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The History Major: A Novella Kindle Edition

3.4 3.4 out of 5 stars 159 ratings

After a vicious fight with her boyfriend followed by a night of heavy partying, college freshman Amanda Greene wakes up in her dorm room to find things are not the same as they were yesterday. She can't quite put her finger on it. She's sharing her room with a peculiar stranger. Amanda discovers she's registered for classes she would never choose with people that are oddly familiar. An ominous shadow is stalking her. Uncomfortable memories are bubbling dangerously close to her fracturing world, propelling her to an inevitable collision between fantasy and reality. Is this the mother of all hangovers or is something bigger happening?

Editorial Reviews

Review

"I was completely enthralled by this story, wondering exactly what had happened, what the dark force stalking Amanda was, and how she came to find herself in this strange situation. I enjoyed this book so much I was actually disappointed when it finished, although it finished at the perfect point. This is certainly a gripping read, with some unique ideas and philosophical applications. For a fascinating, intriguing read, look nor further than The History Major." - Reviewed by K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite "Wow, this was a wild story." - Doris Lorr, NetGalley Reviewer"Cash intermingles beauty and violence ...It's smartly ambiguous and open to interpretation, and some may delight in a second (or third) read." - Kirkus Reviews"Such an interesting story! Good writing!" - ver ver, NetGalley Reviewer"Cash's novella is gripping and thought provoking. Now adding more of his titles to my TBR list." - Kristi Betts (Librarian), NetGalley Reviewer"... The History Major is a book that keeps you guessing from page to page where it is going next... It teeters on the edge between alternate reality, spooky mystery, and philosophical psychology, sometimes a bit ponderous, sometimes intriguing. Certainly worth reading, occasionally thought-provoking." - Beverly Kune (Educator), NetGalley Reviewer"This was a very different Novella... a fascinating concept. Very detailed, multiple characters some modern and some ancient." - Patricia Moren (Educator), NetGalley Reviewer "...it is clear this talented author is able to entertain his readers across genres beyond horror fiction. The work is short yet poignant..." - Lemon Bee Blogspot"The History Major is a thriller, a mystery, a conundrum, a psychological study, a narrative on the brink of embracing horror (occasionally tipping but never quite remaining there), a lesson in history....Reading it is rather like seeing a Dali painting for the first time; every detail seems correct, but then the ultimate wrongness of the scene penetrates....Perhaps the closest literary cousin is Ambrose Bierce's superlative 1890 short story, "An Occurrence Owl Creek Bridge,..." - Michael Collings, Collingsnotes"A truly thought provoking read! ... I couldn't tell if her story was reality or fantasy and what is present history or past history. Mr. Cash makes the characters come alive with his descriptions of them and their actions/reactions. It was well written and gave me anxiety and the desire to know more." - Eva Rosol, NetGalley Reviewer"Cash never shies away from tough topics and themes; however, in The History Major his exploration of certain thematic elements goes deeper than usual. His love of history combined with a keen sense of human nature has provided a riveting story that deals with trauma, grief, acceptance, and finding inner strength. Cash has created a multi-dimensional experience between plot and character through the exploration of dreams and historical figures. He has created a riveting sense of perplexity that lingers long after the last page and author's note." - Bianca Schulze, Book Reviewer"The ride through history leaves the reader with a broader understanding of history, of course, and spiritual philosophy. If you are left wondering just how the world works after this book, then I think the author has done his job."