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Touching Time #1
The Emperor's Seal
The Emperor’s Seal – the divine symbol of the Emperor on earth – is missing. The Empress will do whatever it takes to get it back.
Jiayi has a gift – she can travel through time just by touching historical artifacts. More than anything, she wants to escape the clutches of the Empress and run away to a foreign land. Finding the Emperor’s Seal could be her only chance at freedom, but is she willing to risk the wrath of the Empress?
Historian and wannabe archaeologist Zhihao has no love for the Empress or the Qing Dynasty, but when the Empress orders him to find the Emperor’s Seal in exchange for funding China’s first history museum, he cannot refuse. It is only after he accepts the assignment that he realizes the key to finding the seal lies in the hands of a palace slave.
Civil unrest and encroaching foreign powers threaten Jiayi and Zhihao's mission and lives as they hunt for The Emperor's Seal.
Jiayi has a gift – she can travel through time just by touching historical artifacts. More than anything, she wants to escape the clutches of the Empress and run away to a foreign land. Finding the Emperor’s Seal could be her only chance at freedom, but is she willing to risk the wrath of the Empress?
Historian and wannabe archaeologist Zhihao has no love for the Empress or the Qing Dynasty, but when the Empress orders him to find the Emperor’s Seal in exchange for funding China’s first history museum, he cannot refuse. It is only after he accepts the assignment that he realizes the key to finding the seal lies in the hands of a palace slave.
Civil unrest and encroaching foreign powers threaten Jiayi and Zhihao's mission and lives as they hunt for The Emperor's Seal.
192 pages, Paperback
Published February 3, 2018
117 people are currently reading
334 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 27, 2018
My Opinion:
I really enjoyed this book. I loved how we got some history of China and how it's people felt about the dynasties through the centuries. I loved have Jiayi was able to connect to a different time and how she had dreams of being something more. I also liked that there is a possible romance and how it got hinted at in the story but was not overrun in the story. It seemed to be deeper than that and for this time period I would it expect it to be different. I loved how the author has done this.
We got more background and history in this book and feel it will set up the next in the series very well. I liked how the author was descriptive but not overly so. I was able to connect with Jiaya and was rooting for her the whole book. She seems like a strong character of her time and has been put through tough times and hopefully I will find out more of why in the coming books.
Jiayi has special ability to be able to touch an item and go back in time and see it's history. She can only use this ability in limited amounts and worries that the Empress will get rid of her and then she will have nothing. She connects with Zhihao on a mission for the Empress and Jiayi is trying to figure out a way to get out from under the Empress and on her own. I liked the story, I liked the background and I like that this will be a series. I would recommend this book.
I give this book 4.5 of 5 stars!
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I really enjoyed this book. I loved how we got some history of China and how it's people felt about the dynasties through the centuries. I loved have Jiayi was able to connect to a different time and how she had dreams of being something more. I also liked that there is a possible romance and how it got hinted at in the story but was not overrun in the story. It seemed to be deeper than that and for this time period I would it expect it to be different. I loved how the author has done this.
We got more background and history in this book and feel it will set up the next in the series very well. I liked how the author was descriptive but not overly so. I was able to connect with Jiaya and was rooting for her the whole book. She seems like a strong character of her time and has been put through tough times and hopefully I will find out more of why in the coming books.
Jiayi has special ability to be able to touch an item and go back in time and see it's history. She can only use this ability in limited amounts and worries that the Empress will get rid of her and then she will have nothing. She connects with Zhihao on a mission for the Empress and Jiayi is trying to figure out a way to get out from under the Empress and on her own. I liked the story, I liked the background and I like that this will be a series. I would recommend this book.
I give this book 4.5 of 5 stars!
http://stackingmybookshelves.blogspot...
February 17, 2018
Wow another great fantasy story by a unique author. The Emperor ‘s seal is missing and the Empress will do whatever she can to find it. A fast paced amazing story . Received a free copy but reviewing because it’s so wonderful. Don’t miss out once it’s released.
April 1, 2018
Jiayi is a servant to the Empress. She possesses the clairvoyant gift of retrocognition. By touching an object, she can see its past- who owned it, who handled it, etc. She never knows when along the timeline of the object she will end up though. The Empress has her using her gift to attempt to find the missing Imperial Seal, which gives true legitimacy to the ruler. When Jiayi located a possible area to search, Zhihao is brought in to do the grunt work. As a fledgling archaeologist, he understands the mechanics behind searching.
