure love.
Must Read.

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275 review is by suhaabshah on 2/12/23 - (Pakistan)



A heart-warming and unusual love tale, The Embryo Man by Charles Pendleton gives
an honest account of a young boy's affections for a teenage girl. Through this book,
the author has skilfully, poetically, and philosophically depicted the purity, innocence,
and complexity of a child's emotions. This isn't your conventional happy-ever-after love
story; instead, it's the account of a young boy's battles to earn the love of a mature
teenage girl he can't stop thinking about.

The book is well-written and immerses the reader in time, allowing them to identify with
the characters and experience their feelings. As Charles tries to approach his crush, the
author does a fantastic job of depicting his innocence and timidity, and the reader can
sense the emotional intensity of their connection as it develops over time. The author
also does a great job of depicting the cultural contrasts between Charles and Harmony,
which gives the narrative a special and intriguing aspect.

Charles introduces the book by outlining his inspiration for it and letting the readers know
that it contains themes of love and adoration between a young kid and a teenage girl, which
some might find odd. The plot centres around the narrator, Charles, who has kept a diary called
"The Harmony's Journal" in which he has documented his experiences, views, and sentiments
towards his love, Harmony. The narrative opens with Charles giving a detailed account of how
he first met Harmony and how her mature, kind, and open-hearted character drew him in.

The reader is taken back in time to the 1970s to witness the American way of life through
the eyes of a kid as the young Charles and Harmony become closer as the story goes on.

However, some readers could find the book's sensuous encounters and dream sequences
to be a little too dragged out, which could make them bored and want to go on to the next
chapter. Despite this, the author deserves appreciation for being honest, trying to capture
the complexity of a child's feelings, and expressing gratitude to Harmony for improving his
life. The work is given a realistic touch by the surprise twist at the conclusion, which also
leaves the reader with a lasting sense of the two peoples' genuine love.

There are several memorable scenes in the book, such as Charles' coming to terms with his
love for Harmony and his efforts to convince himself that he is a man enough for her. Moreover,
the author does a fantastic job of expressing the emotional intensity of their bond as well as the
love and happiness that they share. One of the strengths of this novel is the author's ability to
use appropriate and meaningful language to express his emotions.

The story shows Charles' maturity as a young boy and his undying love for Harmony.
Charles is shocked by the shocking revelation at the conclusion of the narrative, but
it is evidence of the impact Harmony had on his life.

The Embryo Man is a book that examines the complexity of early love and the challenges
faced by a young boy as he seeks to earn the affection of an older teenage girl. The writing
by Charles is vivid and expressive, and his capacity to engage the reader via his open
sentiments makes this an interesting and captivating book to read.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated ? Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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276 review is by krishnakeshav33 on 2/15/23 - (India)



The most astonishing thing about this book is how two individuals who are so
altogether different may be attracted to each other. It is an account of a young
man frantically battling to win the expressions of the warmth of an exceptionally
experienced high school young lady he can't quit considering. The composing
style throughout the whole story is lovely, charming, and heartfelt. What makes
this narrative specific is that, in contrast to different cliché tales, it does not have
the older person abandoning or dishonest, the younger. All heartfelt stories ensure
that it is unprecedented and different that someone could anytime scrutinize, and
I ought to say that this a story past creative mind.

The book has wholly investigated the amount of adoration and fondness
between individuals from very assorted beginnings. The story offers presence
and death. Nothing perseveres perpetually; the total, in the end, disappears.

They made a little universe of happiness and joy out of the things they shared,
all things considered, it being so novel, regardless.

The more closely you were attached to the lost individual, the more moving on would
hurt. Harmony was lost by using Charles without his purpose or choice. The dream
they have been residing in was shattered by destiny. Regardless of age, nationality,
or faith, that is the story of two pure souls who fell in love with every different.

It becomes evident how much Charlie loves and has to defend Harmony as their
passion reaches its peak. He has an exciting way of picking the right words to
communicate his feelings. In this time of unsteady connections and separations,
this story sticks out tall in portraying the perfect type of love that we ought to
handiest at any point look at roughly. In any case, as the story attracts to a nearby,
the characters' viewpoints unexpectedly change, and it closes uniquely in contrast
to how we as a whole anticipate.

I was delighted that it wasn't just a romantic tale but the story of a little kid growing up
and that it might have happened to somebody previously. A portion of the fantasies
which have been referenced in the story is excessively elucidating on occasion yet
once more; it would be worth focusing on that those fantasies make us, as pursuers,
be more mindful of the stand of the hero towards his darling.

I'm captivated by this and intrigued by that. Because of how blameless, genuine,
and unadulterated his perspectives are, we readers maintain that he should keep
this woman perpetually, notwithstanding all social practices.

That simplified it to expect the narrator was, as a matter of fact, a youth. I likewise
adored how harmony treated the relationship with a similar consideration as Charles
did. She surprisingly put resources into it. This book truly entices me to go on reading
it, and it honestly got into my brain; an extraordinary story may be stunning for some,
but the climax was truly incomprehensible, yet on the off chance that you will guess
this book with honest thoughts and open heart, you will clearly cherish it.

It's a true romance story, evident in every portrayal till the end.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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277 review is by nusratjahan603 on 2/19/23 - (Bangladesh)



I don't know where to start. I just finished reading "The Embryo Man"
a while ago and I don't even need to think twice to rate this book as
one of the best books I've ever read.

The book tells the story of a young boy, Charles falling in love with a
teenage girl, Harmony in the historic setting of 1970s Staten island.
When I started reading it, I came across quite a few warnings put by
the author in the beginning that made me think maybe this book was
going to be quite unconventional for my liking. But as I found myself
going further, I was deeply enchanted by the way the unique story
was told. What I loved most about the book was the poetic language
and structured voice it's been written in throughout. There were small
poetic pieces scattered all through the book and as an epic poetry reader
myself, I was in awe. It had kind of those classic book touches in it and
for that fact, I couldn't put the book down until I was at the end of it.

The story showed Harmony as a person of Indian descent. There were
descriptions of Indian food, places, dresses, etc and since I'm a South
Asian person myself and I live close to India that's helped me to know a
lot about Indian culture, I was quite intrigued by the way the author put it
all in. Lehenga, Henna tattoo, and Gulab Jamun were some of the topics
of description and I'm forever familiar with these things so reading about
something that I knew very personally made me really curious to know
what was on the next pages.

The romance was heartfelt, deep, and emotional; something we don't come
across often in this modern time. I could feel all the emotions by heart as I was
turning the pages. For some reason, I could guess the tragic ending that the
book was going to give us somewhat from the start. And yet it kind of broke me.

There's a saying, "Love doesn't know any boundaries" and if I have to give an
example of this in the real-life world, I would mention this book that's for sure.

Finally, I'm happy that I could read this piece of art and in the chaos
of thousands of books, it didn't slip out of my hand. Thanks to the
author for publishing this book and allowing us to read it.

I loved it. Thank you.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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278 review is by a_lost_comet on 2/21/23 - (India)



Love is beautiful, moreover, it is wild. No power in the cosmos could ever put walls to
it and would be the sin of only a foolish heart. Charles Pendelton’s “The Embryo Man”
is a tribute to that inexorable, omnipotent feeling called love. In the beginning, I was
skeptical about whether the book would be able to carry such complicated emotions
that it promises in the Gratissimum. However, with an open mind, I dove into it and
was amazed at how it hooked me to it till the last word.

The innocence of a six-year-old is not unknown but one might be awed to
experience the love story of a six-year-old who fell for a girl on the brink of
exiting her teenage years. For us, it is the story of Charles and Harmony.

That one morning in 1970 was just another day for Charles until it changed him forever.
It was the day when Harmony came into his life. At that very point when Charles saw
Harmony, he knew that she was the love of his life. That was when he started questioning
his ability to become a man for her, bearing the body of a small kid. When Charles titled
his book “The Embryo Man”, I am convinced he knew exactly where he was taking it.

The primary aspect of the book that I couldn’t get over is that Charles's complete
character has been true to his age, his complexities, and his emotions, which are
so vividly put into words that the readers can themselves feel them all. The author
also has added certain mature themes into it. However, in every yearning of kiss,
touch, the innocence, and complexity of their relationship is beautifully portrayed.

Throughout the book, the author's poetic style of writing imbued every sentence with
a sense of lyricism and grace, drawing me further into the story and the world it had
created in my mind. At times I found myself rereading certain passages again and
again, simply to savor the beauty of the language.

Amidst their love, the personal battles of Charles and Harmony are also well brought
into light. The bitter relationship of Charles’s parents and the bitter past of Harmony
drew the two even closer. Their sweet interactions, the affection, and love they held in
their hearts for each other, brought their lives at ease and filled them with happiness.

“To be a man before you can be a boy will ultimately destroy your soul”, and thus
he calls himself “The Embryo Man”, yes powerful beyond words! This single phrase
was enough for me to melt for the philosophical beauty of the whole thing.

Nevertheless, this story of two people falling in love beyond the expectations of society
will leave you hollow, crying, and wanting for more. No this story is surely not for everyone
but for anyone who understands the elegance and imperfections of true love. Rarely do we
get to encounter such impactful literature, thus, I would highly recommend it to anyone.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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279 review is by margavista on 3/6/23 - (Philippines)



As I am writing this, I float almost mindlessly on a lake of my own salt tears. I have
just reached the end of the novel and it occurred to me how it is an honor to read a
story such as this. I’m eternally grateful to be one of the people given the opportunity
to be, in some way, a witness of a simultaneously beautiful and tragic love story.

When reading Harmony’s letter, the feeling started hurting physically and it made the
muscles in my face and, peculiarly, in my abdomen hurt. In moments resembling the
end of the novel, it is inevitable to be questioning God as He is the author of the world.
We, as humans, are just mere the walker and bringer of the stories already written. The
emotions we brave through during miseries, such as the time Charles had encountered,
are also opportunities for us to decide for ourselves of what we could do to continue on
the story or, if unfortunate, not.

Longing for someone not here anymore is not easy to equate to anything similar
to that feeling for it is not a small deal. The emotion of this is perfectly portrayed
in the story and I can testify since I, myself, am experiencing this at the moment.
The feeling of not having any capacity or any power to do anything about it but still
wanting to do something to at least deemphasize that pain is kind of a punishment
to the self for something you didn't have any control over.

To talk about the ideologies written in the novel, I can say ‘I couldn’t agree more’.
As a feminist, I can find myself nodding in most parts that I presume Charles is
talking with undying love, by how he empowers Harmony without her listening.
I am in love with how he sees Harmony in a state of transparency, in perspectives
not only from him, because we know how love can affect our own perspectives, but
also in an angle of just pure truth that other people may have assumptions of the
little boy to be infatuated and not in love, but this is not the case for that ‘little boy’.

I wanted to also talk about how the title of the story is so fitting. At first, it will not be
an easy thing to recognize immediately but when I reached the tail of the novel, every
loose thread made its way to entangle with each other which made me see that the
author of this novel is indeed successful, other than the fact that a reader is here,
swimming in the pool of her own tears.

I know the author has laid his pen to rest and has chosen to not look back, but as a
reader, I cannot help but think about how he dealt with the overflowing emotions he
must have had at the time. I cannot fathom how he would be able to talk to anyone,
other than this literary work, about the deep feelings, the detailed stories, the when’s,
the how’s, and the why’s. Personally, even as a fellow writer, I would’ve been incapable
of composing myself to sit down and write this piece of literature.