- N.N. Light, Author of "Seeds of Love""As I got into the plot, I could not stop reading. Lots of interesting dialogue and colorful language engage the reader. Plenty of twists and turns keep the reader on edge; the ending caught me off guard. Recommended for teen and adult audiences as a thought provoking afternoon read."- Barbara Ann Mojica, Author of "Little Miss History" series, Blogger and Goodreads Reviewer"This is a wonderful book, about Amanda's journey, through space, through history, to find the right answers. And life's lessons." - Bill Green, Top Amazon Reviewer"Wow, just, WOW. This novella went by so quickly for me. I think many of us wonder what life would be like if we won't up in a slightly different universe." - Sherri, Goodreads Reviewer"I loved this story. It is short but packs a big punch. It will leave you thinking. This is one book that I think everyone should read, even if it's just so we don't fall into the trap of our past." - Jessica Bronder, Blogger and Goodreads Reviewer"The writing style that the author implemented in this story was different from a lot of young adult books I've read. The author's words didn't make the reader feel stupid or juvenile, like some young teen books do." - Lit Picks Student Book Review"This is (trying very hard not to give anything away) a book that makes you think. Not only about the situation the character is in, but about the resolution. It leaves you pondering the possibilities, and eyeing the book, knowing you're going to go back for a re-read at some point." - Lilyn, Sci Fri and Scary Blog"Concise but not hurried or thoughtless, The History Major, a novella from Michael Phillip Cash, packs a powerful punch. The first day of school has never wreaked such havoc, as sinners and saints sit side by side and a troubled student studies the past in an effort to understand the present and embrace the future." - Pallas Gates McCorquodale, Foreword Review"Literally, a third of the way in, I felt I was reading the successor to Stephen King. The spooky-ookiness of the writing gave me the willies similar to those of King's Salem's Lot. The moodiness, the inner turmoil of the main character, the twists and turns, all create a sense of unsettledness in the reader. " - Underrated Reads"I really enjoyed this book. While it's not Michael's typical story its really good. It has his signature world building, and complex characters all in a neat little package." - Sara Beary, Blogger"Both The History Major and The Hanging Tree will resonate in my brain for years to come." - Michelle, Blogger and Goodreads Reviewer"You just can't put this book down. You'll be on the edge of your seat during the whole book. Hope you have another book in the works, Mr. Cash." - Gayle Pace, Blogger "The twists and turns will keep you reading all night long. Trust me on that one, his books are so perfect, spooking in one spot and heart racing in another ." - Patricia, Goodreads Reviewer"I ended up reading the whole thing in one sitting because no matter how many times I told myself "One more chapter", I couldn't seem to close the book! " - Amanda, Goodreads Reviewer "It's an interesting read and a departure from Cash's usual topics. I love seeing an author stretch his writing muscles." - Vicki Carbone, Blogger and Goodreads Reviewer"I love the message behind this book and it is enough to make you think about some things deeper than you ever thought you would. If you are looking for a mysterious novel that keeps you on the edge of your seat, you should check out The History Major! Michael Phillip Cash does not disappoint!" - Sandra Crandom, Blog, Goodreads Reviewer

