Title: Eleven
Author: Mark Watson
First published January 1, 2010
388 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781847379689 (ISBN10: 1847379680)
Rating: 3.64
Overview
For years, Emily has been watching Lucas from afar, entranced by the way he moves and talks. She knows she’s not supposed to be interested in him, but she can’t help the way he makes her feel.
After a devastating loss, Lucas disappears into the night, leaving Emily behind. Emily has been waiting for her prince charming to come and sweep her off her feet, but as time passes, she starts to lose hope.
When Lucas comes back into her life, she can’t believe it. His scent is all-consuming, and she knows he’s the one.
But there’s one problem: Alpha Stone is determined to keep them apart. This is a modern-day fairy tale filled with a hero who will do anything for his true love, a heroine who is ready to take on the world, and an alpha who will stop at nothing to protect his pack.
Get ready for a story that’s over-the-top, extra sweet, and guaranteed to make you smile.
About the Author
Meet Mark Andrew Watson, an accomplished English comedian and author. Born on February 13th, 1980, in Bristol to Welsh parents, Mark grew up with his twin sisters, Emma and Lucy, and brother Paul.
He attended Henleaze Junior School and Bristol Grammar School, where he won the coveted ‘Gabbler of the Year’ prize. Later, he went to Queens’ College, Cambridge, and graduated with first-class honors in English.
During his university days, Mark was a member of the Footlights and rubbed shoulders with other talented comedians like Stefan Golaszewski, Tim Key, and Dan Stevens. He co-directed a revue with Key and was part of another revue that was nominated for the Best Newcomer category in the Perrier Comedy Awards at the 2001 Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Editoral Review
Mark Watsons book Eleven is a heartwarming and deeply emotional journey of a man named Xavier Ireland, who follows a stranger on a whim and ends up discovering himself in the process. Published on January 1, 2010, this novel is a perfect blend of drama, humor, and character-building, offering readers a thoroughly engaging and thought-provoking experience.
Mark Watson is a British comedian, writer, and presenter, and Eleven is his third novel. Known for his wit and humor, Watson brings his unique voice to the world of literature with this poignant tale of self-discovery.
With a writing style that is both exquisite and effortless, Watson captures the readers attention from the very first page and keeps them hooked until the end. This book takes place in London and tells the story of Xavier Ireland, a man going through a midlife crisis.
Frustrated and disillusioned with his career, Xavier is aimlessly wandering through the streets when he sees a man about to jump off a bridge. He decides to intervene and, in the process, ends up following the stranger throughout the city, who appears to be on a mission to carry out a series of seemingly random tasks.
As Xavier tries to make sense of the stranger’s actions, he also confronts his own past and makes peace with himself. The character development in this book is nothing short of extraordinary.
The reader watches Xavier evolve from a character who is disenchanted with life to someone who feels a sense of purpose and clarity. The supporting characters are just as realistic and compelling, each adding something unique to the story.
The pacing of the novel is perfect, with just the right balance of suspense, humor, and introspection. Watsons writing is witty and insightful, and his descriptions of London and the various characters that Xavier encounters throughout the novel are vivid and atmospheric.
One of the major themes in Eleven is the importance of human connection, and the story illustrates how even a chance encounter with a stranger can have a profound impact on one’s life. The novel also explores the ideas of regret, purpose, and the struggle to find meaning in life.
Overall, Eleven is an exceptional novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Watsons writing is superb, and his ability to build dynamic and relatable characters is unparalleled.
Readers who enjoy books that explore the human condition will especially appreciate this offering. If there is one minor criticism to be had, its that some readers may find the finale a tad predictable.
However, this is a minor quibble in what is otherwise a thoroughly enjoyable read. In conclusion, Eleven is a must-read for anyone who loves well-crafted stories about the human experience.
This book is recommended for those seeking a balanced and profound experience that blends comedy and drama seamlessly. We would give it a solid 4.5 stars out of 5.
