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The Photo Traveler #1
The Photo Traveler
Seventeen-year-old Gavin Hillstone is resigned to being miserable for the rest of his life. Left alone in the world after his parents died in a fire when he was four, he was placed in foster care, which for him meant ending up in an abusive home with an alcoholic adoptive father.
Gavin’s only escape is in taking and creating images. His camera is his refuge from the unending torture and isolation of daily life in his “family.”
Until he learns by accident that he isn’t alone in the world after all. His father’s parents are still alive and living in Washington DC.
When he takes the plunge and travels 3,000 miles to find his grandparents, he learns that they—and he—are part of something much bigger, and more dangerous, than he could ever have imagined. Something that has always put his family at risk and that will now threaten his own life, while forever changing it.
He learns that he is one of the last descendants of a small group of Photo Travelers—people who can travel through time and space through images. But his initial excitement turns to fear, when he soon discovers that he and his grandparents are being pursued by the fierce remnants of a radical European Photo Traveler cult, the Peace Hunters. What Gavin has, they want!
His adventure will take him to past eras, like The Great Depression and the Salem Witch Trials. Gavin will have to discover who he really is and must make choices that spell the difference between life and death for himself, for the relatives he now knows and loves, and for the girl he will come to love.
For Gavin Hillstone, life will never be the same.
Gavin’s only escape is in taking and creating images. His camera is his refuge from the unending torture and isolation of daily life in his “family.”
Until he learns by accident that he isn’t alone in the world after all. His father’s parents are still alive and living in Washington DC.
When he takes the plunge and travels 3,000 miles to find his grandparents, he learns that they—and he—are part of something much bigger, and more dangerous, than he could ever have imagined. Something that has always put his family at risk and that will now threaten his own life, while forever changing it.
He learns that he is one of the last descendants of a small group of Photo Travelers—people who can travel through time and space through images. But his initial excitement turns to fear, when he soon discovers that he and his grandparents are being pursued by the fierce remnants of a radical European Photo Traveler cult, the Peace Hunters. What Gavin has, they want!
His adventure will take him to past eras, like The Great Depression and the Salem Witch Trials. Gavin will have to discover who he really is and must make choices that spell the difference between life and death for himself, for the relatives he now knows and loves, and for the girl he will come to love.
For Gavin Hillstone, life will never be the same.
352 pages, Paperback
First published February 16, 2013
11 people are currently reading
1197 people want to read
About the author
Arthur J. Gonzalez
6 books50 followersPlease check out my novel, THE PHOTO TRAVELER.
www.thephototravelerbook.com
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Quick Facts about yourself?
My name is Arthur J Gonzalez. I’m 28 years old, born and raised in Miami, FL. I graduated from the University of Florida. I am currently releasing my debut novel, The Photo Traveler.
I love to laugh. I'm a major goofball, but that's okay!
I am a loyal, loving friend and will do whatever for my family.
The premise surrounds 17 – year old Gavin, who discovers he is part of a small group, called Photo Travelers, who can time travel through photos and images. You can read the synopsis under the Synopsis Page of the website (www.thephototravelerbook.com), as well as Download the first TEN chapters for FREE.
Is your debut novel dedicated to anyone in particular?
Absolutely. This is dedicated to my father, my Pops. Who passed away by surprise, of a heart attack, 5 years ago at the age of 48 years old. I miss him and I love him. This is for him. Because of him, I have been given the power, the confidence, and the drive to complete this. I love you Pops.
What do you do on your spare time?
I love writing- whether it is stories or music. I love to keep active. Laugh with friends, be with my amazing family. Be my usual goof ball. Read. I’ve read so many Young Adult books this year alone!
What are the favorite books you’ve read this year?
Well, I loved Hunger Games. But after that I read two of the books in the Divergent series and quickly became a fan. I am a big fan of Veronica Roth- love her writing and the fact that she is so wonderfully representing young authors.
I also love Perks of being a Wallflower and the Beautiful Creatures series.
www.thephototravelerbook.com
BUY THE PAPERBACK ($9.99):
http://www.amazon.com/The-Photo-Trave...
BUY THE KINDLE VERSION ($0.99!)
http://www.amazon.com/The-Photo-Trave...
BUY THE NOOK VERSION on Barnes & Noble.com: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-p...
eBookpie.com: https://ebookpie.com/ebooks/528744-th...
Kobobooks.com: http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/The-Ph...
Sony Reader: https://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/art...
SMASHWORDS.COM : https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Quick Facts about yourself?
My name is Arthur J Gonzalez. I’m 28 years old, born and raised in Miami, FL. I graduated from the University of Florida. I am currently releasing my debut novel, The Photo Traveler.
I love to laugh. I'm a major goofball, but that's okay!
I am a loyal, loving friend and will do whatever for my family.
The premise surrounds 17 – year old Gavin, who discovers he is part of a small group, called Photo Travelers, who can time travel through photos and images. You can read the synopsis under the Synopsis Page of the website (www.thephototravelerbook.com), as well as Download the first TEN chapters for FREE.
Is your debut novel dedicated to anyone in particular?
Absolutely. This is dedicated to my father, my Pops. Who passed away by surprise, of a heart attack, 5 years ago at the age of 48 years old. I miss him and I love him. This is for him. Because of him, I have been given the power, the confidence, and the drive to complete this. I love you Pops.
What do you do on your spare time?
I love writing- whether it is stories or music. I love to keep active. Laugh with friends, be with my amazing family. Be my usual goof ball. Read. I’ve read so many Young Adult books this year alone!
What are the favorite books you’ve read this year?
Well, I loved Hunger Games. But after that I read two of the books in the Divergent series and quickly became a fan. I am a big fan of Veronica Roth- love her writing and the fact that she is so wonderfully representing young authors.
I also love Perks of being a Wallflower and the Beautiful Creatures series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
March 28, 2016
Poor Gavin! Everything in his life seems to go wrong for him. He lost his parents in a house fire when he was very young. He got fostered many miles from home by an initially very kind couple. Bang! It goes wrong again for him. His foster-Mum gets shot dead whilst trying to protect him in an armed robbery. This turns his foster-Dad's mind, and he becomes very cruel towards Gavin, whom he blames for his wife's death.
To top it all, he discovers that his paternal grandparents are still alive and appear to have given him up for fostering after his parents dies.
This very believable and tragic background provides a strong foundation for the main, imaginative time-travel story.
Gavin has the gift to be able to travel through images. Not just photographs, but drawings and paintings too. As the story progresses, he comes across more people with the same gift, some of whom he can trust, and some who are definitely his enemies.
He also has a gift for photography, which leads to a good friendship a with a boy called Mario when they are paired up for a school project.
Gavin's travels lead him into all sorts of dangers. There are many of the paradoxes that you would expect in a time-travel story, and the twists and turns continue all the way through to the final paragraph.
All the way through, I had it in my mind that this would all end tragically. Was I right, or was I wrong? Well, you'll just have to read it for yourself to find out!
The pace and the tension are maintained throughout. There has to be a sequel. There will be. Arthur J. Gonzalez is already working on it.
I love the cover too!
To top it all, he discovers that his paternal grandparents are still alive and appear to have given him up for fostering after his parents dies.
This very believable and tragic background provides a strong foundation for the main, imaginative time-travel story.
Gavin has the gift to be able to travel through images. Not just photographs, but drawings and paintings too. As the story progresses, he comes across more people with the same gift, some of whom he can trust, and some who are definitely his enemies.
He also has a gift for photography, which leads to a good friendship a with a boy called Mario when they are paired up for a school project.
Gavin's travels lead him into all sorts of dangers. There are many of the paradoxes that you would expect in a time-travel story, and the twists and turns continue all the way through to the final paragraph.
All the way through, I had it in my mind that this would all end tragically. Was I right, or was I wrong? Well, you'll just have to read it for yourself to find out!
The pace and the tension are maintained throughout. There has to be a sequel. There will be. Arthur J. Gonzalez is already working on it.
I love the cover too!
April 28, 2013
Warning: There will be spoilers and you should assume ranting of some sort.
Review: Up front I will confess that I did not actually read The Photo Traveler in its entirety. I got to about 150 pages in then decided to skip to the last two chapters. I stuck to the book for as long as I could but my patience ran out.
Gavin was one of the hardest characters to like and since the entire book is narrated from his point of view, the story faltered because of it. I can understand what the author attempted to do through his character. Gavin grew up in a foster family with an abusive, alcoholic foster father and a foster mother too afraid to ever stand up to him and a foster sister who is spoiled, so he is lonely and finds solace in taking pictures. He has no friends and feels trapped. I could understand why Gavin always felt so angry and suspicious. The problem is that Gavin throws temper tantrums like an eight-year-old throughout the entire book! He’s supposed to be seventeen (possibly eighteen??—can’t remember which) but reads like a twelve or fourteen-year-old in dialogue and actions. I could never feel any real connection with him or care about what he faces because he can’t stop acting like the world owed him something. He’s incredibly selfish, angst-ridden, and childish. He makes a TON of stupid, reckless decisions that not only affect him, but those around him and never thinks about that long enough to actually stop committing the same stupid acts. I seriously wanted to kick him, HARD!
There aren’t any characters I liked in the book. None of them were developed well-enough to find any real connection with and they lacked real depth. The villain-type characters were too ridiculous to take as a serious threat.
Then there’s the plot. I like the concept of the plot—being able to travel back in time and to the future through photos—but the mess of execution killed the idea as soon as it’s presented. Gavin discovers he has biological grandparents he never knew about and runs away from his foster home to find them. Once he gets there he quickly throws one of his temper tantrums, despite how they invite him to live in their home, and he storms out. When he gets back he starts demanding answers from them and the grandparents take him into a photograph to show him the truth of what their family is. Gavin just accepts everything without much of a fight and right from the beginning, he makes dangerous mistakes that put his life in danger, his grandparents life in danger and those who befriend him. He nearly gets killed more than once but never learns his lesson!
There were also a lot of inconsistencies within the concept. Gavin’s grandparents take Gavin into a photo the first day they meet. They claim only a few chapters later that they can’t travel through photos anymore and haven’t done it for a long time, which made absolutely no sense. They continue to claim they can’t travel between pictures but kept doing it throughout various scenes in the book. Gavin travels into a picture to see his parents and somehow they instantly recognize who he is but it’s a picture BEFORE Gavin is ever born, how would they know what he looked like in the future?? Gavin’s mom also claims he has her eyes but she’s pregnant with Gavin when he travels back in time to see them, so how would she know that?? Gavin parents also tell him if he travels to the same picture more than once they wouldn’t know him, so how would they be able to recognize him in future pictures??
The romance between Gavin and Alana didn’t work. Now that was probably because I didn’t read a good chunk of the book but I did go back to skim through chapters to make sense of the ending better. The romance came off as a mixture of The Time Traveler’s Wife and Timeless except it lacked depth and actual romance and made Alana come off as a ditz.
The pacing was choppy because certain aspects to the plot happened too quickly while other aspects were dragged out too much. The dialogue fell flat and the characters were one dimensional. The ending literally ended right in the middle of a scene in the middle of a conversation! That is not an ending. It’s a scene left unfinished. And the big twist that takes place wasn’t so much a twist, just creepy and weird.
The Photo Traveler is a debut novel and as such isn’t the worse debut novel I’ve ever read. The concept is a good one but that’s the only element that works for the book.
Perhaps as the series progresses, the execution will get stronger as will the characterization.
There’s always hope.
Best of luck to the author!
http://teamnerdreviews.blogspot.com/2...
Review: Up front I will confess that I did not actually read The Photo Traveler in its entirety. I got to about 150 pages in then decided to skip to the last two chapters. I stuck to the book for as long as I could but my patience ran out.