From the Author

The History Major - Awards:
  • NABE Pinnacle Award 
  • 5 Stars Foreword Review Clarion 
  • 2016 Foreword Review Book of the Year Finalist- Thriller
  • 2016 IAN Book of the Year Awards - "Horror", "Thriller", and "Novella" Finalist
  • 2016 IAN Book of the Year Awards - Outstanding "Novella" Winner
  • 2017 Independent Press Award Distinguished Favorites - Mystery
  • 2018 Readers' Favorite Finalist in the Fiction - Thriller - General genre

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B01A7TBITK
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Chelshire, Inc. (January 4, 2016)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ January 4, 2016
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 677 KB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 132 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    3.4 3.4 out of 5 stars 159 ratings

About the author

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Michael Phillip Cash
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Michael Phillip Cash is an award-winning novelist and screenwriter. His novels are best-sellers on Amazon under their genres – Young Adult, Thriller, Suspense, Ghost, Action Adventure, Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, and Horror.

Michael writes full-time and lives on the North Shore of Long Island with his wonderful wife and screaming children. You can follow him @michaelpcash.

Connect with Michael on:

Facebook: facebook.com/michaelphillipcash

Twitter: twitter.com/michaelpcash

Web: www.michaelphillipcash.com

Email: michaelphillipcash@gmail.com

Customer reviews

3.4 out of 5 stars
159 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the novella intriguing with clever suspense-building techniques. They find the story thought-provoking and deep, allowing them to consider issues from different perspectives. The writing style is well-received, though some feel the pacing is uneven at times.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

10 customers mention "Suspenseful"8 positive2 negative

Customers find the book interesting and engaging. They appreciate the clever suspense-building techniques and unique plot. The story has depth and layers, keeping readers hooked until the end.

"...A surreal and poignant book that is alluring and intriguing while having you think and gain some perspective on things as you watch Amanda see her..." Read more

"This novella is interesting, yet odd. There's so much stuffed into the plot that the actual story becomes blurred...." Read more

"...With that in mind I kept reading and the story sucked me in. What is the purpose of her situation?..." Read more

"...The History Major is short, yet riveting, extremely thought provoking and very well done. The clever suspense-building techniques are truly unique...." Read more

4 customers mention "Thought provoking"4 positive0 negative

Customers find the book thought-provoking and engaging. They say it has a valuable lesson to learn and helps them reevaluate their perspective. The book is described as well-written and powerful in its message.

"...because of the tale being told and not in a bad way and a powerful in its train of thought and how it gets you to feel and dig inside yourself but..." Read more

"...The History Major is short, yet riveting, extremely thought provoking and very well done. The clever suspense-building techniques are truly unique...." Read more

"...I was correct and wrong at the same time. Yes, his book was interesting but even more so down right thought provoking...." Read more

"...Fantastic message and storyline." Read more

3 customers mention "Depth"3 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's depth. They say it gets them to feel and think about themselves.

"...in its train of thought and how it gets you to feel and dig inside yourself but also think...." Read more

"This may just be a novella, but there is so much depth and so many layers to the story that if it were any longer it would be completely overwhelming..." Read more

"Tries to be deep, but. . ...." Read more

3 customers mention "Writing style"3 positive0 negative

Customers find the book well-written and engaging.

"...the shadow waiting for her decision. The book is extremely well written and deep in its message...." Read more

"...Was she dreaming or dropped into an alternate universe? Very well written!" Read more

"...Michael Phillip Cash’s writing is intelligent and gripping. He has a genuine, easy style of writing that I enjoy immensely...." Read more

3 customers mention "Pacing"0 positive3 negative

Customers find the pacing uneven and the story odd.

"...the story is at times surreal, sometimes freaky only because of the tale being told and not in a bad way and a powerful in its train of thought and..." Read more

"This novella is interesting, yet odd. There's so much stuffed into the plot that the actual story becomes blurred...." Read more

"I was actually really looking forward to this, but it was really uneven and the interesting moments were always promptly dispelled by vaguely..." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2024
    I really enjoyed this book. I did have it figured out fairly well by the end. I couldn’t put it down once I started it. Stayed up late to finish it. Glad I got to read it. One big thing though, definitely needs a trigger warning.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on September 20, 2016
    This book had me thinking. Thinking of my life and actions and if I am doing as the book says. You learn a valuable lesson from this book. One that once you see it from the angle this book shows is embedded in you and may change you.

    the story is at times surreal, sometimes freaky only because of the tale being told and not in a bad way and a powerful in its train of thought and how it gets you to feel and dig inside yourself but also think. think about your actions, who you are, who you have become and what you want to be. think about how you treat others, and how you would want to be treated. About who you surround yourself with and who they are really: do they treat others right? Or how you would like to be treated? It truly has you reevaluate things and not just on a surface level.

