Here, There & Everywhere – Chris Roberson

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[starreview]

Classification: Past and Future Time Travel

 

Roxanne Bonaventure is 11 years old. One day, on her way back from school, she meets an old woman near death. But before she is able to talk to the woman or help her, the woman gives her a gift: a mysterious silver bracelet (which she later names the Sofia) and disappears in a flash of light. Not long afterward Roxanne discovers to her amazement and delight that the Sofia can transport her through time.

 

At first she uses the machine for fun: she decides to go to every Beatles concerts. Then she starts using it to improve her life: she uses it to discover information about a guy she has a crush on, and when her father becomes very ill, she uses it to travel to many different futures in search of a cure.

 

As she grows older, the novelty of time travel begins to wear. She’s seen it all: the future, the past, parallel universes – and nothing seems to surprise her. Moreover, these extensive travels bring her in contact with other time travelers, none of which has the unlimited time traveling capabilities she enjoys, and none of which know where her device came from. This makes Roxanne wonder: where did the Sofia come from? And who was the old woman who gave it? (was it her?). And so, she decides to find out, and sets on a journey that will take her to the far end of time and back to discover the hidden origins of the Sofia.

 

Although the book has an excellent premise (even if it is a bit of a cliche) and is generally well written, I found it a bit dull. None of the subplots seemed to be too original or had an unusual twist, and all in all, the book felt as if it lacked a focus – it felt more like a collection of loosely related short stories than a real novel. Consequently, I can’t say I was surprised to discover this is the author’s first novel. However, I’m sure the next would be better, since this book shows a lot of promise.

 

In general, I think this is a good book, but it could’ve been much better. If you really must read every time travel story, I say: go for it. Otherwise, you may want to skip this one.

 


Link to the book’s details on Amazon.com

 

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