But their trip is fraught with problems from the get-go. A cave-in kills one of their group, they must contend with tomb raiders pilfering China's cultural heritage (asshats), and Jiayi herself almost ends up a captive to be sold abroad as a 'bride’. Success with the Seal is one thing, but can Jiayi and Zhihao work together to make a greater difference in preserving their country's remaining treasures and sites?
Overall, I enjoyed the storyline. I did feel that they found the Seal too quickly. That revelation was… far tamer than expected. I really enjoyed the cultural insights into this time period in China. The author did a great job with that. I loved the scenes where Jiayi jumps into the past. She becomes a 'passenger’ in a woman relevant to the flashback. While she can't control the person in question, she does retain a measure of skill her hosts have, such as language facility, fighting proficiency, and riding. I'm interested to see the limits of her ability.
Another good proofing wouldn't be amiss. There were a few spelling errors, and more grammar errors. I didn't necessarily have an issue reading it, but that is part of what lowered my rating. A pronunciation guide would be nice. I have a vague idea of how some letter clusters are pronounced in Chinese, but there were words and names I stumbled over. Especially Jiayi. For those I just settled on a pronunciation and stuck with it. I have no idea how correct I am. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series, to see how the pair continue to work together, and what they search for. I hope they get a proper excavation team. I love when books feature archaeology!
***Many thanks to Silver Dagger Tours and the author for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
But their trip is fraught with problems from the get-go. A cave-in kills one of their group, they must contend with tomb raiders pilfering China's cultural heritage (asshats), and Jiayi herself almost ends up a captive to be sold abroad as a 'bride’. Success with the Seal is one thing, but can Jiayi and Zhihao work together to make a greater difference in preserving their country's remaining treasures and sites?
Overall, I enjoyed the storyline. I did feel that they found the Seal too quickly. That revelation was… far tamer than expected. I really enjoyed the cultural insights into this time period in China. The author did a great job with that. I loved the scenes where Jiayi jumps into the past. She becomes a 'passenger’ in a woman relevant to the flashback. While she can't control the person in question, she does retain a measure of skill her hosts have, such as language facility, fighting proficiency, and riding. I'm interested to see the limits of her ability.
Another good proofing wouldn't be amiss. There were a few spelling errors, and more grammar errors. I didn't necessarily have an issue reading it, but that is part of what lowered my rating. A pronunciation guide would be nice. I have a vague idea of how some letter clusters are pronounced in Chinese, but there were words and names I stumbled over. Especially Jiayi. For those I just settled on a pronunciation and stuck with it. I have no idea how correct I am. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series, to see how the pair continue to work together, and what they search for. I hope they get a proper excavation team. I love when books feature archaeology!
***Many thanks to Silver Dagger Tours and the author for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
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March 1, 2018This was the first book of Amada that I was reading. Really enjoyed this book. Looking foward for b00k 2.
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September 14, 2021Title: The Emperor’s Seal
Author: Amanda Roberts
Rating: 4/5 stars
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
This is a spoiler free review
Summary:
Jiayi has a strange ability, when she touches an item, she is immediately transported back to the time period of the item. With this power, she falls into the hands of the Empress, who uses her and keeps her tightly locked up. Zhihao is a historian whose goal is to preserve China’s artifacts. The Empress brings Zhihao and Jiayi together to search for an artifact that has a major impact on the future of China and the Qing Dynasty. Will the unlikely duo be able to find that artifact or will unsuspecting bumps in the road stop them from completing their mission?
Review:
Disclaimer: I am not a part of the Chinese culture so I am not an authority on whether or not this book is an accurate portrayal.
I genuinely enjoyed the time I spent reading this book. I did not have any knowledge of this book coming into it and I was pleasantly surprised. The writing is engaging and the descriptions were well done. The world building is incredibly intricate and paints a beautiful picture for the reader. Throughout the entire story, I was fully engaged. From the start to the finish, I was interested in what was happening and I never encountered any slow parts of the story.
The characters in this story were all very interesting. Zhihao was a rebellious scholar who has a secret past (that I am hoping to learn more about in the next installment in this series). Jiayi is a quiet but fierce character that has a deep desire to learn. One character that I have trouble deciphering is Eunuch Lo. I thought I liked him, and then I didn’t, and then I did, and now I have no idea. He is just a big question mark in my mind. But, I don’t mind that, I just wish we got more information on him. The story is told in duel perspectives, which allows more information about each character, Zhihao and Jiayi.
The one aspect of this book that I did not enjoy was the portrayal of women. Women are not painted as strong characters in this story. They are usually sitting around while the men take the lead and there is the belief that the men need to protect the women and do all of the “dirty” work. But I am also conflicted because the person that has the most power in the country at the moment is the Empress, a woman. I also understand that this time period holds different values about women and I wasn’t as bothered about this being in the story as I was when Jiayi would accept that Zhihao had to do the work because she was “incapable” even though the reader knows that she is capable.
