A Journey Through Time: Review of Memoirs of a Time Traveler (Time Amazon Book 1)
I can still remember the moment I first stumbled upon Memoirs of a Time Traveler by Eric R. Beal. The title alone snagged my curiosity—“time traveler” evokes the thrill of discovery, the promise of adventure—and when I read about an archaeologist unearthing a paradoxical artifact, I was immediately hooked. Time travel stories have always fascinated me, blending science fiction with the philosophical quandaries of existence. I was eager to see how Beal would explore these themes, and dive into the whirlwind that is Time Amazon Book 1.
The narrative kicks off with David Preston, an unsuspecting archaeologist whose life takes an unexpected twist when he acquires a baseball allegedly signed by Ty Cobb—but signed with a pen that shouldn’t exist yet. Enter Ariyl Moro, a stunning 22nd-century woman with a penchant for trouble, and her sinister companion Jon Ludlo, whose reckless time-altering escapades could unravel the fabric of reality itself. The characters are vividly drawn; Ariyl is the brawn of the operation, while David embodies the brain, creating a delightful push-and-pull dynamic between the two. Their banter adds humor to the narrative, reminiscent of classic comedic duos.
The book’s pacing is brisk, peppered with historical references that reflect Beal’s evident research dedication. One moment you’re in the Bronze Age navigating through sword-fighting maneuvers, and the next, you’re in a steampunk-inspired Hollywood, racing against time (literally) to prevent history from collapsing on itself. This blend of comedic adventure with thought-provoking questions about time travel—like whether we can change the past or if it’s all already written—keeps you engaged, even as the plot spirals into convoluted territory. It’s a wild ride!
The humor throughout the book adds a refreshing layer, transforming tension into amusement. One of the standout moments for me was David’s incredulous reaction to Ariyl’s strong demeanor as they face relentless foes. This interplay between serious action and lightheartedness reminded me of the banter you’d find in classic screwball comedies, drawing me into the characters’ world.
However, it’s important to note that the adventure can feel relentless at times. Some readers won’t mind the twists and turns, while others might find it a bit circuitous. As one reviewer aptly pointed out, the story sometimes dances between being a comedy and a superhero action tale—an undertaking that may leave readers splitting their allegiance between genres.
If you’re someone who loves high-stakes time travel combined with a dash of romantic comedy and action-adventure sprinkled with historical figures, then Memoirs of a Time Traveler is worth picking up. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a rollicking escapade that engages both mind and heart. Personally, I found myself yearning for the sequel, intrigued by the cliffhanger and the tantalizing potential of time yet to unfold.
In the end, Beal’s debut is a testament to the power of story—a reminder that sometimes, the most entertaining journeys take us to unexpected places, whether in time or within ourselves. Happy reading!
You can find Memoirs of a Time Traveler (Time Amazon Book 1) here >>