Searching for words to utter is a very difficult task for me in a moment of a freshly
severed heart such as this time. In spite of such an agony of mind, these words I
spewed out are directly from the soul, soaring outwards myself.

The emotions that freed themselves out of my heart are
what makes the writer fruitful in telling a bonafide story.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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280 review is by kothmini on 3/8/23 - (Sri Lanka)



Charles Pendelton’s “Embryo Man” is written based on his personal experience.
I found this to be one of the most unique and emotional romance novels I’ve read
in recent years and also one of the most controversial ones ever. Just like the author
warns throughout the book, it had my patience and grasp of ethics and reality tested
in many ways as I read on. The author narrates the love story of Harmony and Charles
as he walks down memory lane while grieving for his lost true love.

These events take place in Staten Island, America. In the early 70s’, or to put it in the
author’s own words, “in an age where modern western ideologies were just starting to
take shape”. The book evoked memories of a time when technology wasn't as prevalent,
while also touching on the political climate and rebellious spirit of the progressive youth in
that era. Everything starts when Harmony, a beautiful Latin-American Indian teenage girl
who’s on the doorstep of adulthood moves in across the street from Charles, a little boy
with parents experiencing marital issues in 1970. Then the story unfolds as a pure and
genuine love blooms between this highly unlikely pair, then grows into almost perfection
just to end devastatingly with the untimely death of Harmony in 1974.

In my opinion, there is one main element that makes this novel so controversial yet crucial to
the plot. That is the fact our protagonist and narrator Charles is a six-year-old. I was shocked
upon discovery of the fact. It also made the character hard to relate to and sympathize with for
a fair length of the story. It even left me with a certain level of discomfort given that the book
also contains intimacy as well. But later I accepted the fact and moved on (took about three
chapters) as I learned that making peace with the fact is an absolute must to enjoy the story.

The author uses Shakespearian-poetic language with a hint of modern style woven into it.
I think he has put a good and successful effort into describing the era and surroundings. To
me, the entire storyline was very easy to visualize, which I enjoyed thoroughly. Every other
side character is given appropriate time to shine as well, but they do very little other than serve
the purpose of making Charles-Harmony interactions possible. From their neighbors and friends
to even Charlie’s family members (especially his parents) lack depth to their characters to a
noticeable extent. Harmony’s loved ones are hardly mentioned. Erotic scenes are well written.
There were a few parts that felt a bit too stretched. Like the dreams Charles had and the
psychedelic mushroom scene. I found them to be a bit boring, even tiring.

Charles and Harmony both are very interesting and vibrant characters, even to the extent
that together they make everything else colorless. Charles is exceptionally mature for his
tender age, brave, clever, and thoughtful. Harmony (who is usually seen through Charles’s
eye) seems very talented, kind-hearted, and adventurous. In other words, an ideal woman
any man on earth would be lucky to have. She has a very broad view of life. It is very well
portrayed in the lectures she gives to Charles occasionally.

I found it quite entertaining to observe how Charles coped with experiencing love at a young
age, which is not typically expected or natural. He grappled with various emotions such as
insecurity and jealousy, despite being only six years old while engaging in a forbidden romance
with an older girl. They both went out of their way to bring joy to each other, even if it was for
small things, and they were willing to make sacrifices to please the other. This selflessness is
what made their love feel genuine and strong. Despite being a walk-on eggshell, in my opinion,
this was a love that deserved a happy ending, not just because it defied almost every societal
boundary ever to exist, but because they earned it, making it ending even more tragic.

How their relationship came to an end caught me by surprise.
I was under the impression that their controversial love story
to be discovered by someone and be brought to a dramatic
end with both of their names dragged into a world of shame
by society. Harmony’s death felt so sudden because of that.

Charles not being given a chance to say goodbye to her is very heartbreaking.

In conclusion: “Embryo Man” takes a very out-of-the-ordinary kind of approach to explore
the boundless horizons of true love. In the end, this book serves all the purposes the author
wrote it for. If he wanted to share his pain, he is heard. If he wanted to leave a memory of
Harmony on earth, she is remembered. This novel is everything the writer promises. It was
controversial and unique. It was not for everyone. It will leave a mark in your headspace.

Despite all that I enjoyed this book a lot. It was a vast ocean
of emotions. A truly memorable and refreshing experience.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 4-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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281 review is by nilmini_k on 3/10/23 - (Sri Lanka)



This book starts off with Harmony. A heartwarming and attractive lady
with long black hair. The story begins with a tender love at the age of
six (bordering on seven). It’s a unique, poetic and romantic story. It's
not easy to understand the heartwarming feelings between each other.

It recalls our childhood too.

Charles trying to tell the story with sincerity. The story is about
the struggle between the teenage girl and the innocent boy.

He explains the first time he saw her with nice feelings that arouse
the reader. He explains how the story develops, and the attraction
he feels towards her. He tries his best to keep her company and
to stay with her as often as possible.

When we are deep into reading, it makes you realize that the
components of everyday life are seamlessly woven into this novel.

The love story flowers step by step.

Charles parents are going through a hard time and are continually
fighting with each other. But he received love and care from Harmony
instead. Charles loves her company so much.

Charles provides good communication unlike in a traditional story.
Over stretched, erotic expressions also explained in detail.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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282 review is by swemari on 3/11/23 - (India)



** spoiler alert ** To be someone’s peace, to be their home, to be their inspiration…
woman truly adds a lot in a man’s life. And the epigraph talks about this exact thing.
Reading the epigraph brought so much warmth to my heart and I knew I am going
to be a part of an incredible journey of love which will make me happy and bring
comfort but also shatter my heart and make me emotional…a story that will stay
with me forever; story of THE EMBRYO MAN.

The Embryo Man is a heart-wrenching story of love and lost. It is a forbidden love
story of two human, a story that one won’t stop reading. And interesting part about
it is that it is based on the real life of the author Charles Pendelton.

A love, that he experienced that changed his life. A love story like no other. A love
story that was eternal, love that he could never forget. Love that he treasured forever.
A love story for which he wrote a book. It is an unconventional story and the author
definitely wasn’t joking when he said ‘I have warned you about this.’

Charles life changed when he met Harmony. And when his girlfriend opened
the “Pandora’s box”; his life changed again. It took him back to 1970s when
he was 6 and first saw Harmony who was 18. A boy of 6 getting attracted and
falling in love with a woman of 18, a story that may raise eyebrows but a story
that will break your heart.

The way Charles describes the day he saw Harmony, is simply beautiful. From the
way he explained it we know he found his peace, his home. The way he describes
Harmony, his optic did total justice at capturing every nuances of her beautiful face.
He knew he has fallen in love with that beautiful woman he saw. There was an instant
attraction but more than that Charles was mesmerized by Harmony. I could totally
imagine Charles looking at Harmony with a smile on his face and getting lost.

As Charles moves on from describing the beauty of Harmony, the reality check is
given and the smile that was there when we start reading disappears and the warmth
turns into cold, when you realize the story isn’t going to be like any other story (like
the author said) of incomplete love and heartfelt romance. But it will be one of a kind
novel, unconventional, where one will be experiencing whirls of emotions.

Charles was totally intoxicated by Harmony in every way; her physical attributes,
characteristics, personality, wit. She was the coolest woman for Charles. He was a very
good listener and very observant. He observed everything about the woman he loved…
her face, her features, voice, her house and even the palm of her hand as he described
the palm to be shiny and line on the palm of her hand to be exquisitely drawn. Charles
had vegetables he hated just for her. He remembered the name of the Indian attire she
wore. He didn’t want to hurt her in anyways. He listened to her. He became a man for her.

Harmony too, loved Charles equally. She cared for him, she was protective of him. She
taught him a lot of things, about women, their body function etc. She cooked for him,
bought all his favorite eatables. She wanted best for him. Charles felt safe with her and
felt at peace. Harmony was with a toxic person before who mistreated her horribly.
Knowing the story, Charles felt extremely sad. He was adamant to protect her. For Charles,
Harmony was a goddess. He worshipped her, adored her, celebrated her presence,
respected her and loved her with all her heart and soul and with everything he had.

Charles came from a home where his parents argued constantly. The relationship that his
parents shared and the one that he and Harmony shared were poles apart. While Charles
parents never cared for each other. They didn’t have any love to share. Their meetings
together always turned into arguments. Charles and Harmony on the other hand became
each other’s home. They took care of each other. Charles was a man who didn’t want to
leave any stone unturned for his lady love. He never wanted to hurt or disappoint her.

There was so much love between them.

One genuine moment in the novel is the part where Charles confesses his feelings for
Harmony. The dream that Charles had about Harmony made a deep impact on him.
So much so, he happens to talk rudely with her. The way he shows his irkness is so
innocent and pure. That proceeded to an intense moment between them which leads
to Harmony kissing Charles. The description of the kiss by her is beautifully described
by Charles. It was a kiss that touched the soul. After the kiss Harmony did get furious
and told Charles to go on and tell about it to his friends. But then we see another
heartwarming scene ‘The confession’ wherein Charles finally confesses his love for
Harmony. The purity, vulnerability and honesty in that moment; you can’t help but feel
how wonderful love is. When Charles says; ‘if I was older, I would give you the world.

I would never treat you bad and I’d protect you always. I would even give you my soul,’
we know he isn’t lying. He could indeed do anything for Harmony and give her the world
and make her the happiest girl. Harmony couldn’t hold back revealing her true feelings
too. She too loved Charles. That night after the confession Charles was in heaven. He
was in a world that couldn’t be described in words. The reciprocation of love that makes
your heart full and makes you feel warm and elated. We all have been there and we
know exactly how Charles was feeling.

Harmony was in Charles mind all the time; when he was away from her. When he
was on his way to school he looked at her picture. He thought about her, missed her
and yearned for her. Even in his dream Charles sees Harmony and how he is fighting
with other man for her but only to lose her in the end. And Charles feels this is the
worse punishment for anyone…to lose the one they love the most in the world. And
unfortunately that dream comes true in real life where Charles loses Harmony forever.
The pain that the ending part causes to the reader..!!! it pricks the heart constantly.
The pain of the lost is so palpable that the heartbreak is felt by the readers too. But we
also know that the love Charles had for Harmony is never lost as she lives in his heart
and his mind forever. The time they spend together, the memories they created and the
loved they shared lives on in Charles and we know he will love her forever.

Charles Pendelton has bared his heart in the book. His sincerity is seen in his writing.
His unabashed way of describing everything shows he has nothing to hide. It shows
that he has opened his heart. He has penned about that part of his life which has love,
happiness, pain, hope and lost. He has talked about his relationship with Harmony with
so much honesty that in a way shows his trust on the reader.

The way the book is written is beautiful and very simple which makes it easy to understand.
Charles has used amazing vocabulary. The way he has described some important scenes in
the book is creative especially the sensual scenes. Overall it is a fantastic read which definitely
will leave an impact on the reader and also it will leave a lot of questions in the readers mind.
An exceptional work written from heart with full honesty, The Embryo Man by Charles Pendelton
is definitely one of a kind book and it is one book to be read at least once in life.

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283 review is by aamnaaaa on 3/21/23 - (Pakistan)



In "The Embryo Man," author Charles Pendelton explores the intricate and taboo
relationship between a small boy and an elder girl with a year age gap. Set in a small
town, the story unfolds as the young boy falls madly in love with his caretaker, who is
twice his age. As their love blossoms, the woman takes on the role of protector and
caregiver, nurturing not only his heart but also his body.