Gavin was one of the hardest characters to like and since the entire book is narrated from his point of view, the story faltered because of it. I can understand what the author attempted to do through his character. Gavin grew up in a foster family with an abusive, alcoholic foster father and a foster mother too afraid to ever stand up to him and a foster sister who is spoiled, so he is lonely and finds solace in taking pictures. He has no friends and feels trapped. I could understand why Gavin always felt so angry and suspicious. The problem is that Gavin throws temper tantrums like an eight-year-old throughout the entire book! He’s supposed to be seventeen (possibly eighteen??—can’t remember which) but reads like a twelve or fourteen-year-old in dialogue and actions. I could never feel any real connection with him or care about what he faces because he can’t stop acting like the world owed him something. He’s incredibly selfish, angst-ridden, and childish. He makes a TON of stupid, reckless decisions that not only affect him, but those around him and never thinks about that long enough to actually stop committing the same stupid acts. I seriously wanted to kick him, HARD!
There aren’t any characters I liked in the book. None of them were developed well-enough to find any real connection with and they lacked real depth. The villain-type characters were too ridiculous to take as a serious threat.
Then there’s the plot. I like the concept of the plot—being able to travel back in time and to the future through photos—but the mess of execution killed the idea as soon as it’s presented. Gavin discovers he has biological grandparents he never knew about and runs away from his foster home to find them. Once he gets there he quickly throws one of his temper tantrums, despite how they invite him to live in their home, and he storms out. When he gets back he starts demanding answers from them and the grandparents take him into a photograph to show him the truth of what their family is. Gavin just accepts everything without much of a fight and right from the beginning, he makes dangerous mistakes that put his life in danger, his grandparents life in danger and those who befriend him. He nearly gets killed more than once but never learns his lesson!
There were also a lot of inconsistencies within the concept. Gavin’s grandparents take Gavin into a photo the first day they meet. They claim only a few chapters later that they can’t travel through photos anymore and haven’t done it for a long time, which made absolutely no sense. They continue to claim they can’t travel between pictures but kept doing it throughout various scenes in the book. Gavin travels into a picture to see his parents and somehow they instantly recognize who he is but it’s a picture BEFORE Gavin is ever born, how would they know what he looked like in the future?? Gavin’s mom also claims he has her eyes but she’s pregnant with Gavin when he travels back in time to see them, so how would she know that?? Gavin parents also tell him if he travels to the same picture more than once they wouldn’t know him, so how would they be able to recognize him in future pictures??
The romance between Gavin and Alana didn’t work. Now that was probably because I didn’t read a good chunk of the book but I did go back to skim through chapters to make sense of the ending better. The romance came off as a mixture of The Time Traveler’s Wife and Timeless except it lacked depth and actual romance and made Alana come off as a ditz.
The pacing was choppy because certain aspects to the plot happened too quickly while other aspects were dragged out too much. The dialogue fell flat and the characters were one dimensional. The ending literally ended right in the middle of a scene in the middle of a conversation! That is not an ending. It’s a scene left unfinished. And the big twist that takes place wasn’t so much a twist, just creepy and weird.
The Photo Traveler is a debut novel and as such isn’t the worse debut novel I’ve ever read. The concept is a good one but that’s the only element that works for the book.
Perhaps as the series progresses, the execution will get stronger as will the characterization.
There’s always hope.
Best of luck to the author!
http://teamnerdreviews.blogspot.com/2...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2015
This review was originally posted on [Between My Lines]The Photo Traveler was so much better than I thought it would be. I think the awful cover is why I didn't read it sooner, the cover shouldn't affect my reading choice but it does! Call me shallow but as this book has to do with photography and the power of images, I do think a more imaginative and artistic cover would work well in its favour. Once I got over my cover snobbery, I was delighted to find that it had a very creative theme and an interesting main character who grew up a lot during the book.
Pros:
Lively Pace
Loved travelling via the photos to the different settings. I felt the settings came to life and I loved the flavour they added to the story.
Interesting male pov and I fully appreciated that it was a male author writing a male pov as it just came across as authentic.
The time travel element was a bit mind boggling with its implications which I loved!
Cons:
Insta-love. It was a bad case of insta-love and I wanted to eye-roll. On the other hand it was also kind of cute, I just wished it had been built up a little better.
Cliffhanger
The main character seemed a bit immature at times. BUT I did enjoy his growth during the book.
Overall I'm glad I finally made time for this one and I have every intention of reading book 2 now. Because, cliffhanger!
I would like to thank Arthur Gonzalez for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Pros:
Lively Pace
Loved travelling via the photos to the different settings. I felt the settings came to life and I loved the flavour they added to the story.
Interesting male pov and I fully appreciated that it was a male author writing a male pov as it just came across as authentic.
The time travel element was a bit mind boggling with its implications which I loved!
Cons:
Insta-love. It was a bad case of insta-love and I wanted to eye-roll. On the other hand it was also kind of cute, I just wished it had been built up a little better.
Cliffhanger
The main character seemed a bit immature at times. BUT I did enjoy his growth during the book.
Overall I'm glad I finally made time for this one and I have every intention of reading book 2 now. Because, cliffhanger!
I would like to thank Arthur Gonzalez for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
March 1, 2013
The "Photo Traveler" is a captivating first novel by Arthur J. Gonazalez. My interest is captured when Gavin Hillstone escapes the abuse of his dysfunctional adopted family and searches for the grandparents he thought had abandoned him after the death of his parents. After Gavin learns of his ability to time travel using the images in photographs he finds himself in a whirlwind of adventure and mystery. But this unusual gift comes with a steep price - lies, betrayal and heartbreak from people he trusts. There were moments when I smiled as Gavin interacted with his grandparents Bud and Estelle,and even when Yogi teased him unmercifully. What I couldn't relate to was Gavin's obsession with Marco's cousin Alanna, a doomed relationship which left him a legacy he wasn't expecting and couldn't claim. I highly recommend this novel and am looking forward to the "Peace Hunter" when it's released.
Read
January 26, 2013Started reading a few chapter last saturday night and couldnt put it down!!! Finished the last 2 chapters on sunday morning and excited and looking forward to the release of The photo Traveler....It is phenomenal!!!
February 24, 2013
Loved it! Loved the humor! Love Gavin, loved the adventures! Gir wrapped up on it. Perfect for a mental escape!
May 10, 2013
The Photo Traveler was a great read and packed with action, intrigue and some romance. This is such a fantastic and unique idea; the characters were strong, the storyline fascinating and there were twists along the way that kept me guessing. I cannot wait to read The Peace Hunter, part two.
Gavin Hillstone is an almost 18 year old boy that hasn’t had a very easy life for such a young age. His parents died when he was 4 and had believed there were no other living relatives. Put into the foster system, he was adopted by the family that took him in. Having a fairly normal life up until 8 years old, his foster mother, Leyla was killed in a tragic accident at a supermarket.
Gavin was full of guilt, guilt for his parents, and guilt for Leyla and even his foster father and foster sister, Mel blamed him for her death. After a brutal fight with his drunk foster father, Gavin decides that’s it, he is leaving. Finding that there are secrets everywhere, he does in fact have Grandparents and is determined to find them.
Not sure if they are even alive any more, Gavin sets out with his winnings from a photo competition. Gavin has always found photography has a calming effect on him and his camera is his most prized possession. Catching a bus to DC, he arrives at the house where his Grandparents used to live. Turning up on their doorstep was risky, but was his only choice. When they open the door, Gavin not only discovers his long lost Grandparents, but finds out he is a Photo Traveler. Any photo, picture, print, painting or anything with an image can be used to travel to that exact location. The only catch is that it must be a real place/person and had to have happened, so he couldn’t travel to visit the dinosaurs.
Gavin is excited about this new power; he goes experimenting and loving his new family. Feeling loved is something new to Gavin and everything is so strange, but very comfortable. Gavin has so many questions about everything, what really happened to his parents? Who are these people that are threatening his family for these infamous vials of purple liquid? Who are the Peace Hunters?
In the beginning there were five families and each one was given a purple vial of liquid that could give the power to travel, they were told to keep the vial safe and to hand it down with each generation. If somebody had all five vials, they would have the power to travel in time forwards and backwards. This is a dangerous ability to hold and each family was at war to keep their vial safe from the other families.
Gavin starts a new school and quickly makes a friend in his photography class. Visiting his friend’s house, he sees a beautiful photo of a girl and has an instant attraction and connection, but she is in the past. How can he fall in love with a girl in the past when she isn’t in the present?
There is a lot going on in this book, but it keeps you on your toes and guessing who, what, when and why? With betrayal, love, family loyalty, romance, intrigue, mystery and action, The Photo Traveler has a lot to offer. This book has a lot of potential to become a huge series and one that will become popular as it has appeal to a lot of readers. Again, I cannot wait to read the sequel The Peace Hunters.
Gavin Hillstone is an almost 18 year old boy that hasn’t had a very easy life for such a young age. His parents died when he was 4 and had believed there were no other living relatives. Put into the foster system, he was adopted by the family that took him in. Having a fairly normal life up until 8 years old, his foster mother, Leyla was killed in a tragic accident at a supermarket.
Gavin was full of guilt, guilt for his parents, and guilt for Leyla and even his foster father and foster sister, Mel blamed him for her death. After a brutal fight with his drunk foster father, Gavin decides that’s it, he is leaving. Finding that there are secrets everywhere, he does in fact have Grandparents and is determined to find them.
Not sure if they are even alive any more, Gavin sets out with his winnings from a photo competition. Gavin has always found photography has a calming effect on him and his camera is his most prized possession. Catching a bus to DC, he arrives at the house where his Grandparents used to live. Turning up on their doorstep was risky, but was his only choice. When they open the door, Gavin not only discovers his long lost Grandparents, but finds out he is a Photo Traveler. Any photo, picture, print, painting or anything with an image can be used to travel to that exact location. The only catch is that it must be a real place/person and had to have happened, so he couldn’t travel to visit the dinosaurs.
Gavin is excited about this new power; he goes experimenting and loving his new family. Feeling loved is something new to Gavin and everything is so strange, but very comfortable. Gavin has so many questions about everything, what really happened to his parents? Who are these people that are threatening his family for these infamous vials of purple liquid? Who are the Peace Hunters?
In the beginning there were five families and each one was given a purple vial of liquid that could give the power to travel, they were told to keep the vial safe and to hand it down with each generation. If somebody had all five vials, they would have the power to travel in time forwards and backwards. This is a dangerous ability to hold and each family was at war to keep their vial safe from the other families.
Gavin starts a new school and quickly makes a friend in his photography class. Visiting his friend’s house, he sees a beautiful photo of a girl and has an instant attraction and connection, but she is in the past. How can he fall in love with a girl in the past when she isn’t in the present?
There is a lot going on in this book, but it keeps you on your toes and guessing who, what, when and why? With betrayal, love, family loyalty, romance, intrigue, mystery and action, The Photo Traveler has a lot to offer. This book has a lot of potential to become a huge series and one that will become popular as it has appeal to a lot of readers. Again, I cannot wait to read the sequel The Peace Hunters.
May 6, 2013
'The Photo Traveler' is a fascinating young adult paranormal novel that deals with the ability to travel through time via pictures. Gavin Hillstone leads a really crappy life and he knows it. The only solace he has is when he's taking pictures of beautiful things around him. One day, Gavin stumbles upon a secret - he is one of the last descendants of a group of people called Photo Travelers - people who can time travel through pictures. With his newfound ability awakened, Gavin finds himself journeying back through time to various historical events across the globe, all while trying to evade the Peace Hunters - another group of Photo Travelers who wants to steal what Gavin has. Gavin's old life is far behind him, and his new life will take him places he only dreamed about.