    Amanda closed off her heart and only thought of survival for so long she didn’t really care to look at those she surrounded herself with. She only befriended those that could keep her from being isolated and would make fun of her if she wasn’t part of their crowd. That is until Patrick. Patrick had no agendas and no hidden meaning. He just cared about Amanda. And this is where we get the surreal and freaky. Suddenly Amanda is no longer in her world but she is, she is in I think her mind or the in between don’t really know but it is time for her to be shown lessons on life and living. She is herself but not really. She is taught by Aristotle who was a wee bit arrogant.Befriended by Nick who lives in his own horrors and has the history of Lucria Borgia and Joan of Arc trigger her past and make her face it and deal with her present and her friends and her own actions. She has a chat with her grandmother when she is on the precipice of having to decide where her life should go and we learn some valuable life lessons. Wondering where the freaky comes in? Well we have the dark evil shadow chasing Amanda. the shadow waiting for her decision.

    The book is extremely well written and deep in its message. You are entertained while learning a life lesson you didn’t expect to get. A surreal and poignant book that is alluring and intriguing while having you think and gain some perspective on things as you watch Amanda see her life through new eyes.
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on April 23, 2020
    This novella is interesting, yet odd. There's so much stuffed into the plot that the actual story becomes blurred. Cash weaves an ominous vibe throughout but the end result is nothing spectacular. I sussed out the conclusion somewhere in the middle and that normally doesn't happen when I'm reading Cash. I fear if I say too much I'll have to add a spoiler alert so I'm going to keep this simple. IMO, Cash has written better. The dark and edgy <i>Stillwell</i> comes to mind.
    <i>The History Major</i> is weighed down by too many probable plots that spoiled the outcome for me. And, half of those plots didn't change or add to the concept. I lost focus. And, I can't say I meshed with Amanda. To connect with a story one must connect with the protag, right? Not easy here. Still, I like Cash as a whole. I'll continue to be a fan.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on January 25, 2020
    There is such a thing as delving too deeply into a character, and this ham-fisted novella is an example. We are thrust into the mind of a woman engaged in a vivid nightmare, and we expected to make sense of the ramblings of the characters around her. She makes herself a martyr, just like Joan of Arc; she poisons her relationships, like Lucretia Borgia; she could have learned so much if she had only read Aristotle. Through it all, she wonders if she's dead, and that is the most relatable part; as the reader begins to wish for death as a release from this story. As experimental art, it's certainly experimental; as a psychological study, it needs a lot more study. If this sort of thing is your bag, then more power to you. But I would advise the writer to try a more traditional approach and to develop skills in traditional story-telling before trying a radical departure. Artistic license is not an excuse for ignoring basic skills.
  • Reviewed in the United States on September 22, 2020
    I was actually really looking forward to this, but it was really uneven and the interesting moments were always promptly dispelled by vaguely sinister chaos that felt like a by-product, not a plan.
  • Reviewed in the United States on July 26, 2016
    This Novella was not what I expected when I started reading. With that in mind I kept reading and the story sucked me in. What is the purpose of her situation? Was she dreaming or dropped into an alternate universe?
    Very well written!
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on July 19, 2016
    Amanda Greene is a college freshman who wakes up after a night of heavy partying to find things aren’t quite as she remembers them. Her dorm room and roommate are no longer the same and she’s late for history class – a class she’s sure she never signed up for. As she moves through her day things only get stranger and more frightening. Amanda struggles to understand what’s happened to her – is she dead? Is this her new reality?

    I wasn’t at all sure what to expect before beginning The History Major. From the book’s description and from having read previous books by Michael Phillip Cash I knew this story could go anywhere. But I have to say the author has certainly outdone himself.

    The History Major is short, yet riveting, extremely thought provoking and very well done. The clever suspense-building techniques are truly unique. It took me several pages of reading to understand what was really happening to the main character. The historical information in this book is fascinating and makes this book not only great entertainment, but educational as well. I found the concept to be extremely unique.

    Michael Phillip Cash’s writing is intelligent and gripping. He has a genuine, easy style of writing that I enjoy immensely. His personal notes about the story at the end of the book give readers some insight into the mind of this writer. I look forward to reading even more of his books!
    6 people found this helpful
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