Charles's writing style is both poetic and sensual, capturing every moment of their
forbidden romance with vivid detail. The emotions of these two characters are palpable,
leaving readers feeling as if they too have been swept up into this whirlwind affair. But it
is not just about physical desire; Charles also delves deep into the psychological aspects
of such an unconventional relationship.

Harmony's character is beautifully crafted, depicting not only her physical beauty but also
the carefree spirit that captivates those around her. The author does an excellent job of
weaving together the intricate layers of Harmony's identity, making it palpable to readers.

Her cultural roots are firmly grounded in the story and play a significant role in shaping
the narrative arc. The way the author portrays the relationship between the small boy and
Harmony is pure magic. Their connection transcends age and cultural barriers, representing
something universal about human nature - our capacity to love unconditionally.

There are many special moments described beautifully between the two. One of the moments
which truly moved the reader was when we follow the journey of a 9-year-old boy who goes above
and beyond to make the birthday of the woman he loves extra special. The young protagonist is
determined to show his affection for her in any way possible, and his efforts do not go unnoticed.

As the day progresses, we see the boy's excitement build as he plans out each detail with
meticulous care. From getting cards to buying flowers, his creativity knows no bounds. And
when the big moment finally arrives, our little hero musters up all his courage and expresses
his feelings in a touching oral confession that will leave readers both moved and inspired.

With its charming characters and timeless message of love, this chapter is truly a standout among
its peers. One of the most enlightening aspects of Charles’s book is his exploration of how couples
often fall out of love over time. He argues that societal pressures to stay together and maintain
appearances can lead to individuals staying in unfulfilling relationships far longer than they should.

By identifying these patterns and discussing them openly, Charles provides readers with
valuable insight into how to recognize when a relationship is no longer serving them.

As I come to the end of this book, it's clear that Charles' story is one of love, lust, and loss.
Falling for a woman older than him, he experiences an intense sexual awakening that takes
over his life. Despite the disapproval of his parents and society's expectations, Charles
follows his heart and pursues a relationship with the woman he loves.

The author does an incredible job of portraying the complexities of relationships and how they
can evolve over time. We see how Charles' initial infatuation with this woman transforms into a
deep love that transcends age and societal norms. The book also brings to light the struggle
between following your heart and adhering to traditional cultural values. While some may find
certain aspects of this novel controversial or taboo, I appreciated how it tackled these themes
head-on while still maintaining an engaging plot.

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284 review is by kitadusa on 4/5/23 - (Costa Rica)



A beautiful book, an enveloping story!!

Although it has a somewhat slow start for me, as the
story unfolds you can't stop reading. You want to know
what else is next, what else is going to happen...

The language used by the author is rich, and the writing is
masterful. Without spoilers, I can say that I didn't expect
the ending... It all ends in a boom!!

It really is a book that, at the right age, everyone should read!!

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285 review is by ando_novelist on 4/8/23 - (Greece)



In the interest of stepping outside my comfort zone, I read “The Embryo Man”.
One-of-a-kind story about love, written from a totally different perspective than
expected, changing every rule of the game. The author touches on one of our
society's taboos uniquely. His more than real characters exist in a turmoil-of-
emotions world, and I found myself swept away in the story.

The story’s written in a narrative and a point of view that pulled me in - letting
the hero introduce himself and placing me right next to the hero in his struggles.
Given who he is, he does his best to comprehend all the overwhelming emotions
and responsibilities love and relationship bring in one’s life. Love, despair,
insecurities, fears, dreams for the future, it’s all there. Born and raised in the 60s,
he does challenge and question society’s rules and what said rules mean to his
present and future. His endless but sincere inner dialogue, looking for answers
yet to be found, engaged me in his roller-coaster of emotions.

From the very beginning, it’s obvious that something bigger is yet to happen.

The writer takes no pity on his heroes, but exposes their weaknesses and actually
goes deeper into all the characters with brief yet complete descriptions, psychographing
them and intriguing me to want to know more about everyone. The story goes through
a maze of plot options, piquing my curiosity. Clean writing, without unnecessary details,
giving me the chance to visualize every scene in my head, holding my attention focused
on the heroes’ interaction and their inner turmoil of thoughts and emotions. Every dialogue
always reveals more about the hero and his love but from different points of view and
outlines his reaction through others’ actions.

The story intrigued me enough and held my interest from the very beginning till the end.

As the story went, I anticipated reading the following scenes. Even though I wanted
to see a happy end, the actual finale serves the story way better than any HEA.

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286 review is by wicky_online on 5/14/23 - (United Arab Emirates)



I came across “The Embryo Man” while I was looking for something to read
in my leisure time. While I was looking for something to read slowly and in
my own pace, Embryo Man proved to be so immersive and attaching that it
compelled me to finish reading the book in one go.

The plot of this book revolves around the love of a boy of 6 years and a girl of
18 years. While the storyline is unique, it’s highly plausible. Throughout reading
this book once again and again I felt like this should be a true account of one’s
life events. The ending of the book pulled my heart out, and it’s pretty emotional
and heart touching.
What I like most about The Embryo Man is its masterful writing style. I thoroughly
enjoyed its immersive reading experience by immersing myself in the narrative and
allowing myself to be carried along by the stream of conscious storytelling. Author’s
use of vivid descriptions and introspective musings create a sense of intimacy with the
reader, allowing them to connect with the characters and settings in a deeper level.

If you are looking for an unconventional storyline, with an immersive reading
experience The Embryo Man fits perfectly and it shows a face of true love,
and what it looks like! A great book, and highly recommended!

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287 review is by pranavichamakur on 6/24/23 - (India)


Reading your book has been an absolute delight, and I want to express my sincere
gratitude for the wonderful experience it provided. Throughout the pages, I felt deeply
connected to the emotions and the profound love that emanated from your words.

It was a testament to your exceptional talent as a writer and storyteller.

The depth of feelings and the authenticity with which you portrayed them left an
indelible mark on me as a reader. It was evident that you poured your heart and
soul into the book, allowing the readers to be fully immersed in the world you
created. Your ability to evoke such strong emotions is truly remarkable and made
the reading experience all the more memorable.

As I reached the final pages of the book, a sense of both satisfaction and longing
washed over me. I was satisfied because I had embarked on a journey that touched
my soul and left me with a renewed appreciation for the power of storytelling. Yet,
there was also a longing, a desire to continue immersing myself in your beautifully
crafted narratives and explore the depths of your creativity.

Thank you for the incredible reading experience and
for sharing your unique perspective with the world.

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288 review is by a_ramirez18 on 7/28/23 - (USA)

Right off the bat I was curious to see what this book entailed. And my assessment at
the end was, it did not disappoint! It took me about 6 days on/off to read, life got in the
way, but I believe could’ve finished within 2. Charles Pendelton’s “The Embryo Man”
takes readers on a journey about love at first sight for the young protagonists within
the 1970s. Don’t want to get into too much detail about the actual book and ruin it for
future readers but being able to captivate the reader with raw emotions, love, lust, pain,
happiness, makes this so much more personal.

Charlie & Harmony are the perfect example of love cut too short. Harmony was the
perfect woman in Charlie’s eyes, and that is what love does. It blinds a person and just
shows them what they want to see. The euphoric happiness they had was viciously
taken away from them. The “what if she survived?” Would they still be together to this
day? Would their relationship run its course and they had proper closer? Unfortunately,
we will never know. It is amazing to see this is a real-life personal experience, that
someone felt these emotions and went through these events in their lifetime.

This is what makes this story so unique, it is not made up but memories. Memories
that are permanently cemented in this book for others to read and experience the same.
“The Embryo Man” is a coming of age story not a romance but a story of love. I would
definitely recommend reading this story, be prepared to feel any type of emotion.

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289 review is by mariahrist on 8/5/23 - (Bulgaria)

"The Embryo Man" by Charles Pendelton is a riveting memoir that takes readers on
an emotional journey through the evolution of an interracial love story. The protagonist,
Charles, and the love of his life, Harmony, weave a tale of young love, emotional drama,
and erotic pleasure, challenging societal norms and perceptions. The writer is clearly
enchanted by the lady's inner beauty and captivating personality, emphasizing that her
physical appearance is just one aspect of what makes her so special. The depth of
emotions expressed suggests a profound connection and a sense of being completely
enthralled by her presence. The woman has opened the admirer's eyes to new and
unique feelings, leading to a sense of joy and anticipation for each new day.

The story begins with Charles haunted by shadowy apparitions, symbolizing the restlessness
and uncertainty he experiences in the waking hours of his life. The impossible task of courting
Harmony fuels his pursuit of knowledge and self-fulfillment. Throughout the narrative, Charles
undergoes a radical transformation, delving into concepts of honor, devotion, and respect,
which alter the typical perception of maturity.

The author brilliantly captures the essence of young love as Charles and Harmony's dedication
to one another progresses. Their dreams and shared aspirations serve as the foundation of their
bond, despite the taboo and forbidden nature of their relationship. The exploration of passion and
bliss takes center stage as the couple indulges in moments of unfettered passion.Interwoven within
the love story are the challenges of contemporary relationships and the intricacies of understanding
women's desires and needs. The novel touches on themes of acceptance and coming-out, defying
societal norms to celebrate love in its truest form.

Throughout the narrative, readers are left questioning the future of Charles and Harmony's relationship,
eagerly awaiting answers to the many unanswered questions. The memoir captures the essence of true
love, inviting readers to ponder its elusive definition.The prose is sensuous and captivating, opening
doors in the reader's mind and refusing to let them fully close. It is a journey that explores the depths of
human emotion and the complexities of love, daring to challenge preconceived notions.

In conclusion, "The Embryo Man" is a powerful and evocative memoir that celebrates the beauty and
challenges of interracial love. Charles and Harmony's story is a testament to the strength of love and the
resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The author's skillful storytelling and deep exploration
of emotions make this a compelling read that will linger in the hearts and minds of readers long after the
final page. The final statement, encouraging others to read the book to understand the true meaning of
love and devotion, indicates that this passage is a part of a larger story exploring these themes in greater
depth. It entices potential readers, promising them an exploration of profound emotions and relationships.

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290 review is by changemaker332 on 8/15/23 - (Singapore)



"The Embryo Man" is a captivating journey that invites readers into the intimate realm of
emotions, love, and self-discovery. This introspective narrative, presented in a journal-like
style, artfully weaves together themes of love's enduring power, the nuances of grief, and the
anticipation of a new chapter. The title itself, "The Embryo Man," encapsulates the essence
of this narrative, highlighting the protagonist's growth and readiness for what lies ahead.

What Was Excellent:

The title "The Embryo Man" aptly mirrors Charlie's journey. Like an embryo preparing for life, he
absorbs experiences, learns from them, and navigates through his emotions. This title not only
captures the essence of his growth but also resonates with his preparation for what's to come.

The journal-like format remains a masterstroke in this novel. The reader is instantly immersed
in Charlie's world, experiencing his raw emotions as if they were their own. The opening pages,
brimming with heartache, form a poignant connection with readers. The letters and songs
interspersed throughout the narrative offer a window into Charlie's soul, allowing us to feel the
depth of his love and longing. The heart of the narrative lies in Charlie and Harmony's relationship.