This story plays with some incredibly interesting topics. One is that history is wrong and it comes with different biases and viewpoints. This is also where there is a hint that Jiayi might have more power than she knows. The novel also plays with the idea of stealing other cultures and profiting from them (cultural appropriation). I think this is a really important topic right now and it is interesting hearing it discussed in the time period of the 1900s.
This is a perfect story for anyone looking for an action/adventure story about treasure hunting and history. The characters are fun to read and the story is fast paced.
Author: Amanda Roberts
Rating: 4/5 stars
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
This is a spoiler free review
Summary:
Jiayi has a strange ability, when she touches an item, she is immediately transported back to the time period of the item. With this power, she falls into the hands of the Empress, who uses her and keeps her tightly locked up. Zhihao is a historian whose goal is to preserve China’s artifacts. The Empress brings Zhihao and Jiayi together to search for an artifact that has a major impact on the future of China and the Qing Dynasty. Will the unlikely duo be able to find that artifact or will unsuspecting bumps in the road stop them from completing their mission?
Review:
Disclaimer: I am not a part of the Chinese culture so I am not an authority on whether or not this book is an accurate portrayal.
I genuinely enjoyed the time I spent reading this book. I did not have any knowledge of this book coming into it and I was pleasantly surprised. The writing is engaging and the descriptions were well done. The world building is incredibly intricate and paints a beautiful picture for the reader. Throughout the entire story, I was fully engaged. From the start to the finish, I was interested in what was happening and I never encountered any slow parts of the story.
The characters in this story were all very interesting. Zhihao was a rebellious scholar who has a secret past (that I am hoping to learn more about in the next installment in this series). Jiayi is a quiet but fierce character that has a deep desire to learn. One character that I have trouble deciphering is Eunuch Lo. I thought I liked him, and then I didn’t, and then I did, and now I have no idea. He is just a big question mark in my mind. But, I don’t mind that, I just wish we got more information on him. The story is told in duel perspectives, which allows more information about each character, Zhihao and Jiayi.
The one aspect of this book that I did not enjoy was the portrayal of women. Women are not painted as strong characters in this story. They are usually sitting around while the men take the lead and there is the belief that the men need to protect the women and do all of the “dirty” work. But I am also conflicted because the person that has the most power in the country at the moment is the Empress, a woman. I also understand that this time period holds different values about women and I wasn’t as bothered about this being in the story as I was when Jiayi would accept that Zhihao had to do the work because she was “incapable” even though the reader knows that she is capable.
This story plays with some incredibly interesting topics. One is that history is wrong and it comes with different biases and viewpoints. This is also where there is a hint that Jiayi might have more power than she knows. The novel also plays with the idea of stealing other cultures and profiting from them (cultural appropriation). I think this is a really important topic right now and it is interesting hearing it discussed in the time period of the 1900s.
This is a perfect story for anyone looking for an action/adventure story about treasure hunting and history. The characters are fun to read and the story is fast paced.
March 10, 2018
Welcome to Peking China. The Empress has a secret that she would prefer the world not to know about. The Emperor's Seal is missing and has been for years. She wants it found so that none can question the succession of her nephew when she concedes it to him in the future. A young woman in her care, Jiayi, has a special gift, she can touch items and relive a moment in time through it. Jiayi can learn the truth behind the items, and recount times of history as well. The Empress wants Jiayi to help find the Emperor's seal with the help of Zhihao. She promises him funds for a Chinese museum if he is successful, and so he eagerly agrees. Despite the fact that upon learning the Empress is not the "rightful" ruler, since she doesn't have the seal, he agrees to this task. Now the task is on to utilize Jiayi's gift to touch items, gain information as to where the seal might be found and acquire it. It won't be easy with British treasure hunters scouring the area as well, but this is something that they cannot fail at.
The Emperor's Seal by Amanda Roberts is book one in her Touching Time series. This story is engaging from the beginning with us being thrown into the mix with Jiayi being given an item to touch by the Empress in an effort to discover what came of the Emperor's Seal. Jiayi is an interesting character. She's soft and compliant, but we see that there is more to her than meets the eye. She serves the Empress, but on a level, she also resents the Empress as well. She views herself as being a kept pet, and that as long as she proves her usefulness she'll be safe. Zhihao is a Chinese man who has been educated abroad. He's been able to travel and go to different countries until he had to return to China. He's been through some things in his life as well. He's suffered loss in more ways than one. It's interesting to see the dynamics build and develop between the two characters.
