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Life II
Upon discovering a 1958 book titled "Account of Time Travel on Earth Using Wave Theory," 42-year-old Max Thorning's life is thrown into chaos. Seeking answers to the book's cryptic clues, he discovers Dr. Time, a seemingly benign alien who has control of the Time Weaver, a remarkable device that can command any scene from the Earth's past. Dr. Time offers him a choice to go back into Time, to any point in his lifespan that he can vividly recall. The catch: he can only bring his memories, and can only live the future one day at a time. Follow Max's dilemma as he goes back to his 16-year-old self and tries to forge his destiny into a new one called Life II.
506 pages, Paperback
First published February 5, 2013
228 people are currently reading
1543 people want to read
About the author
Scott Spotson
18 books107 followersScott Spotson is a Canadian novelist who excels in imagining scenes of intrigue and adventure within ordinary lives while daydreaming, then pulls together various plots to create a compelling story.
Scott has written eleven books: "Life II," a time travel novel; and its sequel, "Bridge Through Time," "Seeking Dr. Magic," a novel that imagines what happens when a powerful wizard comes of age as a young man, and wreaks his havoc on the world, which is yet unaware of his existence; "Delusional," in which a woman in love suddenly experiences hallucinations and resolve to track down her tormentor before it's too late; "The Strange Life of Brandon Chambers," in which a young man suffers from hallucinations throughout his life, but others also see them and these illusions contain clues to a deeper meaning--or do they?; "Wizards Rising: The Cataclysm," in which four arrogant wizards take over North America and thrill the populace with deadly wizard games; "Alia Tero: The Many Lives of Darren Datita," in which a bewildered young man must deal with the strange rules of an Earth-like society in an alternate universe; "My Wizard Buddy" series, children's books in which Tyler has a boy wizard as a real friend, not as an imaginary one, and "You Know You're Thin When...," a humor book using large single panel cartoons.
Scott has written eleven books: "Life II," a time travel novel; and its sequel, "Bridge Through Time," "Seeking Dr. Magic," a novel that imagines what happens when a powerful wizard comes of age as a young man, and wreaks his havoc on the world, which is yet unaware of his existence; "Delusional," in which a woman in love suddenly experiences hallucinations and resolve to track down her tormentor before it's too late; "The Strange Life of Brandon Chambers," in which a young man suffers from hallucinations throughout his life, but others also see them and these illusions contain clues to a deeper meaning--or do they?; "Wizards Rising: The Cataclysm," in which four arrogant wizards take over North America and thrill the populace with deadly wizard games; "Alia Tero: The Many Lives of Darren Datita," in which a bewildered young man must deal with the strange rules of an Earth-like society in an alternate universe; "My Wizard Buddy" series, children's books in which Tyler has a boy wizard as a real friend, not as an imaginary one, and "You Know You're Thin When...," a humor book using large single panel cartoons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
January 15, 2019
Life II
His life is in shambles and he is in search of a way to fix it. Doctor Time gives him that opportunity.
Dr. Time offers him a chance to go back in time to his teenage years and forge a new destiny.
It was confusing at first because we are thrown into his life (which wasnt all that interesting) and then he starts looking for a way to make his life better. Instead of medication or meditation like most people try he looks for... a new way. A way into the past.
So my problem with this was there was no real damage done. With time travel everything you do in the past will effect the present/future so him doing anything and everything that he wanted the entire time (and it was almost 600 pages) was boring. There was no risk and only reward. He saved lives got rich, bought and sold stock and had a dull adventure along the way.
The author made it seem like time travel would be easy and that is the way to solve all your problems but it just wasn’t working for me.
I didnt connect with the characters, i wasnt a fan of the writing and the time travel aspect wasn’t exciting like I initially hoped t would be.
His life is in shambles and he is in search of a way to fix it. Doctor Time gives him that opportunity.
Dr. Time offers him a chance to go back in time to his teenage years and forge a new destiny.
It was confusing at first because we are thrown into his life (which wasnt all that interesting) and then he starts looking for a way to make his life better. Instead of medication or meditation like most people try he looks for... a new way. A way into the past.
So my problem with this was there was no real damage done. With time travel everything you do in the past will effect the present/future so him doing anything and everything that he wanted the entire time (and it was almost 600 pages) was boring. There was no risk and only reward. He saved lives got rich, bought and sold stock and had a dull adventure along the way.
The author made it seem like time travel would be easy and that is the way to solve all your problems but it just wasn’t working for me.
I didnt connect with the characters, i wasnt a fan of the writing and the time travel aspect wasn’t exciting like I initially hoped t would be.
June 7, 2016
3.5 stars
I love stories that use time travel. This is not a very science-y story with its use of time travel, but the focus is much more on the emotional and intellectual journey of the main character. A definite theme here is “be careful what you wish for.” Without giving too much away, I’ll say that Max gets a chance to go back and relive his life, hence Life II. I’m sure we’ve all thought about things we’d change if we could go back, and these decisions are exactly what Max has to navigate.
I liked that he went back with his 42 years of life experience and knowledge, slipping into his teenage body. This obviously made it much more interesting than just simply reliving everything without knowing any better. I did find it a little goofy that he kept “accidentally” blurting out his knowledge of the future – over and over and over – followed inevitably by smacking his forehead or trying to backpedal. Sometimes he realizes he needs to be super careful in revealing knowledge of the future, but then other times he just flat out tells people what’s going to happen. That seemed not quite right. Also, I’m not sure why he didn’t try to change some MAJOR historical events if his goal was to be a better person and, this time around, help as many people as he could. He does invest in some up-and-coming companies so as to gain wealth to then donate, but it just seems like he could’ve done a lot more that would have been more interesting to read rather than sludging through decades of everyday life/marriage/family drama.
BUT, the way this story focuses on one man’ journey to repair the lives of his loved ones does have a lot of heart. I particularly liked the somewhat-fated troubles with his sister. And it was interesting to show that, no matter how much he thinks he’s learned, he makes similar mistakes the second time around because that is just who he is. I liked that the story shows how some people are going to be closer to you than others no matter the circumstances- Garfield, in particular.
Another big thing that makes me waffle between 3 and 4 stars is the use of Dr. Time. As the catalyst for all of this, obviously the story needed something otherworldly to kick this off. But when you use an alien named Dr. ____ that can manipulate time and space, everyone with knowledge of pop culture for the last 50 years will think you’re kind of ripping off Dr. Who. That was my first, “What are you doing?” thought at the author. Then, however, you don’t see Dr. Time that much through the rest of the book, so I got over it. But it seemed irrational for Max to be so angry Dr. Time “tricked him.” If Max is at least a little intelligent – and you’d think he’d have to be to decipher that book he finds at the beginning – why didn’t the obvious occur to him, namely that his old life would change/disappear? And don’t get me started about the sudden appearance of the character who convinces Max they have to kill Dr. Time – that pops in and out so fast it doesn’t feel like it fits at all. I have a feeling this was dropped in to set up future books, but it doesn’t fit with the rest of the feel of the book.
Overall, I did enjoy this story because of the focus on the main character trying to fix his life but discovering how complicated that really was. All of my aggravations, too, made me put myself in his shoes to sort out what I would do differently. His growing emotional angst is completely believable. Wherever this story goes next, I’m sure it will sort out some of the wrinkles with Dr. Time, and maybe the next main character will be a little less self-involved.
I love stories that use time travel. This is not a very science-y story with its use of time travel, but the focus is much more on the emotional and intellectual journey of the main character. A definite theme here is “be careful what you wish for.” Without giving too much away, I’ll say that Max gets a chance to go back and relive his life, hence Life II. I’m sure we’ve all thought about things we’d change if we could go back, and these decisions are exactly what Max has to navigate.