Their love story, illuminated through letters and shared memories, forms the narrative's emotional
core. This poignant connection is vividly depicted, revealing their deep bond, shared dreams, and
the emotions that bind them across time. This aspect of the story adds layers of authenticity and
tenderness that stay with the reader long after the final page. Harmony's presence is beautifully
etched in the passages that recount their love story. These segments are delicate and evocative,
capturing the essence of youthful passion and shared dreams. Harmony's letters and songs provide
an authentic glimpse into their bond, leaving a lasting impression that transcends the pages.

The vivid portrayal of the 1970s adds another layer of authenticity to the narrative. Through
Charlie's eyes, readers gain insight into the era's unique dynamics, its music, culture, and
the societal backdrop. This nuanced depiction enriches the story's backdrop, inviting readers
to immerse themselves in a bygone time.

"The Embryo Man" isn't just a story—it's a catalyst for reflection and evolution. The introspective
narrative doesn't merely immerse readers in Charlie's emotions; it prompts us to reconsider our
own experiences, love, and growth. The personal nature of the story encourages us to examine
our perspectives, to appreciate love and to prepare for the future.

What Didn't Fully Resonate:

Amidst the emotional depth of "The Embryo Man," there are instances where the use of descriptions
and metaphors borders on the melodramatic. While these passages effectively convey emotional
intensity, a gentler touch would ensure that the narrative remains grounded in its raw authenticity.
This approach would enable readers to fully experience the characters' emotions without a sense
of theatricality. By finding a balance between emotive prose and subtlety, the narrative can maintain
its evocative power while avoiding any potential exaggeration.

Additionally, the scattered repetition in introspection, though akin to journaling, can occasionally
disrupt the narrative's flow. To preserve the emotional weight and maintain readers' engagement,
it would be beneficial to refine these moments. This could involve trimming the repetitive sections
while ensuring that Charlie's internal struggles and reflections remain compelling. This fine-tuning
would result in a more consistent and smoothly paced narrative that allows readers to remain
immersed without encountering emotional fatigue.

As the book adopts a journal-like structure, the transitions between different timelines and perspectives
sometimes lack clarity. Incorporating distinct chapter titles, dates, or visual markers would guide readers
more effectively through these shifts. Enhancing these transitions would enable a seamless navigation
of Charlie's journey, capturing the essence of a journal while preventing any momentary disorientation.
By gently addressing these areas, “The Embryo Man" could refine its narrative, allowing its heartfelt
emotions and intimate storytelling to shine even brighter.

In Closing:

"The Embryo Man" is a poignant journey that delves into the intricate tapestry of human emotions.
With subtle refinements to pacing and transitions, this already immersive narrative can become an
even more seamless experience. Through its journal-like structure, the book provides an intimate
window into Charlie's soul, painting a vivid portrait of love, grief, and personal growth. This is a
narrative that tenderly touches on life's most profound moments, leaving readers with a lasting
impression of love's enduring power. For those seeking a heartfelt and introspective exploration
of the human heart, this book is a moving choice.

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291 review is by shreyasingh408 on 8/20/23 - (India)

 "An enticing work, engulfing a story of purest love, written with utmost
gentleness and emotion."

Overview

The embryo man is the narrative of a small boy named Charles in the 1970s when
the world was considerably different from the chaotic existence we have today. An
era when pure love had no boundaries. Growing up, Charles lacked positive role
models due to his parents troubled marriage. But that didn't stop him from falling
for Harmony, a lovely Indian girl who had lately moved into his neighborhood.
Quoting the author, "There was something so intoxicating about the moment our
eyes met for the first time; it softened the unemotional boundaries of my infantile
heart, exposing the inner man in me, the man who waits in silence to awaken."
Things take a turn for the better when Charles and Harmony become great friends.
Their adventure progresses, and their relationship develops into a romantic one.

The stories take unexpected twists, wonderfully capturing the intricacies of the era's
relationships, from messy divorces and toxic partnerships to rare instances of forbidden
love. The embryo man is a narrative of genuine love, worship, and adoration between
Harmony and Charles, separated by social barriers and the bounds of time. These two
come from completely different backgrounds, and their narrative takes a turn that no one
could have predicted.

Review

As a bibliophile and writer who has read a wide range of books, if I had to characterize
my experience with The Embryo Man in a single word, it would be "unforgettable."
The novel captures the reader's attention with the most enticing artistic descriptions of
the characters, providing a vivid picture of Harmony's beauty and Charles's infantile
and crazy imagination. Harmony's cultural descriptions resonated with me as someone
of Indian descent. Charles Pendelton has gone above and beyond to convey the actual
essence of romance and the stigma of the older days, transporting the reader down
memory lane and delivering his promise in the book, "If you ever wondered what life
was like in the 1970s, take my hand."

I would strongly recommend this novel to any romance fan or someone looking for
a good read over the weekend. The vivacious elucidation and passionate writing are
like a breath of fresh air, whisking me away into an imaginary world. I devoured it in
two nights because once you begin to read it, you simply cannot put it down. The tale
and the characters engulfed me, from wonderful moments like Charles sending flowers
and cards to Harmony to heartbreaking stories from the past, each adding something
fresh and amazing to the plot. The Gratissium piques the reader's interest and provides
a glimpse inside the protagonist's whirlwind romance.

The author makes the reader understand that love can take many forms. Charles's
anxiety about being separated from his partner is emoted through beautifully worded
lines that reflect Charles's emotional state. I witnessed a passionate narrative that felt
both incredible and totally out of the ordinary. The childhood romance is written very
closely to actual real-world experiences from earlier times.

What sets The Embryo Man apart from any other fantasy or romantic writing is the
tragedy, despair, and uncertainty coating the lives of the two lovers. The description
of Charles and Harmony's love is so heartbreaking and beautiful, it makes you want
to see them together forever. But, again, the tragic ending of the book took me by
surprise, making me feel emotional and connected with the grief of the lovers. The
description of the intimate scenes might be uncomfortable for some, but in my opinion,
they are of imminent importance in describing the connection between the leads. The
poetic tone used to describe their lovemaking and erotic encounters is brilliantly set
forth, creating an imaginary world of fantasies in the minds of the readers.

Part 3, when Charles and Harmony said their first "I LOVE YOU" to one other, was one
of my favorite chapters in the book; it sheds light on one of their happiest days and times
together. Charles Pendelton has a great ability to articulate pain, even more than love.
My heart was broken by the letter writing and life details in the ending. The emotion with
which the book is written is highly impressive and exquisite.

The mushroom instance in the story seems a little confusing at first, but with the prolific
description given by the author, it falls perfectly into place with the rest of the story. Without
being unduly dramatic, the story has revealed not just the characters' beauty but also their
flaws. Harmony's outburst: "Because if I ever did something like that to your parents, I would
deserve to go to jail for the rest of my life." (Page 115) depicts their deepest anxieties and
disagreements. The writer possesses a precise understanding of human nature, imbuing
their writing with a firm grounding in reality. Simultaneously, they skillfully depict the most
extravagant human fantasies, as evidenced by their vivid portrayal of passionate moments.

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292 review is by cwcharlotte on 9/25/23 - (United Kingdom)


Where to begin with this one? Be warned, this novel will get under your skin! I was
warned before diving into this story that it was polarizing and unconventional, and
boy was it both of those things. Though this book made me uncomfortable at times,
I still found myself turning the pages as I was so invested in these characters. Though
objectively I don’t agree with some aspects of this novel, I can still appreciate the beauty
of the story and the author’s devotion to Harmony.

This is a forbidden love story, which if read with an open mind, really shows that true love
has no bounds. This novel captures the innocence of child thoughts whilst interjecting adult
reflections and tone of voice. I thought the writing throughout was stunning, Charles wrote
with exceptional prose and manages to transport you to another time.

The only thing I wish that was explored more was Charles’ home life and relationship with
his parents. It was mentioned that Charles’ parents were somewhat absent and dealing
with their own problems, but I would have liked an exploration for how this made Charles
feel. Having said that, I know this could be a potentially painful exploration for the author,
and that this was not the focal point of this novel, but as a reader I think it would have
helped me to build a solid picture of Charles’ home life and mindset during those years.

Overall, this is a truly touching story about how young love quickly turned into everlasting
love. I really enjoyed the ominous narration throughout certain chapters which was alluding
to something bad, I thought it was a clever way to keep the reader on the edge of their seat.
Charles portrays the heartache and hopelessness he experienced at the end of this book so
well that you feel like you are a part of it. The ending of this book made me emotional and
really highlighted life’s fragility. I feel the author achieved what was intended here and
managed to keep Harmony alive and thriving in the pages on this book.

You will be feeling all sorts of things when you finish this novel, but above all you will feel
empathy for the author and what he has lost. If you are looking for an unconventional yet
rewarding page turner, then curl up, grab a hot drink, and get lost in these pages.

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293 review is by monicaeruvalcab on 10/10/23 - (Mexico)

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                                            The Embryo Man review

Who hasn't fallen in love with someone older? your friend's older sister, your elementary
school math teacher, or a cute high school boy. Love is the most natural thing in the world,
we should value those who love us and love them with more intensity.

This book was an emotional bomb, not all people are prepared to read it, so if you decide
to do so it should be with an open mind and free of prejudices.

I would be lying if I said it was easy to digest, it was after halfway through the book that I was
able to delve into the story without guilt and with an open mind. Despite that, it was incredibly
difficult to read the romantic scenes without constantly questioning whether what I was doing
was right or wrong, it was only until I reached the end of the story that I was able to see the
bigger picture and understand that I have no right to judge the experiences. from no one.

I find it incredibly brave of you to have decided to share this story with the world, knowing that
perhaps no one would understand it; It is an excellently well-made work, despite the emotional
confusion it caused in me, I was able to appreciate a very good writing technique, the text is fluid
and dynamic, I read it faster than I expected since I was completely consumed by the story.

I loved the duality in the narrative when it was the child who spoke and when it was the
adult who did it, it is incredible how you went from talking about deep and heavy topics
such as a forbidden love to the simplicity with which a child sees the world. I must say
that one of my favorite parts is the way you describe past times, it made me feel nostalgic
remembering what it was like to be a child in the 90s, I know there are 20 years of difference
but it was still nice to think about a time where they were very few things you had to worry
about, when I could go outside to play with my friends and not come home until nightfall,
thank you for bringing those memories back to me through your book.

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294 review is by totally_sowmiya on 11/6/23 - (India)



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This book is such a romantic read that makes your heart bubble with love as well as tears
your heart apart. Not only did it take me to the era of 1970s but the author wrote it in a way
where I could smell the air, hear the music and touch the furniture of that period. This book
literally transports you back into the age where love too pure to handle. I would highly
recommend you to read this book by getting cozy and with a cup of hot chocolate as you
are about to get transported to the 1970s.

The story revolves around a young boy who is trying his best to become a man for his mature
girlfriend. The story is extracted from the journal writings of Charlie (the protagonist) who rewrote
it for us to know what unbridled love is like. This book has to be read by all men to understand
how to treat a lady just how she likes it as well as for women to know what it is to be loved by
a true gentleman. The way the author describes his love of life is just breathtaking. I could see
Harmony (the lady love) just before my eyes. Her complexion, hair, skin color to her beauty mark.

I could see everything unfold before my eyes.