There are some twists and surprises in this book which I enjoy. I just wish that the author had explained what a few things meant when it comes to the Chinese. Like the style of dress, the food that they were eating, and just give us some more history explanations in connection with certain parts of the story. I feel that it would have made the story more engaging and interesting. There are some minor editorial issues throughout the book - misspelled words or some words accidentally repeated back-to-back.
Despite the minor issues I enjoyed reading this book. It was interesting from start to finish. I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars.
The Emperor's Seal by Amanda Roberts is book one in her Touching Time series. This story is engaging from the beginning with us being thrown into the mix with Jiayi being given an item to touch by the Empress in an effort to discover what came of the Emperor's Seal. Jiayi is an interesting character. She's soft and compliant, but we see that there is more to her than meets the eye. She serves the Empress, but on a level, she also resents the Empress as well. She views herself as being a kept pet, and that as long as she proves her usefulness she'll be safe. Zhihao is a Chinese man who has been educated abroad. He's been able to travel and go to different countries until he had to return to China. He's been through some things in his life as well. He's suffered loss in more ways than one. It's interesting to see the dynamics build and develop between the two characters.
There are some twists and surprises in this book which I enjoy. I just wish that the author had explained what a few things meant when it comes to the Chinese. Like the style of dress, the food that they were eating, and just give us some more history explanations in connection with certain parts of the story. I feel that it would have made the story more engaging and interesting. There are some minor editorial issues throughout the book - misspelled words or some words accidentally repeated back-to-back.
Despite the minor issues I enjoyed reading this book. It was interesting from start to finish. I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars.
February 13, 2018
This is a great read: loved the setting in turn of the 20th century China and action never stops! Please be aware that this review started out as a set up for the action to follow but in doing so gives away quite a bit of the plot, so I must add a spoiler warning.
Jaiyi is a seer; she can inhabit the body of a woman who has touched an artifact in the past for the length of time she can hold her breath, but she can not choose the time or the person she envisions. However, this ability has made her precious to the current ruling empress who keeps her securely under watch by Eunuch Lo. One day the Empress summons Zhihao, an archiologist from the university, who she herself sent to London to study to become qualified, to an audience where she has Jaiyi give a demonstration using a box that used to store the Emperor's seal, the possession by the ruler signifying the blessing of the powers in heaven of his right to rule. After swearing him to secrecy, she admits the seal has been lost for 70 years. She wants him to find the seal and bring it to her. She needs it in her possession because as a Manchu, her and her nephew's place on the thone is tenuous. The Empress is delighted when he agrees, but then Zhihao is highly disturbed when he asks for provisions and 50 men and is told only he, Jaiyi and her Eunuch would be going. He is further disturbed when he meets the two the next morning to start the trip and they are dressed in their palace clothes. her in her potbottom shoes and he in cloth shoes. After spending the morning shopping in the Legation District that caters to foreigners, they are both dressed appropriately including hiking boots.
They are finally ready to set out on the three day trip to the Conghua Pass half way to the summer palace at Jahol, the place where the Daoguang Emperor was delayed for five days on one of his trips to the palace and may have been attacked as Jaiyi had experienced as Lady Chi, the past young Emperor's favorite consort at the time. Then what an adventure these three have. Kept me turning pages all night! And then more excitement to find out Jaiyi and Zhihao will return in The Empress's Daggar as the Empress has rewarded them with the mandate to gather China's valuable artifacts in anticipation of the first museum in China! I voluntarily gave this review and recommend it after reading an ARC.
Jaiyi is a seer; she can inhabit the body of a woman who has touched an artifact in the past for the length of time she can hold her breath, but she can not choose the time or the person she envisions. However, this ability has made her precious to the current ruling empress who keeps her securely under watch by Eunuch Lo. One day the Empress summons Zhihao, an archiologist from the university, who she herself sent to London to study to become qualified, to an audience where she has Jaiyi give a demonstration using a box that used to store the Emperor's seal, the possession by the ruler signifying the blessing of the powers in heaven of his right to rule. After swearing him to secrecy, she admits the seal has been lost for 70 years. She wants him to find the seal and bring it to her. She needs it in her possession because as a Manchu, her and her nephew's place on the thone is tenuous. The Empress is delighted when he agrees, but then Zhihao is highly disturbed when he asks for provisions and 50 men and is told only he, Jaiyi and her Eunuch would be going. He is further disturbed when he meets the two the next morning to start the trip and they are dressed in their palace clothes. her in her potbottom shoes and he in cloth shoes. After spending the morning shopping in the Legation District that caters to foreigners, they are both dressed appropriately including hiking boots.