This was a really interesting premise for a novel and I loved that it was unique to the genre. I haven't read anything like it before, so it was a great journey for me as a reader. The main character, Gavin, was a decent main character. He got a bad hand in life from the beginning, but learned how to make the most of it with his photography. We don't see a lot of character growth throughout the book, but he does embrace his destiny as a Photo Traveler and races to stop the cult of other Photo Travelers who mean to do him and his family harm. The writing was fast paced and contained a blend of several genres - fantasy, action, time travel, science fiction, and adventure all intertwined to make an original novel. The author did a great job of portraying past historical events and I loved getting an inside look at things from the past as if I was there alongside Gavin experiencing it instead of just reading about them or seeing pictures. Overall, this was a great fantasy/time travel novel that had vivid descriptions and attention to detail that fans of the genre will truly appreciate.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a really interesting premise for a novel and I loved that it was unique to the genre. I haven't read anything like it before, so it was a great journey for me as a reader. The main character, Gavin, was a decent main character. He got a bad hand in life from the beginning, but learned how to make the most of it with his photography. We don't see a lot of character growth throughout the book, but he does embrace his destiny as a Photo Traveler and races to stop the cult of other Photo Travelers who mean to do him and his family harm. The writing was fast paced and contained a blend of several genres - fantasy, action, time travel, science fiction, and adventure all intertwined to make an original novel. The author did a great job of portraying past historical events and I loved getting an inside look at things from the past as if I was there alongside Gavin experiencing it instead of just reading about them or seeing pictures. Overall, this was a great fantasy/time travel novel that had vivid descriptions and attention to detail that fans of the genre will truly appreciate.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2013
WOW!!! Just WOW!! Photo traveling at its BEST! (How cool is that?) I never thought that I would LOVE this, it was FAR BETTER than I expected. It conveys a lot of emotions. I caught myself smiling, laughing, crying, getting pissed and feeling nervous at times. I was trying to figure out what will happen to the main character but boy, I failed! It was hard to guess because the story HAS A LOT OF TWIST AND TURNS. I love the MYSTERIOUSNESS and all that. I'm glad Mr. Gonzalez puts some historical details in it, I love the SALEM WITCH TRIAL. It was so VIVID. I was so engrossed while reading that part (that for one moment I wanted to go there and kick Gavin's ass! What the hell is he thinking?)
When I started reading this, for some reason, I couldn't put it down. I was deeply moved by the story. There is this one particular chapter that really HIT me. I CAN'T STOP MYSELF FROM CRYING! I swear, it broke my heart (and remembering it, makes me want to burst out again). I had made a STRONG connection in each character especially to Gavin. I could feel the weigh on his shoulders. I wanted to help him (if only I could).
I'M INLOVE WITH THIS BOOK AND I STRONGLY RECOMMEND THIS (even if I'm not a young adult. But who cares, anyway?) It keeps me wanting for more. (Imagine my reaction when I found out that the second book is still in progress) I can't wait for the second installment. I know it will answer all my questions.
When I started reading this, for some reason, I couldn't put it down. I was deeply moved by the story. There is this one particular chapter that really HIT me. I CAN'T STOP MYSELF FROM CRYING! I swear, it broke my heart (and remembering it, makes me want to burst out again). I had made a STRONG connection in each character especially to Gavin. I could feel the weigh on his shoulders. I wanted to help him (if only I could).
I'M INLOVE WITH THIS BOOK AND I STRONGLY RECOMMEND THIS (even if I'm not a young adult. But who cares, anyway?) It keeps me wanting for more. (Imagine my reaction when I found out that the second book is still in progress) I can't wait for the second installment. I know it will answer all my questions.
March 13, 2014
Why do most young adult books so oversimplify things? Like falling in love mutually within only 5 minutes.. Or feeling and acting absolutely naturally and affectionately with family members you have never seen and just met.. Things like this make me wonder how is it that any adults read this stuff at all (young adults or not).
The thing that attracted me to this book was the concept of the plot which remains good, but the book just has too many typical YA flaws. However, since most of the grudge that I have isn't with the book, but with the genre itself, I can't give it less than 3 stars, cause it just wouldn't be fair. That's partly because the writing's not so bad, and this is the author's first book too.
The thing that attracted me to this book was the concept of the plot which remains good, but the book just has too many typical YA flaws. However, since most of the grudge that I have isn't with the book, but with the genre itself, I can't give it less than 3 stars, cause it just wouldn't be fair. That's partly because the writing's not so bad, and this is the author's first book too.
April 2, 2013
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales.
Quick & Dirty: “If you had one shot, or one opportunity, to seize everything you ever wanted in one moment, would you capture it or just let it slip?” -Eminem
Opening Sentence: What do you do when a sudden gust of wind forces your boat totally off course and into the unknown?
The Review:
As far as the main character in this title, Gavin Hillstone is concerned, life pretty much sucks. He was put in the foster care system at a young age after the death of his parents. His adoptive father became an abusive drunk after the death of his wife — which he blames on Gavin, by the way. His adoptive sister is rather mean and his poor step-mom… The seemingly singular bright light on an otherwise gloomy existence his love for photography, and how much of an escape and pleasure it is for him. One evening during a particularly bad fight with his father, Gavin discovers that he has real grandparents living across the country; he does not hesitate to buy a bus ticket out of there.
When he makes it to DC and finds his grandparents, they have yet another surprise for him. Gavin, and those of his family who came before him, are Photo Travelers. Members of only a few families, who can, with a small chant, travel back in time to any moment that has been drawn or photographed. And guess what?!? His parents might even be alive. Accompanying all these revelations is a gamut of emotions for Gavin to endure, and us along with him. All the anger and betrayal, the happiness and even wonder, the excitement of the knowledge of his power to travel into those same photos he once only loved to take. And the ability to finally meet his parents… utter heart melt.
But as it must, life goes on. Gavin enrolls in school, makes a new friend or two, life is good for one minute in time. He, as with any average teenaged male, even meets a girl. Though the circumstances surrounding that love affair are anything but average. Just when life seems pleasant, the reality of the inherent dangers of photo travelling, and what it means to be the last of his line keep smacking him in the face. Just as he’s beginning to wrap his head around the all too real consequences of all of his actions, the people after him are using them to their advantage. Even Yogi, the “I’m gonna be your bestest friend ever” turned “I’m a criminal mastermind, I killed your family.” By the by, totally stellar idea on how to get rid of that issue, although *whoa!* on what he finds out afterwards. And the members of that group, The Peace Hunters, well they be just plain scary crazy.
And about that ending. This book’s end is heart stopping for Gavin and those closest to him, as well as for those of us who are reading about them. If any of you have read my previous reviews, you know that I hate hanging off those cliffs that appear on the last pages of any book. The anticipation, the long days waiting, the re-reading the book over and over as not to forget one single paragraph. I’m kidding. Maybe. So, next book please and thank you.
As I was perusing the other reviews for this book, I came across one that states how realistic sounding Gavin really is. It’s true. I don’t traditionally read a ton of YA, but it did strike me that Gavin actually feels 17. Sometimes, as adults we forget exactly what 17 felt like, or we put in ideas and sayings that were current for us back then. This is one YA book that I will be recommending to my teenager. It is nice to find books in this genre that aren’t all love-sick and whiny. And bonus, the lead in this series is male, with flaws and a life that doesn’t magically all go his way. Who knows about pain and sorrow, learns about happiness and joy. And even what happens when you give that same happiness and joy to someone else without first taking the necessary precautions …*ahem*
When all is said and done, I have to say I quite liked it. This is this author’s debut and I for one would like to see more from him.
Notable Scene:
I had such a hard time choosing the notable scene for this review. I kept waffling between the love, loss, pain, heartache, action and drama. Eventually, I just closed my eyes, flipped through the book and put my finger on a page. Dramatic action it is.
__________________
Bud shouts and I hear a loud thud. I finally jump to my feet. He’s on the ground in the middle of the mob. I can’t see if he’s moving.
“Leave him alone!” I yell, but I’m helpless. I’m too far away, and they’re closing in on him like greedy vultures.
Magistrate Howland grabs Bud’s rifle and aims it at me. “To your knees, demon!” he shouts.
My hearts stops.
“We are not demons! Please! Spare us!” I beg, but something slams into the back of my head. Hard. And everything goes black.
***
When I come to, I’m enveloped in a cloud of smoke that’s growing thicker by the second. The back of my head is throbbing and as I start to choke, I realize that Bud and I are slumped on the platform—tied together back to back with the same rope that would have snapped my neck.
Below us the crowd is still jeering and chanting, “Burn! Burn, demons! Burn!”
They’re burning us alive.
FTC Advisory: Arthur J. Gonzalez provided me with a copy of The Photo Traveler. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: “If you had one shot, or one opportunity, to seize everything you ever wanted in one moment, would you capture it or just let it slip?” -Eminem
Opening Sentence: What do you do when a sudden gust of wind forces your boat totally off course and into the unknown?
The Review:
As far as the main character in this title, Gavin Hillstone is concerned, life pretty much sucks. He was put in the foster care system at a young age after the death of his parents. His adoptive father became an abusive drunk after the death of his wife — which he blames on Gavin, by the way. His adoptive sister is rather mean and his poor step-mom… The seemingly singular bright light on an otherwise gloomy existence his love for photography, and how much of an escape and pleasure it is for him. One evening during a particularly bad fight with his father, Gavin discovers that he has real grandparents living across the country; he does not hesitate to buy a bus ticket out of there.
When he makes it to DC and finds his grandparents, they have yet another surprise for him. Gavin, and those of his family who came before him, are Photo Travelers. Members of only a few families, who can, with a small chant, travel back in time to any moment that has been drawn or photographed. And guess what?!? His parents might even be alive. Accompanying all these revelations is a gamut of emotions for Gavin to endure, and us along with him. All the anger and betrayal, the happiness and even wonder, the excitement of the knowledge of his power to travel into those same photos he once only loved to take. And the ability to finally meet his parents… utter heart melt.
But as it must, life goes on. Gavin enrolls in school, makes a new friend or two, life is good for one minute in time. He, as with any average teenaged male, even meets a girl. Though the circumstances surrounding that love affair are anything but average. Just when life seems pleasant, the reality of the inherent dangers of photo travelling, and what it means to be the last of his line keep smacking him in the face. Just as he’s beginning to wrap his head around the all too real consequences of all of his actions, the people after him are using them to their advantage. Even Yogi, the “I’m gonna be your bestest friend ever” turned “I’m a criminal mastermind, I killed your family.” By the by, totally stellar idea on how to get rid of that issue, although *whoa!* on what he finds out afterwards. And the members of that group, The Peace Hunters, well they be just plain scary crazy.
And about that ending. This book’s end is heart stopping for Gavin and those closest to him, as well as for those of us who are reading about them. If any of you have read my previous reviews, you know that I hate hanging off those cliffs that appear on the last pages of any book. The anticipation, the long days waiting, the re-reading the book over and over as not to forget one single paragraph. I’m kidding. Maybe. So, next book please and thank you.
As I was perusing the other reviews for this book, I came across one that states how realistic sounding Gavin really is. It’s true. I don’t traditionally read a ton of YA, but it did strike me that Gavin actually feels 17. Sometimes, as adults we forget exactly what 17 felt like, or we put in ideas and sayings that were current for us back then. This is one YA book that I will be recommending to my teenager. It is nice to find books in this genre that aren’t all love-sick and whiny. And bonus, the lead in this series is male, with flaws and a life that doesn’t magically all go his way. Who knows about pain and sorrow, learns about happiness and joy. And even what happens when you give that same happiness and joy to someone else without first taking the necessary precautions …*ahem*
When all is said and done, I have to say I quite liked it. This is this author’s debut and I for one would like to see more from him.