You would never believe that the Author is a first time writer. The way he handles the subject and his
unique writing style makes it feel like he is directly writing the words in your heart. Not many writers
have this skill of bringing the visuals and the characters before our eyes. This book was just written to
tell us the exquisite love they shared between them from the author who never wishes to write again.

The love they had between them was unconventional but isn’t all love like that? Love has no
boundaries and has no eyes. They might not have been accepted to be the perfect lovers of that age
but that could never separate them from adoring each other. The way the young boy tries all his might
into providing everything for his love was the best part. Charlie would do anything for Harmony to keep
her happy. The particular scene where Charlie would take a drug was very well written. For a person
like me who had never taken any substance I literally got high by just the way the author describes it,
I could literally feel it. That was how good the writing style was. The times they had their first kiss and
their intimate moments will make us want to fall in love. We would crave for a love that Harmony and
Charlie shared. They were meant to be together by the heavens but fate had other plans.

Once this book is read there is no going back you cannot erase the imprints it has made in your heart.
Do they really deserve such an ending? Why does the universe have to be this cruel? Get ready before you
are going to read the last chapter. You would definitely need a kerchief since your eyes are going to well up.
So further read this book to know how true love feels like to earn it, to live with it and also to lose it. But fear
not, this book will show you what it means to be loved truly by a person without any expectations in return.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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295 review is by jessiturner on 12/19/23 - (USA)

** spoiler alert ** Controversial, unconventional, but absolutely beautifully written.

This novel takes you on a whirlwind of emotions. His writing takes you through
adventures and desires as if you were truly there to witness the spectacle.

Now, I do have to say that while this novel captures such intense infatuation
for Harmony, him being such a young age of 6-11 means I could not read this
for enjoyment. It captures the deep feelings a child develops which turns almost
obsessive. The sexual aspect between Charlie and Harmony left me unsure of
how to feel, almost hungover. It's a very controversial and unconventional
relationship that left me agitated.

All that said, this novel was written with true devotion to the one he loves.
Very well done.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 4-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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296 review is by mycabajada on 1/4/24 - (Philippines)

                                       ** spoiler alert **

Thank you sincerely for providing me with the opportunity to delve into this book.
As an avid reader with a diverse literary palate spanning genres from fiction to
non-fiction, encompassing love stories to crime scene investigations, and traversing
historical narratives to modern humor, I must acknowledge the distinctive nature of
this particular work. The initial shock upon realizing the narrative's focus on the
romantic entanglement between a young boy and a mature woman only served
to intensify my curiosity, given its departure from societal norms.

Upon navigating through the pages, it becomes evident that the author adeptly
weaves the storylines, albeit with occasional moments of confusion, particularly
when certain incidents are momentarily overlooked. Nevertheless, the narrative
sustains its vitality, a quality I appreciated upon revisiting the text.

The author skillfully communicates the protagonist Charles' emotions towards Harmony
through vivid and lucid descriptions, enabling readers to empathize with the characters.
The narrative possesses the capacity to evoke a spectrum of emotions, a testament to
the author's ability to immerse the reader in various emotional landscapes.

While the climax may have seemed belated, its unexpected and tragic resolution
left a profound impact. Contrary to my initial expectations of a triumphant conclusion
to their love story, Harmony's illness and untimely demise, coupled with Charles'
inability to bid her a proper farewell, left me deeply disheartened.

In concluding my reflection, I extend my well-wishes to the author, hoping they find
happiness in their creative endeavors. I am genuinely grateful for the opportunity to
review this book, recognizing it as a challenging exploration of love between a youth
and an adult, which has provided me with a fresh perspective on the possibility of love
blossoming at a tender age. The maturity displayed by the young protagonist offers a
compelling portrayal beyond conventional expectations for someone of his age.

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297 review is by restineex on 2/13/24 - (South Africa)

The Embryo Man is a very complex, yet uniquely laid out love story.
I had first been very skeptical when I started reading the story of how
the main character, Charles, at the young age of six, meets Harmony,
a woman whom he falls deeply in love with. It is a story of young, puppy
love that grows and evolves over time and it is almost impossible to not
feel the intensity that Charles faces with his own feelings and experiences.

The author, Charles Pendelton has written the story so intricately, that I was
able to feel as if I was there, witnessing this story unfold between my very eyes.

With a taboo love affair between a very young boy and a young woman, readers
will have to go into this story with an open mind, and allow themselves to put aside
personal prejudices and marvel at this piece. It stands out with just how well the
story is written that you will want to read and know more of the characters in the
story. What starts out as innocent puppy love develops into a connection that is
tested by the problems and circumstances that they have to face.

The beauty of Pendelton's writing lies in their ability to craft characters that
are richly developed and relatable. Charles and Harmony are more than just
characters that have been carefully sought out, they have been written with
layered and complex characteristics that makes the reader want to learn more
of the characters themselves and their very thoughts and feelings that they feel
throughout their journey on every chapter.

In conclusion, The Embryo Man is an intricately written novel that transcends
the romance genre's conventions to deliver a story that is so thought-provoking.
It is a very unique novel, and readers will have to enter the pages with an open
mind and allow themselves to delve into this story.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 4-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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298 review is by nirjana_jakir on 3/30/24 - (Bangladesh)

Charles Pendelton's "The Embryo Man" diverges from the typical love story,
presenting an intricate, unconventional, and deeply emotional narrative. It
recounts the bittersweet tale of a young boy enamored with a teenage girl.
Initially apprehensive about its potential controversy, I found myself captivated
by the roller coaster ride that is "The Embryo Man" as I delved into its pages.
The novel's poetic prose is both heartwarming and distinctive, standing out in
an era marked by tumultuous relationships. It offers poetic gems that add a
touch of whimsy reminiscent of Shakespearean literature.

The protagonist's youth is central to the story, emphasized throughout by the
author. Despite his tender age, he displays exceptional maturity, grappling with
the complexities of life and relationships. His struggle to reconcile his youthful
innocence with his precocious understanding of the world forms the crux of the
narrative. His self-awareness sets him apart from his peers, leaving him feeling
isolated and detached.

The poignant realization that he is "a man in a boy's body" underscores his
internal conflict, ultimately leading to a profound sense of existential turmoil.

The novel's exploration of love is profound, transcending age and societal norms.
Unlike clichéd narratives where age or circumstance drives a wedge between lovers,
"The Embryo Man" celebrates the purity of love between two souls. Its conclusion
evokes a profound sense of loss, echoing the protagonist's journey through a spectrum
of emotions—from joy to despair. The poignant reflection on the fear of life in the face
of love lost underscores the depth of the human experience portrayed within its pages.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Review for me))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

I am Nirjana.
I read Charles Pendelton's Novel.
His novel is amazing.

I’d like to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to delve into this
book. As an avid reader, I've traversed through a myriad of literary landscapes,
ranging from tales of romance to gripping mysteries, yet this particular book
stands out for its unparalleled uniqueness.

Initially, I must confess, I was taken aback by the premise of a young boy
entangled in a romantic relationship with an older woman. However, it is
precisely this unconventional narrative that captivated my interest, compelling
me to explore the depths of their forbidden love amidst societal norms.

Navigating through the pages, I found the storyline to be meticulously crafted,
albeit occasionally befuddling when certain incidents were momentarily overlooked.
Nevertheless, the author skillfully resurrected these threads, maintaining the story's
coherence. Upon revisiting the text, I chanced upon a minor error on page 33, where
a capitalization discrepancy caught my attention, subtly altering the intended meaning.

What truly resonated with me was the author's adeptness at conveying emotions
through vivid and lucid descriptions, allowing readers to empathize with Charles's
profound affection for Harmony. I found myself emotionally swaying with the characters,
entranced by the spectrum of sentiments evoked throughout the narrative.

While I anticipated a climactic resolution to their unconventional love story, the tragic
demise of Harmony blindsided me, leaving me disheartened by the untimely farewell
between the lovers. Nevertheless, this unexpected turn served as a poignant reminder
of love's fragility and unpredictability.

In retrospect, this book has been a revelatory journey, challenging my preconceptions
about love and pushing the boundaries of conventional narratives. Through the lens of a
young protagonist, the author masterfully explores the complexities of human emotions,
transcending age barriers to depict a love that defies societal norms.

In conclusion, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the author for crafting such a thought-
provoking narrative and for granting me the privilege to embark on this literary odyssey.
This book has not only enriched my reading experience but has also expanded my
perspective on the intricacies of love and human relationships.

Indulge in the compelling allure of this book, beckoning you to delve deeper into
its pages. Its narrative intricacies have seeped into my consciousness, offering a truly
distinctive tale that may startle the unprepared reader. The climax, an unexpected twist,
left me awestruck, challenging preconceptions and defying imagination.

Approach this literary gem with an open mind and receptive heart, and you'll find yourself
captivated by its charm. Within its pages lies a true love story, each narrative thread woven
with care and attention. Embrace every moment of its storytelling journey until the final page,
for therein lies its true magic.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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299 review is by harmeetkhera on 4/9/24 - (India)

Charles Pendelton’s “The Embryo Man” is a raw but controversial story which leaves a
deep impression on the reader, resonating long after the final page. It’s not just a romance
novel with a cliché plot and a happy ending, it’s the love story of Charles himself with an
Indian girl named Harmony in the 1970s. It’s about two pure souls wanting to love each
other, despite the societal constraints, age and ethnicity differences, but the brutality of
life tears them apart. As mentioned in the Gratissimum, “This is not your average tale of
unrequited love and heartfelt romance. It may be the most unconventional novel ever to
be acquired on the subject pertaining to the status of a relationship, and the emotional
state of being profoundly in love with your significant other.”

In December of 2003, Maya, Charles’ girlfriend finds a hidden box containing journals
about his past with Harmony. As Charles decides to delve into the journals, he immerses
himself into the joy and the painful memories they contain. Opening these letters triggers
a profound shift in his life, making him relive the moments of losing his lover. It’s as though
a part of him dies, as he feels as if Harmony has returned to his life.

The story begins when a 6 year old Charles is introduced to Harmony as she’s moving
into the neighbouring house. He’s immediately captivated by her beauty and mannerisms,
despite their age difference. He eagerly goes to visit her and soon their friendship develops,
leading them to spend more time in each other’s company. On the other hand, Charles
notices tension brewing between his own parents, who seem to have a troubled marriage
life. Harmony seems to have a traumatic past as well but Charles’ pure heartedness,
kindness and care wins her heart. They both go above and beyond to conceal their
relationship from the harsh and judgy society, waiting for Charles to come of age.

However, they are ill-prepared for the tragedies that befall them.

I can confidently say that I was fully invested in the story from start to finish. Pendelton’s writing
style is both engaging and evocative, drawing the reader into the world of Harmony and himself
with every word. It takes the reader on an emotional rollercoaster ride, feeling the emotions of the
characters firsthand. The narrative is full of vivid descriptions of the era, immersing the readers
fully into the life of 1970s. There is a beautiful usage of metaphors and similes throughout this
novel making the prose romantic and touching. The authenticity and honesty in Pendleton’s
work are undeniably mesmerising.

This book is a real tear-jerker and it challenges the readers to reconsider their views of the
world. Some may find the erotic scenes between the main characters disturbing and hard
to digest, given the significant age gap. But aren't they the exact society that Charles and
Harmony had to hide away from? Their story serves as a reminder of the prejudices and
norms that shape our society even today.

I also think some parts of the story might be confusing. For example, Charlie’s abrupt
dreams of losing Harmony or the whole “mushroom experience”, which may require
re-reading to fully grasp the meaning. It's a complex piece but definitely worth reading.