They are finally ready to set out on the three day trip to the Conghua Pass half way to the summer palace at Jahol, the place where the Daoguang Emperor was delayed for five days on one of his trips to the palace and may have been attacked as Jaiyi had experienced as Lady Chi, the past young Emperor's favorite consort at the time. Then what an adventure these three have. Kept me turning pages all night! And then more excitement to find out Jaiyi and Zhihao will return in The Empress's Daggar as the Empress has rewarded them with the mandate to gather China's valuable artifacts in anticipation of the first museum in China! I voluntarily gave this review and recommend it after reading an ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2019
This is my first Amanda Roberts book...
I may be a bit different than other readers, but for a reason. I had not read many “serial” books until recently. After a really BAD experience my first serial book (six books...no ending) I promised myself, never again. Fortunately, three books later, I stumbled on a really GOOD one that I did not realize was a serial until I was really “into” it. Here is were I may differ from the reviewers I have read here. No one provides me with free books..I am retired, on a fixed income and I read for enjoyment almost every day. That said, when I feel I wasted time and money, I am MAD! I do not feel that is the case here, but... I would like serial books to make me want to continue reading because I enjoyed what I read; not to simply “find out what happens. I truly enjoyed this book by Amanda Roberts. I love history, love intrigue and I love learning about things I did not know previously (Chinese history and customs for example). Her descriptions were rich and her depiction of Jiayi’s thoughts and actions were truly that of a sheltered, inexperienced child...adults could see her “trust mistakes” coming for a mile. Zhihao’s character was a little harder; he was foreign educated, had fallen madly in love, walked away from that love (I won’t give away any further spoilers here) and yet seemed to vacillate between being a boy and a man. (I suppose that CAN be normal for some). Maybe his character will become clearer in the books to come...however, that is the problem—for me at any rate, and the reason for 4 stars instead of 5. The serial books I enjoyed the most, as stated above, left me “wanting” to read more, not leaving me with so many questions that I “have to” continue the series to find out the answers. I guess I am saying I like “completed” novels. I know others will not agree with me, but that’s OK...they are getting free books. I am not. My budget will have to be the determining factor as to whether I go further in this series.
I may be a bit different than other readers, but for a reason. I had not read many “serial” books until recently. After a really BAD experience my first serial book (six books...no ending) I promised myself, never again. Fortunately, three books later, I stumbled on a really GOOD one that I did not realize was a serial until I was really “into” it. Here is were I may differ from the reviewers I have read here. No one provides me with free books..I am retired, on a fixed income and I read for enjoyment almost every day. That said, when I feel I wasted time and money, I am MAD! I do not feel that is the case here, but... I would like serial books to make me want to continue reading because I enjoyed what I read; not to simply “find out what happens. I truly enjoyed this book by Amanda Roberts. I love history, love intrigue and I love learning about things I did not know previously (Chinese history and customs for example). Her descriptions were rich and her depiction of Jiayi’s thoughts and actions were truly that of a sheltered, inexperienced child...adults could see her “trust mistakes” coming for a mile. Zhihao’s character was a little harder; he was foreign educated, had fallen madly in love, walked away from that love (I won’t give away any further spoilers here) and yet seemed to vacillate between being a boy and a man. (I suppose that CAN be normal for some). Maybe his character will become clearer in the books to come...however, that is the problem—for me at any rate, and the reason for 4 stars instead of 5. The serial books I enjoyed the most, as stated above, left me “wanting” to read more, not leaving me with so many questions that I “have to” continue the series to find out the answers. I guess I am saying I like “completed” novels. I know others will not agree with me, but that’s OK...they are getting free books. I am not. My budget will have to be the determining factor as to whether I go further in this series.
July 5, 2020
„The Emperor’s Seal“, marks the begin of the “Touching Time Trilogy” by Amanda Roberts, a historical fiction story set at the turn of the twentieth century in China. The story organically blends historical facts and made-up fiction into a satisfactory plot that keeps the reader invested and interesting throughout the whole trilogy.
Jiayi has the unique gift to be able to jump through space and time by the power of her vision, and it is this gift that eventually gets her chosen by the Empress to find the Emperor’s Seal, the symbol of the divine nature of the Empire, that has been missing for over seventy years. The Seal becomes the pivotal symbol of the action: the Empress need it to assert the heavenly mandate of her own power in the imperium; finding it offers Jiayi a chance to freedom; for Zhihao, the court historian, it would be price for funding the first history museum in China; finally, Lo the eunuch slave has the crucial key to find the seal. And thus, the three form a disparate team to find the seal and reach their own goals.
