Style Reader: Time Travel

Book Review: When the World was Flat (and we were in love) by Ingrid Jonach

When the World was Flat (And we were in love) by Ingrid Jonach

(Started: August 19, 2013; Finished: August 21, 2013)

Summary/Description:

Looking back, I wonder if I had an inkling that my life was about to go from ordinary to extraordinary.

When sixteen-year-old Lillie Hart meets the gorgeous and mysterious Tom Windsor-Smith for the first time, it’s like fireworks — for her, anyway. Tom looks as if he would be more interested in watching paint dry; as if he is bored by her and by her small Nebraskan town in general.

But as Lillie begins to break down the walls of his seemingly impenetrable exterior, she starts to suspect that he holds the answers to her reoccurring nightmares and to the impossible memories which keep bubbling to the surface of her mind — memories of the two of them, together and in love.

When she at last learns the truth about their connection, Lillie discovers that Tom has been hiding an earth-shattering secret; a secret that is bigger — and much more terrifying and beautiful — than the both of them. She also discovers that once you finally understand that the world is round, there is no way to make it flat again.

An epic and deeply original sci-fi romance, taking inspiration from Albert Einstein’s theories and the world-bending wonder of true love itself. (From Goodreads)

Review: 3 stars
Publication Date: September 03, 2013
Source: Strange Chemistry & the Author
Shelf: Goodreads, Shelfari
Available on: Amazon

To start this, can I just say that it has a wonderful cover? There's something about it that I'm drawn to. Maybe it's the enigmatic feel of the cover which was also magnetic that I got curious to open and read it at once. I am such a sucker for pretty covers. It is a weakness that I have to live by--an appreciation of art that unravels the story of the author before it even unfolds.

Moving on, I've always been fascinated by stories about reincarnation and love. In fact, one of the first books I've ever read was about that. This topic always leave me pondering if there is a truth about the after life--if we can live another life and start anew after we reach the end of another. That's one of the things I liked about this book. It shared another perspective of reincarnation which was leading towards a scientific basis. I really appreciate it that the author introduced another mind-boggling idea on how and why it happens. It paved way to new possibilities and made me think if such phenomenon really occurs. It sort of reminded me of Kim Curran's Shift and J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter, not because of plot similarities but because of the shifting and horcruxes. You'll understand why when you read it. Though I was a little bit concern on how everything was explained. Usually, topics involving time warping and reincarnation are very confusing so it should be narrated with precise details and in a vivid manner. There were times that I felt lost and it took me long to fully grasp the explanation by rereading some lines or pages again. Fortunately, I was able to get by.

Plot-wise, it started a bit slow and I was wary that I found myself already reading half of the book, and nothing happened that was that explosive yet. But to be fair, I was not able to predict the twists and that's good because it gave me the thrill and excitement I needed to get from the book. I also like the events towards the end. It was so full of emotions dominated by heartbreaks and longing. For some reason, I was able to connect with Lillie in that moment. I also like the ending! It was a perfect cliffhanger that I was wishing the story was longer and/or the book has a sequel. I wanted to know what will happen next--will they stop the Circle? It left me with so many questions that I wanted a further exploration on that realm.

Overall, it was an entertaining read, focusing on one great love that will endure centuries and will last through time with the help of Einstein's theory.

For the quotes I got this from the book, please visit my Tumblr:

http://arraabella.tumblr.com

Happy Reading Everyone!

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, by Arra A.

In 5 stars, Action

Blog Tour: Control by Kim Curran

Control (Shift #2) by Kim Curran

(Started: July 27, 2013; Finished: August 02, 2013)

Summary/Description:

Scott Tyler is not like other teenagers. With a single thought he can alter reality around him. And he can stop anyone else from doing the same.

That's why he's so important to ARES, the secret government agency that regulates other kids like him: Shifters.

They've sent him on a mission. To track down the enigmatic Frank Anderson. An ex-Shifter who runs a project for unusual kids - as if the ability to change your every decision wasn't unusual enough. But Anderson and the kids have a dark secret. One that Scott is determined to discover.

As his obsession with discovering the truth takes him further away from anyone he cares about, his grip on reality starts to weaken. Scott realizes if he can't control his choices, they'll control him. (From Goodreads)

Review: 5 stars
Publication Date: August 06, 2013 (US & ebooks)
Source: Strange Chemistry through Netgalley
Shelf: Goodreads, Shelfari
Available on: Amazon

As you can see, I just finished the book and so giddy to say what I have to say about Control but there is a need to appreciate its cover first. Like Shift, I knew that the cover would be part of the events that would be found in the book, perhaps at the start, in the middle or towards the end. Again, I love how it looks so high definition that it can pass as a movie poster.