Some quotes which stuck with me:

“There is a place where the vultures gather. Not ordinary birds of prey, but something
indescribable. They wait for that nectarous river to run dry before swooping up from
Abaddon, and out of your most hallowed thoughts to tear your eyes from their sockets.
Since you will find you have no energy to stop them, they allow themselves the indecency
to eat into your brain till the festal is over. Then, for the rest of your meaningless existence,
there is no other way home but to grope through that channel of broken glass on all fours.
Ever suffering. Ever weeping at the thought of being forsaken by all you hold dear. When
the angels can no longer protect you, you will fall from grace. You will be exiled to an
abhorrent plain on earth, where you will be forever banished, until the mere concept of
God becomes nothing more than a contemporary English version of a fable. The clock is
moving forward at an alarming pace. So loud it begins to sound like a bomb. And how
could we have known the enemy of time would be our abductor?”

“To be a man, you must first be an embryo.” I then said, “I feel like an embryo man.”

“It doesn't really matter anyway, for I am almost home.”

“As I look down at my hands, I notice my skin is changing. The year is 2008, and I am
no longer young. I am forty four years old, and that is twice the age you were when you
were taken from me. Will you even recognize me when I come home to you, or will I be
lost there too?”

I fell in love with this novel. This book wasn’t meant for us readers to see, that’s
what takes this experience to the next level. So, I’d like to extend my gratitude
to Charles for opening his heart and sharing something so sacred to him. I look
forward to reading more from him in future! :)

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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300 review is by mariya_567 on 5/22/24 - (Pakistan)

 
This book is a vividly narrated journey that delves deep into the complexities
of love, life, and the inevitable growth of its central characters. Charles narrative
is rich with emotional depth and detailed scenes that effectively transport readers
to the era and settings he meticulously depicts. The use of descriptive language
and introspective monologues reveals a profound understanding of human
emotions and relationships...

I would like to present my detail review for chapter 32 as it had mesmerized me...

The opening chapters establish a nostalgic tone, reminiscent of a bygone
era filled with youthful innocence and the thrill of new encounters. The author’s
ability to capture the essence of childhood curiosity and the initial sparks of a
young boy's love is both endearing and convincing.

As the storyline progresses into the 1970s, Charles deepens the plot
with evolving relationships and character development. The portrayal
of the protagonist’s emotional maturation, juxtaposed with his interactions
with the enigmatic Harmony, drives the narrative forward compellingly.

Pendelton’s exploration of love, loss, and longing is poignant and thought-
provoking. The narrative becomes more introspective and philosophical,
discussing themes of destiny, life choices, and the IMPACT OF THE PAST
ON THE FUTURE. The emotional weight of the protagonist’s journey is
palpable and is handled with sensitivity and depth.

Pendelton’s ability to tie up the narrative threads in a reflective and insightful
manner provides a fitting end to the saga. The epilogue, in particular, offers a
contemplative commentary on the nature of storytelling and memory, leaving
the reader with lingering thoughts about the characters’ lives beyond the pages.

His attention to detail and the emotional authenticity of his characters’
dialogues and dilemmas enhance the reader’s engagement with the story.
Pendelton’s work is a testament to the enduring power of love and the
complexities of human relationships...

Its a story that alters the mind of a individual who reads it... the story that
appraises the women... the story that tells us how deeply a person can be
affected by love...no matter how much time passes by, but the intensity of
love only increased... pain caused by wounds of love never decreased with
time.....a story of remembering someone so deeply that a person explores
alters his psychic conditions...

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301 review is by parw55 on 6/29/24 - (Sri Lanka)

"The Embryo Man" is a touching exploration of a young boy’s introduction to love,
infatuation, puberty, and the complexities of relationships, beautifully woven into a
narrative that is as evocative as it is thought-provoking. From the moment Charles
sets his sights on Harmony, the intense feelings conjured within him draw readers
into a tale of passion, desire, and the challenges of young love.

The author deftly navigates themes of identity and societal expectations, presenting
Charles and Harmony as multifaceted characters whose vulnerabilities and strengths
are intricately intertwined. The past events that molded Harmony and her backstory
add meaningful depth to her actions in the story, while young Charles navigates the
rush of emotions he has never experienced before. The innocence of Charles and the
maturity of Harmony blend well into a unique love. The narrative unfolds with lyrical
prose that captures the raw emotions of its characters, inviting readers to empathize
with their joys and struggles.

The author demonstrates a remarkable command of storytelling and narrative technique.
Despite being a debut work, he exhibits a clear understanding of his craft, adeptly weaving
together themes, characters, and plotlines. His prose is skillfully crafted, drawing readers
into the intricate world he has created. Each chapter unfolds with a deliberate pace, revealing
layers of depth and emotion that resonate long after the book is finished. It is evident that
the author has honed his skills, delivering a captivating novel. His ability to evoke a range
of emotions and provoke reflection showcases his talent and potential as a writer.

In conclusion, "The Embryo Man" is a heartfelt testament to the power of love and the
resilience of the human spirit. It is a novel that challenges readers to reflect on their own
beliefs about relationships and identity while also delivering a satisfying and emotionally
resonant story.

Highly recommended for anyone seeking a literary journey that combines passion,
introspection, and profound insight into the complexities of love.

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302 review is by erica_russel on 7/6/24 - (Brazil)

"The Embryo Man" is a promising work with a unique perspective and deep
emotional currents. His storytelling is superb, offering a compelling presentation
of his personal journey.

The novel boasts a captivating and thought-provoking title.

It presents a straightforward yet captivating love story devoid of thrills or suspense,
yet each line keeps you thoroughly engaged. By focusing on clarity, character
development, and pacing, this narrative can achieve its full potential. With meticulous
editing and refinement, it stands to make a significant impact in the romance genre.

The themes of love, memory, and the passage of time are timeless, and your story
captures these beautifully.

I admire the juxtaposition of how Charles candidly portrays the differences in Indian
and American perspectives on love and emotions. However, I believe we could gain
further understanding of Charles's character. The delivery was eloquent, skillfully
capturing the challenges faced by a young man grappling with love and its pursuit.
The novel's emotions are rooted in the complexities of our real, imperfect world rather
than an idealized one.

Thank you for the opportunity to read your work. I look forward to seeing how it evolves.

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303 review is by lumaalvarenga on 7/14/24 - (Brazil)

I loved the visceral and emotive narrative voice, taking the reader through
a rollercoaster of raw and sincere emotions. The story captures not just
the pain of loss but also the search for meaning and personal redemption,
blending poetry with prose in a unique style.

Your book deeply resonates with its emotional intensity and profound reflections
on love and life. It offers a unique perspective on how love shapes and challenges
us, highlighting the depths of loss and the quest for personal redemption.

Reading it has certainly provided a fresh outlook on the complexities
of love and how we navigate through grief and pain.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 4-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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304 review is by amy_lian on 7/14/24 - (Sri Lanka)

                                     ** spoiler alert **
A Personal Reflection on The Embryo Man by Charles Pendelton

Reading The Embryo Man by Charles Pendelton was a journey that
profoundly touched my heart. This novel is not just a story but a vivid
tapestry of emotions, beautifully woven with threads of love, loss, and
the haunting power of memories. As I turned each page, I felt a deep
connection with the protagonist, whose emotional experiences resonated
deeply with my own life’s journey.

Love: The Core of Our Existence-

At its heart, The Embryo Man is a love story that transcends the ordinary.
The relationship between the protagonist and Harmony is depicted with such
purity and depth that it feels almost otherworldly. Pendelton’s portrayal of their
love made me reflect on the profound connections in my own life.

He writes, "I love you unimaginably. Beyond that of words, beyond that of reason.
You are the very air of my season". This quote encapsulates the boundless nature
of true love, something that feels incredibly rare and precious. It made me realize
how love, in its truest form, is the essence of our existence. The Weight of Loss
However, with love often comes loss, and The Embryo Man does not shy away
from this painful truth. The protagonist's journey through grief is heart-wrenching.

There’s a particular moment that struck me deeply: "In the end I would wake up
one morning to find I had been buried alive". This metaphor for his grief resonated
with me, as I remembered times when loss felt suffocating, almost like being trapped
in an unending nightmare. The novel beautifully captures the struggle of moving
forward while carrying the weight of memories.

The Power of Memories-

Revisiting the past is a central theme in the novel. The protagonist’s reflections on
his memories with Harmony are both a source of joy and deep sorrow. "The second
I opened that book my world would be flung out of orbit and it couldn't have been any
worse had I drowned in a river because whoever I was before died that day. The day
Harmony returned". This passage vividly illustrates how powerful and sometimes
destructive memories can be. It reminded me of how revisiting old memories can
bring a mixture of emotions, often leaving one feeling lost and disoriented.

A Heartfelt Goodbye-

The end of The Embryo Man is both poignant and hopeful. The protagonist decides
to step away from his life as an author, choosing instead to walk into obscurity: "begin
my long walk into obscurity leaving the fettered life of an elusive author far behind me".
This decision felt like a brave and necessary step toward healing, and it made me think
about the importance of letting go and finding peace within ourselves. In his farewell,
the author expresses a wish that deeply touched me: "My only hope is that one day our
novel will become a staple in American literature. That it will show mankind not only the
definition of true love but give women everywhere the dignity and the courage they so
rightfully deserve". This wish speaks to the universal need for love, respect, and equality,
themes that are as relevant today as ever.

An Eternal Reunion-
Perhaps the most heartwarming sentiment in the novel is found in the protagonist's
belief that love transcends the physical world: "In all truth what we had was simply
too beautiful for this world. It had to be saved for the next. " This idea of an eternal
reunion brought tears to my eyes, offering comfort and hope that the connections
we cherish will continue beyond this life.

Conclusion-

Reading The Embryo Man was an emotional and cathartic experience. Charles Pendelton's
ability to convey such raw and genuine feelings made the novel resonate deeply with me.
It reminded me of the profound impact love has on our lives, the inevitable pain of loss,
and the enduring strength found in memories. This novel is more than just a story; it is a
heartfelt journey that mirrors the complexities of the human experience, offering solace and
understanding to those who have loved and lost. For anyone seeking a narrative that captures
the essence of true love and the human condition, The Embryo Man is an essential read.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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305 review is by kalpana_patel on 7/26/24 - (India)

I'm thrilled by how captivating this book was from start to finish. The narrative flows
effortlessly, weaving a tale that keeps you engrossed until the very last page. The
author's attention to detail in character development is masterful. Each personality
is meticulously crafted, with their nuances and harmonies adding depth to the story.

From the moment I started reading, I was drawn into the world the author created.
The plot is intricate yet easy to follow, with twists and turns that keep you on the
edge of your seat. The pacing is perfect, balancing action, suspense, and emotional
moments beautifully. The story's progression is so smooth that hours slip by unnoticed
as you become absorbed in the unfolding events.

The characters are relatable and multidimensional, their interactions and growth adding
richness to the narrative. You feel their joys, struggles, and triumphs as if they were your
own. The author's skill in portraying human emotions and relationships is truly remarkable,
making the characters come alive in your mind.

The ending, in particular, is a powerful culmination of the journey. It is both surprising and
satisfying, tying up loose ends in a way that feels organic and true to the story. The final
scenes gave me goosebumps and brought tears to my eyes, a testament to the emotional
depth and impact of the tale.