The story is well narrated, with interesting plots and twist and credible characters, that are credible and relatable. The setting is carefully crafted with a plethora of details that make the locations come alive in the reader’s imagination. An original take on China’s history at the end of the Qing dynasty.
Jiayi has the unique gift to be able to jump through space and time by the power of her vision, and it is this gift that eventually gets her chosen by the Empress to find the Emperor’s Seal, the symbol of the divine nature of the Empire, that has been missing for over seventy years. The Seal becomes the pivotal symbol of the action: the Empress need it to assert the heavenly mandate of her own power in the imperium; finding it offers Jiayi a chance to freedom; for Zhihao, the court historian, it would be price for funding the first history museum in China; finally, Lo the eunuch slave has the crucial key to find the seal. And thus, the three form a disparate team to find the seal and reach their own goals.
The story is well narrated, with interesting plots and twist and credible characters, that are credible and relatable. The setting is carefully crafted with a plethora of details that make the locations come alive in the reader’s imagination. An original take on China’s history at the end of the Qing dynasty.
March 25, 2018
This Empress, oh this Empress, man, she is full of herself. Especially for the fact she has no right to hold the throne due to her losing the Emperor's Seal and finally realizes her line could lose succession if it is not found. She sets Jiayi, a young woman in her care, along with the archaeologist, Zhihao, on a mission to find the Seal.
I felt for Jiayi and rooted for her from the beginning. She has the ability to relive the moment in time the object was moved or touch by the mere touch of an object in her possession. Then she is paired up with Zhihao who doesn't care about the Dynasty at all, but wants the funds in order to find his own Chinese Museum.
Of course, our heroines cannot have a pleasant journey. We discover that British excavators are also in search for artifacts around the area the Seal is rumored to be hidden. Question is, who will uncover it first?
I felt Indiana Jones vibes with this and I actually got a kick out of them. Only, we are in the Chinese Dynasty. Different time, different rules, and a different set of characters you enjoy tagging along with. From the first to the last page, I am proud to declare, "Please give me more!"
I felt for Jiayi and rooted for her from the beginning. She has the ability to relive the moment in time the object was moved or touch by the mere touch of an object in her possession. Then she is paired up with Zhihao who doesn't care about the Dynasty at all, but wants the funds in order to find his own Chinese Museum.
Of course, our heroines cannot have a pleasant journey. We discover that British excavators are also in search for artifacts around the area the Seal is rumored to be hidden. Question is, who will uncover it first?
I felt Indiana Jones vibes with this and I actually got a kick out of them. Only, we are in the Chinese Dynasty. Different time, different rules, and a different set of characters you enjoy tagging along with. From the first to the last page, I am proud to declare, "Please give me more!"
June 25, 2019
ONE EXCITING THRILL RIDE!!!
Crap on toast! A barrage of vexing circumstances and a slew of nerve racking surprises push those conflicting emotions to life smoothly. Scenes, characters, location and details were so realistic I had no trouble picturing each scenario as they play out right before my eyes. So many twists and turns that kept me captivated and riveted on a razors edge blasting this gem to life spectacularly. Combating all the trials and tribulations and unexpected bumps and scrapes around every corner kept my total focus on this page turning wonder with its raging storyline and thrilling plot. Emotions, personalities, attitudes and 100% spot on for realism. I felt like I was dropped right in the middle of the excitement and wanted to make a stand with the main characters. Yeah, that got me no where. I wasn't sure what I expected from this exciting ride, but true to form, Amanda rocked it. I feel like I'm the one having the adventure. Fantastic job Amanda, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
Crap on toast! A barrage of vexing circumstances and a slew of nerve racking surprises push those conflicting emotions to life smoothly. Scenes, characters, location and details were so realistic I had no trouble picturing each scenario as they play out right before my eyes. So many twists and turns that kept me captivated and riveted on a razors edge blasting this gem to life spectacularly. Combating all the trials and tribulations and unexpected bumps and scrapes around every corner kept my total focus on this page turning wonder with its raging storyline and thrilling plot. Emotions, personalities, attitudes and 100% spot on for realism. I felt like I was dropped right in the middle of the excitement and wanted to make a stand with the main characters. Yeah, that got me no where. I wasn't sure what I expected from this exciting ride, but true to form, Amanda rocked it. I feel like I'm the one having the adventure. Fantastic job Amanda, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
March 31, 2018
Non-stop action filled this paranormal, fantasy and mystery read! Turn of the century Peking, China in 1902 finds the Empress, a Manchu, hiding the fact that the Emperor has been missing for years. The book has an honest feel, especially from the history standpoint and civil unrest, even if not historical fiction.
