The Long Run: A New York City Firefighter’s Triumphant Comeback from Crash Victim to Elite Athlete

by Matt Long
The Long Run: A New York City Firefighter’s Triumphant Comeback from Crash Victim to Elite Athlete cover
Good Books rating 2.83
Technical
  • ID: 5545
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
barnesandnoble.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
disappointing 1.00

The reviewer found 'The Guinevere Deception' disappointing, with a lackluster plot and underdeveloped characters. The only redeeming aspect was the unique magic system involving knots, but overall, the book felt empty and unengaging.

The reviewer had high hopes for 'The Guinevere Deception' given the intriguing premise of an impostor Guinevere. However, the execution fell flat. The plot lacked tension and excitement, with the main character's secret being known to the king, eliminating any potential suspense. The magic system involving knots was the only original and engaging element, but it was not explored deeply enough. The romantic subplots were predictable and poorly executed, with the protagonist's feelings for three different characters feeling forced and unconvincing. The book's climax was anticlimactic, and the characters were one-dimensional. The reviewer struggled to find any redeeming qualities beyond the magic system, ultimately giving the book a low rating.

Quick quotes

    Sadly, pretty much everything about this book ended up being lame and left me feeling very “meh”.

    The only, and I mean only, thing that made this book bearable was the magic used by Guinevere.

    All things considered, this book had nothing to offer.

abebooks.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-10-24
mixed 3.00

The reviewer enjoyed the unique take on Guinevere as a witch protecting King Arthur, finding the world-building and Arthur-Guinevere relationship intriguing. However, the slow pacing and flat characters made it difficult to stay fully invested in the story.

The reviewer was initially excited about The Guinevere Deception, a retelling of the Arthurian legend with a unique twist on Guinevere as a witch sent by Merlin to protect King Arthur. They appreciated the world-building and the development of Arthur and Guinevere's relationship, which felt more like a friendship or alliance. The opening scenes, featuring the trees engulfing a village, set a creepy supernatural tone that the reviewer found fascinating. However, the pacing of the book was a significant issue, with over two-thirds of the story meandering aimlessly. The knot magic, initially interesting, became boring over time. Most characters felt flat, except for Guinevere and Mordred. The last third of the book improved with action and betrayals, but the slow build-up made it hard to stay invested. The reviewer suggests the book for those who enjoy King Arthur retellings and don't mind a slow burn plot.

Quick quotes

    I loved how unique White’s take on the Lady Guinevere is and thought it was absolutely brilliant to have her placed in the castle, posing as Arthur’s wife, but really serving as a secret weapon right under any enemy’s nose.

    The pacing of the book is excruciatingly slow and honestly just seemed to meander aimlessly for over two-thirds of the book.

    The characters, for the most part, felt very flat too. The exceptions to that were Guinevere and Mordred.

katierunsthis.wordpress.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
inspiring 4.50

The Long Run is a compelling memoir that showcases the resilience and determination of a New York City firefighter who overcame a devastating accident to become an elite athlete. The book is both inspiring and motivational, offering a unique perspective on perseverance and the human spirit.

The Long Run is a powerful and uplifting story that chronicles the journey of a firefighter who faced immense challenges after a life-altering accident. Through sheer willpower and dedication, he transformed his life and achieved remarkable feats in the world of athletics. The book is not just about physical recovery but also about the mental and emotional strength required to overcome adversity. It's a testament to the human spirit and a reminder that no obstacle is insurmountable with the right mindset. The author's narrative is engaging and heartfelt, making it a must-read for anyone looking for inspiration and motivation.

Quick quotes

    The Long Run is a story of resilience and determination.

    It's a testament to the human spirit and a reminder that no obstacle is insurmountable with the right mindset.

    The author's narrative is engaging and heartfelt, making it a must-read for anyone looking for inspiration and motivation.

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