This book is an extraordinary blend of compelling storytelling, detailed character development,
and emotional resonance. It left a lasting impression on me, and I would highly recommend it
to anyone seeking an immersive and moving reading experience.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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306 review is by zannatul_mawa_ on 8/7/24 - (Bangladesh)

“The Embryo Man” by Charles Pendelton is about a complex and marginal love
affair that defies societal norms.

To be honest, I was feeling pretty skeptical about the age gap at first. But after the
story went into the depths of what they both felt for each other, I started to understand
where it was coming from – in fact the writer’s emotions hit me at my core. It made
me feel like I was experiencing their love in front of my own eyes.

The novel gives the impression that it's written by a middle-aged man reflecting on his
childhood, with his life frozen until the return of his lost love. The story's journey is about
the narrator’s life, spent in a profound relationship that defines him. It also describes how
the writer feels like a grown man trapped in a child's body with overflowing emotions, love
and admiration for his one true love. The novel hits us with the brutal reality of how little
control we have over fate and how powerless we actually are against it.

The story is not just a tale of romance but also an invitation to explore the complexities
of human emotions and challenge conventional views on love. It’s a narrative that will
draw you into a whirlwind of conflicting feelings and make you rethink society's stance
on love and relationships.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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307 review is by kishuampi on 8/10/24 - (United States)

My eyes have at once departed after reading the final goodbye note, and now come
here. My cheeks have dried, finally, after several sobbing sessions, and my nose cleared
of all my previous congestion. I cried. A lot. I never knew Harmony, and it feels horribly
and offensively intrusive to say I did, but in this lone night, it really felt as if I did.

At first, I found this book incredibly strange, and I did not know where it was going. There
was… so… much love. Unending amounts, unapologetic. There was so much love that I
wasn’t sure what I was looking at. I doubted it, at first, being the involuntary cynic I was, I
find it shameful that I ever had doubted love, and the abundance. I wanted to say it was
wrong. I wanted to find some micro expression of evil and see something no one else did.

And then it dawned on me that I was simply oblivious.

I have struggled my entire life to keep any emotion alit for longer than a moment or two,
and I am filled with both a deep, deep envy, as well as inspired. Changed. I loved your words.
I loved how chaotically unorganized everything is, for it is the window into your great mind,
and every word is written from its truth, for the sake of its own truth.

I stood up and thought to myself long and deeply and spent many moments collecting my
thoughts as I pondered on Harmony and your book. There is so much to unpack. So much
I had thought, and retracted, and thought again. I once heard from someone that numerous
things can be true at once. And I have realized the utmost impact that human perception
alone has, on affecting the ‘reality’ of any situation.

Often, I had wondered, as anyone would when reading a book, what the author might have
been meaning to say when they wrote this. But I realized such rules and guidelines of most
novels didn’t hold The Embryo Man and convey itself well. This is a realist novel– and
autobiography– a story– a proclamation of existence. Coal to ignite; to inspire.

You didn’t write this story.
Time did.

And I took your every word for the truest word, and that you had only meant to share this
journey, for the sake of the journey itself. At the moment that I realized that, I started to
understand you; if it wasn’t too presumptuous of me to claim. This journey is the human
experience in its fullest display. Youth, maturity, the senses, fear, loss, gain, wonder,
curiosity, discovery, and absolutely, love.

You have no idea how blessed I truly feel that you reached out to me and got me to read this.

Honestly, if I had heard of The Embryo Man before you, I definitely would have read it. Even
now, as I sit here by my computer, between each line I type, I find myself frozen in thought,
as the colorful scenes of your wordsmanship painted in my mind. You were right, this was
going to change me. Your words make me realize the fool I have been, and how I could
have been better.

I must be so utterly truthful, with God as my witness, this is the greatest love story I have
ever had the pleasure of experiencing. A tragic, intense love story, of the polar worlds
bridging across into each other, which is woefully and artfully told all in hindsight; the most
painful of barbed thrones to sit upon. Every day that I live, I learn an awful lesson on how
the world works, and in here the Embryo Man, I can see it supports what I have seen.

Time unfurls heartlessly, and all that is real and matters, is what one’s heart proclaims is real
and matters. There isn’t any amount of thanks I can give you, for being patient with me as I
carefully read through the heart you handed to me, and affecting me as deeply as it has. I can
only hope that with each day I live, I think more and more about this story, and come out wiser.

Not rush my age, for I have known that path as well, but to take each day, each lover, as they
come, and let go when they do. And even if I don’t want to let go, why should it matter? I have
loved, which is greater than never having so; something most cannot say they have done.

If I ever wish to cry as good as I have tonight, then I will read over your words again, and
familiarize myself with the finest example of the working of life, for when I am too afraid to
live it myself for a day. For days I feel unlovable, and incapable of loving others, I can follow
examples of great humans like you. You have no idea how much I envy you, Charles, if it's
okay to use your first name. I promise, one day, I will employ every lesson I have learned
here tonight, that you wrote here today.

Thank you.

You reminded me a little bit of my favorite novel character. I realized this book held all of my
favorite things. Deep, unwavering passion, to the point of insanity, fun quips like ‘making mud
pies like a champion’, to bring a smile to my face, wonder and exploration of youth and discovery,
and nostalgia.

This is one of the best pieces of literature I have ever read, and I would fight for this to be read
in colleges (little too graphic and intense for children). If not in the lecture hall, then I say that
'The Embryo Man' must be shared around. It is charming, twisted, and terrifically beautiful.

Fools would argue that this book is poorly written due to the disorganization of it, however I retort
that they miss the point; these readers refuse to connect with the words they see before them. To
call it a novel, does it an injustice. It is an open heart, layered and sheltered in the loveliest petals.
The ink is of the tears of both love and anguish. And has some of the most magical, psychedelic
descriptions as well, which becomes immediately memorable.

This work, and the author, are unlike no other. I implore you to read this, and dive into the heart
and soul of a too young lover, accursed by his own world.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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308 review is by miskavlcejova on 9/30/24 - (Slovakia)

The Embryo Man is a deeply emotional and introspective story about first love, loss, and
the way memories shape us. From the moment Charles meets Harmony in Gratissimum, I
was drawn into his intense admiration for her. The story perfectly captures how one person
can become the center of your world, almost untouchable, and that longing becomes the
driving force of the narrative. I loved how the story mixes nostalgia and romantic longing,
making Harmony feel larger than life.

As the chapters progress, especially in the 1970s, I appreciated how the contrast between
Charles' ordinary life and Harmony’s ethereal presence deepens his emotional complexity.
His world feels so grounded, yet whenever Harmony appears, it shifts into something magical.

The dream sequences, particularly in 1972 pt 3, stand out for me—they beautifully
convey how Harmony isn’t just a person to Charles but an emotional escape.

I also enjoyed the balance between Charles’ interactions with family and his evolving
feelings for Harmony. The way he tries to act mature while still navigating the innocence
of first love adds layers to his character. The moments of tenderness, like buying a card
for Harmony, and the more intense, vulnerable scenes in 1973 pt 6, where Charles fully
surrenders to his feelings, kept me deeply engaged.

The Epilogue brought everything full circle with its somber tone. The imagery of the lifeless
raven and Charles’ emotional breakdown felt like a culmination of his heartbreak, making it
a powerful end to his journey. And the final Farewell to Notes and Journals felt like the author’s
personal goodbye, adding a bittersweet touch. Overall, I found The Embryo Man to be an
intimate and reflective story that beautifully explores love and loss. Its blend of surreal
moments and emotional depth makes it a deeply personal and unforgettable read.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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309 review is by nusaibahsan on 10/18/24 - (Bangladesh)

A profound, beautifully written portrayal of love that goes beyond what is right
and what is wrong.

The Embryo Man by Charles Pendelton portrays an unconventional love story
that will raise several questions in today's generation. To truly understand the
essence of this book, the reader must keep an open mind and only then will
they be able to understand the story through the writer’s mind. It is definitely
a unique experience that will take any reader by surprise!

The author presents a personal, heartfelt journey of falling in love. The progression
of emotions, from innocent affection to something deeper, reflects the intensity of
devotion. Pendelton's writing seems to resonate strongly with the reader, as the
portrayal of love at its rawest and truest form.

Despite its challenging themes, the book serves as a reminder that love is a deeply
individual experience, and it prospers in spaces where acceptance and understanding
thrive. The wistful tone in the author's notes suggests a reflective, nostalgic view on
the story, enhancing its emotional impact.

The tragic end to the story will leave you in despair.

Once you read this book it will forever change your view of love. Although
it was difficult to become comfortable with the age difference especially
during intimate moments, it was truly one of the best novels I’ve read.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 4-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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310 review is by aasinazafaer on 11/18/24 - (Pakistan)

I’m speechless. The book is written perfectly and vocabulary chosen is simply peak.
(I'm not writing a review whose length just makes me not read the whole thing.)

I have never would have known this type of romance existed if not for your book.
A wonderful romance story with romantic, nostalgic and beautifully written. The world
of romance introduced to a young boy and his relationship with his teenage crush. A
forbidden love between a young boy and a teenage girl. Some might see it as offensive,
sinful and to be criticized but the same world with the prospective of the lovers changes
so dramatically that meaning and conditions to love might have to adapt to it.

The saddest part for me in this fabulously constructed world was to know that this
book is not fiction and hold places in author’s personal memories. The twist that
can happen in real life and could alter meaning of existence for some. A start so
beautiful yet the end leaving our hearts aching.

This book is perfect example of “Right person, Wrong timing/Not enough time”.
It is hard writing a review without spoiling so this is where I end.

Songs:
-die with a smile
-glimpse of us
-the night we met
-sweater weather
-Atlantis
These are all I can think of right now. If there are more write them.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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311 review is by deepsudhan on 12/5/24 - (India)

** spoiler alert ** "The Embryo Man" is a one-of-a-kind book.
The author's style of writing, the usage of words, and the way
he has poured his heart out in this book are beyond measure.

Right from the Gratissimum, the author keeps you engaged, yearning to know what
is to come. He captures the attention of the reader from the first few pages itself.

Time and again, throughout the book, the author mentions that
this book is not for all and makes clear a lot of other things as well.
Even the warnings couldn't brace me for what was to come.

I have read and reviewed a lot of books over the years especially romance with HEA.
There are a few tropes that I am personally very picky about or not inclined towards
and two of them happen to be age-gap romance and tragedy romance, both of which
are covered here. I am all for age-gap romance depending on the age difference and
what the MC's ages are when they are pursuing the relationship. While I knew I was
bracing myself for an age-gap romance, I didn't expect things to take off as quickly or
intimately as they did at such young ages. This made me quite uncomfortable and
hence the lower rating. It sometimes felt like the mature narration was trying to make
up for the fact that the narrator was very young in age (but older in maturity).

The author has very nicely portrayed his emotions, the lessons he learned along the way
and also, his pain of losing his beloved. The writing clearly shows that the narrator wore
his heart out to write this book and relived those good and bad times of his yet again.

Overall, it was a well-written book, but it personally didn't fit into the tropes
that I like and read, and it is not the kind of book I would pick up on my own.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 2-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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312 review is by sarah1409 on 1/28/25 - (Pakistan)

Charles is magical when it comes to penning down details.

The way he has captured Harmony is spectacular. The dialogues are crisp and
I can actually feel the emotions of the characters while reading. The imagery is
really good. Takes me back to the 70’s. The philosophical musings on life being
a separate universe or a form of purgatory are thought-provoking.

