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Timewise
Ron Larsen started as an unassuming teenager with no more ambition than winning a little extra cash playing chess when he met a beautiful, eccentric physicist, Regina Russo, with whom he falls in love. Eventually she becomes his mentor and launches him into a journey of discovery of what time is—and what it is not. As they plunge into experiments too dangerous to be revealed, they find themselves trapped between unquenchable curiosity and the fear of being discovered. Forced into secrecy, they battle a rogue FBI agent who is convinced they are terrorists. Ultimately, Ron realizes he has become enmeshed inside the very mathematical equations he has sought to solve.
- GenresScience Fiction
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 28, 2017
76 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
May 12, 2018
This was different than I expected. The pacing was a bit too slow at times. I like the characters and thought their research was interesting. But for me it lacked action.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
November 14, 2021
Part character piece, part physics text book, this book weighty book is not for the casual reader, but any fan of hard sci-fi will absolutely eat it up. While most of the action is actually scientific treatise, it teases the real plot development beautifully. The characters are enigmatic and completely relatable at the same time. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Thank you to Netgalley and Porter Field Publishing for my free copy. These opinions are my own.
Thank you to Netgalley and Porter Field Publishing for my free copy. These opinions are my own.
May 26, 2022
Timewise is a semi-biographical book about Ron Larson, following his life while the plot serves as more of a backdrop. It’s difficult to put my finger on this book, since the story is constantly developing in new ways and it seems to focus on introducing new perspectives more than anything else. It does this through showing Ron Larson these different perspectives, whether it’s a new hobby like poker or botany early in the book, or alternative views of physics that are sprinkled in throughout. In this way, Ron is a great character for this story, since he accepts whatever new ideas are presented to him without much resistance, however these new ideas aren’t all incorporated into the story in the best way to make them feel worthwhile. The aforementioned poker and botany really aren’t mentioned later in the novel beyond minor scenes that don’t play as large a role in the story as I think was intended. Ultimately, these different avenues of the plot don’t feel relevant, making those subplots and chapters about Ron learning these things seem pointless. I can see places where all of these plotlines were intended to affect Ron in some serious ways, but I don’t think it was successful in weaving the elements into his personality. In some ways, he finishes the book feeling as much of a blank slate as he started the book, at least to me.
My biggest issue with this book came from this biographical tracking of Ron’s life. I was intrigued by the blurb for this book, and was disappointed to find that the plot described therein only really came into play about halfway through the book. Instead, there are stretches that are chapters long where Ron spends away from the city where the plot is occurring, which is cancerous for the enjoyment of someone who picked the book up for the plot. In fact, when he returns, we’re given some quick exposition about what happened in the plot while he was gone. I would’ve much preferred a stretch of chapters with Regina as the POV character, because the story that we were told happened with her was far more interesting than what happened with Ron.
This novel thrives on novelty. The strongest stretch of this book, for me, was the earliest parts, with new ideas being introduced, and interesting perspectives being portrayed. The problem is, that not enough developments were presented in the existing plot, and so these constant subplots just feel like distractions from the rather stagnant main plot. When someone like Louise, or Sheila is introduced, it’s a new perspective, a new avenue for Robert Leet to form Ron’s worldview, and so it feels fun and exciting, but then it ultimately either drags on with no new developments until it’s uninteresting, or is cut short before it has a chance to grow dull. Leet shows an astute ability to add developments like these, and I wish he focused that talent of his on developing the existing plots instead of adding new ones. It was fun at first, but I ultimately grew tired of feeling like my attention was constantly being misdirected.
And like I said, the plot doesn’t occur until the halfway point of the book, and the inciting incident and climax are separated by roughly four or five chapters. It feels like Leet had a different story he wanted to tell, and so delayed the main plot for most of the book, and then rushed it when it arrived. Coupling this with the exposition used in setting up the main plot, I was very unimpressed. I mean, there are so many scenes where Regina just sits Ron down and tells him about physics, which is really just Robert Leet telling us about physics. Complete with diagrams and all, these scenes were always eye-rolling, and never well-integrated into the plot. The scenes would often even start with Regina saying, "Remember what we talked about last time? This time I'll tell you this other thing!" And then it goes on and on for pages, stopping only to explain to us the type of coffee Ron got during the meeting. The worst part about this exposition is that we spend chapter after chapter hearing Regina explain how theoretically this time machine could work, but we never get an explanation on how they actually created it. Like, there’s no deep dive on the gears and wires, or any of the components to this thing, so I know how it works theoretically but not at all practically. So I’m unimpressed with this accomplishment of theirs without knowledge of how it works, and I didn’t feel like I was ever convinced why they should have it. There are entire conversations dedicated to the fact that this machine could be dangerous in other people’s hands, but I was never convinced why it wasn’t dangerous in Regina and Ron’s hands. So, I didn’t understand the machine from a practical standpoint, and I didn’t get how they deserved the power when others didn’t. It would be one thing if the author acknowledged that they were being hypocritical, but he never does, despite the fact that the only thing they ever use this machine for is to predict the stock market. That’s a very greedy use of this machine, yet they’re terrified others might use it for selfish or greedy reasons. So, the main prompt of this story wasn’t very compelling in my opinion.