Moving on to the story, it was such a compelling read that was even more strengthened by its complexity. Usually plots that involve time warps and alternate realities in constant flux would usually be so confusing that even the writer herself would be out of touch which will result to so many loopholes that will eventually be pinpointed by the readers. This will make the whole thing a flop. However, Kim Curran was able to manipulate and wield her creation to her own will with precision and clarity, enough for the readers to enjoy its intricate details. I really appreciate how you can easily feel and live in a Shifter's world by just reading the book. It was so well-defined that you will not be lost or missed out on anything. But then again, you can Shift back if you do (see what I did there *wink wink*). Well seriously, I think that’s also why it was so effective. I feel like I felt what the Shifter has been through, particularly Scott, because of how vivid it was described and of course, how mind-boggling it was to be in a position or a world that is constantly changing. Oh I tell you, it was so riveting that I felt every emotion the characters showed. Like in Shift, I was smiling, blushing, angry or frustrated then crying the next. It was so intense and it was a good thrill that every reader needs. Perhaps, others would say it was violent, but that’s what makes it more intriguing. The happily ever after perception is so cliché that the author used it BUT made sure we will be on the edge of our seats. I just have to acknowledge the few funny antics the author inserted unexpectedly. I admit that it made me look crazy—because of the shift in reactions—laughing and smiling at myself while reading. I resisted sharing them while I was live tweeting because I want the others to savor it, too. It made me relax and have a break from such a heavy mental state I had. Control kept my mind so active that I, again, never want to put it down. It took me days to finish it because of some errands but there was this feeling that I look forward to read it as soon as possible. It was action packed and full of never ending twists that will definitely satisfy a reader.

I've already shared my favorite characters on my review about Shift before (see here) and I would like to tell you their developments. Scott, Scott, Scott. Where do I begin with you? He started as this boy who feels useless and lack of self-confidence was just an understatement. In Shift, he showed that he was more powerful than he will ever imagine. But still he didn't believe on his capabilities, on himself. As a reader, I wanted to push him to his limits and at the same time, I saw myself in him. There were times that I feel so small and I fear to commit so many mistakes. I will always second-guess my abilities even if I knew I could be more than that. Scott was also the same. Like I said, there was so much room for improvement and I believed it was filled in this book. I am so proud to say that he will find himself as you read the book and I think that’s one of the lessons the author is telling us. Sometimes we feel that our goals are so far and out of reach but achieving it will always depend on us. Our decisions make or break us. And, I think Scott was able to realize that. Now with Aubrey, there was a time I nearly got frustrated with her because I felt she was stubborn but I gave myself a slap and told myself that she was a teenager. It happens! As if I didn't went through that phase. What struck me about her was that she was able to show her vulnerable side and it was refreshing. I knew that it will be shown sooner or later, and Aubrey did not disappoint me. Since the story has heavy points, I finally appreciated the bittersweet moments between her and Scott. It was an emotional roller coaster but it was a sweet treat for the readers. With CP and Jake, I love that they stepped up their “game” in this sequel but I want to see more of them. They both are spitfires and just waiting to show more of their capabilities, and I am excited to witness that in the third installment of this series. In addition, these two deserved to be noticed for their strong impact on the whole tale. Benjo was defined so well that I always cringe whenever he was there in a specific scene. His dark aura was too strong that I feel his evil intentions and barbaric ways. It was not an enticing visualization whenever he is mentioned but I guess it added spice (did I just say that?) to the whole dish. Of course, Frankie was so influential and despite being described as charismatic and angelic, her vibes was, no doubt, way off. Both are convincing and powerful villains that gave the protagonist a challenge.

With this said, Control has no dull moment that will both enamor a reader’s heart and mind. It was under the science fiction genre but it found its way to be relatable and realistic through its characters and on how they emulated how it is to be human—how life can be at times difficult and that we should just face it, and conquer our fears. It just tells its readers that running from your choices (through Shifting) will not change anything. It will always be there but with different and maybe worse consequences. We just have to accept life’s ups and downs and go through it, and be in Control.

For the quotes I got from the book, please visit my Tumblr:

http://arraabella.tumblr.com/

Strange Chemistry and Kim Curran also has an ongoing giveaway where 5 signed copies of both books are up for grabs! Read the mechanics here.

Happy Reading Everyone!

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, by Arra A.

In 4 stars, Action

Book Review: Shift by Kim Curran

Shift (#1) by Kim Curran

(Started: July 26, 2013; Finished: July 27, 2013)

Summary/Description:

When your average, 16-year old loser, Scott Tyler, meets the beautiful and mysterious Aubrey Jones, he learns he's not so average after all. He's a 'Shifter'. And that means he has the power to undo any decision he's ever made. At first, he thinks the power to shift is pretty cool. But as his world starts to unravel around him he realizes that each time he uses his power, it has consequences; terrible unforeseen consequences. Shifting is going to get him killed. In a world where everything can change with a thought, Scott has to decide where he stands. (From Goodreads)

Review: 4 stars
Shelf: Goodreads, Shelfari
Available at: Amazon

This was supposed to be posted yesterday but due to connection problems I had to postponed it for today. I apologize for that. Anyway starting this off with the cover, I think it was very strong and tasteful. I like how it showed the protagonist appearing from the blue light which I think signifies change or the shift.