We follow the adventure-filled trek of the seer, Jaiya, her Eunuch, Lo, and the Empress's archaeologist, Zhihao as the go in search of the Emperor's Seal which had been missing for 70 years. Using her gifts, Jaiyi is able to inhabit the body of a woman who touched the artifact in the past, but only for as long as she can hold her breath. Her power for this is very unpredictable, as it is not able to focus on time or the person herself.
The twists, turns, and plot absorbed me into the story-line from beginning to end. Truly mesmerized by Amanda Roberts' book, The Emperor's Seal, that I received as part of a book tour. Looking forward to more from her!
We follow the adventure-filled trek of the seer, Jaiya, her Eunuch, Lo, and the Empress's archaeologist, Zhihao as the go in search of the Emperor's Seal which had been missing for 70 years. Using her gifts, Jaiyi is able to inhabit the body of a woman who touched the artifact in the past, but only for as long as she can hold her breath. Her power for this is very unpredictable, as it is not able to focus on time or the person herself.
The twists, turns, and plot absorbed me into the story-line from beginning to end. Truly mesmerized by Amanda Roberts' book, The Emperor's Seal, that I received as part of a book tour. Looking forward to more from her!
March 3, 2018
I truly enjoyed this book! I thought it had a wonderful mix of elements of historical fiction, adventure, mystery, fantasy, a bit of romance, and even had a unique twist on time travel.
The characters pulled me into their stories and kept me engaged throughout the book straight through to the last word. In fact, I am glad to see that this is the first in a series and I would love to read the next installment as soon as possible!
I loved Jiayi's personality and spirit - she was so sweet, she had an inner strength and power, and yet she was innocent and vulnerable. Zhihao was also an interesting character with clearly portrayed motivations and a self-awareness that was refreshing to read. In addition to the characters, I loved the historical elements and portrayal of Chinese culture; it was easy for me to get lost in the world Ms Roberts created - I didn't want the story to end!
The characters pulled me into their stories and kept me engaged throughout the book straight through to the last word. In fact, I am glad to see that this is the first in a series and I would love to read the next installment as soon as possible!
I loved Jiayi's personality and spirit - she was so sweet, she had an inner strength and power, and yet she was innocent and vulnerable. Zhihao was also an interesting character with clearly portrayed motivations and a self-awareness that was refreshing to read. In addition to the characters, I loved the historical elements and portrayal of Chinese culture; it was easy for me to get lost in the world Ms Roberts created - I didn't want the story to end!
March 3, 2018
The Emperor's seal was the divine symbol of the emperor on earth. The Manchu empress is desperate to find it as this would demonstrate that the Qing Dynasty which was ruled by the Manchus was approved of in Heaven, especially when the majority of the Chinese population look upon them as usurpers. Jaiyi, a seer and Zhihao, an aspiring archaeologist were given the daunting task to locate and return it to the empress - no one refuses a task from the empress, and there is no room for failure, as the result of that would mean certain death.
This is the first book of Amanda Roberts' that I have read and I absolutely love it. I cannot wait for the next one to be out. Great read, with lots of action and mystic and the way she has introduced Chinese life and the Courts of the Emperor interwoven into the story is fabulous. Totally recommended,make sure you don't miss it!
This is the first book of Amanda Roberts' that I have read and I absolutely love it. I cannot wait for the next one to be out. Great read, with lots of action and mystic and the way she has introduced Chinese life and the Courts of the Emperor interwoven into the story is fabulous. Totally recommended,make sure you don't miss it!
February 20, 2018
I loved this book and am certainly now a fan of Amanda Roberts who wrote The Emperor's Seal (Touching Time #1). I plan to read all her books from now on. I was given an ARC of this book and have decided to post a review on Goodreads and Amazon. The story takes place in Peking in 1902. The main character is a seer discovered by the Empress and taken in to her inner court in the Forbidden City to assist her in locating the missing Emperor's Seal. The action takes her to different times and places in the search. All the characters are well developed and the scenes are rich in detail.
If your curiosity has been aroused, you must read this beautiful story which reveals so much about life in the inner court and historical China.
If your curiosity has been aroused, you must read this beautiful story which reveals so much about life in the inner court and historical China.
March 1, 2018
This is an absorbing quest adventure set in early twentieth-century China. The tensions between the Han Chinese and the Qing dynasty and the resentment of both toward rapacious foreigners form a backdrop to the formation of a tentative friendship between two very different characters: a psychic girl from the Empress's court and a skeptical Western-educated scholar. The story is interestingly told from both perspectives. They are set a seemingly impossible task by the Empress and have a number of Indiana Jones-type experiences before the surprising ending. This particular episode is complete, but there is clearly more to come, and I am looking forward to it. Meanwhile, I think I will look more into the history of China!