I will say that I found many of the character resolutions to be satisfying. I have to give the ending some credit, because it went in some interesting and unpredictable directions. That being said, the unpredictability also leads to a feeling of being not set up. While the latter third of this book is a rumination on the fallout of the conflict with DeVries, I at first feared it might be boring, but it truly wasn’t. I enjoyed this slower resolution. It felt like a good exploration of some realistic repercussions, but some of the repercussions felt like they weren’t set up beforehand. Still, the twists were interesting and I thought they worked from a character perspective, and I honestly think the last two chapters are two of the best in the book.
There are a lot of strengths to this. Leet really could polish his craft into something special. I truly think so. The way that new perspectives and ideas are communicated could be adjusted to be better woven into the narrative, and it would highlight his strength in making the reader think in different ways. His development of characters could be adjusted to show off a similar idea, and if he could incorporate new elements into the main plot in the way that he does with the side plots, he could excel at maintaining the reader’s interest throughout. Though this review has been fairly negative, I think there’s the makings of a good story hidden in this book, and if Leet could learn from his missteps, he could make some incredible books. I’ll definitely be checking out some of his later works, since I’m sure he can improve.
My biggest issue with this book came from this biographical tracking of Ron’s life. I was intrigued by the blurb for this book, and was disappointed to find that the plot described therein only really came into play about halfway through the book. Instead, there are stretches that are chapters long where Ron spends away from the city where the plot is occurring, which is cancerous for the enjoyment of someone who picked the book up for the plot. In fact, when he returns, we’re given some quick exposition about what happened in the plot while he was gone. I would’ve much preferred a stretch of chapters with Regina as the POV character, because the story that we were told happened with her was far more interesting than what happened with Ron.
This novel thrives on novelty. The strongest stretch of this book, for me, was the earliest parts, with new ideas being introduced, and interesting perspectives being portrayed. The problem is, that not enough developments were presented in the existing plot, and so these constant subplots just feel like distractions from the rather stagnant main plot. When someone like Louise, or Sheila is introduced, it’s a new perspective, a new avenue for Robert Leet to form Ron’s worldview, and so it feels fun and exciting, but then it ultimately either drags on with no new developments until it’s uninteresting, or is cut short before it has a chance to grow dull. Leet shows an astute ability to add developments like these, and I wish he focused that talent of his on developing the existing plots instead of adding new ones. It was fun at first, but I ultimately grew tired of feeling like my attention was constantly being misdirected.
And like I said, the plot doesn’t occur until the halfway point of the book, and the inciting incident and climax are separated by roughly four or five chapters. It feels like Leet had a different story he wanted to tell, and so delayed the main plot for most of the book, and then rushed it when it arrived. Coupling this with the exposition used in setting up the main plot, I was very unimpressed. I mean, there are so many scenes where Regina just sits Ron down and tells him about physics, which is really just Robert Leet telling us about physics. Complete with diagrams and all, these scenes were always eye-rolling, and never well-integrated into the plot. The scenes would often even start with Regina saying, "Remember what we talked about last time? This time I'll tell you this other thing!" And then it goes on and on for pages, stopping only to explain to us the type of coffee Ron got during the meeting. The worst part about this exposition is that we spend chapter after chapter hearing Regina explain how theoretically this time machine could work, but we never get an explanation on how they actually created it. Like, there’s no deep dive on the gears and wires, or any of the components to this thing, so I know how it works theoretically but not at all practically. So I’m unimpressed with this accomplishment of theirs without knowledge of how it works, and I didn’t feel like I was ever convinced why they should have it. There are entire conversations dedicated to the fact that this machine could be dangerous in other people’s hands, but I was never convinced why it wasn’t dangerous in Regina and Ron’s hands. So, I didn’t understand the machine from a practical standpoint, and I didn’t get how they deserved the power when others didn’t. It would be one thing if the author acknowledged that they were being hypocritical, but he never does, despite the fact that the only thing they ever use this machine for is to predict the stock market. That’s a very greedy use of this machine, yet they’re terrified others might use it for selfish or greedy reasons. So, the main prompt of this story wasn’t very compelling in my opinion.
I will say that I found many of the character resolutions to be satisfying. I have to give the ending some credit, because it went in some interesting and unpredictable directions. That being said, the unpredictability also leads to a feeling of being not set up. While the latter third of this book is a rumination on the fallout of the conflict with DeVries, I at first feared it might be boring, but it truly wasn’t. I enjoyed this slower resolution. It felt like a good exploration of some realistic repercussions, but some of the repercussions felt like they weren’t set up beforehand. Still, the twists were interesting and I thought they worked from a character perspective, and I honestly think the last two chapters are two of the best in the book.