The pacing, characters, theme and most importantly the writing style is spot on!
It leaves me thinking about love.

His feelings for Harmony is what makes this whole novel beautiful.
So raw and real.

Definitely a masterpiece.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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313 review is by vivian_ayumi on 2/27/25 - (Brazil)

The Embryo Man by Charles Pendelton is a beautifully written, deeply personal
novel that immerses the reader in the emotions of first love, nostalgia, and longing.
The prose is lyrical and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the 1970s and capturing
the intensity of youthful emotions with remarkable depth. It feels almost like a memoir,
infused with raw honesty and heartfelt reflection.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its atmosphere and sense of time. The details
of the era—from music to daily life—are woven seamlessly into the narrative, making
the setting feel authentic and immersive. The writing itself is rich, poetic, and emotionally
charged, bringing Charles’s feelings to life in a way that is both touching and bittersweet.

Harmony, the object of Charles’s admiration, is portrayed as a mesmerizing presence, and
the way she impacts his world is beautifully explored. The story’s themes of idealized love
and memory are universal, making it easy to connect with the emotions behind the words.

That said, the novel is very introspective, with much of the story centered on Charles’s deep
and often overwhelming emotions. While this adds to the book’s unique style, it sometimes
slows the pacing, as Charles remains caught in the same longing throughout the story.

Harmony, while captivating, could have been developed further as a character beyond
how Charles sees her.

Despite these minor elements, The Embryo Man is a truly unique and heartfelt book.

It is perfect for readers who enjoy nostalgic, poetic storytelling that focuses on emotions
and memory rather than traditional plot-driven narratives. With its immersive writing and
deeply personal touch, this novel is a beautiful exploration of love, time, and the moments
that shape us.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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314 review is by kelly_pak on 3/8/25 - (Singapore) 

This book was quite a rollercoaster to read. It is a true story that deals with the
rather controversial topic of a romance between a child and a young woman,
regardless of how the narrator’s young mind views this relationship.

The author’s writing is vivid and his choice of vocabulary is so complex, it adds
so many layers and depth to his characters’ emotions and experiences. I really
liked the way he describes his characters’ thoughts and feelings, and how his
characters grow and develop over the course of the book.

It tells the story of a 39-year-old man who revisits his journals from his childhood
and decides to turn the story of his first love into a proper manuscript. He writes
from the perspective of his 6-year-old self, but it is clear in his writing that he
embellishes a lot of his experiences in the edited story.

For instance, he does not describe the world in a way a 6-year-old boy would see it,
discussing topics like fashion trends, news, and family heritage. And his observations
of the world around him are far too keen to convince me that this is how a kid sees the
world. This initial observation plays a role later on when he starts to describe how his
younger self views his relationship with Harmony, because it makes you wonder
whether his recount of their story is truly accurate.

The introduction begins with a very intriguing premise – a warning.
It hints at a story about an unbridled love that is extremely controversial,
with a foreshadowing that their story ends tragically.

In the beginning, we are almost immediately introduced to their age difference – Charlie
is 6 while Harmony is 18. In this current age, this relationship between a minor and an
adult would be extremely frowned upon. However, the narrator wants to convince us
that their love is real and cannot be confined by the boundaries of societal norms.

Charlie describes Harmony as the most beautiful woman he has ever seen and he
is immediately overly romantic in the way he talks to her. Although he insists that
he is mature for his age, I wonder how much of this narration by his older self has
already been shaped by his experience with Harmony.

Because of their age difference, I can’t help but immediately think – is Harmony a
predator who is sexually grooming him? I am trying my best to keep an open mind,
but no matter how much the narrator expresses his adoration and love for Harmony,
there is a law in modern society that states: minors cannot give consent.

We are slowly introduced to Charlie and Harmony’s family backgrounds. Charlie’s
parents are never present. They argue a lot, and are on the brink of divorce. This
tells me that Charlie is just a child who craves love and attention, just like any other
child. Because he cannot find it in his family members, he is drawn to his neighbour.

On the other hand, Harmony has had negative experiences with men in the past,
including sexual assault, and hence she feels the urge to exert a form of control
over men where she can. She fulfils this need through Charlie, because he is
obedient and easy to manipulate.

As their relationship deepens and turns sexual, it starts to feel more like a trauma
bond. They are each seeking a different kind of love, but they discover that they are
able to find that through each other. Charlie seeks an emotional connection, while
Harmony seeks sexual dominance over a man because of her trauma.

They both intrinsically know that their relationship is wrong – Harmony often
mentions that she could be jailed if anyone found out about their relationship,
while Charlie constantly wishes he was older. But with no one to stop them
or to teach Charlie any better, their “love” continues for four years.

By the end of this story, am I convinced that they truly love each other? Yes, but I also
see the pain that they are each hiding through their warped version of love. I cannot
judge whether or not their love was genuine and pure, but I can definitely understand
why Charlie feels so strongly for Harmony. The description of Dark Monday created a
deep pang in my heart and I felt so deeply for his loss. The author really has a unique
way with words that gives a new sort of impact to his story.

Overall, this book was a touching but somewhat disturbing read. It makes you
second guess the role of the narrator in the story – is his perspective reliable?
Or has he embellished a trauma and turned it into something less painful?
What kind of person was Harmony, really? Does a child have the wisdom
to see a person for who they really are at that young age?

If the narrator’s goal is to revive Harmony’s memory through his words,
then yes, he has done a fantastic job of expressing his undying love for
her and telling the world how wholeheartedly he loved Harmony.

But if his goal is to prove to the world that their love transcends time and social
constructs, I am not sure he has succeeded. I don’t think I can be convinced to see
Harmony in the way he does, because of the fact that she was already a legal adult
who should have known better about doing what she did to a child. But perhaps things
were vastly different in the 1970s as compared to the mindset of modern society.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 4-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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315 review is by blackrose59 on 4/20/25 - (Pakistan) 

It’s not your average coming-of-age, not your basic historical fic,
and definitely not another retelling of the same old immigrant narrative.

This one actually flips the script.

First off—yes, it opens with that whole “kid takes a break from school ‘cause of a
flu outbreak” thing, which totally gave me vintage American lit vibes?? Like some
crossover between Mark Twain and Charles Dickens, but make it digestible for Gen
Alpha. The scene-setting is so simple and clean, but not dumbed down. Like, the
author trusted us to get it without over explaining.

I love when writers do that.

Now the real kicker? It’s told through two perspectives—the kid and Harmony,
the immigrant girl he falls for. And it’s not just love-at-first-sight fluff. It’s awkward,
it’s scary, it’s that “is this even okay to feel?” kind of emotional chaos. Both of them
are dealing with their own worlds, their own fears, and when those feelings start
creeping in? It’s like—“wait... this makes me feel whole... and that’s terrifying.”

Now here’s the thing—I’ve read a lot of South Asian diaspora lit lately
(especially stuff set in the late '80s), and this book does not do that.

Like, it doesn’t center the immigrant trauma or nostalgia that we’ve seen a thousand times.

Yup, there are very few books that show the other side. And this is one of them.
And the author hopes to build a “Pendelton technique”—telling the untold in for all ages.
This technique tells the untold stories, but make it emotionally accessible for 2025 brains.

And it works. Like, really works.

Also—there’s this soft thread of first love running through it, but it’s not in your face.
It’s awkward and confusing and kinda terrifying in that real way. Not insta-love, but like...
“oh sh*t, I think I love them??”

kind of quiet dread.

And Harmony—her character’s so original. I’m a south Asian, none of the stuff the author
wrote about her character was manipulated; it’s what it is as it was at the time of 1970s.
Her dress, the cuisines etc., every was so original.

And I won’t spoil the surprise, nor the plot---you’ve to find that yourself.
But its worth it. That’s all I can say. And that ending??

Not sad, not happy, just... honest. It sits with you.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 5-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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316 review is by gandharbi_ghosh on 5/15/25 - (India) 

As the title seems enticing, get ready for a story that is unconventional
and at times even shocking. No, it is not one of those childhood love stories
where you grow together with your sweetheart to embrace a beautiful married
life. It's a love story between a boy of 6 years and a teenage girl of 18 years.

The book is an unhindered and unabashed expression of love, taking us
through the evolving mind of young Charles, which opens the door to the
deepest feelings that usually remain suppressed in fear of society.

"Why should a country dictate how two human beings
choose to live their lives? Shouldn't it be their choice?"

Though stiff at first, they soon accept each other as their soulmates.

Well aware of society's gaze and the troubles they can face, they dive into magical
(or surreal) dreams of spending a lifetime together. Together, they seem to be on a
mission to break taboos. Against the liking of many, they even explore the psychedelic
world hand in hand, which is presented with profuse colour and animation. But they fail
to realise that there are greater dangers than what society can conjure, for fate has its
own ways. Yet it remains a tale of undying love which permeates the realms of the
living and the dead.

Set in the 1970s, the author vividly paints the retro ambience with its music, food, politics,
conversations, and an easy-going, less complex life. The aesthetics, the automobile
models and the home décor are all meticulously crafted to evoke nostalgia.

An uncomplex plot, it has very few characters, mostly focusing on Charles and Harmony.
The curious portrayal of the protagonist's mind in the first person oscillates from a child
to a man. The character of Harmony, his love, is crafted with utmost delicacy and quite
exoticised, given her Indian, Filipino and Colombian descent. His parents and their
failed marriage in the backdrop act as a foil to their love and high aspirations.

The structure and style are experimental and unique as the author opts for a non-linear
narration. It is a reminiscence from the past, recreated by putting together letters and
journal entries, intercepted by present commentaries, breathing life into it.

However, this doesn't make it confusing, but creates a collage of memories.

The tone is oozing with emotions, and the author adeptly and exquisitely conveys
the feelings of joy, fear and loss, taking the reader along with him in the journey.
The sentences are long and complex, while many terms used are antique and
may be a hindrance for the present readers, but then, it brings a taste of the 70's.
(Also, it is the distinct style of the author.)

It is a daring tale that defies our way of thinking, or rather, the way society impresses
on us to think. Age, after all, is just a number that thaws in the passion of love. You
can feel love smouldering through veins and the burn of passion. The author easily
sways the readers from ecstasy to pain. The ending is abrupt, with a shock, leaving
an imprint on the minds of readers.

“The most ironic part of it all is that once I was terrified of death… now I'm terrified of life”

However, it is indeed hard to think of a child fathoming the complexity of love.
Though certain perspectives might be challenging, certain ideas on which the
understanding of their love relies are rather conventional (for instance: “I'll admit
my emotions were confused, but deep down, I knew men aren't supposed to cry.
A man must always hold it together, even if the world is coming apart”).

Given the time period of the 1970s, that gets a green card, I guess.

The erotic scenes sometimes become uncomfortable, thinking of the minor age of the
boy and even get disturbing as the love borders somewhere between obsession and
threat (left to the readers to determine). Some sections seem to be stretched (especially
the erotic ones). But it also keeps the reader entranced by a constant ominous foreboding.

It provides a redefinition of love. It captures the first impressions and feelings
of a child for a woman and how the love propels him into maturity.

If you are ready to ride a roller coaster of emotions down the 70s, go ahead,
but brace yourself, for the journey of this relationship is not a sugary one.

Remember, you have been warned by the author!

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Rated 3-Stars)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
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