June 24, 2019
A catchy book, part 1 in a series of 3. You will be taken to China at the end of the 19th century. Genre of the book is time-traveling, historical and romance. Most of the books that I have read with time-traveling as a subject usually take place in the Middle Ages or during the Viking age. I found being taken to China very special. You are taken as a reader in a time where values and norms are so different from what you are used to. The book offers a fascinating glimpse into Chinese culture and the Forbidden City.
The story is well set up and gives plenty of room for follow-up stories. I am therefore looking forward to part 2
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story is well set up and gives plenty of room for follow-up stories. I am therefore looking forward to part 2
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 23, 2019
This book gave me a fascinating look at the possible history of China and succession rights in the 1900s. In order for the Empress' nephew to succeed her on the throne, she needs to find the missing Emperor's Seal. The characters in this story were well written and described. There is a lot of action and suspense as they have to beat the British treasure hunters to the Seal.
I will definitely be reading the next story in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I will definitely be reading the next story in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 24, 2018
I enjoyed reading this book from start to finish. Amanda Roberts is a new to me author and style of writing was very engaging , the plot was believable and the characters were awesome. I so love it when I can find a book that has so many positives going for it that I am itching to get my hands on the next book.
March 1, 2018
SPELLBINDING!
An engrossing storyline of intoxicating adventure! A very well written storyline that draws you in and at times makes you feel as if you were a part of the story watching it as it unfolds around you! A twisted enjoyable adventure that captivates you from beginning to end! A spellbinding must read! 👍👍👍👍👍
An engrossing storyline of intoxicating adventure! A very well written storyline that draws you in and at times makes you feel as if you were a part of the story watching it as it unfolds around you! A twisted enjoyable adventure that captivates you from beginning to end! A spellbinding must read! 👍👍👍👍👍
March 5, 2018
If you like fantasy and china then you'll like this story. We get some history lessons on China and then there is a really cool fantasy story woven in here. Roberts did a good job with the characters and the backstory. I could see the world while reading! I'd love to read the next book as well!
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
May 2, 2019
Chinese Historical Time Travel
This is an intriguing book! It ends with a lead into the next book. I could get hooked on this series! A Chines 'Seer' goes back in time to learn more about the past and perhaps find artifacts. The concept is pretty neat and the author does a great job bringing it to life! I received this ARC for free from Booksprouts and this is my honest review.
This is an intriguing book! It ends with a lead into the next book. I could get hooked on this series! A Chines 'Seer' goes back in time to learn more about the past and perhaps find artifacts. The concept is pretty neat and the author does a great job bringing it to life! I received this ARC for free from Booksprouts and this is my honest review.
May 15, 2019
A great adventure story set in Imperial China. This story has some paranormal, a lot of history, intrigue, and action. Well researched, it was a very gratifying read for a history nerd like me! Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2018
Awesome book. Extremely entertaining, captivating, and interesting read. I could not put it down. Well written with strong, intriguing characters. I want to read more from this author. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
July 3, 2018
Full review to come. 1.5 stars.
The premise was interesting, but the execution was less than stellar. There were spelling mistakes, and it read more like a first draft, rather than a fully realised novel.
The premise was interesting, but the execution was less than stellar. There were spelling mistakes, and it read more like a first draft, rather than a fully realised novel.
July 13, 2022
Jiayi and Zhihao are tasked with finding The Emperor's Seal for the Empress. Through this quest, they discover a lot about themselves and each other! With lots of interesting characters and great world building, The Emperor's Seal is a great adventure read!
Did Not Finish
November 15, 2024DNFed
I really enjoyed The Qing Dynasty Mysteries series by the author, but just couldn't get into this one. Maybe because I disliked both main characters from the start, or maybe the premise sounded more exciting than it turned out to be. Just wasn't my cup of tea, I guess.
I really enjoyed The Qing Dynasty Mysteries series by the author, but just couldn't get into this one. Maybe because I disliked both main characters from the start, or maybe the premise sounded more exciting than it turned out to be. Just wasn't my cup of tea, I guess.
August 30, 2025
We continue with Jiayi after the prologue book. The empress has charged her and Zhihao with finding the emperor's lost seal.We get to see their adventure as they race to find it. The book reads more like an adventure and mystery serial. It's not too intense, but it does take you on a journey.
March 24, 2018
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this book. It was my first by this author and I would recommend it to friends and family alike.
April 6, 2018
This just didn’t grab me, sadly. I enjoyed Jiayi’s character but most of the book fell flat.
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