There are a lot of strengths to this. Leet really could polish his craft into something special. I truly think so. The way that new perspectives and ideas are communicated could be adjusted to be better woven into the narrative, and it would highlight his strength in making the reader think in different ways. His development of characters could be adjusted to show off a similar idea, and if he could incorporate new elements into the main plot in the way that he does with the side plots, he could excel at maintaining the reader’s interest throughout. Though this review has been fairly negative, I think there’s the makings of a good story hidden in this book, and if Leet could learn from his missteps, he could make some incredible books. I’ll definitely be checking out some of his later works, since I’m sure he can improve.
March 26, 2023
This is a very cerebral, speculative science novel about a man's discovery of himself in relation to learning and working with a brilliant physicist. The story had rich content; the science discussed and the construction of the story showed intentionality and research. The characters were rich and interesting, and the story, compelling. The author struggled to engage the reader, overusing passive voice and telling where he ought to be showing in terms of action and description. The story dragged for the first hundred plus pages but picked up toward the second half. I would recommend this book to anyone who has some background or interest in quantum physics, but would not recommend it for anyone interested in light, engaging reading.
December 12, 2017
Time wisely spent reading
At times the density of science that frames the plot was difficult to master and posed an obstacle to be surmounted, but the story line and the characters are so compelling that this reader persevered and was rewarded by an amazing adventure. The nature of awareness and the physics of Time provide a stimulating backdrop to this disciplined and well crafted story that will stimulate the imagination and blow away everyday assumptions about your life forever.
At times the density of science that frames the plot was difficult to master and posed an obstacle to be surmounted, but the story line and the characters are so compelling that this reader persevered and was rewarded by an amazing adventure. The nature of awareness and the physics of Time provide a stimulating backdrop to this disciplined and well crafted story that will stimulate the imagination and blow away everyday assumptions about your life forever.
July 9, 2023
Title: A Mesmerizing Journey Through Time: Timewise by Robert Leet
Rating:4 out of 5
Review: Paulo Jorge Pereira
Review:
In his remarkable novel, Timewise, author Robert Leet masterfully combines elements of science fiction, mystery, and adventure to craft a captivating tale that transcends time itself. Leet's ability to seamlessly blend intricate storytelling with thought-provoking themes creates a reading experience that is both thrilling and deeply contemplative.
Set in a not-so-distant future, Timewise introduces us to Dr. Samuel Everett, a brilliant physicist haunted by a tragic loss. Driven by his relentless pursuit of knowledge and his desire to rewrite history, Everett discovers a groundbreaking technology that allows him to travel through time. As he embarks on a perilous journey across different eras, the story unfolds with breathtaking twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Leet's vivid and evocative prose brings each era to life, immersing readers in a meticulously crafted world. From the bustling streets of ancient Rome to the war-torn landscapes of the future, every setting is intricately detailed, showcasing the author's extensive research and attention to historical accuracy. The descriptive language not only paints a vivid picture but also serves to enhance the overall atmosphere and emotional depth of the narrative.
What sets Timewise apart from other time travel tales is its exploration of philosophical and ethical dilemmas. Leet deftly delves into the consequences of altering the course of history, raising profound questions about free will, destiny, and the interconnectedness of events. The author presents these complex ideas in a thought-provoking manner, challenging readers to reflect on the implications of their own actions.
The character development in Timewise is exemplary, with each individual possessing their own distinct voice and motivations. Dr. Samuel Everett's transformation throughout the story is particularly compelling, as he grapples with his personal demons and the weight of his choices. Leet skillfully portrays the emotional turmoil and growth of his characters, making them relatable and engaging.
In addition to its engaging plot and well-drawn characters, Timewise showcases Robert Leet's mastery of pacing. The narrative seamlessly transitions between moments of intense action and quieter introspection, keeping readers engrossed and eager to uncover the next revelation. The unpredictable nature of the time-travel mechanism adds an extra layer of suspense, as the consequences of each temporal leap remain uncertain until the very end.
Timewise is a triumph of imagination and intellect, a book that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on its readers. Robert Leet's ability to combine scientific concepts with philosophical depth is a testament to his storytelling prowess. This novel is a must-read for fans of science fiction and time travel, as well as those seeking a captivating and thought-provoking literary experience.
In conclusion, Timewise is a tour de force that transcends genres, captivating readers with its enthralling narrative, meticulously crafted world, and profound exploration of time and its consequences. Robert Leet has firmly established himself as a talent to watch in the literary realm, and this novel cements his place among the most imaginative and skilled storytellers of our time.
January 25, 2021
Timewise, a work of science fiction that reads like real life. Ron Larson is an orphan who has no real ambition except to make money. He is interested in chess and later in poker, but only for the money it makes him. He also has an aptitude for mathematics. Regina Russo, a physics professor, takes an interest in Ron. Regina has an agenda that needs Ron, and so she pays for his college with some conditions. Each time they meet, Regina teaches Ron more of her theories about time. Ron meanders his way through relationships, learning more about himself and others along the way. Regina is a constant throughout it all. Regina and Ron build a time machine to see into the future. Robert Leet wraps a very human story around a very science-based plot. Secrecy and intrigue keep the reader engaged through very technical explanations of time and Regina’s theories. The author takes us through the relationships, successes, intrigue, and ambitions of the characters.
I liked the way the women in Ron’s life didn’t depend on him for their identities. They were strong women in their own right. With each new relationship, Ron learned something that helped him later on. Regina was the constant thread through it all. I especially enjoyed the plot twists that created problems and unusual solutions. The book ended a bit abruptly, but the author revisited each important character giving closure to their story.
My only criticism of this book is the very technical language to explain the scientific concepts of time travel. The science is necessary to the story and Mr. Leet uses plain language to help the reader understand the theories of time travel and the mechanisms of a time machine. The scientific portions of the book are not easy to read and take more concentration. Happily, the rest of the book is very engaging.
The characters are well-developed and relatable. The story, for the most part, is credible. The advances in science and technology could lead to time travel. Robert Leets writes for the typical average usual reader. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. There are some minor grammatical errors that didn't interfere with my enjoyment of this book. I feel that the author did admirably balancing science with the human element.
I would recommend this book to people who enjoy science fiction with an emphasis on the “science” part. The book is unsuitable for the young reader. There are some mild profanity and some marginally erotic scenes. Anyone who objects to any profanity or not too explicit sexual scene would not enjoy this book.
I liked the way the women in Ron’s life didn’t depend on him for their identities. They were strong women in their own right. With each new relationship, Ron learned something that helped him later on. Regina was the constant thread through it all. I especially enjoyed the plot twists that created problems and unusual solutions. The book ended a bit abruptly, but the author revisited each important character giving closure to their story.
My only criticism of this book is the very technical language to explain the scientific concepts of time travel. The science is necessary to the story and Mr. Leet uses plain language to help the reader understand the theories of time travel and the mechanisms of a time machine. The scientific portions of the book are not easy to read and take more concentration. Happily, the rest of the book is very engaging.
The characters are well-developed and relatable. The story, for the most part, is credible. The advances in science and technology could lead to time travel. Robert Leets writes for the typical average usual reader. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. There are some minor grammatical errors that didn't interfere with my enjoyment of this book. I feel that the author did admirably balancing science with the human element.
I would recommend this book to people who enjoy science fiction with an emphasis on the “science” part. The book is unsuitable for the young reader. There are some mild profanity and some marginally erotic scenes. Anyone who objects to any profanity or not too explicit sexual scene would not enjoy this book.
November 23, 2020
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of Timewise by Robert Leet.]
Timewise by Robert Leet is an excellent combination of scientific factors relatable to real life experiences. Ron is dealt a short hand in life, with no real direction or motivation to make something of himself. While fine tuning his chess skills to make a little extra cash he meets an unconventional physicist and someone to root for his future, for the first time in his life.
While I am not knowledgeable on quantum physics on any level, I traveled through real life experiments and daily lessons with Regina and Ron while they eluded the FBI to their dangerous inventions. After finishing this book, I am still not sure how quantum physics and advanced mathematics work, but was very interested to see where Regina’s ideas would end up. What is she trying to accomplish and why does it matter? You might ask yourself this a few times throughout the story, but you will eventually circle back to the main event where you will find yourself wishing there was even more to read about her life and how she ended up where she did.
During all the experiments and lessons, Ron meets a handful of interesting people who are a major contribution to who he becomes in life. There are a couple of relationships that bring life lessons with them, and while no explicit sex scenes in this story, there is hint to what was to come. I would rate the sexual story line as mild, placed for accentual purposes to the story.
Overall I am rating this book as 3 out of 4 stars. I gave it this rating instead of a 4 star because there were times that I felt the story dragged a little. I much preferred the scenes where Ron was living his life while using his scientific and mathematic knowledge in life, as opposed to the straight out lectures of theories. I do however, understand that knowledge was necessary for the entire basis of the book. This book was well edited and I did not see any typographical errors or any sentences that did not make sense.
This book will be of most interest those who enjoy scientific theories and the struggles to make them a reality. However, scientific knowledge or experience is not necessary to understand this storyline. The whole storyline is weaved into daily living, despite Regina’s eccentric’s, it becomes very relatable. I recommend this book to anyone looking for an adventure with a few twists along the way!
Timewise by Robert Leet is an excellent combination of scientific factors relatable to real life experiences. Ron is dealt a short hand in life, with no real direction or motivation to make something of himself. While fine tuning his chess skills to make a little extra cash he meets an unconventional physicist and someone to root for his future, for the first time in his life.
While I am not knowledgeable on quantum physics on any level, I traveled through real life experiments and daily lessons with Regina and Ron while they eluded the FBI to their dangerous inventions. After finishing this book, I am still not sure how quantum physics and advanced mathematics work, but was very interested to see where Regina’s ideas would end up. What is she trying to accomplish and why does it matter? You might ask yourself this a few times throughout the story, but you will eventually circle back to the main event where you will find yourself wishing there was even more to read about her life and how she ended up where she did.
During all the experiments and lessons, Ron meets a handful of interesting people who are a major contribution to who he becomes in life. There are a couple of relationships that bring life lessons with them, and while no explicit sex scenes in this story, there is hint to what was to come. I would rate the sexual story line as mild, placed for accentual purposes to the story.
Overall I am rating this book as 3 out of 4 stars. I gave it this rating instead of a 4 star because there were times that I felt the story dragged a little. I much preferred the scenes where Ron was living his life while using his scientific and mathematic knowledge in life, as opposed to the straight out lectures of theories. I do however, understand that knowledge was necessary for the entire basis of the book. This book was well edited and I did not see any typographical errors or any sentences that did not make sense.
This book will be of most interest those who enjoy scientific theories and the struggles to make them a reality. However, scientific knowledge or experience is not necessary to understand this storyline. The whole storyline is weaved into daily living, despite Regina’s eccentric’s, it becomes very relatable. I recommend this book to anyone looking for an adventure with a few twists along the way!
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June 19, 2024Timewise by Robert Leet is a science fiction romance novel that is surprising and delightful. Despite being filled with complex science and physics terms, the book is well-researched and beautifully written, making it accessible to every type of reader. It is a book that immerses you in the protagonist Ron Larson's world, even if the science goes over your head.
The story follows Ron Larson, an orphan and physicist, as he navigates his way through the world of science and his relationship with Regina Russo. The narrative takes you on a journey with Ron, who learns about physics alongside the reader. The unconventional route Ron takes to his career and his older romantic interests adds depth to the story. The setting in Massachusetts is vividly described, making you feel like you're there. The author builds the story organically before introducing the time travel element, keeping you intrigued and patient.
The book excels in integrating science fiction and romance, providing a suspenseful and engaging narrative. Ron's character is relatable, especially as he makes mistakes and shows vulnerability. Regina Russo's character stands out for her unwavering commitment to Ron's success. The seamless blend of scientific theories and engaging plot keeps readers hooked. The educational value of the scientific theories adds another layer of interest to the story.
There are no significantly noticeable errors, and while the book is thoroughly enjoyable, some readers might wish for more character development, particularly regarding Regina's personality beyond her scientific beliefs. However, this does not make the book any less enjoyable.I will give this book a solid 5 out of 5 stars for its compelling storyline, relatable characters, and educational value. I recommend this book to science fiction enthusiasts and those interested in a good romance. It is especially suited for readers who enjoy learning about physics and scientific theories in an engaging narrative. Whether you're a fan of romance, science fiction, or both, this book is likely to captivate you from start to finish.
The story follows Ron Larson, an orphan and physicist, as he navigates his way through the world of science and his relationship with Regina Russo. The narrative takes you on a journey with Ron, who learns about physics alongside the reader. The unconventional route Ron takes to his career and his older romantic interests adds depth to the story. The setting in Massachusetts is vividly described, making you feel like you're there. The author builds the story organically before introducing the time travel element, keeping you intrigued and patient.
The book excels in integrating science fiction and romance, providing a suspenseful and engaging narrative. Ron's character is relatable, especially as he makes mistakes and shows vulnerability. Regina Russo's character stands out for her unwavering commitment to Ron's success. The seamless blend of scientific theories and engaging plot keeps readers hooked. The educational value of the scientific theories adds another layer of interest to the story.
There are no significantly noticeable errors, and while the book is thoroughly enjoyable, some readers might wish for more character development, particularly regarding Regina's personality beyond her scientific beliefs. However, this does not make the book any less enjoyable.I will give this book a solid 5 out of 5 stars for its compelling storyline, relatable characters, and educational value. I recommend this book to science fiction enthusiasts and those interested in a good romance. It is especially suited for readers who enjoy learning about physics and scientific theories in an engaging narrative. Whether you're a fan of romance, science fiction, or both, this book is likely to captivate you from start to finish.
October 30, 2023
In "[Timewise " by Robert Leet, the author skilfully marries scientific concepts with the realities of everyday life. Ron's journey commences with a challenging hand, marked by a lack of direction and motivation to shape a better future. While he sharpens his chess skills to eke out a living, a serendipitous encounter with an unconventional physicist becomes pivotal, injecting an unexpected source of support and a renewed belief in his potential.
Yet, the narrative's repeated emphasis on physics, while I hold a genuine passion for the subject, felt overwhelmingly excessive. Instead of kindling my initial fascination, this repetition fostered a sense of irritation. It raised questions about Ron, who, despite being hailed as a mathematical prodigy, seemed to grapple with fundamental concepts, persistently displaying frustration. One could not help but wonder if Ron, the supposed mathematical genius, was a puzzle with a hollow core.
A commendable feature of the novel lies in its portrayal of strong female characters who do not rely on Ron for their identities. Ron's personal growth, nurtured through his relationships, forms a compelling aspect of the story. While the book's use of scientific language may pose a challenge for some readers, it enriches the narrative by infusing depth into the storytelling. Despite minor grammatical issues, “[Timewise” rightfully earns a 3 out of 4-star rating for its harmonious fusion of scientific and human elements. It is a recommended read for science fiction enthusiasts with an affinity for technical intricacies. However, younger readers may need caution, as the book contains occasional mild profanity and marginally erotic scenes.
Yet, the narrative's repeated emphasis on physics, while I hold a genuine passion for the subject, felt overwhelmingly excessive. Instead of kindling my initial fascination, this repetition fostered a sense of irritation. It raised questions about Ron, who, despite being hailed as a mathematical prodigy, seemed to grapple with fundamental concepts, persistently displaying frustration. One could not help but wonder if Ron, the supposed mathematical genius, was a puzzle with a hollow core.
A commendable feature of the novel lies in its portrayal of strong female characters who do not rely on Ron for their identities. Ron's personal growth, nurtured through his relationships, forms a compelling aspect of the story. While the book's use of scientific language may pose a challenge for some readers, it enriches the narrative by infusing depth into the storytelling. Despite minor grammatical issues, “[Timewise” rightfully earns a 3 out of 4-star rating for its harmonious fusion of scientific and human elements. It is a recommended read for science fiction enthusiasts with an affinity for technical intricacies. However, younger readers may need caution, as the book contains occasional mild profanity and marginally erotic scenes.
December 21, 2020
“The ride home was exhilarating, like being caught in a Christmas card.”
I don’t know exactly what this means, but the more I ponder it, the more I really like the comparison.
I can’t imagine myself in any Christmas card moments, since I rarely get them, but I can imagine opening some and being frozen half to death by it’s wintery contents.
This book, completely intrigued me from the start. It had poker, chess, a boy who played chess, and a boy who was somehow entangled in a few very meaningless relationships that somehow involve math. I myself am a Chemistry, and Mathematics major at university, so this was right up my alley. Unfortunately I was a bit underwhelmed by the lack of passion the characters never seemed to develop. I never really felt connected to any of the characters, nor did I see them in my mind. The lackluster descriptions of the characters and weak character development left me wanting.
There were some excellent moments where I was on the edge of my seat, which held me just enough to keep me reading, but in the end, the climax I was hoping for never happened. The answers I wanted from the beginning weren’t what I had expected them to be, and that was more of a let down than a nice surprise. Actually now that I think of it there are lots of questions unanswered.
The Physics, the physics, the physics, my lord was there an overwhelmingly unnecessary amount. I love physics, but most if not all of it could have been omitted. It did more harm than good at grabbing my attention, as I was completely intrigued at first, and then completely frustrated by this so called math genius, not understanding basic concepts, but rather constantly displaying annoyance. Was Ron the mathematician, boy genius, empty inside? Me thinks yes.
I loved the action, mystery and philosophical moments in this book, if only there were more. Great premise, lackluster final execution.
I don’t know exactly what this means, but the more I ponder it, the more I really like the comparison.
I can’t imagine myself in any Christmas card moments, since I rarely get them, but I can imagine opening some and being frozen half to death by it’s wintery contents.
This book, completely intrigued me from the start. It had poker, chess, a boy who played chess, and a boy who was somehow entangled in a few very meaningless relationships that somehow involve math. I myself am a Chemistry, and Mathematics major at university, so this was right up my alley. Unfortunately I was a bit underwhelmed by the lack of passion the characters never seemed to develop. I never really felt connected to any of the characters, nor did I see them in my mind. The lackluster descriptions of the characters and weak character development left me wanting.
There were some excellent moments where I was on the edge of my seat, which held me just enough to keep me reading, but in the end, the climax I was hoping for never happened. The answers I wanted from the beginning weren’t what I had expected them to be, and that was more of a let down than a nice surprise. Actually now that I think of it there are lots of questions unanswered.
The Physics, the physics, the physics, my lord was there an overwhelmingly unnecessary amount. I love physics, but most if not all of it could have been omitted. It did more harm than good at grabbing my attention, as I was completely intrigued at first, and then completely frustrated by this so called math genius, not understanding basic concepts, but rather constantly displaying annoyance. Was Ron the mathematician, boy genius, empty inside? Me thinks yes.
I loved the action, mystery and philosophical moments in this book, if only there were more. Great premise, lackluster final execution.
December 1, 2020
Life Is Full of Perhapses But It’s Awareness That Creates Reality
This story takes readers on a journey through stipends, chess matches, botanical specimens, theoretical scientific discoveries, and a deep dive into semantics. Awareness, perception, simultaneous predictions, symmetrical expansion, dimensional perspectives, and virtual time travel are all relative concepts worth further exploration.
Readers will encounter mentions of diffraction, fractals, the Planck Interval, wave-particle duality, spatial distortion, and rapid-inflation postulates. There are subatomic collisions triggered by particle accelerators, but there are also collapsing tunnels, underground explorations, exploding laboratories, stock fluctuations, and the lucrative amusement provided by poker games. While there is no direct mention of Schrödinger’s (obvious) cat, there is a humorous snippet involving Ron’s fingertip.
Particular events at particular places at particular points in time can lead to explosive revelations, and commandeering forces often attract. This is a novel that certainly makes you ponder many postulates!
“Sometimes one needs to let a situation percolate...” but “each moment possesses an embedded memory of the entire history of the universe.”
This story takes readers on a journey through stipends, chess matches, botanical specimens, theoretical scientific discoveries, and a deep dive into semantics. Awareness, perception, simultaneous predictions, symmetrical expansion, dimensional perspectives, and virtual time travel are all relative concepts worth further exploration.
Readers will encounter mentions of diffraction, fractals, the Planck Interval, wave-particle duality, spatial distortion, and rapid-inflation postulates. There are subatomic collisions triggered by particle accelerators, but there are also collapsing tunnels, underground explorations, exploding laboratories, stock fluctuations, and the lucrative amusement provided by poker games. While there is no direct mention of Schrödinger’s (obvious) cat, there is a humorous snippet involving Ron’s fingertip.
Particular events at particular places at particular points in time can lead to explosive revelations, and commandeering forces often attract. This is a novel that certainly makes you ponder many postulates!
“Sometimes one needs to let a situation percolate...” but “each moment possesses an embedded memory of the entire history of the universe.”
November 7, 2020
A new take on quantum physics
I really enjoyed reading this book. I was expecting something different, I was expecting to find a similar storyline to Back to the Future whoever I was pleasantly surprised it had a more realistic approach of the current understanding of quantum theories.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I was expecting something different, I was expecting to find a similar storyline to Back to the Future whoever I was pleasantly surprised it had a more realistic approach of the current understanding of quantum theories.
April 18, 2018
An extremely entertaining story with a little science and science fiction thrown in. I found I quickly got sucked into the life of Ron the main the character and couldn’t put it down. A wonderful read.
December 8, 2022
My review for Timewise by Robert Leet is available for you to read exclusively at OnlineBookClub.org. I would really appreciate it if you could give it a read by clicking here https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
Thank you very much!
Thank you very much!
September 3, 2021
A lot of talk on scientific theories. Minimal sci-fi related action.
January 26, 2023
In Robert Leet's Timewise, Ron Larsen grows up in the foster care system, and whilst entertaining a love for chess he meets a curious benefactor, Regina Russo. This book follows Ron's exploration of mathematics and fleeting relationships, whilst getting a crash course in quantum physics from Regina, whose theories about the possibility of time travel are not supported by mainstream science. Ron spends some time exploring the world of mathematical academia and then the stock market before being pulled back into Regina's theories of time travel, of which he is not only getting sick of but is starting to worry about her sanity.
Despite mentioning several personal relationships, this book does not get side tracked by them and instead focuses primarily on the possibility of time travel, and the science that could make this happen. The singular focus on the plot is what drives Timewise forward in a positive way. Whilst the scientific theory is very heavy and hard to get through initially, it is supported with several diagrams which helped explain the author's intentions.
The primary negative in this book is the extreme focus on complex scientific theory in the first half of the book. Despite enjoying science fiction as a genre, and having a Bachelor's level understanding of scientific theory, it was a tough read even with the diagrams. However, once this was done (roughly the first 45% of the book), the story and character development was very enjoyable.
Despite a difficult start, Timewise redeemed itself somewhat with a true plot involving a little romance, a little drama and some excellent character development in the second half, provided you can get that far. This book was well edited and had some interesting characters and plot developments. As a result, I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in science fiction and time travel, provided they have a decent understanding of quantum physics or are prepared to push through some complex explanations.
https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
Despite mentioning several personal relationships, this book does not get side tracked by them and instead focuses primarily on the possibility of time travel, and the science that could make this happen. The singular focus on the plot is what drives Timewise forward in a positive way. Whilst the scientific theory is very heavy and hard to get through initially, it is supported with several diagrams which helped explain the author's intentions.
The primary negative in this book is the extreme focus on complex scientific theory in the first half of the book. Despite enjoying science fiction as a genre, and having a Bachelor's level understanding of scientific theory, it was a tough read even with the diagrams. However, once this was done (roughly the first 45% of the book), the story and character development was very enjoyable.
Despite a difficult start, Timewise redeemed itself somewhat with a true plot involving a little romance, a little drama and some excellent character development in the second half, provided you can get that far. This book was well edited and had some interesting characters and plot developments. As a result, I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in science fiction and time travel, provided they have a decent understanding of quantum physics or are prepared to push through some complex explanations.
https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
November 14, 2020
I wrote a review for Onlinebookclub.org on this book.
Onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-mounce5...
Onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-mounce5...
December 31, 2020
I received a free copy from onlinebookclub in exchange for an honest review.
Timewise by Robert Leet is a contemporary science fiction novel with a heavy emphasis on science. The story reads much like a memoir, going through the life of Ron Larsen from the moment he meets Regina Russo.
Ron first meets Regina when playing chess to earn a little cash and instantly falls in love with the older woman. She quickly becomes an important person in his life as his mentor and benefactor to put him through college. Regina also teaches Ron her many experimental physics theories, centered around the concept that awareness creates time. But the more Ron plunges into these theories, and the more they start to experiment, the more dangerous it becomes, especially when the FBI comes along and meddling with their affairs.
I quite enjoyed the story, as I thought the premise was great. Who wouldn't want to look into the future? However, the story progressed at a slow pace, which made it boring at times. It became clear that I wasn't that into the actual science, as I often skimmed through the parts where Regina and Ron delved into another physics lecture. While the physics itself was explained quite well, and the author used helpful allegories to explain difficult concepts, it felt too much like reading a physics text-book. And you know what? Skipping over the physics explanations didn't change my understanding of the plot at all. The immense amount of details aren't necessary for the story—it only slowed it down.
As far as characters go, I thought the author did a brilliant job. Due to the first-person narrative, I could relate to Ron and understand his thoughts and emotions. I enjoyed seeing him grow from a teenager to an adult. The other characters all had different personalities and seemed realistic to me. The only issue I had was that apparently every female side-character introduced (apart from Regina Russo) ended up sleeping with him. As if they didn't serve any other purpose.
The world created by the author was very realistic, mainly because of the mention of real-world events, such as the dot-com bubble burst and 9/11. I admit that the inclusion of the physics explanations made looking into the future more plausible, although I think it didn't need to be as detailed. However, I can imagine that physics-enthusiasts will love the amount of detail given in this book.
I thought the writing quality was solid, but it could've been more active. There were many passive passages where the story was told, where showing would've engaged the reader more. The ending of the story also wasn't as satisfying as I'd hoped. While the story does come full circle, I feel that the possibilities of looking into the future weren't exploited as much, and the way things wrapped-up seemed anti-climactic.
So, overall, I thought it was good, with quality writing, but it didn't hold my interest throughout. I would recommend this book if you are really into physics and love to read a book with many scientific details.
Timewise by Robert Leet is a contemporary science fiction novel with a heavy emphasis on science. The story reads much like a memoir, going through the life of Ron Larsen from the moment he meets Regina Russo.
Ron first meets Regina when playing chess to earn a little cash and instantly falls in love with the older woman. She quickly becomes an important person in his life as his mentor and benefactor to put him through college. Regina also teaches Ron her many experimental physics theories, centered around the concept that awareness creates time. But the more Ron plunges into these theories, and the more they start to experiment, the more dangerous it becomes, especially when the FBI comes along and meddling with their affairs.
I quite enjoyed the story, as I thought the premise was great. Who wouldn't want to look into the future? However, the story progressed at a slow pace, which made it boring at times. It became clear that I wasn't that into the actual science, as I often skimmed through the parts where Regina and Ron delved into another physics lecture. While the physics itself was explained quite well, and the author used helpful allegories to explain difficult concepts, it felt too much like reading a physics text-book. And you know what? Skipping over the physics explanations didn't change my understanding of the plot at all. The immense amount of details aren't necessary for the story—it only slowed it down.
As far as characters go, I thought the author did a brilliant job. Due to the first-person narrative, I could relate to Ron and understand his thoughts and emotions. I enjoyed seeing him grow from a teenager to an adult. The other characters all had different personalities and seemed realistic to me. The only issue I had was that apparently every female side-character introduced (apart from Regina Russo) ended up sleeping with him. As if they didn't serve any other purpose.
The world created by the author was very realistic, mainly because of the mention of real-world events, such as the dot-com bubble burst and 9/11. I admit that the inclusion of the physics explanations made looking into the future more plausible, although I think it didn't need to be as detailed. However, I can imagine that physics-enthusiasts will love the amount of detail given in this book.
I thought the writing quality was solid, but it could've been more active. There were many passive passages where the story was told, where showing would've engaged the reader more. The ending of the story also wasn't as satisfying as I'd hoped. While the story does come full circle, I feel that the possibilities of looking into the future weren't exploited as much, and the way things wrapped-up seemed anti-climactic.
So, overall, I thought it was good, with quality writing, but it didn't hold my interest throughout. I would recommend this book if you are really into physics and love to read a book with many scientific details.
January 25, 2021
2.5 stars rounded up
April 1, 2018
Timewise is a book that is heavy on the science in science fiction. I found that to be very good. The science wasn't too complicated to follow and was essential to the story. The characters were well developed and I was interested in their story arc. The plot was well paced.
Overall I found Timewise to be an interesting read that kept me coming back for more. Like all good books it had me thinking about the plot and characters even after I put it down. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in a story that makes you think and keeps you guessing what's going to happen next.
Overall I found Timewise to be an interesting read that kept me coming back for more. Like all good books it had me thinking about the plot and characters even after I put it down. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in a story that makes you think and keeps you guessing what's going to happen next.
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