I liked that he went back with his 42 years of life experience and knowledge, slipping into his teenage body. This obviously made it much more interesting than just simply reliving everything without knowing any better. I did find it a little goofy that he kept “accidentally” blurting out his knowledge of the future – over and over and over – followed inevitably by smacking his forehead or trying to backpedal. Sometimes he realizes he needs to be super careful in revealing knowledge of the future, but then other times he just flat out tells people what’s going to happen. That seemed not quite right. Also, I’m not sure why he didn’t try to change some MAJOR historical events if his goal was to be a better person and, this time around, help as many people as he could. He does invest in some up-and-coming companies so as to gain wealth to then donate, but it just seems like he could’ve done a lot more that would have been more interesting to read rather than sludging through decades of everyday life/marriage/family drama.
BUT, the way this story focuses on one man’ journey to repair the lives of his loved ones does have a lot of heart. I particularly liked the somewhat-fated troubles with his sister. And it was interesting to show that, no matter how much he thinks he’s learned, he makes similar mistakes the second time around because that is just who he is. I liked that the story shows how some people are going to be closer to you than others no matter the circumstances- Garfield, in particular.
Another big thing that makes me waffle between 3 and 4 stars is the use of Dr. Time. As the catalyst for all of this, obviously the story needed something otherworldly to kick this off. But when you use an alien named Dr. ____ that can manipulate time and space, everyone with knowledge of pop culture for the last 50 years will think you’re kind of ripping off Dr. Who. That was my first, “What are you doing?” thought at the author. Then, however, you don’t see Dr. Time that much through the rest of the book, so I got over it. But it seemed irrational for Max to be so angry Dr. Time “tricked him.” If Max is at least a little intelligent – and you’d think he’d have to be to decipher that book he finds at the beginning – why didn’t the obvious occur to him, namely that his old life would change/disappear? And don’t get me started about the sudden appearance of the character who convinces Max they have to kill Dr. Time – that pops in and out so fast it doesn’t feel like it fits at all. I have a feeling this was dropped in to set up future books, but it doesn’t fit with the rest of the feel of the book.
Overall, I did enjoy this story because of the focus on the main character trying to fix his life but discovering how complicated that really was. All of my aggravations, too, made me put myself in his shoes to sort out what I would do differently. His growing emotional angst is completely believable. Wherever this story goes next, I’m sure it will sort out some of the wrinkles with Dr. Time, and maybe the next main character will be a little less self-involved.
June 25, 2013
If you could live a portion of your life again, would you? Would you try to change anything? What impact would this have on the people in your life in your former timeline? Scott Spotson’s novel, Life II tells the story of one man who faces these questions. Presented with an opportunity to revisit his past, 42 year old Max Thorning steps into his 16 year old past. Armed with the knowledge and maturity of an adult, he must decide what changes he will make. As he lives out Life II, he is conscious of the differences in timelines.
The book is well written and flows easily without losing the reader in convoluted paradoxes. Explanations of time travel and time theory are simple and easy to follow. The book is not really about the science of time travel.
Instead, Life II is a story about choices, consequences, and the road not taken. In this book, the main character grapples with his conflicted emotions about the life he left behind. At times, he seeks to make changes in order to forge a new future. At other points, he’s desperate to maintain continuity with the original timeline.
In general, I enjoyed the premise of the book. I liked the concept of time travel being a journey of memory and personality rather than a physical transition. I also appreciated the fact that the author successfully presented a time travel story that avoided some obvious causality problems. The only issues I had with the book had more to do with my emotional reaction to the main character. I felt that some of the choices Max made were too abrupt or were difficult for me to accept. The character’s thought processes and decisions regarding his children were especially hard for me to swallow. I understand that this was an important plot device, but it was very difficult for me to reconcile. That may say more about me as a reader than about the character, but it colored my perception of the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a non-reciprocal review from the author.
The book is well written and flows easily without losing the reader in convoluted paradoxes. Explanations of time travel and time theory are simple and easy to follow. The book is not really about the science of time travel.
Instead, Life II is a story about choices, consequences, and the road not taken. In this book, the main character grapples with his conflicted emotions about the life he left behind. At times, he seeks to make changes in order to forge a new future. At other points, he’s desperate to maintain continuity with the original timeline.
In general, I enjoyed the premise of the book. I liked the concept of time travel being a journey of memory and personality rather than a physical transition. I also appreciated the fact that the author successfully presented a time travel story that avoided some obvious causality problems. The only issues I had with the book had more to do with my emotional reaction to the main character. I felt that some of the choices Max made were too abrupt or were difficult for me to accept. The character’s thought processes and decisions regarding his children were especially hard for me to swallow. I understand that this was an important plot device, but it was very difficult for me to reconcile. That may say more about me as a reader than about the character, but it colored my perception of the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a non-reciprocal review from the author.
November 2, 2016
The plot to this book is so well done! We've all had that thought of "if I could go back and change this one moment". And this book is a realistic portrayal of what one gives up in that process.
The characters are likeable, the time line is easy to follow, and the emotions are so raw (speaking of child loss, cancer and suicide all in one book) which COULD be a bit of a downer, but Scott has made it work. And work well!
This book is a fantastic read that really keeps you guessing about how it's going to end. And the ending is so satisfying!
I definitely recommend this book for anyone who has ever wished they could redo something in their past
The characters are likeable, the time line is easy to follow, and the emotions are so raw (speaking of child loss, cancer and suicide all in one book) which COULD be a bit of a downer, but Scott has made it work. And work well!
This book is a fantastic read that really keeps you guessing about how it's going to end. And the ending is so satisfying!
I definitely recommend this book for anyone who has ever wished they could redo something in their past
February 7, 2017
A very emotional, very Canadian, surprisingly good time-travel book.
I bought this book off Kobo because a) It sounded interesting since I enjoyed Replay by Ken Grimwood very much b) It was a bargain price.
I really enjoyed it. It really makes you think. Much like Replay, it really makes you appreciate your life a whole lot more.
I bought this book off Kobo because a) It sounded interesting since I enjoyed Replay by Ken Grimwood very much b) It was a bargain price.
I really enjoyed it. It really makes you think. Much like Replay, it really makes you appreciate your life a whole lot more.
November 17, 2014
I’ve read most, if not all of this author’s works but was particularly impressed by the protagonist in this one, a middle aged man, frustrated and in the grip of ennui who experiences a life changing epiphany when he comes across a book on time travel. This leads to his encounter with Doctor Time who with the use of a device called the time weaver has the power to send him back to any point in his life.
The book explores a theme that has been dealt with many, many times before; if you had the power to change things in your life would you or should you and what are the consequences of doing so. Nevertheless Spotson manages to put his own unique spin on the story.
The novel spans a quarter of a century and perhaps could have done with a few more “beats” that is more points of action and threats to keep the pacing going but overall it was still very enjoyable. I much prefer the sequel (yes, I actually read the sequel first” Bridge Through Time) but Life II is nevertheless another very enjoyable read from a very, very talented author.
The book explores a theme that has been dealt with many, many times before; if you had the power to change things in your life would you or should you and what are the consequences of doing so. Nevertheless Spotson manages to put his own unique spin on the story.
The novel spans a quarter of a century and perhaps could have done with a few more “beats” that is more points of action and threats to keep the pacing going but overall it was still very enjoyable. I much prefer the sequel (yes, I actually read the sequel first” Bridge Through Time) but Life II is nevertheless another very enjoyable read from a very, very talented author.
February 1, 2018
This is the second novel I've read by Scott Spotson, (first book was Brandon Chambers), and Life II delivers exceeds my expectations yet again.
Spotson asks a question that most of us have asked in the past: "If I could travel back in time, what would I change...", and he answers in this personal, emotionally charged story.
Suffice to say, the dynamics of Time Travel, whilst presented simply enough, has clearly been researched and thought out very carefully, as the actions always have consequences.
A great read, by a superb author!
Spotson asks a question that most of us have asked in the past: "If I could travel back in time, what would I change...", and he answers in this personal, emotionally charged story.
Suffice to say, the dynamics of Time Travel, whilst presented simply enough, has clearly been researched and thought out very carefully, as the actions always have consequences.
A great read, by a superb author!
March 15, 2018
This was an enjoyable and thought-provoking time-travel story. It brought out clearly the potential negative effects of reliving a portion of your life if you were to travel back to an earlier point in your own life span—something that I, and I suspect quite a few others, have not given much thought to, as most time-travel stories tend to assume a positive experience in which you can correct your earlier mistakes—or just revel in encountering otherwise-unobtainable new places, people and events.
But the main character's pain at losing forever the family he had in 'Life I'—because the future is irrevocably changed when he moves back in time—is very well brought out.
Having said that, I have to confess that for me the story dragged after the exciting opening in which Max discovers the possibility of time-travel and ends up back in his 16-year-old high school body. The rest of the book shows his struggles to adapt and succeed in the new timeline—Life II, as he calls it—and was (to me) mildly interesting as he does manage to correct Life I mistakes and also to achieve the profession and income he'd missed out on in the original timeline. But despite occasional highs like his new love-interest, his successful (and unsuccessful) adventures on the stock market, the way he manages to save some (but not all) family members from known future disasters, and so on, I couldn’t avoid the feeling that it was all rather mundane.
The ending likewise, while happy, was a bit of an anticlimax. There was no unexpected twist in the tale.
Again, having said that, the author has many contemporary references to North American people/places/events in the later decades of the 20th century, which others would appreciate more than I did, not being an American or Canadian. For them this book might well be worth a 5th star.
But the main character's pain at losing forever the family he had in 'Life I'—because the future is irrevocably changed when he moves back in time—is very well brought out.
Having said that, I have to confess that for me the story dragged after the exciting opening in which Max discovers the possibility of time-travel and ends up back in his 16-year-old high school body. The rest of the book shows his struggles to adapt and succeed in the new timeline—Life II, as he calls it—and was (to me) mildly interesting as he does manage to correct Life I mistakes and also to achieve the profession and income he'd missed out on in the original timeline. But despite occasional highs like his new love-interest, his successful (and unsuccessful) adventures on the stock market, the way he manages to save some (but not all) family members from known future disasters, and so on, I couldn’t avoid the feeling that it was all rather mundane.
The ending likewise, while happy, was a bit of an anticlimax. There was no unexpected twist in the tale.
Again, having said that, the author has many contemporary references to North American people/places/events in the later decades of the 20th century, which others would appreciate more than I did, not being an American or Canadian. For them this book might well be worth a 5th star.
May 7, 2013
Time travel is an enigmatic subject and one that has been used and abused in many contexts. Clearly there are a lot of possibilities with time travel from an author's perspective but all too often the events become confusing, doubtful or bogged down in the mundane discussion of paradoxes.
In "Life II" Scott Spotson has made a refreshing break from these issues and we focus instead more on the effect of the protagonists' choices and the ramifications of those all too swiftly taken decisions. What we get is a tale of self-inflicted challenge, excitement, despair, renewal and grief.
What Spotson delivers is a very neatly balanced discussion of time travel wrapped inside an emotionally gripping story. This is not the neat time travel, it is no holds barred, raw and turns out not to be an easy journey. There are many twists and surprises in "Life II". I was deeply impressed by the story line and found it difficult to drag myself away from this book when other duties called.
In "Life II" Scott Spotson has made a refreshing break from these issues and we focus instead more on the effect of the protagonists' choices and the ramifications of those all too swiftly taken decisions. What we get is a tale of self-inflicted challenge, excitement, despair, renewal and grief.
What Spotson delivers is a very neatly balanced discussion of time travel wrapped inside an emotionally gripping story. This is not the neat time travel, it is no holds barred, raw and turns out not to be an easy journey. There are many twists and surprises in "Life II". I was deeply impressed by the story line and found it difficult to drag myself away from this book when other duties called.
December 18, 2015
There are a lot of amazing books in the Time Travel genre. Sadly, this is not one of them. If you loved Ken Grimwood's Replay... you're better off reading it again than wasting your time on this nonsense.
I love the idea of this book - what if you could go back and change parts of your life? What if you could explore the road not travelled? It's a cool sandbox to play in.
But a book has to be about more than ideas. What holds this novel back from achieving its goals is truely horrible writing. We're talking middle school-level sentence structure and dialogue. Characters speak with all the humanity of a technical manual.
If you don't care about the actual quality of the writing and just want to experience the story - read this book.
I love the idea of this book - what if you could go back and change parts of your life? What if you could explore the road not travelled? It's a cool sandbox to play in.
But a book has to be about more than ideas. What holds this novel back from achieving its goals is truely horrible writing. We're talking middle school-level sentence structure and dialogue. Characters speak with all the humanity of a technical manual.
If you don't care about the actual quality of the writing and just want to experience the story - read this book.
July 11, 2017
4 stars!
Scott Spotson’s novel, Life II tells the story of one man who has a chance to relive a portion of his life again. Presented with an opportunity to revisit his past, 42 year old Max Thorning steps into his 16 year old past. With the knowledge of an adult, he must decide on what changes he will make.
I enjoyed it, the book is well written and flows easily and Life II is more a story about choices and what could have been rather then focusing too much on time travel. It is easy to follow.
Overall, it was a good book which I enjoyed so it deserves the four stars.
Scott Spotson’s novel, Life II tells the story of one man who has a chance to relive a portion of his life again. Presented with an opportunity to revisit his past, 42 year old Max Thorning steps into his 16 year old past. With the knowledge of an adult, he must decide on what changes he will make.
I enjoyed it, the book is well written and flows easily and Life II is more a story about choices and what could have been rather then focusing too much on time travel. It is easy to follow.
Overall, it was a good book which I enjoyed so it deserves the four stars.
August 1, 2017
Life II is a very interesting, thought provoking read. Or at least it was for the mid-thirties man that I am.
Even though I didn’t like many of the characters or appreciate their choices, I could relate to them. Those characters were human, with flaws, shortcomings and qualities. There isn’t any knight in shining armor there, nor is there a mustache twirling villain. In fact, I’d go as far as to say the main character is his own antagonist, and it’s him, or rather his perception of joy and fulfillment he must triumph against (or rather come to terms with).
The pace was even, I can’t say there are climaxes or intense conflict moments, but I found that it suited the novel. I don’t want to spoil anything so I won’t go into much detail, but the novel avoids many tropes and clichés (at least according to what I’ve read and seen) which could have made it eye-rolling or soap opera worth. Instead, the story strikes a middle path, never venturing into an excess of cheese nor going for big shocks or action either.
There was one passage which came somewhat out of the blue considering the rest of the novel concentrated on the human aspect of living your life a second time over. Thankfully, it didn’t even last long enough to leave a lasting impression.
Not being bad isn’t enough to be qualified as good, but despite what I’m describing so far, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Life II.
The core quality of the novel, and what had me enthralled, were the reflections and dilemmas prompted by asking myself “What would I do in his stead?” or just simply wondering how someone must feel after a no going back decision of that magnitude. The angst and bitterness of someone who dives before he thinks (understandably because he’s jaded with his actual life – despite the joys in it) and only realizes what he’s got into once he’s under the surface permeates the main character’s thoughts and actions. Even as he struggles to forge a new path, he’s held back by what he lost and doesn’t dare to completely let it go. It makes for a compelling human drama, and despite the mundane events he goes through, it is more than enough to provide food for thought and delicious one at that.
So, despite a string of events with very little action or shocking surprises, strong characters, unconventional story structure, relatable situations and a deep philosophical quandary, I rate Life II four (4) stars. I highly recommend it to anyone willing to tackle science fiction that raises questions and leaves the reader to decide his own answers.
Even though I didn’t like many of the characters or appreciate their choices, I could relate to them. Those characters were human, with flaws, shortcomings and qualities. There isn’t any knight in shining armor there, nor is there a mustache twirling villain. In fact, I’d go as far as to say the main character is his own antagonist, and it’s him, or rather his perception of joy and fulfillment he must triumph against (or rather come to terms with).
The pace was even, I can’t say there are climaxes or intense conflict moments, but I found that it suited the novel. I don’t want to spoil anything so I won’t go into much detail, but the novel avoids many tropes and clichés (at least according to what I’ve read and seen) which could have made it eye-rolling or soap opera worth. Instead, the story strikes a middle path, never venturing into an excess of cheese nor going for big shocks or action either.
There was one passage which came somewhat out of the blue considering the rest of the novel concentrated on the human aspect of living your life a second time over. Thankfully, it didn’t even last long enough to leave a lasting impression.
Not being bad isn’t enough to be qualified as good, but despite what I’m describing so far, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Life II.
The core quality of the novel, and what had me enthralled, were the reflections and dilemmas prompted by asking myself “What would I do in his stead?” or just simply wondering how someone must feel after a no going back decision of that magnitude. The angst and bitterness of someone who dives before he thinks (understandably because he’s jaded with his actual life – despite the joys in it) and only realizes what he’s got into once he’s under the surface permeates the main character’s thoughts and actions. Even as he struggles to forge a new path, he’s held back by what he lost and doesn’t dare to completely let it go. It makes for a compelling human drama, and despite the mundane events he goes through, it is more than enough to provide food for thought and delicious one at that.
So, despite a string of events with very little action or shocking surprises, strong characters, unconventional story structure, relatable situations and a deep philosophical quandary, I rate Life II four (4) stars. I highly recommend it to anyone willing to tackle science fiction that raises questions and leaves the reader to decide his own answers.
February 28, 2019
I had downloaded this book by mistake but do not regret it.
Life II by Scott Spotson is different from other time travel books as it focuses on the emotional aspect rather than scientific part. The story is good but it is too long
Max travels back in time to undo a tragedy that he caused and that changed his life but is not prepared for the price he has to pay. "What if " is a question that plagues everyone "What if I had done this / not done this" would the result and lifehave been different.What if one could get second chance to undo the mistakes of past life. And if so what would be the consequences. Would it change the future for better or worse. It is a interesting concept. The story begins well but loses track somewhere between and begins a sort of a repeat and a drag.
Maybe if it would have been shorter it would have been better. Maybe I am not finding it great because I am not a very big fan of science fiction but I would still recommend this book as it has a great plot and potential if you can ignore the length
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Life II by Scott Spotson is different from other time travel books as it focuses on the emotional aspect rather than scientific part. The story is good but it is too long
Max travels back in time to undo a tragedy that he caused and that changed his life but is not prepared for the price he has to pay. "What if " is a question that plagues everyone "What if I had done this / not done this" would the result and lifehave been different.What if one could get second chance to undo the mistakes of past life. And if so what would be the consequences. Would it change the future for better or worse. It is a interesting concept. The story begins well but loses track somewhere between and begins a sort of a repeat and a drag.
Maybe if it would have been shorter it would have been better. Maybe I am not finding it great because I am not a very big fan of science fiction but I would still recommend this book as it has a great plot and potential if you can ignore the length
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 17, 2018
An interesting premise and one I enjoyed reading. I got lost a couple of times but overall a fantastic read.
March 25, 2018
Peggy Sue Got Married meets It's a Wonderful Life plus The Strange Life of Ivan Osokin! Life II definitely packs a wallop where regrets and the whims of personality are concerned.
Who WOULDN'T want to go back in time in order to adjust certain situations, "fix" outcomes, change the way things happened?
The premise is intriguing, and from the start descriptions like, "a handshake like grasping a glove full of sand," make the hairs rise on the back of one's neck, anticipating an eerie journey. And the journey for the story's protagonist Max is at times a strange, nail-biting adventure.
Having never recovered from a bad decision made as a youth and the tragic outcome, 40-something Max, hounded by these memories, finds himself, through the mysterious machinations of a "Time Doctor", reliving his life from that early moment on. The catch: he retains his 40-something mind while he re-inhabits his teenage body, and must life out his life until he reaches middle age.
While Max does grow and evolve during his second and short third life, he tended, for me, to remain a somewhat unsympathetic character. We start the story with him disinterested and bored with his marriage, and though this may actually be common with lots of people outside of fiction, Max displays this behavior over and over again, even as he "redoes" situations and events.
He shows scorn for people with religious faith, grows bored with girlfriends quickly, seems to judge people, and definitely needs to be in complete control of everything. These personality traits soften and morph into something more palatable as he grows older and recognizes his own faults and personality quirks and that people are imperfect and that he's actually a very lucky man to have been given the second--and third chances--he received.
It was interesting reliving the '80s and '90s with Max, remembering certain tragic and iconic events and people, and ultimately his journey back into time turned out to be a satisfying full circle, a layered representation of the human experience.
Who WOULDN'T want to go back in time in order to adjust certain situations, "fix" outcomes, change the way things happened?
The premise is intriguing, and from the start descriptions like, "a handshake like grasping a glove full of sand," make the hairs rise on the back of one's neck, anticipating an eerie journey. And the journey for the story's protagonist Max is at times a strange, nail-biting adventure.
Having never recovered from a bad decision made as a youth and the tragic outcome, 40-something Max, hounded by these memories, finds himself, through the mysterious machinations of a "Time Doctor", reliving his life from that early moment on. The catch: he retains his 40-something mind while he re-inhabits his teenage body, and must life out his life until he reaches middle age.
While Max does grow and evolve during his second and short third life, he tended, for me, to remain a somewhat unsympathetic character. We start the story with him disinterested and bored with his marriage, and though this may actually be common with lots of people outside of fiction, Max displays this behavior over and over again, even as he "redoes" situations and events.
He shows scorn for people with religious faith, grows bored with girlfriends quickly, seems to judge people, and definitely needs to be in complete control of everything. These personality traits soften and morph into something more palatable as he grows older and recognizes his own faults and personality quirks and that people are imperfect and that he's actually a very lucky man to have been given the second--and third chances--he received.
It was interesting reliving the '80s and '90s with Max, remembering certain tragic and iconic events and people, and ultimately his journey back into time turned out to be a satisfying full circle, a layered representation of the human experience.
June 2, 2018
Review: LIFEII by Scott Spotson
If you've ever pondered time travel, or wondered what to change if given the opportunity to revisit your past (and who among us hasn't?) prolific author Scott Spotson provides an answer, of sorts, leavened by science fiction, metaphysics, and a heap of philosophy.
Feckless Protagonist Max Thorning is not a happy individual. He loves his children, but not necessarily his wife. He's not successful. He's not a physician; he didn't even complete university. A successful doctor his age has just committed suicide. Yet feckless Max stumbles into an unprecedented opportunity: to return to age 16 and make all new choices, saving another's life and repairing his own. Max doesn't understand that this is not a matter of minutes or hours: this is an entirely new timeline--LIFEII.
If you've ever pondered time travel, or wondered what to change if given the opportunity to revisit your past (and who among us hasn't?) prolific author Scott Spotson provides an answer, of sorts, leavened by science fiction, metaphysics, and a heap of philosophy.
Feckless Protagonist Max Thorning is not a happy individual. He loves his children, but not necessarily his wife. He's not successful. He's not a physician; he didn't even complete university. A successful doctor his age has just committed suicide. Yet feckless Max stumbles into an unprecedented opportunity: to return to age 16 and make all new choices, saving another's life and repairing his own. Max doesn't understand that this is not a matter of minutes or hours: this is an entirely new timeline--LIFEII.
March 29, 2017
I've encountered a number of time travel stories -- in books, tv, and movies -- but this to me is a completely different, yet totally creative spin on time travelling. And while ultimately this is still fiction, I found it to be a very well thought out story, one where the entire story connects and seems logical. Just that alone is enough for me to give this book 5 stars. But there's more.
The story focuses on Max, a regular middle aged guy who would think about the what-ifs in life -- what if he studied medicine instead of being a desk-bound accountant, what if his relationship with his family and friends progressed differently...things would have been much better now. And this wish would come true for Max -- he travels 26 years in time back to his high school years with the earnest hope that, armed with the knowledge of hindsight, he could help the people close to him have a much better life. But as he would find out, things aren't so simple, results don't go the way he would have wanted, and even his very life would be affected in ways he didn't expect.
I was a bit skeptical initially on how the story would pan out but once the story shifted and presented how time travel works, things start to pick up. I got really intrigued with how the story would unfold that it became a real page turner for me. I found a portion of the ending a bit bizarre though, but perhaps the author just wanted to point out the vast possibilities of how people would react knowing such a time travel device exists. Nevertheless I believe the book ended in a fitting manner.
The author's writing style, plus the way in which each chapter was structured made for a very easy read. Very entertaining and something I will definitely recommend to others.
A Final Word: How plausible is this spin of time travel from a realistic standpoint? To me, the main issue that probably prevents me from thinking this is realistic is how to bridge someone's mind/awareness from the present time with his past's physical body. Although this does eliminate the conflict of having 2 versions of the same person. In any case, I am not an expert in this field, but it did elicit some further thoughts on the topic.
The story focuses on Max, a regular middle aged guy who would think about the what-ifs in life -- what if he studied medicine instead of being a desk-bound accountant, what if his relationship with his family and friends progressed differently...things would have been much better now. And this wish would come true for Max -- he travels 26 years in time back to his high school years with the earnest hope that, armed with the knowledge of hindsight, he could help the people close to him have a much better life. But as he would find out, things aren't so simple, results don't go the way he would have wanted, and even his very life would be affected in ways he didn't expect.
I was a bit skeptical initially on how the story would pan out but once the story shifted and presented how time travel works, things start to pick up. I got really intrigued with how the story would unfold that it became a real page turner for me. I found a portion of the ending a bit bizarre though, but perhaps the author just wanted to point out the vast possibilities of how people would react knowing such a time travel device exists. Nevertheless I believe the book ended in a fitting manner.
The author's writing style, plus the way in which each chapter was structured made for a very easy read. Very entertaining and something I will definitely recommend to others.
A Final Word: How plausible is this spin of time travel from a realistic standpoint? To me, the main issue that probably prevents me from thinking this is realistic is how to bridge someone's mind/awareness from the present time with his past's physical body. Although this does eliminate the conflict of having 2 versions of the same person. In any case, I am not an expert in this field, but it did elicit some further thoughts on the topic.
July 31, 2017
Many have pondered on a life lived and if it were possible to return and live it again and remedy errors and mistakes. The time travel theme is not new, however, Spotson’s take on the consequences of change is engaging and thought provoking. I thoroughly enjoyed the novel and found myself yearning to find out what would happen to the protagonist, Max.
While I did not become enamored with the main character, this was hardly a detraction. I actually found it refreshing to have a character embedded with certain flaws and not easily likable. I found the character’s motivations from his first life selfish and judgemental. Max’s journey certainly refined elements of his character, through heartbreak and trial. This refinement is what I was grateful to see. So, while I still disliked the character, I could understand his actions and choices.
I liked the idea that certain events could not be easily changed, even with influences in the second time through life. Also, that through degrees of separation, our actions influence others who in turn impact upon others and so on. These interactions ripple outward and could possibly impact large scale events (such as a presidential election). The way we treat others, for good or ill, will echo through the chasms of humanity.
I give kudos to the author for researching certain events and connecting to pivotal moments in recent history. I liked the character’s perspective of going back with a foreknowledge of technology and events. To be honest, I question whether an individual long removed from events would be able to recall small specific details and dates. This was a big plot element, that the character would use regularly to boost his prosperity. I suppose the fact that he was an accountant would support the premise. However, I believe in the entropy of the brain, and in the erosion of details over time. This was only a small point, and hardly diminishing the effect or theme of the novel.
Overall, I would recommend the novel for those who enjoy the philosophical side of time travel and the effects of our choices, made and unmade. Warning, Canadian references abound, so if you are not brushed up on the finer points of Canada, prepare for an immersion. Oh, and I would have taken a star away for a Calgary Flame reference, which the author thankfully omitted. Well done!
While I did not become enamored with the main character, this was hardly a detraction. I actually found it refreshing to have a character embedded with certain flaws and not easily likable. I found the character’s motivations from his first life selfish and judgemental. Max’s journey certainly refined elements of his character, through heartbreak and trial. This refinement is what I was grateful to see. So, while I still disliked the character, I could understand his actions and choices.
I liked the idea that certain events could not be easily changed, even with influences in the second time through life. Also, that through degrees of separation, our actions influence others who in turn impact upon others and so on. These interactions ripple outward and could possibly impact large scale events (such as a presidential election). The way we treat others, for good or ill, will echo through the chasms of humanity.
I give kudos to the author for researching certain events and connecting to pivotal moments in recent history. I liked the character’s perspective of going back with a foreknowledge of technology and events. To be honest, I question whether an individual long removed from events would be able to recall small specific details and dates. This was a big plot element, that the character would use regularly to boost his prosperity. I suppose the fact that he was an accountant would support the premise. However, I believe in the entropy of the brain, and in the erosion of details over time. This was only a small point, and hardly diminishing the effect or theme of the novel.
Overall, I would recommend the novel for those who enjoy the philosophical side of time travel and the effects of our choices, made and unmade. Warning, Canadian references abound, so if you are not brushed up on the finer points of Canada, prepare for an immersion. Oh, and I would have taken a star away for a Calgary Flame reference, which the author thankfully omitted. Well done!
August 7, 2017
The concept behind Life II was interesting, time travel, but with a twist. Once in the past, there was no going back. However, the story fell flat and didn't deliver for me.
It took awhile to get going, and the slow pace remained throughout the book. The flow was inconsistent at best, and at times just completely stagnant. It was difficult to get into, and even harder to keep reading through the end.
On a positive note, it was interesting to see how going back in time changed Max's life, and how things didn't always play out like they had originally. Most of the characters were fun and likeable, most of the time at least. Even though Max could get annoying at times. But I appreciate the flaws the author included in his character, making him more believable and relatable as a person. His emotional conflicts were also very human, enabling the reader to feel for him and in ways experience what he is feeling.
Some reasons the book bothered me:
Some of the dialogue with Max's friends sounds like high schoolers even though they are middle-aged adults.
The code breaking with the time traveling book was extremely far-fetched and downright laughable. It was way too easy for Max to break the absurd code used.
"Squeezed through the huge front doors."...why would you need to squeeze if the doors are huge?
My least favorite part. Aliens. Yes, that's right, aliens. The whole science behind time travel is all because of aliens. What a cop out. As a reader I felt ripped off. And it's not like the aliens played a real integral part to the story. Their contribution is sending people back in time, controlling the Time Weaver. That's it. That's all we know of them. Just seemed really odd. Didn't like it.
Max's meeting and asking Abby on a date in Life II was so far-fetched. What stranger would set up some random guy with his friend that easily simply because he asked? And the interaction and dialogue with Max and Abby was weird and fake.
Meeting and interactions with Pamela later in Life II are even more ridiculous than with Abby. Everything comes across as completely unrealistic.
Book is extremely long. Feels like almost 80% could be cut and nothing detrimental to the actual plot/storyline would be lost. 75% of the way through the book before there is any serious conflict with others discovering Max's time travel. After about a quarter of the way through the book it was simply dragging. It became almost a chore to finish, reading simply to get to end rather than enjoying the ride.
After losing his fortune, why wouldn't Max just go back in the past again to stop it from happening? He did that very thing when the tragedy of his mom's death struck. Why not here too?
After running into the tree with the intent of possibly milling himself, I can't imagine Max or his car was in any shape to actually drive off.
In the end, Max finally accepts his past life is gone, and is looking forward to his new future. This was a pretty lame end of the book for me, and could've arrived there several hundred pages earlier. There seemed to be little rising action or any kind of actual climax to the story. And the resolution was so simple and left me as a reader wanting more.
The story had potential, an interesting plot in an interesting genre, but for me it totally missed the mark. This is only one guy's opinion, however, and others may very well enjoy this piece. Everyone has their own tastes. This just wasn't for me.
It took awhile to get going, and the slow pace remained throughout the book. The flow was inconsistent at best, and at times just completely stagnant. It was difficult to get into, and even harder to keep reading through the end.
On a positive note, it was interesting to see how going back in time changed Max's life, and how things didn't always play out like they had originally. Most of the characters were fun and likeable, most of the time at least. Even though Max could get annoying at times. But I appreciate the flaws the author included in his character, making him more believable and relatable as a person. His emotional conflicts were also very human, enabling the reader to feel for him and in ways experience what he is feeling.
Some reasons the book bothered me:
Some of the dialogue with Max's friends sounds like high schoolers even though they are middle-aged adults.
The code breaking with the time traveling book was extremely far-fetched and downright laughable. It was way too easy for Max to break the absurd code used.
"Squeezed through the huge front doors."...why would you need to squeeze if the doors are huge?
My least favorite part. Aliens. Yes, that's right, aliens. The whole science behind time travel is all because of aliens. What a cop out. As a reader I felt ripped off. And it's not like the aliens played a real integral part to the story. Their contribution is sending people back in time, controlling the Time Weaver. That's it. That's all we know of them. Just seemed really odd. Didn't like it.
Max's meeting and asking Abby on a date in Life II was so far-fetched. What stranger would set up some random guy with his friend that easily simply because he asked? And the interaction and dialogue with Max and Abby was weird and fake.
Meeting and interactions with Pamela later in Life II are even more ridiculous than with Abby. Everything comes across as completely unrealistic.
Book is extremely long. Feels like almost 80% could be cut and nothing detrimental to the actual plot/storyline would be lost. 75% of the way through the book before there is any serious conflict with others discovering Max's time travel. After about a quarter of the way through the book it was simply dragging. It became almost a chore to finish, reading simply to get to end rather than enjoying the ride.
After losing his fortune, why wouldn't Max just go back in the past again to stop it from happening? He did that very thing when the tragedy of his mom's death struck. Why not here too?
After running into the tree with the intent of possibly milling himself, I can't imagine Max or his car was in any shape to actually drive off.
In the end, Max finally accepts his past life is gone, and is looking forward to his new future. This was a pretty lame end of the book for me, and could've arrived there several hundred pages earlier. There seemed to be little rising action or any kind of actual climax to the story. And the resolution was so simple and left me as a reader wanting more.
The story had potential, an interesting plot in an interesting genre, but for me it totally missed the mark. This is only one guy's opinion, however, and others may very well enjoy this piece. Everyone has their own tastes. This just wasn't for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2016
There's a temptation in all of us dealing with regret of past decisions, to play the 'what if' game, desiring a 'Do Over'. Life doesn't often offer an opportunity to have one of these, and we usually have to deal with the consequences of these decisions, captives of the time stream we live in.
Dissatisfied with his controlling wife and his dead end job, Max Thorning secretly wishes he had a 'Do Over' card to play. When Max picks up an odd multi-language book entitled "Account of Time Travel on Earth Using Wave Theory", the cryptic clues in the book lead him to the chance to go back in time and relive his life. He can only bring his memories with him, but memories of the future can be a powerful thing.
Max's decision to go back in time has far-reaching impact, affecting everyone close to him and changing the course of history. And he quickly comes to realize that the decision to change the past has much greater consequences than the decisions he was attempting to correct. And the cost is far higher than he's willing to pay.
Content:
Violence:
PG - There is little real violence in the novel, although there is a suicide attempt and some gunplay.
Language:
R - The F-bomb is used in several places; on one page it occurs quite a few times. GD is used once. Other foul language is scattered throughout. The Lord's name is taken in vain in multiple places.
Drug Content:
PG-13 Drinking occurs to excess in a few places, and one occurrence ends up with no remembrance of the previous night. There is some offer of pot and minor drugs are mentioned.
Adult Content:
PG-13 - One character is a very active playboy. His escapades are not described, but it's obvious he's moved through many women. There is an emotional affair that destroys a marriage, and a couple live together without marriage for years. There is a gay couple who marry. One character struggles with homosexuality.
Christian content:
None, really. There is some discussion about faith, one character is a believer of sorts, and struggles with the atheism of her partner. There is some discussion about cheating fate, what God intended to happen, and the idea that a soul can only exist in one place at a time. The main character struggles mightily with his selfish mistakes, almost going insane with the shame and guilt.
Final analysis:
Some of this book dragged, and most of it was focused on life drama and comparatives from Life I to Life II. The action was interesting but was not so much an adventure story, although there were places where it paced like one. The characters were relatively believable. The technology differences between 2013 and the Eighties was clearly depicted, and added to the realism. The climax happened a bit early and the ending seemed drawn out. With those issues and the pacing, I didn't quite feel right giving this one more than Four Stars. However, I'll add that it gave me some interest in following it to its sequel, Bridge Through Time.
* I received an electronic copy for an honest review.
Dissatisfied with his controlling wife and his dead end job, Max Thorning secretly wishes he had a 'Do Over' card to play. When Max picks up an odd multi-language book entitled "Account of Time Travel on Earth Using Wave Theory", the cryptic clues in the book lead him to the chance to go back in time and relive his life. He can only bring his memories with him, but memories of the future can be a powerful thing.
Max's decision to go back in time has far-reaching impact, affecting everyone close to him and changing the course of history. And he quickly comes to realize that the decision to change the past has much greater consequences than the decisions he was attempting to correct. And the cost is far higher than he's willing to pay.
Content:
Violence:
PG - There is little real violence in the novel, although there is a suicide attempt and some gunplay.
Language:
R - The F-bomb is used in several places; on one page it occurs quite a few times. GD is used once. Other foul language is scattered throughout. The Lord's name is taken in vain in multiple places.
Drug Content:
PG-13 Drinking occurs to excess in a few places, and one occurrence ends up with no remembrance of the previous night. There is some offer of pot and minor drugs are mentioned.
Adult Content:
PG-13 - One character is a very active playboy. His escapades are not described, but it's obvious he's moved through many women. There is an emotional affair that destroys a marriage, and a couple live together without marriage for years. There is a gay couple who marry. One character struggles with homosexuality.
Christian content:
None, really. There is some discussion about faith, one character is a believer of sorts, and struggles with the atheism of her partner. There is some discussion about cheating fate, what God intended to happen, and the idea that a soul can only exist in one place at a time. The main character struggles mightily with his selfish mistakes, almost going insane with the shame and guilt.
Final analysis:
Some of this book dragged, and most of it was focused on life drama and comparatives from Life I to Life II. The action was interesting but was not so much an adventure story, although there were places where it paced like one. The characters were relatively believable. The technology differences between 2013 and the Eighties was clearly depicted, and added to the realism. The climax happened a bit early and the ending seemed drawn out. With those issues and the pacing, I didn't quite feel right giving this one more than Four Stars. However, I'll add that it gave me some interest in following it to its sequel, Bridge Through Time.
* I received an electronic copy for an honest review.
February 8, 2014
Go back in time with the knowledge of the future? Sure, first order of business—stop the creation of Furbies!
Max Thorning is forty-two years old, with a life ... A real life!
After making a discovery, which in my eyes was a perfect prelude to Max's adventure, he is given a chance to make good or bad of his life...two.
For me, character development is tricky business, and sometimes in writing, characters are molded from a prefabricated notion of what they should be. A hard nosed detective should always be a drunk. A life long dancer should always be tortured and prone to injury. Sprinkle a little tarragon upon their head and you have a totally new and engaging character—nope.
As some of the other reviewers noted, I too feel Max was portrayed very real. Yes, sometimes he makes decisions that are irrational and on other occasions, he makes the perfect move, but this is what makes us genuine.
I'm not one of those people that reads a book and accepts everything as it happens, I want to feel that the characters made realistic decisions, however wrong or right they were, it doesn't matter to me, just as long as it all seems plausible.
And I'm sorry, but going back in time to play the stock market or igniting a series of events that cures world hunger, isn't what happens, and under the sun that plot has been done.
No, Max is in many ways real and flawed, just as we all are.
About the plot. I turn "fan boy" when I read a good story, and this chain of events was, yes long, but the satiety of it leaves you more glad than regretful. I could have taken more from the author, but in no ways, was it needed. My favorites: unexpected meetings, future altering stoppages, future follies, and most important—it was all believable.
Scott Spotson is in many ways—Max's Dr. Time. He has Max strung up at the elbows with fishing line and dances him through time effortlessly, coherently, and above all, entertainingly. This novel is a standard for the care and intelligence that an author should place into a work of art. Paying attention to detail is an understatement for this guy. This plot is smooth like sliding your butt along some velvet, slathered in whipped butter!
If you want to read a Science Fiction book with a time travel premise, which in a multitude of ways was created to stand alone, then please pick this one up. You will not regret it.
Max Thorning is forty-two years old, with a life ... A real life!
After making a discovery, which in my eyes was a perfect prelude to Max's adventure, he is given a chance to make good or bad of his life...two.
For me, character development is tricky business, and sometimes in writing, characters are molded from a prefabricated notion of what they should be. A hard nosed detective should always be a drunk. A life long dancer should always be tortured and prone to injury. Sprinkle a little tarragon upon their head and you have a totally new and engaging character—nope.
As some of the other reviewers noted, I too feel Max was portrayed very real. Yes, sometimes he makes decisions that are irrational and on other occasions, he makes the perfect move, but this is what makes us genuine.
I'm not one of those people that reads a book and accepts everything as it happens, I want to feel that the characters made realistic decisions, however wrong or right they were, it doesn't matter to me, just as long as it all seems plausible.
And I'm sorry, but going back in time to play the stock market or igniting a series of events that cures world hunger, isn't what happens, and under the sun that plot has been done.
No, Max is in many ways real and flawed, just as we all are.
About the plot. I turn "fan boy" when I read a good story, and this chain of events was, yes long, but the satiety of it leaves you more glad than regretful. I could have taken more from the author, but in no ways, was it needed. My favorites: unexpected meetings, future altering stoppages, future follies, and most important—it was all believable.
Scott Spotson is in many ways—Max's Dr. Time. He has Max strung up at the elbows with fishing line and dances him through time effortlessly, coherently, and above all, entertainingly. This novel is a standard for the care and intelligence that an author should place into a work of art. Paying attention to detail is an understatement for this guy. This plot is smooth like sliding your butt along some velvet, slathered in whipped butter!
If you want to read a Science Fiction book with a time travel premise, which in a multitude of ways was created to stand alone, then please pick this one up. You will not regret it.
September 29, 2013
Who could resist the temptation to travel back through time and reinvent earlier versions of one’s life? In Scott Spotson's novel, Life II, a disgruntled middle aged named Max Thorning is given the opportunity to do just that. His goal is simple: Just make a few minor adjustments in the past, and create a new and prosperous future. Simple, or is it?
With the help of a little alien technology Max is catapulted back to his teenage years to what appears to be a pivotal moment in his early life. Almost immediately, he begins to make changes, not necessarily for the better.
What I loved about this book was the smooth, consistent writing and the believable characters. In particular, I enjoyed the anti-hero approach Mr. Spotson takes with his principal character, Max. Max is likeable and intelligent, but also sometimes selfish and shallow. You know, human! I also enjoyed how the author illustrated the affects that Max’s trek through time had on the world around him. The impact was small at the epicenter, but radiated far beyond Max’s direct influence, nicely done.
My only concerns with the book were the alien time keepers in the story, and the speed with which some of the events seem to happen. No sooner we meet max than he’s back in the past reliving his life. The pace is quick, but written so well that you aren’t thrown for off the story. As for the aliens, the author doesn’t reveal much about why they would participate in these selfish journeys through the timeline. The obvious dangers to the rest of the planet seemed distilled down to mere personal inconveniences.
Nevertheless, of all of the time travel stories I have read lately, I’m most fond of this one. Heck, I think I’ll read it again.
With the help of a little alien technology Max is catapulted back to his teenage years to what appears to be a pivotal moment in his early life. Almost immediately, he begins to make changes, not necessarily for the better.
What I loved about this book was the smooth, consistent writing and the believable characters. In particular, I enjoyed the anti-hero approach Mr. Spotson takes with his principal character, Max. Max is likeable and intelligent, but also sometimes selfish and shallow. You know, human! I also enjoyed how the author illustrated the affects that Max’s trek through time had on the world around him. The impact was small at the epicenter, but radiated far beyond Max’s direct influence, nicely done.
My only concerns with the book were the alien time keepers in the story, and the speed with which some of the events seem to happen. No sooner we meet max than he’s back in the past reliving his life. The pace is quick, but written so well that you aren’t thrown for off the story. As for the aliens, the author doesn’t reveal much about why they would participate in these selfish journeys through the timeline. The obvious dangers to the rest of the planet seemed distilled down to mere personal inconveniences.
Nevertheless, of all of the time travel stories I have read lately, I’m most fond of this one. Heck, I think I’ll read it again.
July 14, 2013
There's a lot to like about this book, starting with extraterrestrials who make travel to the past possible. They're a little odd but congenial enough, and look much like ourselves. Still, we've run into Aliens before -- decades of Star Trek -- so the question lingers, can we trust them? Can we trust Dr. Time, their purveyor of Time Travel?
The mode of Time Travel is refreshing, not heavy with alternate timelines, technical problems, liftoff miscalculations, or arrivals au naturel. And the science is palatable, with departure scenes that are fascinating and a pleasure to read. But mind the details. These are one-way trips to the past, limited to the Traveler's own lifetime, and return to the future is accomplished the old-fashioned way, living it day by day. Therein lie the problems. The story is about choices, not the science.
I like the author's skill in drawing characters with more show than tell, just enough for me to picture and understand. Max, the self-centered protagonist and emotional wreck, tested my patience with bad decisions, questionable comments, and a proclivity for lying, but that was the point. I came to understand; it works well in the story.
"Life II" is a full length novel but an easy read with a number of surprises. Quite enjoyable and much to think about.
The mode of Time Travel is refreshing, not heavy with alternate timelines, technical problems, liftoff miscalculations, or arrivals au naturel. And the science is palatable, with departure scenes that are fascinating and a pleasure to read. But mind the details. These are one-way trips to the past, limited to the Traveler's own lifetime, and return to the future is accomplished the old-fashioned way, living it day by day. Therein lie the problems. The story is about choices, not the science.
I like the author's skill in drawing characters with more show than tell, just enough for me to picture and understand. Max, the self-centered protagonist and emotional wreck, tested my patience with bad decisions, questionable comments, and a proclivity for lying, but that was the point. I came to understand; it works well in the story.
"Life II" is a full length novel but an easy read with a number of surprises. Quite enjoyable and much to think about.
July 10, 2016
You had a very good start in life; you had some good things after and others not so good later. Now, imagine that an alien is giving you - a forty something years old - the chance to sneak back in time, take over your young adult body while keeping your actual experience. Then imagine disregarding a very important part of your previous life, a slip that will completely ruin your new beginning. Life II is the story of a man having his life’s chance to start everything again, only to screw it. Max has to deal with the consequences of his own choice, and the book is more about his struggles to recalibrate his life, dealing with a complexity that can’t be reproduced again, than about time travel. It is a young adult book, flowing well for about two thirds, up to the point where everything starts to run too fast, after Max’s decision to quit his medical position (a decision that came from nowhere) and Pam’s ‘announcement’ to leave him that was handled in just half of a page. From all the characters, Garfield was the most likeable while Nathan was inserted just to have a politically correct overview.
In the end an enjoyable read.
In the end an enjoyable read.
September 30, 2016
Enjoyable, but not compelling enough to see through to the end. It has to be tough to write in different voices that we have at different ages, and to even "act our age" when, mentally, we are not that age. I believe that very jarring (in my opinion) experience would be far more difficult than many think, and I would like to have seen that in the book. Not just "playing along," but really operating as someone of a much younger age. Put a 4o-year-old mind in a 15-year-old body, and that 40-year-old would have a tough time playing true to age. Not a criticism of the book, just an observation.
That is not to take away from the enjoyment of the book, and some of the excellent concepts. The rotating Dr. Time concept is wonderful, and the author does a great job with the already-been-done "getting a second chance to do it over again" trope from popular culture, and instead focuses on reliving and just appreciating both the positives and negatives of one's past. Overall, I enjoyed Life II, and recommend it to fans of the back-in-time, do-it-again genre.
That is not to take away from the enjoyment of the book, and some of the excellent concepts. The rotating Dr. Time concept is wonderful, and the author does a great job with the already-been-done "getting a second chance to do it over again" trope from popular culture, and instead focuses on reliving and just appreciating both the positives and negatives of one's past. Overall, I enjoyed Life II, and recommend it to fans of the back-in-time, do-it-again genre.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2017
A 42 year old man is given the chance to go back and re-live his life, starting at 16, but retaining all the knowledge and memories of his 42 year old self.
The basic ideas / concepts in this book are really good, if you had the chance to go back in time and change your life would it work out any better or would it just be a different series of disappointments? In particular I enjoyed the way that every “benefit / improvement” that the man made to his life seemed to be balanced with a “loss” in another area of his existence.
The idea of time travel being a ‘memory leap’ rather than a ‘physical leap’ was a good plot device and the mental anguish caused to main character seemed logical. But there were a few times when I thought the main character’s decisions were a bit odd, his interactions with people seemed too simple and in a few places I thought the writing could have been tighter.
The basic ideas / concepts in this book are really good, if you had the chance to go back in time and change your life would it work out any better or would it just be a different series of disappointments? In particular I enjoyed the way that every “benefit / improvement” that the man made to his life seemed to be balanced with a “loss” in another area of his existence.
The idea of time travel being a ‘memory leap’ rather than a ‘physical leap’ was a good plot device and the mental anguish caused to main character seemed logical. But there were a few times when I thought the main character’s decisions were a bit odd, his interactions with people seemed too simple and in a few places I thought the writing could have been tighter.
July 4, 2016
Fast, easy reading that seems written for young adults. Young, like tweenies.
I remember reading two time travel stories as a teenager in high school. Both stories stuck with me (though I can no longer remember the titles or authors). I still enjoy stories that challenge my perception of time. Sorry, but this story didn't make much impression on me as an adult.
The words were simple. Sentence structure was simple. Concepts were simple, though not always plausible. There were a few sections where the author introduces teenage sex fantasies, perhaps to appeal to a older audience. Nothing that tweenies couldn't (or shouldn't) handle. The best I can say is that it was a fast read and a reasonable introduction to time travel for younger readers.
I remember reading two time travel stories as a teenager in high school. Both stories stuck with me (though I can no longer remember the titles or authors). I still enjoy stories that challenge my perception of time. Sorry, but this story didn't make much impression on me as an adult.
The words were simple. Sentence structure was simple. Concepts were simple, though not always plausible. There were a few sections where the author introduces teenage sex fantasies, perhaps to appeal to a older audience. Nothing that tweenies couldn't (or shouldn't) handle. The best I can say is that it was a fast read and a reasonable introduction to time travel for younger readers.
July 30, 2017
The premise of the book is definitely interesting. Max is an unlikeable hero, completely self obsessed selfish, thoughtless, terrible husband, father, son, brother and friend. He basically treats almost everyone he meets poorly at some point. Having a second chance he seems to pursue all the wrong things to make him happy which I guess is the point of the story. The quality of the writing is terrible but the overall message to be careful what you wish for, expect the past and live for the present keeps you reading just to see how it all works out.
August 23, 2016
Sorry this book was pretty terrible. I love the concept of time travel and I thought the premise of this book was interesting. The actual story was so lacking in anything that the reader could connect with and the main character was such a nut job this book was painful to read. There were also at least two points in the book when major things happened and the reader wasn't part of the experience, it was just like "BAM!, here is a change deal with it". I will not be reading the sequel.
August 8, 2017
I debated stopping halfway through, but I eventually finished it. The concept is sound, but the writing is not very mature. It reads like a YA novel that could be shorter. The good thing is that you can cruise through the book rather than need to concentrate. I wish we could give half stars, since giving it two feels a little harsh, but giving it three is a bit too generous. I doubt I will be reading the sequel.
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