Notable Scene:
I had such a hard time choosing the notable scene for this review. I kept waffling between the love, loss, pain, heartache, action and drama. Eventually, I just closed my eyes, flipped through the book and put my finger on a page. Dramatic action it is.
__________________
Bud shouts and I hear a loud thud. I finally jump to my feet. He’s on the ground in the middle of the mob. I can’t see if he’s moving.
“Leave him alone!” I yell, but I’m helpless. I’m too far away, and they’re closing in on him like greedy vultures.
Magistrate Howland grabs Bud’s rifle and aims it at me. “To your knees, demon!” he shouts.
My hearts stops.
“We are not demons! Please! Spare us!” I beg, but something slams into the back of my head. Hard. And everything goes black.
***
When I come to, I’m enveloped in a cloud of smoke that’s growing thicker by the second. The back of my head is throbbing and as I start to choke, I realize that Bud and I are slumped on the platform—tied together back to back with the same rope that would have snapped my neck.
Below us the crowd is still jeering and chanting, “Burn! Burn, demons! Burn!”
They’re burning us alive.
FTC Advisory: Arthur J. Gonzalez provided me with a copy of The Photo Traveler. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
December 4, 2015
The divide between literature for older children and literature for adults has gotten much smaller than it once was, in the past decade; and the gap between books intended for adults and those intended for teens is smaller still. In the sci-fi/fantasy genre it is perhaps at it's smallest; with adults devouring the latest Harry Potter,/Twilight/Hunger Games books along with their kids. The Photo Traveler by Arthur J. Gonzalez is a novel that is classified in the YA (young adult) or teen genre. Why? It has a teenage protagonist, certainly (and one who actually acts like a teenager as opposed to many of his counterparts in other books who act 17 going on 45). But if the character were to be written ten years older, the only really notable change would be that he would (hopefully) be a bit more mature and less impulsive. All of the other circumstances could be altered slightly to fit an older hero. What I am getting at here, is that The Photo Traveler is a novel written for teens and about a teen, but it's one that could just as easily be enjoyed by adults.
Our protagonist, Gavin Hillstone, initially finds himself in a situation that no child should have to face. His parents were killed in a house fire when he was just out of diapers and he has no real memory of them. He was legally adopted by his foster mother, a kind woman, whose murder he witnessed in a convenience story robbery gone wrong. Living with her drunken, abusive husband, Gavin's only escape from the ugliness in his life is photography. However, one day, Gavin learns that his paternal grandparents are still alive and across the country in Washington DC. If he had living relatives when his parents died, why was he in the foster system? Why would his grandparents willingly put him up for adoption? In search of answers Gavin runs away to DC, where he meets Bud and Estelle, the family he never knew he had. Bud and Estelle claim that that gave Gavin up so that he would be safe until he was old enough to learn the truth about himself and his family. His family is the descendants of a group of explorers who found something enabling them to travel through time and space via images. If a picture is of a real person or place, Gavin can go there by uttering a simple chant. At first he uses this ability the way a teenage boy would use it: recklessly. But he soon learns that others are after the power that the Photo Travelers possess and more besides. As a holder of that power Gavin has tremendous responsibility to use it wisely.
YA novels with boys as narrators are rare, and when they are written (often by women) the boy is sort of a fantasy version of a male teenager. The Photo Traveler's greatest strength is that Gavin feels like a 17-18 year old male. In other words, there are times when he can be intelligent, charming and endearing, and there are times when you want to throttle him! For example, he shows kindness and generosity during the Great Depression, but when he sees a photo of his friend's beautiful cousin who died years earlier, he naturally decides to steal some pictures of her so that he can go back in time and start a relationship with her. Surely nothing could go wrong with that plan, right?
Of course things do go wrong, there and elsewhere. Gavin is warned that with time travel he has to be careful of "the butterfly effect". He can't influence past events. But he's not aware of the secrets that exist within his own family. It is these secrets that make his trips to the past more dangerous than he realizes, and make him wonder who, if anyone, he can trust.
If you're a fan of any genre, there are times when you know where the book is going more or less. That's true here as well. But there are times that the author throws you curve that leaves your head spinning. For me that happened about ¾ of the way through the book and again in it's last few pages. I had been enjoying my journey with Gavin until that point, reading the book at a fairly quick pace. However, then something happened. There was a very definite point at which I stopped being able to put it down until I'd finished. Even finishing the book didn't leave me satisfied, because as I turned the page following a giant cliffhanger I learned that I could keep an eye out for the sequel. Well, now I'll have to. I'm hooked! Like Gavin, once the reader gets started on a journey he/she will need to see it through to the end.
*Originally published in synchchaos.com*
Our protagonist, Gavin Hillstone, initially finds himself in a situation that no child should have to face. His parents were killed in a house fire when he was just out of diapers and he has no real memory of them. He was legally adopted by his foster mother, a kind woman, whose murder he witnessed in a convenience story robbery gone wrong. Living with her drunken, abusive husband, Gavin's only escape from the ugliness in his life is photography. However, one day, Gavin learns that his paternal grandparents are still alive and across the country in Washington DC. If he had living relatives when his parents died, why was he in the foster system? Why would his grandparents willingly put him up for adoption? In search of answers Gavin runs away to DC, where he meets Bud and Estelle, the family he never knew he had. Bud and Estelle claim that that gave Gavin up so that he would be safe until he was old enough to learn the truth about himself and his family. His family is the descendants of a group of explorers who found something enabling them to travel through time and space via images. If a picture is of a real person or place, Gavin can go there by uttering a simple chant. At first he uses this ability the way a teenage boy would use it: recklessly. But he soon learns that others are after the power that the Photo Travelers possess and more besides. As a holder of that power Gavin has tremendous responsibility to use it wisely.
YA novels with boys as narrators are rare, and when they are written (often by women) the boy is sort of a fantasy version of a male teenager. The Photo Traveler's greatest strength is that Gavin feels like a 17-18 year old male. In other words, there are times when he can be intelligent, charming and endearing, and there are times when you want to throttle him! For example, he shows kindness and generosity during the Great Depression, but when he sees a photo of his friend's beautiful cousin who died years earlier, he naturally decides to steal some pictures of her so that he can go back in time and start a relationship with her. Surely nothing could go wrong with that plan, right?
Of course things do go wrong, there and elsewhere. Gavin is warned that with time travel he has to be careful of "the butterfly effect". He can't influence past events. But he's not aware of the secrets that exist within his own family. It is these secrets that make his trips to the past more dangerous than he realizes, and make him wonder who, if anyone, he can trust.
If you're a fan of any genre, there are times when you know where the book is going more or less. That's true here as well. But there are times that the author throws you curve that leaves your head spinning. For me that happened about ¾ of the way through the book and again in it's last few pages. I had been enjoying my journey with Gavin until that point, reading the book at a fairly quick pace. However, then something happened. There was a very definite point at which I stopped being able to put it down until I'd finished. Even finishing the book didn't leave me satisfied, because as I turned the page following a giant cliffhanger I learned that I could keep an eye out for the sequel. Well, now I'll have to. I'm hooked! Like Gavin, once the reader gets started on a journey he/she will need to see it through to the end.
*Originally published in synchchaos.com*
March 14, 2013
I’m a fan of science fiction and as a historian, time travel plots can leave me rolling my eyes. When I came across Arthur Gonzalez’s The Photo Traveler, I was a bit unsure of how to proceed, but within the first three chapters, I was hooked and didn’t want to stop reading.
Life hasn’t been easy for seventeen-year-old Gavin Hillstone. His adopted father is a drunk and beats him and his adopted sister lies to get her way. They both blame Gavin for the death of his adopted mother and he lives with the guilt knowing he caused her death. One night after a beating, he’s had enough. Finding his original adoption papers, Gavin decides to look for the grandparents who gave him up for adoption. One the way to Washington D.C., he encounters some unsavory characters who ask him for the glass vials and he has no idea what they are talking about. He eludes them and when he arrives in DC, he finds his grandparents are alive. Gavin confronts them and they admit to giving him up to protect him. They then tell him a secret…he’s a photo traveler and as one, he’s able to travel anywhere in the world as long as there’s a physical photograph or a drawing of an event as it occurred. Gavin goes on a journey to find the truth of what happened to his parents and along the way discovers how vital it is not to change the past because of the way it affects the future.
The writing is engaging and Gonzalez definitely is able to put the reader into the mindset of a seventeen-year-old boy. It’s quite easy for a YA science fiction centered book to be filled with clichés, but Gonzales does an excellent job keeping things fresh. The Photo Traveler is also well researched and incorporates aspects of history in the narrative. At one point Gavin travels to 17th century America and the Salem Witch Trials. I cringed when I read where he was going because anyone from the 21st century would stand out and instead of brushing that tidbit aside, Gonzalez addresses it. What’s a 17th century person suppose to think at the height of the witch trials when they see a teenage boy dressed in jeans? I won’t say what happens, but I appreciated the reaction to the incident.
In terms of character development, it’s not thorough, but since this is part of a trilogy, it makes sense to draw the characters over the course of the series. Without a doubt, this book is about Gavin and the journey to find out who he is. We find out how Gavin’s adopted mother died and it will be interesting to see if by chance a picture of the events of that day exists and if it does, will Gavin travel to that specific day? Also I have a feeling there’s more to Gavin’s photography teacher. He took an early interest in Gavin and something just doesn’t sit well with me. I think all readers will be able to associate with Gavin and his need for acceptance. Here’s a teenage boy on the cusp on being an adult who doesn’t know why he was given up. One moment he had parents and a loving home and the in the next instant he has nothing. The heartache he experiences will sadden you and make you want to reach out to hug him.
My favorite quotes: But since I suck at lying, I was probably as believable as that girl, Cynthia, in our class who constantly shows up with hickies on her neck but keeps swearing she’s still a virgin.
When I open my eyes, a twelve-ton elephant is staring right back at me. It gives me the creeps.
With all works of fiction, especially science fiction, the ability to suspend disbelief is needed and The Photo Traveler is no exception. There are a lot of unanswered questions mostly with regards to Gavin’s mistake and inadvertently changing history. I expected a bit more drawn out discussion pertaining to the subject, but there wasn’t one. Book 2, The Peace Hunter, should touch upon this and I can’t wait to find out what happens next. Arthur Gonzalez has done an excellent job with his debut novel and he’s an author to watch.
Review originally posted at Literary, etc.
Life hasn’t been easy for seventeen-year-old Gavin Hillstone. His adopted father is a drunk and beats him and his adopted sister lies to get her way. They both blame Gavin for the death of his adopted mother and he lives with the guilt knowing he caused her death. One night after a beating, he’s had enough. Finding his original adoption papers, Gavin decides to look for the grandparents who gave him up for adoption. One the way to Washington D.C., he encounters some unsavory characters who ask him for the glass vials and he has no idea what they are talking about. He eludes them and when he arrives in DC, he finds his grandparents are alive. Gavin confronts them and they admit to giving him up to protect him. They then tell him a secret…he’s a photo traveler and as one, he’s able to travel anywhere in the world as long as there’s a physical photograph or a drawing of an event as it occurred. Gavin goes on a journey to find the truth of what happened to his parents and along the way discovers how vital it is not to change the past because of the way it affects the future.
The writing is engaging and Gonzalez definitely is able to put the reader into the mindset of a seventeen-year-old boy. It’s quite easy for a YA science fiction centered book to be filled with clichés, but Gonzales does an excellent job keeping things fresh. The Photo Traveler is also well researched and incorporates aspects of history in the narrative. At one point Gavin travels to 17th century America and the Salem Witch Trials. I cringed when I read where he was going because anyone from the 21st century would stand out and instead of brushing that tidbit aside, Gonzalez addresses it. What’s a 17th century person suppose to think at the height of the witch trials when they see a teenage boy dressed in jeans? I won’t say what happens, but I appreciated the reaction to the incident.
In terms of character development, it’s not thorough, but since this is part of a trilogy, it makes sense to draw the characters over the course of the series. Without a doubt, this book is about Gavin and the journey to find out who he is. We find out how Gavin’s adopted mother died and it will be interesting to see if by chance a picture of the events of that day exists and if it does, will Gavin travel to that specific day? Also I have a feeling there’s more to Gavin’s photography teacher. He took an early interest in Gavin and something just doesn’t sit well with me. I think all readers will be able to associate with Gavin and his need for acceptance. Here’s a teenage boy on the cusp on being an adult who doesn’t know why he was given up. One moment he had parents and a loving home and the in the next instant he has nothing. The heartache he experiences will sadden you and make you want to reach out to hug him.
My favorite quotes: But since I suck at lying, I was probably as believable as that girl, Cynthia, in our class who constantly shows up with hickies on her neck but keeps swearing she’s still a virgin.
When I open my eyes, a twelve-ton elephant is staring right back at me. It gives me the creeps.
With all works of fiction, especially science fiction, the ability to suspend disbelief is needed and The Photo Traveler is no exception. There are a lot of unanswered questions mostly with regards to Gavin’s mistake and inadvertently changing history. I expected a bit more drawn out discussion pertaining to the subject, but there wasn’t one. Book 2, The Peace Hunter, should touch upon this and I can’t wait to find out what happens next. Arthur Gonzalez has done an excellent job with his debut novel and he’s an author to watch.
Review originally posted at Literary, etc.
May 13, 2013
A review copy was provided for an honest review. The Photo Traveler is an excellent science fiction novel that stands apart from the usual time-traveler plots. The central character of the story Gavin is a strong-willed and brave seventeen-year-old. He protects his family with everything that he has and makes difficult choices in order to keep them safe. There's many qualities about him that you can easily connect with. When I first started reading I told myself I was just going to read the first couple of pages and then hours later I still had the book in my hands. I was captivated with Gavin's story and so completely absorbed that the world ceased to exist outside of what I was reading. The writing is nicely polished, wonderfully descriptive, and told so well that you'll be drawn in within minutes. For once there was never a boring moment everything just flowed and moved forward terrifically. It was thrilling, heartbreaking, joyous, and tense - there's a range of emotions expressed throughout the book and you'll feel every one. The historical periods are some of the most interesting parts of the book because of how real they felt and naturally integrated they were into the story.
The entire novel is like an amazing journey full of twists and turns. I was reminded of Jumper while reading which is one of my favorite movies and this was better. Gavin's grandparents are awesome and many of the characters introduced are very well written and I loved each of their roles. Every little thing felt significant in the story, it wasn't predictable, and it was unbelievably entertaining throughout. The history of Photo Travelers is wicked cool as is the ability of them. The fact that there is rules that they have to follow only adds to the intrigue. The Photo Traveler is complex yet simple to follow. It's a lot of fun to think about the possibilities of time traveling through photos as it is truly a unique idea and this book won't let you down!
Gavin Hillstone has led a rough life thanks to an alcoholic and abusive foster parent. Having lost his biological parents at such a young age he was put into the system and adopted. In the beginning everything was great, his family treated him good until a tragedy took the life of his foster mom—that's when everything went downhill. Having taken more beatings than he could count Gavin finally gives up and that's when everything changes. He discovers he has grandparents who may or may not be alive and he sets out to find them—no matter what it takes. When he does they tell him the truth of why they didn't contact him sooner and they reveal a mind-blowing secret that will forever alter his life—and endanger it. It's revealed that he can travel through time by using photographs and so can his relatives. Gavin soon finds himself in peril just as he has found hope that just might reunite him with everything he's lost and longed for.
The Photo Traveler is an exciting and original science fictional read that is utterly engrossing. It has plenty of action, drama, and even some romance to keep you flipping the pages. If you've ever felt that magnetic pull or compulsion that makes you want to find out what will happen next than you should know this novel has that effect. I'm really happy that their will be a part II as the book leaves off with multiple problems that need solving. Everyone who loves time-traveling books with ultra compelling plots, great characters, neat twists, and nonstop action will absolutely love this one.
The entire novel is like an amazing journey full of twists and turns. I was reminded of Jumper while reading which is one of my favorite movies and this was better. Gavin's grandparents are awesome and many of the characters introduced are very well written and I loved each of their roles. Every little thing felt significant in the story, it wasn't predictable, and it was unbelievably entertaining throughout. The history of Photo Travelers is wicked cool as is the ability of them. The fact that there is rules that they have to follow only adds to the intrigue. The Photo Traveler is complex yet simple to follow. It's a lot of fun to think about the possibilities of time traveling through photos as it is truly a unique idea and this book won't let you down!
Gavin Hillstone has led a rough life thanks to an alcoholic and abusive foster parent. Having lost his biological parents at such a young age he was put into the system and adopted. In the beginning everything was great, his family treated him good until a tragedy took the life of his foster mom—that's when everything went downhill. Having taken more beatings than he could count Gavin finally gives up and that's when everything changes. He discovers he has grandparents who may or may not be alive and he sets out to find them—no matter what it takes. When he does they tell him the truth of why they didn't contact him sooner and they reveal a mind-blowing secret that will forever alter his life—and endanger it. It's revealed that he can travel through time by using photographs and so can his relatives. Gavin soon finds himself in peril just as he has found hope that just might reunite him with everything he's lost and longed for.
The Photo Traveler is an exciting and original science fictional read that is utterly engrossing. It has plenty of action, drama, and even some romance to keep you flipping the pages. If you've ever felt that magnetic pull or compulsion that makes you want to find out what will happen next than you should know this novel has that effect. I'm really happy that their will be a part II as the book leaves off with multiple problems that need solving. Everyone who loves time-traveling books with ultra compelling plots, great characters, neat twists, and nonstop action will absolutely love this one.
May 8, 2013
I love the idea of traveling through time with a simple photo. That's what drew me to read this book. I love mixing photography with YA books. I'm a photographer and I love to read books, so that's why I love that. It didn't take me long to get into the story, I was fascinated by what would happen next. It's only the 4th male author I've read a YA book from. I'm definitely used to female authors and the main characters in the female perspective, but I try to keep an open mind. Also, I really prefer film photography than digital, but that’s just my taste.
Gavin’s story is very heartfelt. I understand the struggles he’s had in the past and that he deserves a better life. There is still a threat out there or multiple threats for the photo travelers. His parents sacrificed their lives to protect him. They are forever trapped in a photo of the Great Depression. It’s sad that they can’t escape with him. I liked Gavin’s personality. It’s just that I found that he changed a lot once he left his former life. It’s good that he’s happier, but I just find there are too many expressions with exclamation points. Once he leaves to find his family, I find that things tend to happen a little too easily for him. He meets his Grandparents, he goes back to school into a photo course, he makes a friend on day one, he finds a job and he meets a girl (even if she’s from 10 years in the past). He expects or hopes for things to happen and he gets them. It’s a little predictable. I love the storyline though. He needs to work harder to get what he wants. People don’t always get what they want when they want it.
Also, what I have a hard time with is when relationships develop too fast. He was drawn to this girl and decided to photo travel to meet her. He meets her then they flirt and kiss. The next time they meet, they suddenly have strong feelings for each other and they’re exploring each other. It’s all intense and way too fast. They saw each other twice, they can’t be in love that fast. It’s not as realistic as life is. It takes more than 2 times to fall in love with someone. You can have a crush on someone, you can kiss and be all-physical. I believe that loves grows over time, you meet someone you’re attracted too by their looks and their personality. You get to know them over time, you can date or start out as friends, and eventually you develop feelings that grow into something else.
After reading the last part of the story, I started to understand that Gavin’s actions have consequences. I liked that part, but it also sucks for him. He changed the past and it caused the present to be different. I still can’t believe that after 3 times of seeing Alanna that he loves her and they got intimate. It’s so weird that when he goes back in the future, he has a kid that’s like 6 years younger than him. The ending of the story left me with questions unanswered. I hope that he can find his half sister, but it might be too late… It’s sad how sometimes we find out the truth about our past, about where we came from and the people you thought you knew are the ones to disappoint you the most. I also found it sad that his grandpa died :( I enjoyed the photography aspect, the time traveling part and the story left me wanting to know more. I was very intrigued by this story, even if there are some things I didn’t like as much, I still really enjoyed reading this book. I’ll be looking forward to ‘The Peace Hunters’!
Gavin’s story is very heartfelt. I understand the struggles he’s had in the past and that he deserves a better life. There is still a threat out there or multiple threats for the photo travelers. His parents sacrificed their lives to protect him. They are forever trapped in a photo of the Great Depression. It’s sad that they can’t escape with him. I liked Gavin’s personality. It’s just that I found that he changed a lot once he left his former life. It’s good that he’s happier, but I just find there are too many expressions with exclamation points. Once he leaves to find his family, I find that things tend to happen a little too easily for him. He meets his Grandparents, he goes back to school into a photo course, he makes a friend on day one, he finds a job and he meets a girl (even if she’s from 10 years in the past). He expects or hopes for things to happen and he gets them. It’s a little predictable. I love the storyline though. He needs to work harder to get what he wants. People don’t always get what they want when they want it.
Also, what I have a hard time with is when relationships develop too fast. He was drawn to this girl and decided to photo travel to meet her. He meets her then they flirt and kiss. The next time they meet, they suddenly have strong feelings for each other and they’re exploring each other. It’s all intense and way too fast. They saw each other twice, they can’t be in love that fast. It’s not as realistic as life is. It takes more than 2 times to fall in love with someone. You can have a crush on someone, you can kiss and be all-physical. I believe that loves grows over time, you meet someone you’re attracted too by their looks and their personality. You get to know them over time, you can date or start out as friends, and eventually you develop feelings that grow into something else.
After reading the last part of the story, I started to understand that Gavin’s actions have consequences. I liked that part, but it also sucks for him. He changed the past and it caused the present to be different. I still can’t believe that after 3 times of seeing Alanna that he loves her and they got intimate. It’s so weird that when he goes back in the future, he has a kid that’s like 6 years younger than him. The ending of the story left me with questions unanswered. I hope that he can find his half sister, but it might be too late… It’s sad how sometimes we find out the truth about our past, about where we came from and the people you thought you knew are the ones to disappoint you the most. I also found it sad that his grandpa died :( I enjoyed the photography aspect, the time traveling part and the story left me wanting to know more. I was very intrigued by this story, even if there are some things I didn’t like as much, I still really enjoyed reading this book. I’ll be looking forward to ‘The Peace Hunters’!
November 18, 2013
3.5 stars
Did I enjoy this book: I did enjoy this book. The synopsis drew me in as something different from anything I had read in the past. The Photo Traveler did not disappoint. I read this book every free chance I had.
I felt for Gavin from the get-go. I wanted him to get away from his adoptive father and move on to something, anything else. I had hoped that he would find some family somewhere and that he did, along with so much more. Gavin found out he was a photo traveler. He can look at a photograph and travel to that time period with a few words. This was a great, new concept for me. I haven’t read anything quite like this and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I think what I enjoyed the most was Gavin experiencing just what his actions in the past created for the present/future time. It was so interesting to read about Gavin’s travels to and from different time periods for specific reasons. He meets so many different people, including his parents. Gavin also meets the love of his life. That turns into a whole lot of trouble and happiness and disbelief for Gavin.
I liked Estelle and Bud. I would have liked them more except for their decisions early on in Gavin’s life. I was happy to see the three of them falling in line with each other as if no time had passed since the last time they had seen each other. Gavin’s parents were interesting. They have their secrets but it is clear that they truly care about Gavin. The other characters, namely Mario, Naima and Axel, Alanna, and Yogi, all added to this story and gave it their own interesting twists.
Was some of this book hard to believe? Yes. It was difficult for me to hear Gavin, a 17 year old boy, describe various scenes, most notably the restaurant on his birthday, with such detail and awe. I reasoned that it was because he is so into photography. But part of me kept saying, “But he’s a 17 year old boy! He wouldn’t think about such details!” I’m not sure which way to go with that. Did it distract from my reading an enjoyment of the novel? No.
Another thing that kind of bugged me was the use of actual historical events and people along with the use of fictional historical events and people. There is mention of a President Bower and a threat of an all out war. I have no problem with this on its own. However, when the main character travels to places and events that actually occurred – Hooverville during the Great Depression, the Salem witch trials – then there is reference to a fictional person, President Bower, well, that just bugs me. Either make it all actual historical facts or make it all fictional reality. Not both. Also, there were quite a few typos throughout my copy of The Photo Traveler. That kind of bugged me because some of the typos were rather obvious. However, it didn’t detract from the overall story. It wasn’t enough to make me not want to read the book.
Was I happy about the ending? NO!!!!!!!!!!!!! Why did it have to end on such a cliffhanger????? WHY???? I will have to wait until The Peace Hunter is released because I must know what happens next!!!!!!!!!!!!
Would I recommend it: I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good time travel book.
Will I read it again: I will not but I will read book #2 in this series, The Peace Hunter.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2013/05/bl...
Did I enjoy this book: I did enjoy this book. The synopsis drew me in as something different from anything I had read in the past. The Photo Traveler did not disappoint. I read this book every free chance I had.
I felt for Gavin from the get-go. I wanted him to get away from his adoptive father and move on to something, anything else. I had hoped that he would find some family somewhere and that he did, along with so much more. Gavin found out he was a photo traveler. He can look at a photograph and travel to that time period with a few words. This was a great, new concept for me. I haven’t read anything quite like this and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I think what I enjoyed the most was Gavin experiencing just what his actions in the past created for the present/future time. It was so interesting to read about Gavin’s travels to and from different time periods for specific reasons. He meets so many different people, including his parents. Gavin also meets the love of his life. That turns into a whole lot of trouble and happiness and disbelief for Gavin.
I liked Estelle and Bud. I would have liked them more except for their decisions early on in Gavin’s life. I was happy to see the three of them falling in line with each other as if no time had passed since the last time they had seen each other. Gavin’s parents were interesting. They have their secrets but it is clear that they truly care about Gavin. The other characters, namely Mario, Naima and Axel, Alanna, and Yogi, all added to this story and gave it their own interesting twists.
Was some of this book hard to believe? Yes. It was difficult for me to hear Gavin, a 17 year old boy, describe various scenes, most notably the restaurant on his birthday, with such detail and awe. I reasoned that it was because he is so into photography. But part of me kept saying, “But he’s a 17 year old boy! He wouldn’t think about such details!” I’m not sure which way to go with that. Did it distract from my reading an enjoyment of the novel? No.
Another thing that kind of bugged me was the use of actual historical events and people along with the use of fictional historical events and people. There is mention of a President Bower and a threat of an all out war. I have no problem with this on its own. However, when the main character travels to places and events that actually occurred – Hooverville during the Great Depression, the Salem witch trials – then there is reference to a fictional person, President Bower, well, that just bugs me. Either make it all actual historical facts or make it all fictional reality. Not both. Also, there were quite a few typos throughout my copy of The Photo Traveler. That kind of bugged me because some of the typos were rather obvious. However, it didn’t detract from the overall story. It wasn’t enough to make me not want to read the book.
Was I happy about the ending? NO!!!!!!!!!!!!! Why did it have to end on such a cliffhanger????? WHY???? I will have to wait until The Peace Hunter is released because I must know what happens next!!!!!!!!!!!!
Would I recommend it: I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good time travel book.
Will I read it again: I will not but I will read book #2 in this series, The Peace Hunter.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2013/05/bl...
May 14, 2013
The concept for this book is pretty incredible. A group of people called photo travelers have the ability to travel through time and space via images that they find. So let's say that you have this newspaper clipping with a picture on it. You say a few fancy words, and then suddenly you're sucked into this vortex-like thing, and next thing you know, you're standing right in the middle of the image you were looking at in the time it was created. Sounds pretty cool, right?
Well, yeah. That's because it is.
This is the life that Gavin suddenly finds himself in after he leaves his abusive foster home in search of the grandparents he never knew existed. His original plan is to figure out why they never took him in after his parents passed and to hopefully stay far, far away from his "family" and all of the pain it causes him.
I feel kind of awful saying this, but the Hillstone family was one of my favorite parts of the novel. Yeah, yeah, the ones that are left are pretty awful human beings (though Dina's not really that bad once she comes to her senses), but I found the mechanics of this extremely screwed up family to be very interesting. They are so much a part of Gavin already, even in their worst moments, that he would definitely not be the same person without every single one of them.
I also really liked his new family, Bud and Estelle. They were great people, and it was obvious how much they both cared about him, even when they weren't able to be anywhere near him. Out of all of the characters, they probably felt the most real to me.
In general, this book ranks pretty high on the adventurous scale, considering that there are no limits to any sort of setting for the novel. Except, apparently dinosaurs. Darn. Just so we're clear, though, I would have tried it too, Gavin.
Really the only things that I wasn't immensely fond of were the rhymes that they had to recite before they could travel anywhere. Seemed a little too much like magic words to me. Kind of cheesy. Also, the story tended to seem rushed at times, and it would have been nice if Gavin was willing to stop and smell those proverbial roses. Wherever they are.
Aside from that, this book left me in a pretty good place. I obviously had a lot of questions (gee thanks, cliffhanger!) like what happens to a certain few somebodies that I'm not allowed to mention for fear of ruining everything for you guys. Sorry!
Something that I was interested in figuring out is what it would look like to an outside observer when the photo travelers do their thing. Do they get sucked into the image? Or is it just more of a poof! and they're gone kind of deal? That might be fun to explore.
One more thing, though, and this is really just out of personal curiosity. I understand that when you go back in time to the same picture twice, the people there won't remember the first visit because it technically hasn't happened. Well if that's true, then why don't the photo travelers just go back again every time they screw up the timeline, so it would be like their mistakes never happened? I don't know, would that work?
Taylor
For the original review and more, please visit Marked By Books.
Well, yeah. That's because it is.
This is the life that Gavin suddenly finds himself in after he leaves his abusive foster home in search of the grandparents he never knew existed. His original plan is to figure out why they never took him in after his parents passed and to hopefully stay far, far away from his "family" and all of the pain it causes him.
I feel kind of awful saying this, but the Hillstone family was one of my favorite parts of the novel. Yeah, yeah, the ones that are left are pretty awful human beings (though Dina's not really that bad once she comes to her senses), but I found the mechanics of this extremely screwed up family to be very interesting. They are so much a part of Gavin already, even in their worst moments, that he would definitely not be the same person without every single one of them.
I also really liked his new family, Bud and Estelle. They were great people, and it was obvious how much they both cared about him, even when they weren't able to be anywhere near him. Out of all of the characters, they probably felt the most real to me.
In general, this book ranks pretty high on the adventurous scale, considering that there are no limits to any sort of setting for the novel. Except, apparently dinosaurs. Darn. Just so we're clear, though, I would have tried it too, Gavin.
Really the only things that I wasn't immensely fond of were the rhymes that they had to recite before they could travel anywhere. Seemed a little too much like magic words to me. Kind of cheesy. Also, the story tended to seem rushed at times, and it would have been nice if Gavin was willing to stop and smell those proverbial roses. Wherever they are.
Aside from that, this book left me in a pretty good place. I obviously had a lot of questions (gee thanks, cliffhanger!) like what happens to a certain few somebodies that I'm not allowed to mention for fear of ruining everything for you guys. Sorry!
Something that I was interested in figuring out is what it would look like to an outside observer when the photo travelers do their thing. Do they get sucked into the image? Or is it just more of a poof! and they're gone kind of deal? That might be fun to explore.
One more thing, though, and this is really just out of personal curiosity. I understand that when you go back in time to the same picture twice, the people there won't remember the first visit because it technically hasn't happened. Well if that's true, then why don't the photo travelers just go back again every time they screw up the timeline, so it would be like their mistakes never happened? I don't know, would that work?
Taylor
For the original review and more, please visit Marked By Books.
June 27, 2015
Time traveling through photos… I wish I could do that! This is a unique idea that the author did a nice job at explaining well and making it believable. While reading I kept trying to decide where I would want to jump back to in time and what photo I would use. I have yet to decide on this because I just can’t make up my mind, but boy would that be cool.
The Photo Traveler is about Gavin, a teenager who is just trying to find his place in the world. I connected with Gavin, and that my friends is a deal breaker. I need to feel something for the characters in a book for me to enjoy it and luckily I did while reading The Photo Traveler. I felt for Gavin and cheered him on, hoping he finds a happier life. Having a male point of view in a young adult novel is refreshing and done well in this book. There were times when Gavin really frustrated me, but no one can be perfect. He just trusted too easily at times which didn't make any sense given his upbringing, but that was just a very tiny flaw. Although the minor characters in this book were not astounding they held their own and tended to grow on me.
The adventurous plot with a secret society had me smiling. It was a fun read and with each chapter I grew more nervous about the impending match up with the “bad guys.” There was even one moment where I was completely shocked at the plot twist, and I’m not shocked easily. Therefore this book gets added bonus points. This book if nothing else, is full of action, and I love a lot of action in my books. My favorite parts of the whole novel were when Gavin jumped back in time. It was fun to experience it with him, and was full of great descriptions. The only thing that actually bothered me while reading The Photo Travel was the excess use of exclamation points. I know I overuse them sometimes when talking to someone online, but I felt that for a book it was slightly overdone. I also felt like there were very tiny plot holes at times, but nothing that bothered me. They could easily be addressed in the next novel, so no worries there. I am very interested to see what is up next for Gavin.
Although this isn't one of my all time favorite reads, it was very enjoyable and is definitely worth a look. If you are a fan of photography, history, time traveling, and/or want a change of pace with a male point of view, then this book is for you. It is a fun and easy read with a new and interesting concept, traveling through time using photos.
Oh and I just want you to know that I have some major cover love for this one!
** Thank you Xpresso Book Tours and author Arthur Gonzalez for giving me the chance to read and review this novel! Thanks for the free copy. It in no way impacted my honest review.
RATING 3.5/5
The Photo Traveler is about Gavin, a teenager who is just trying to find his place in the world. I connected with Gavin, and that my friends is a deal breaker. I need to feel something for the characters in a book for me to enjoy it and luckily I did while reading The Photo Traveler. I felt for Gavin and cheered him on, hoping he finds a happier life. Having a male point of view in a young adult novel is refreshing and done well in this book. There were times when Gavin really frustrated me, but no one can be perfect. He just trusted too easily at times which didn't make any sense given his upbringing, but that was just a very tiny flaw. Although the minor characters in this book were not astounding they held their own and tended to grow on me.
The adventurous plot with a secret society had me smiling. It was a fun read and with each chapter I grew more nervous about the impending match up with the “bad guys.” There was even one moment where I was completely shocked at the plot twist, and I’m not shocked easily. Therefore this book gets added bonus points. This book if nothing else, is full of action, and I love a lot of action in my books. My favorite parts of the whole novel were when Gavin jumped back in time. It was fun to experience it with him, and was full of great descriptions. The only thing that actually bothered me while reading The Photo Travel was the excess use of exclamation points. I know I overuse them sometimes when talking to someone online, but I felt that for a book it was slightly overdone. I also felt like there were very tiny plot holes at times, but nothing that bothered me. They could easily be addressed in the next novel, so no worries there. I am very interested to see what is up next for Gavin.
Although this isn't one of my all time favorite reads, it was very enjoyable and is definitely worth a look. If you are a fan of photography, history, time traveling, and/or want a change of pace with a male point of view, then this book is for you. It is a fun and easy read with a new and interesting concept, traveling through time using photos.
Oh and I just want you to know that I have some major cover love for this one!
** Thank you Xpresso Book Tours and author Arthur Gonzalez for giving me the chance to read and review this novel! Thanks for the free copy. It in no way impacted my honest review.
RATING 3.5/5
November 24, 2013
Originally posted at The Solitary Bookworm
Gavin is a time traveler. A fact that he just recently discovered but unlike some time traveler though, Gavin’s gift particularly focus on traveling with the use of photos or any image. Gavin didn’t always know about this gift though, but when he found out his life became more complicated than it is. Growing up Gavin’s life wasn’t always as miserable but it all started when his foster mom died. Later on, Gavin endured a life with his foster dad who became abusive and a sister who doesn’t care. Things wasn’t looking good for Gavin until the day he discovered that his biological grandparents are alive.
What initially made me want to read this book was the cool concept about time traveling that Mr. Gonzalez came up. There are numerous twist and varieties in time traveling – and there are pretty good ones too – but I wanted to see how Mr. Gonzalez would make this his own. The concept of time traveling is as common as vampire and angels so I was super excited to read what The Photo Traveler would offer me. Reading the last page, I knew that I would continue to follow the series :)
Although I did love the book, I was hesitant with Gavin and Alanna. I wasn’t too sure about the pair. Their relationship wasn’t believable and it was undeveloped and felt rushed. Although vital and important in the story, the “relationship” wasn’t working at all. Insta-love/their few meetups ending with confessions of love/the son was written too early and hastily in the story. As I said, I immediately knew that this is a big part in the story, especially after reading the ending but it could have been given more attention in terms of development so it wouldn’t come out flimsy. Well, that’s just me so it can be minor.
Gavin was a great character. You can definitely sympathize with this kid with what he’s been through and what is now in his hands. I can see great things to come for Gavin and I am really excited to read what will happen next. There’s much more to explore in this world and I am bursting with excitement for the next installment.
Overall, The Photo Traveler is a great book for time travel junkies. This book can also be enjoyed by any reader who loves a good story with strong characters, fast pacing, solid storytelling and heart racing endings.
To this time, allow my travel. Take me there, let time unravel.
Gavin is a time traveler. A fact that he just recently discovered but unlike some time traveler though, Gavin’s gift particularly focus on traveling with the use of photos or any image. Gavin didn’t always know about this gift though, but when he found out his life became more complicated than it is. Growing up Gavin’s life wasn’t always as miserable but it all started when his foster mom died. Later on, Gavin endured a life with his foster dad who became abusive and a sister who doesn’t care. Things wasn’t looking good for Gavin until the day he discovered that his biological grandparents are alive.
What initially made me want to read this book was the cool concept about time traveling that Mr. Gonzalez came up. There are numerous twist and varieties in time traveling – and there are pretty good ones too – but I wanted to see how Mr. Gonzalez would make this his own. The concept of time traveling is as common as vampire and angels so I was super excited to read what The Photo Traveler would offer me. Reading the last page, I knew that I would continue to follow the series :)
Although I did love the book, I was hesitant with Gavin and Alanna. I wasn’t too sure about the pair. Their relationship wasn’t believable and it was undeveloped and felt rushed. Although vital and important in the story, the “relationship” wasn’t working at all. Insta-love/their few meetups ending with confessions of love/the son was written too early and hastily in the story. As I said, I immediately knew that this is a big part in the story, especially after reading the ending but it could have been given more attention in terms of development so it wouldn’t come out flimsy. Well, that’s just me so it can be minor.
Gavin was a great character. You can definitely sympathize with this kid with what he’s been through and what is now in his hands. I can see great things to come for Gavin and I am really excited to read what will happen next. There’s much more to explore in this world and I am bursting with excitement for the next installment.
Overall, The Photo Traveler is a great book for time travel junkies. This book can also be enjoyed by any reader who loves a good story with strong characters, fast pacing, solid storytelling and heart racing endings.
Take me home to what is mine. Back to the present, back to my time.
May 21, 2013
This story looks at time travel from a very unique perspective. Rather than using your traditional standing-stones or circles, and not based upon ley-lines, instead these few time travelers are able to jump from where they are into any photographer. The trick is that it must be a photograph, not a drawing or a painting, but a real photograph that hasn't been digitally manipulated. (Though the issue of digital manipulation in a photo has not yet been brought up - either because the author hasn't thought go it yet, or because he has plans for the theme in a future book in the series.)
Gavin is the main character, and when we first meet him he is living in a terrible situation. His family was killed when he was four, and from there he went into a foster home for a year, and they adopt him at the end of that year. Gavin was relatively happy and adored his new Mommy, Leyla. She was the center of his new world, so when she died protecting him from some robbers in the local corner store, life fell apart for Gavin all over again. Except now he was stuck with a family that blamed him for the death of a beloved wife and mother. Over the years Jet, his adoptive father, beat him regularly, while his older "sister" was treated like a princess and would continually telling 'Daddy' lies about Gavin just to get his punishment increased.
One day Gavin learns a shocking truth about his past, a truth that forever changes his future. One that makes it impossible to know who he can trust and who is an enemy. The characters are interesting, and feel very authentic to themselves and to their ages. They seem to react in a manner that we would deem normal for their age, yet they also do some maturing as the story unfolds. And, like most teenagers, they also make the same mistakes more than once.
The story arc is well done, with bits of crucial material being delivered when most needed by the characters and readers, but never in a blunt manner. They are woven into the story so that they fit very naturally. This story deals with some very interesting concepts, not the least of which are the ramifications when history is altered, be it by plan or human error. No pat answer is given, leaving the characters and readers alike to experience differing levels of change and figuring out if they can be undone, not too mention the question of should they be undone once they've been made. Hopefully we will learn more in the second book of the series, and since none of us can travel through photos, we'll have to wait with the rest for that book to come out.
Gavin is the main character, and when we first meet him he is living in a terrible situation. His family was killed when he was four, and from there he went into a foster home for a year, and they adopt him at the end of that year. Gavin was relatively happy and adored his new Mommy, Leyla. She was the center of his new world, so when she died protecting him from some robbers in the local corner store, life fell apart for Gavin all over again. Except now he was stuck with a family that blamed him for the death of a beloved wife and mother. Over the years Jet, his adoptive father, beat him regularly, while his older "sister" was treated like a princess and would continually telling 'Daddy' lies about Gavin just to get his punishment increased.
One day Gavin learns a shocking truth about his past, a truth that forever changes his future. One that makes it impossible to know who he can trust and who is an enemy. The characters are interesting, and feel very authentic to themselves and to their ages. They seem to react in a manner that we would deem normal for their age, yet they also do some maturing as the story unfolds. And, like most teenagers, they also make the same mistakes more than once.
The story arc is well done, with bits of crucial material being delivered when most needed by the characters and readers, but never in a blunt manner. They are woven into the story so that they fit very naturally. This story deals with some very interesting concepts, not the least of which are the ramifications when history is altered, be it by plan or human error. No pat answer is given, leaving the characters and readers alike to experience differing levels of change and figuring out if they can be undone, not too mention the question of should they be undone once they've been made. Hopefully we will learn more in the second book of the series, and since none of us can travel through photos, we'll have to wait with the rest for that book to come out.
May 5, 2013
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
Time travel has always fascinated me. While it sounds totally fascinating and like it could be fun, I would view it with great trepidation if it were available. “Safe” is not word that is synonymous with time travel.
Gavin is seventeen years old before he even realizes why photography appeals to him so much. And his first photo travel on his own almost got him killed…
Mr. Gonzales does a nice job of creating a different world where photo travelers are scarce but still surviving. His main character, Gavin, has been living with an abusive stepfather and has no living relatives to his knowledge. When, in the heat of battle, he hears about his grandparents, he’s off to find them. This is the story of Gavin learning about his heritage and about the real circumstances of his parent’s “death”. Gavin is coming of age, but still has a lot to learn.
The author draws you in and makes you care about Gavin. I found myself sympathizing when he made mistakes. One thing I liked was that the author shows how little changes in the past can cause consequences in the future. Mr. Gonzales has created a large consequence for Gavin that totally surprised me, but makes perfect sense.
While Gavin is just trying to survive with his new knowledge, he finds he has enemies trying to kill him. How do you decide who your enemy is when you don’t know anyone where you live? There’s good tension from the worry of who might be after him. And I was even shocked over the death of one of the characters,
It reads well, kept my attention, and I enjoyed the story though sections of it made me feel sad. This would be good for both young adults and adults. The story ends with a cliff hanger and I’ll be watching for the next book in the series to read more. Have you ever imagined time travel? How about looking at a photo and being able to transfer yourself to that time and place? Open this book and you’ll be on your way.
Time travel has always fascinated me. While it sounds totally fascinating and like it could be fun, I would view it with great trepidation if it were available. “Safe” is not word that is synonymous with time travel.
Gavin is seventeen years old before he even realizes why photography appeals to him so much. And his first photo travel on his own almost got him killed…
Mr. Gonzales does a nice job of creating a different world where photo travelers are scarce but still surviving. His main character, Gavin, has been living with an abusive stepfather and has no living relatives to his knowledge. When, in the heat of battle, he hears about his grandparents, he’s off to find them. This is the story of Gavin learning about his heritage and about the real circumstances of his parent’s “death”. Gavin is coming of age, but still has a lot to learn.
The author draws you in and makes you care about Gavin. I found myself sympathizing when he made mistakes. One thing I liked was that the author shows how little changes in the past can cause consequences in the future. Mr. Gonzales has created a large consequence for Gavin that totally surprised me, but makes perfect sense.
While Gavin is just trying to survive with his new knowledge, he finds he has enemies trying to kill him. How do you decide who your enemy is when you don’t know anyone where you live? There’s good tension from the worry of who might be after him. And I was even shocked over the death of one of the characters,
It reads well, kept my attention, and I enjoyed the story though sections of it made me feel sad. This would be good for both young adults and adults. The story ends with a cliff hanger and I’ll be watching for the next book in the series to read more. Have you ever imagined time travel? How about looking at a photo and being able to transfer yourself to that time and place? Open this book and you’ll be on your way.
May 5, 2013
The Photo Traveler was a highly entertaining read with lots of innovative ideas. It's a young adult book with lots of action, a nice love story and big heart. I'm always up for time travel stories that's why I also enjoyed this one.
As the blurb is pretty detailed, there shouldn't be anything more revealed about the plot. So, let's focus on the characters. I have to admit that I had a hard time relating to Gavin as the main character. I don't understand most of his actions and some thoughts he has sound pretty self-centered to me. He also moved from being angry with his grandparents for abandoning him as a child to being a loving, happy and absolutely perfect family of three way too quickly.
Everything in Washington turns out to be perfect only after about two or three days after Gavin's arrival. School is brilliant, he has the nicest teacher ever who even gives him a birthday present. He quickly finds a best friend, Mario, who he connects with on the spot. He finds a job and more friends and meets other photo travelers. I mean doesn't that sound just way too perfect for you? I couldn't accept this as an authentic development. I understand why the author needed things to turn out great for Gavin, so he would be a fierce protector of his new life in the face of the upcoming danger. Still, the development was too fast and not believable for me.
I couldn't tell you my favorite character because everyone else seems to be a perfectly clichéd one-dimensional side character.
What I really liked was the story. The idea of photo traveling was completely new to me and I'd like to see how the author develops that as this seems to be the first book in a series. There could have been even more history and time traveling for me. The love story is absolutely unique but I don't want to give anything away.
So all in all, I can definitely recommend this book to all fans of YA paranormal novels. It's fast-paced, full of new ideas and lots of fun!
As the blurb is pretty detailed, there shouldn't be anything more revealed about the plot. So, let's focus on the characters. I have to admit that I had a hard time relating to Gavin as the main character. I don't understand most of his actions and some thoughts he has sound pretty self-centered to me. He also moved from being angry with his grandparents for abandoning him as a child to being a loving, happy and absolutely perfect family of three way too quickly.
Everything in Washington turns out to be perfect only after about two or three days after Gavin's arrival. School is brilliant, he has the nicest teacher ever who even gives him a birthday present. He quickly finds a best friend, Mario, who he connects with on the spot. He finds a job and more friends and meets other photo travelers. I mean doesn't that sound just way too perfect for you? I couldn't accept this as an authentic development. I understand why the author needed things to turn out great for Gavin, so he would be a fierce protector of his new life in the face of the upcoming danger. Still, the development was too fast and not believable for me.
I couldn't tell you my favorite character because everyone else seems to be a perfectly clichéd one-dimensional side character.
What I really liked was the story. The idea of photo traveling was completely new to me and I'd like to see how the author develops that as this seems to be the first book in a series. There could have been even more history and time traveling for me. The love story is absolutely unique but I don't want to give anything away.
So all in all, I can definitely recommend this book to all fans of YA paranormal novels. It's fast-paced, full of new ideas and lots of fun!
September 17, 2013
Gavin has had a miserable life. Losing his parents at a young age, he ends up in foster care and then adopted. He was loved in that family until the day he received yet another loss- his adoptive mom was murdered and his adoptive father becomes even worse - drinking and beatings. One day he discovers he has living grandparents and strikes out to find them.
One would think that life can only go uphill from here for Gavin. He does find his grandparents and now has a loving family but also now knows the secret of his legacy- he is a photo traveler. Gavin will endure even more loss, along with more love than he's known.
I really enjoyed reading The Photo Traveler. The ability to go into a photo and go back to that exact time is amazing. This book will pull you in. There were plenty of twists and turns happening all the time. As I was finishing the book, I had maybe 20 pages left and had to stop for the evening. I assumed the last 20 pages would just be wrapping things up but when I picked it up the next morning I was shocked at how many new twists happened -leading us into a second book in the series! Just when you think it's over - BOOM! some new twist happens and you're going in a different direction! I love these kinds of books that keep you thinking and constantly reassessing everything! One particular idea that I loved was the fact that although Gavin's parents "died" when he was 4years old, he is now able to go visit them and build a relationship with them thru photos. Now some might feel it's cheating to do this, but I loved it. He has been through so much, it's nice of the author to allow him this little concession!
All in all, I felt this was a well written Young Adult book. Plenty of action abounds with a splash of romance thrown in to keep us girls happy! Check it out and let me know what you think!!
4.5 Stars
* I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. *
One would think that life can only go uphill from here for Gavin. He does find his grandparents and now has a loving family but also now knows the secret of his legacy- he is a photo traveler. Gavin will endure even more loss, along with more love than he's known.
I really enjoyed reading The Photo Traveler. The ability to go into a photo and go back to that exact time is amazing. This book will pull you in. There were plenty of twists and turns happening all the time. As I was finishing the book, I had maybe 20 pages left and had to stop for the evening. I assumed the last 20 pages would just be wrapping things up but when I picked it up the next morning I was shocked at how many new twists happened -leading us into a second book in the series! Just when you think it's over - BOOM! some new twist happens and you're going in a different direction! I love these kinds of books that keep you thinking and constantly reassessing everything! One particular idea that I loved was the fact that although Gavin's parents "died" when he was 4years old, he is now able to go visit them and build a relationship with them thru photos. Now some might feel it's cheating to do this, but I loved it. He has been through so much, it's nice of the author to allow him this little concession!
All in all, I felt this was a well written Young Adult book. Plenty of action abounds with a splash of romance thrown in to keep us girls happy! Check it out and let me know what you think!!
4.5 Stars
* I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. *
March 8, 2013
This is one book that I'll be looking forward to the next one. It literally had me wanting more!
The book is about a 17 year old boy, Gavin, that was given up by his grandparents after his parents died in a house fire (supposedly). His adoptive mother died while protecting him in a robbery and his adoptive father became violent and a drunk. Jet, his adoptive father, was very abusive to him and took all of his anger out on him. In their last real fight, Jet let something slip. Gavin decided it was time for research. He located his maternal grandparents! He hopped a bus to DC from Nevada to find them. On his journey he was attacked by two individuals and it didn't make since to him at all of what they wanted. Gavin didn't have any friends, loved photography and was determined to find a better life somewhere else. It was 2-3 weeks before his 18th Birthday. He was scared that his grandparents would not want him at all, but thought it was better than staying in Nevada where he had no friends and his family hated him, or at least what family he had known most of his life.
When Gavin get's to DC, he takes a cab to his grandparents place. He learns of a special trait that he never knew he had and why he had always been drawn to photography.
Arthur J. Gonzalez has put this book together so perfectly that it keeps you on the edge of your seat. You will NOT be able to put this book down at all. The whole book is just incredible.
I suggest you read the first 10 chapters that are FREE and you'll be wanting to buy this book to read the rest. It's an incredible read with lots of history involved.
The book is about a 17 year old boy, Gavin, that was given up by his grandparents after his parents died in a house fire (supposedly). His adoptive mother died while protecting him in a robbery and his adoptive father became violent and a drunk. Jet, his adoptive father, was very abusive to him and took all of his anger out on him. In their last real fight, Jet let something slip. Gavin decided it was time for research. He located his maternal grandparents! He hopped a bus to DC from Nevada to find them. On his journey he was attacked by two individuals and it didn't make since to him at all of what they wanted. Gavin didn't have any friends, loved photography and was determined to find a better life somewhere else. It was 2-3 weeks before his 18th Birthday. He was scared that his grandparents would not want him at all, but thought it was better than staying in Nevada where he had no friends and his family hated him, or at least what family he had known most of his life.
When Gavin get's to DC, he takes a cab to his grandparents place. He learns of a special trait that he never knew he had and why he had always been drawn to photography.
Arthur J. Gonzalez has put this book together so perfectly that it keeps you on the edge of your seat. You will NOT be able to put this book down at all. The whole book is just incredible.
I suggest you read the first 10 chapters that are FREE and you'll be wanting to buy this book to read the rest. It's an incredible read with lots of history involved.
July 14, 2013
First and foremost, I'd like to give many thanks to Arthur J.Gonzalez for kindly sharing his e-version of The Photo Traveler with some unfortunate readers like me. Therefore, I urged to myself to write a review as honest as possible for this book.
Firstly, bravo for the creative plot and fresh ideas. This storyline is ways different from other books' of the same Time Travel genre.
Next up, the language. Very light and easy to read. No sophistications, yet I like the simplicity of it.
Then boom, here comes the negative part: the characters. I feel somehow the way they were built was not enough to show their personalities and sometimes seemed a little forced.
But the most terrifying part, is the relationship of Gavin and Alanna. Know what I felt towards Gavin and Alanna's having only met twice when they decided to have sex?
Anyway, this is an interesting book. Gavin's having to solve his own problems subsequently may bring up more adventures and twists. I'm looking forward to the sequel and its development. Finally, I gave it 3 stars, which I felt fair enough. :)
Firstly, bravo for the creative plot and fresh ideas. This storyline is ways different from other books' of the same Time Travel genre.
Next up, the language. Very light and easy to read. No sophistications, yet I like the simplicity of it.
Then boom, here comes the negative part: the characters. I feel somehow the way they were built was not enough to show their personalities and sometimes seemed a little forced.
But the most terrifying part, is the relationship of Gavin and Alanna. Know what I felt towards Gavin and Alanna's having only met twice when they decided to have sex?
Anyway, this is an interesting book. Gavin's having to solve his own problems subsequently may bring up more adventures and twists. I'm looking forward to the sequel and its development. Finally, I gave it 3 stars, which I felt fair enough. :)
March 29, 2013
I was drawn into this story from the first paragraph. You could tell the torment behind Gavin's actions even in the opening scene where his "sister" ignores him and subsequently causes him the torture that follows. Right after that episode gavin discovers that he still has grandparents living across the country and he hightails it to the bus station and "gets the heck out of Dodge". I think that those actions are fairly believable and I appreciate the fact that Gonzalez gives us backstory about Gavin's adoptive parents and his living situation. We find out that life hasn't always been like this for him, and the further you read, the more you understand why things are the way they are.
There are several things that stood out to me throughout the book; the initial meeting with Yogi being one (Hello, that camera was a major tip off!!!),Gavin's visits with his parents (that is just cool and confusing at the same time), and Gavin's reaction to Alanna's picture being another. I knew from the moment I read that scene that it would become a major player in the book. I am very interested to see how Gonzalez unfolds that development throughout the next book.
Overall, this was a very well written book, with good character development and backstory. There are many unanswered questions, but I knew going into this book that it was the first in a series, so I expect some of those questions to be answered in The Peace Hunters. I think this fully deserves the 5 stars I gave it :)
There are several things that stood out to me throughout the book; the initial meeting with Yogi being one (Hello, that camera was a major tip off!!!),Gavin's visits with his parents (that is just cool and confusing at the same time), and Gavin's reaction to Alanna's picture being another. I knew from the moment I read that scene that it would become a major player in the book. I am very interested to see how Gonzalez unfolds that development throughout the next book.
Overall, this was a very well written book, with good character development and backstory. There are many unanswered questions, but I knew going into this book that it was the first in a series, so I expect some of those questions to be answered in The Peace Hunters. I think this fully deserves the 5 stars I gave it :)
May 1, 2013
Gavin has a hard life. And his new foster home, with an abusive and alcoholic dad is just making it all worse. His life to him, is doomed from the start. But he finally finds refuge and happiness in his pictures. Gavin is able to escape his miserable life through his pictures. He finds them to be sort of a home to him and they are always welcoming him. He's able or get a new perspective on his life and he learns from the photos and stories.
I liked this book. It was very well written and I loved the idea of the plot. I didn't love the book, but I liked it, and would suggest it to others
I liked this book. It was very well written and I loved the idea of the plot. I didn't love the book, but I liked it, and would suggest it to others
December 31, 2013
I was drawn to read this after reading the description. Its a neat concept-to travel through time with the use of a picture! It may be a first book by this young man, but it was very good! I found myself looking forward to finding time to read so I could find out what happened next. The story is full of action, with characters that I want to read more of, and I'm looking forward to the sequel...I hope it doesn't take too long to write!
I was given a copy of this through Story Cartel in exchange for my honest review.
I was given a copy of this through Story Cartel in exchange for my honest review.
April 1, 2013
Wow..... I just finished this book, and my first thought was "No! I don't want to wait for another book to see how it ends!". It was that good. Action packed, page-turning, don't want to put it down kind of book. If you enjoy suspenseful science fiction/fantasy types of books, then make sure to add this to your must-read list. I am anxiously waiting to read more from this author!
February 12, 2016
The book ended on quite a cliffhanger which for me is was ugh!!! I so hate books when the do that but I understand ( Well I try to ..lol) why it has to be done I'm anxious for book 2
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves Time Travel in books cause this one will blow you away!!! It has the right amount of Sci-Fi Fantasy without out being unbelievable its such a fresh read.
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