Shift. Whenever I saw or heard this word, it always remind me of shape-shifting. Sorry Supernatural fan over here and the fact that I didn't read the description beforehand. But still it means change and in this book, it involves one's decisions and its consequences that affect one's life. I know that most of us have read similar stories regarding the topic of going back through time to change an event to result to something better. In Harry Potter, we all know that Hermione used a Time-Turner to go back through time to save Buckbeak. In the Daughters of the Moon series, Catty has the ability to revisit the past and even the future for the same reason. With Kim Curran's Shift, Scott Tyler was a Shifter and has the ability to change a decision that he made before. Take note also that he can ONLY reverse his choices and events that he is involve in unlike those other stories that I mentioned that had a wider range of scope.

With this said, it made me fear that the story might get confusing and complicated as it goes on but I'm happy to say that Kim Curran proved otherwise. She was able to keep me on the ground and kept my head from blowing off. I love how she explained shifting in a scientific sense. She really did her research and made sure that there were no loopholes that might frustrate the readers. As mind-boggling as it may be, I like the idea of an alternate reality. It shows us that there is really such a thing that's why we regret and have "what-ifs" at times. Despite it being under the fantasy or sci-fi category, I really appreciate it for partially being realistic. I think the way the author makes us realize that we have different choices and it all have subsequent consequences. That's why it is really important to rationalize every single decision in order to not commit a mistake, and if it's inevitable, at least it's minimal. Moreover with the plot, I was able to easily embrace the story because the author, like I said, explained everything in detail making no room for questions, and if there was one, it will be about what will happen on the sequel. The pace and flow of the story was just perfect to get me hooked and to be able to finish it in a day. I seriously wasn't able to put it down. I brought it with me when I ate my breakfast, lunch and dinner, while going up and down the stairs, and just read through it the whole day. The only thing that made me somehow raised my eyebrows was the ending, specifically on how Scott beat the villains towards the end. I think it was too easy. But to see it in a different light, I didn't see it coming and there was another revelation that I look forward to encounter and to be elaborated on the next book. I think the events that had transpired were unpredictable and it's great because I love it when a story surprises me. I love how it made me think this way but ended with another. It tickles the brain and the reader's curiosity. Although, I just hope for more action sequence to be able to really show and explore the characters' ability to Shift. I'm also interested on why Scott has a stronger grip with his memories and/or alternate realities.

Now on to my favorite parts to discuss: settings and characters. It was obvious from the very start that the world was set in England because of the colloquial terms used by the characters. It was really refreshing for me since I've been reading books set in the USA, particularly New York. I needed a new environment and culture (as if I was really there, but I just have to use my imagination, right?) and this made the whole book more fun. I sometimes slip to reading it with a British accent. LOL. Well, you know what I mean. The introduction of Tyler's family made me think of Skins and the siblings reminded me a bit of Tony and Effy. ARES made it more interesting. It was proper to create an institution that will train and control such powerful ability so that it will be put to good use. This too also made me think of X-Men when they were all gathered by Professor Xavier. Also one of my favorite places that was described was Aubrey's place I think it was really special.

With the characters, I was attached five characters, namely Scott Tyler, Aubrey Jones, CP Finn, Jake Bailey and Sergeant Cain. Scott was not the typical macho male protagonist that usually includes abs. He was a grade A student who admits that he has no physical capabilities and muscle to use, and he was a nobody. Like I said on my other reviews, I like underdogs because I can really relate to them. I also felt like that at times and for these heroes to actually prove that they can be someone someday was an inspiration. I think it was also interesting that that he was so awkward, shy, emotional and a scaredy cat at times. I know it should be a turn-off and it is weird but I think it molds his character and these are attitudes that I think he should overcome. I like the mystery that envelopes his character because it leads to self-discovery and gives space for improvement. I'm excited to see if he will develop greater abilities. Aubrey depicts somewhat the manic pixie dream girl attitude. She is a tough cookie to crack and has a strong facade so others will not see her weaknesses. I love how feisty she is and how dominant her personality is that she overpowers Tyler most of the time. Yay for girl power! I like the budding romance of these two but I would like to keep it to the minimum and focus more on the whole world of Shifting. It's exciting but I don't want the whole story to revolve on it. CP and Tyler, the kids I am so fond of. I love how they're ironic personalities compliment each other. They have this fire that I would love to see on the next books. I told you I was so attached to them that there were some parts in the book that I cried because it involved them and there were also times when I felt like a proud reader because they were so brave. Last but not least, Sergeant Cain was an intimidating character that I eventually learned has a soft spot for kids. I wish I could say more to make you understand how his character touched my heart but I will reveal too much. All of them showed various emotions that I was able to feel as well while reading the book. I was crying then laughing the next and even blush at the most sweetest things. I hope that on the next book, they will encounter stronger and fiercer villains. Like I said, the ending looked too easy and didn't even give much of a challenge to the protagonist.

Therefore, Shift is a twenty-four hour read with so much promise and excitement. It is a story with fresh ideas and a world that young adults would definitely enjoy. It is also one of the books I will never put down while reading and will surely read again in the future.

Here's the trailer! Watch it here: