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The Time Travel Chronicles #5
Samurai Steal
Every Samurai knows a sword contains the soul of the warrior it was made for.
With Riley missing, Madison teams up with Recall to do a time travel heist.
Accompanied by her friend Chi, she travels back to Edo Japan, circa 1600, to steal the Dragon's Breath, an ancient Samurai sword with a rich source of temporal power in the handle.
A Recall agent in the period helps them get jobs as entertainers in the home of the family protecting the sword. By day, the girls practise their routine. By night, among the blossoms of a Japanese garden, they make plans to steal the sword which is guarded by a trio of powerful Samurai. Brute force is not an option; it's the ninja's art they must learn to achieve their goal.
Will they secure the blade and get Riley back? Or will the enemy agent betray them and leave them at the mercy of some of history's fiercest warriors?
A high-stakes, fast-paced time travel adventure in Edo Japan.
With Riley missing, Madison teams up with Recall to do a time travel heist.
Accompanied by her friend Chi, she travels back to Edo Japan, circa 1600, to steal the Dragon's Breath, an ancient Samurai sword with a rich source of temporal power in the handle.
A Recall agent in the period helps them get jobs as entertainers in the home of the family protecting the sword. By day, the girls practise their routine. By night, among the blossoms of a Japanese garden, they make plans to steal the sword which is guarded by a trio of powerful Samurai. Brute force is not an option; it's the ninja's art they must learn to achieve their goal.
Will they secure the blade and get Riley back? Or will the enemy agent betray them and leave them at the mercy of some of history's fiercest warriors?
A high-stakes, fast-paced time travel adventure in Edo Japan.
312 pages, Paperback
Published September 9, 2024
About the author
Paulene Turner
23 books35 followersI am the author of a six-book YA time travel series, called The Time Travel Chronicles. Secrets of the Nile, book one in the series, will be released on 18 July, 2023. I hope to release books two and three by the end of the year and the final three in 2024.
Creating this series has been the most fun I’ve ever had as a writer. It took me over a decade to write, involved researching five historical periods and tapping out over half a million words!
The process for each book began with research. I spent a couple of months reading as much as I could on each new period and taking notes. I usually filled an A4 notebook and more with details — not of historic events or real characters — but of the way people lived. I focused on the food, the homes, the social order, courting rituals, the general vibe of a place, ferreting out as many true details (especially the gory ones) as I could find. Only when I felt I had inhaled the essence of each period did I sit down to write.
Once I had a completed manuscript, I edited it multiple times, before giving it to my family to read — they’re all good writers and structural editors. They gave me notes. Then my script editor went over it…more notes. And some people from my writing group looked at parts of it…notes, notes, notes. I also had input from my writing teachers at the Faber Academy. Plus sensitivity readers when cultural issues arose. The proof reader mopped up what was left!
And so…after that looong process of writing and revising, I’m now here, preparing to launch my first baby out into the world.
Creating this series has been the most fun I’ve ever had as a writer. It took me over a decade to write, involved researching five historical periods and tapping out over half a million words!
The process for each book began with research. I spent a couple of months reading as much as I could on each new period and taking notes. I usually filled an A4 notebook and more with details — not of historic events or real characters — but of the way people lived. I focused on the food, the homes, the social order, courting rituals, the general vibe of a place, ferreting out as many true details (especially the gory ones) as I could find. Only when I felt I had inhaled the essence of each period did I sit down to write.
Once I had a completed manuscript, I edited it multiple times, before giving it to my family to read — they’re all good writers and structural editors. They gave me notes. Then my script editor went over it…more notes. And some people from my writing group looked at parts of it…notes, notes, notes. I also had input from my writing teachers at the Faber Academy. Plus sensitivity readers when cultural issues arose. The proof reader mopped up what was left!
And so…after that looong process of writing and revising, I’m now here, preparing to launch my first baby out into the world.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
September 6, 2024
Continuing from Black Tides The previous book to Samurai Steal Maddy, friends are back in Australia. But life feels a bit different everything is off. There are character dressed people from different time periods being reported. One person seems to have disappeared from the group and others have been brought closer that person is Riley.
With all these particular time periods coming forward it makes Madison Question what is really going on. New friends have made it into her life while she explains some confusion life seems to be different. Caught between holding some secrets due to Recall and at the same time trying to balance secrets. Her parents now overworrying she seems to lack getting away.
Until someone lets her know that they may have a solution... I would give this book six stars due to the addictive reading, unique and great writing style. I highly recommend this book series and Author.
With all these particular time periods coming forward it makes Madison Question what is really going on. New friends have made it into her life while she explains some confusion life seems to be different. Caught between holding some secrets due to Recall and at the same time trying to balance secrets. Her parents now overworrying she seems to lack getting away.
Until someone lets her know that they may have a solution... I would give this book six stars due to the addictive reading, unique and great writing style. I highly recommend this book series and Author.
September 17, 2024
In Samurai Steal, our beloved time traveler Madison Bryant is taken to Edo, Japan in the 1600s. As with the other books in this series, Samurai Steal will keep you on the edge of your seat guessing what is to come next. In true Paulene Turner fashion, there are enough twists and turns in this novel that makes you feel like you're in a labyrinth, which I love to try to solve the mysteries bestowed upon me. But also in Paulene's creativity, once we get out of the maze, ready for answers, we get some, but are left with a cliffhanger full of new questions that equally need to be answered. I, as a reader, am eagerly anticipating to get those answers in the next and final book to the series Point of Origin.
With my other reviews in the series, I have said that you could probably read any of the books out of order and still enjoy them as Paulene will get you caught up to what is happening in the beginning. With this book, I would definitely recommend reading Black Tides for sure. The ending to that one was wildly profound that knocked me off my seat and had me thinking about it for days after. We pick up at the same spot in Samurai Steal as was ended with Black Tides. I really love this series, and hope if you are reading this right now on whether or not to take a chance on this author, I say go all out for it. You will not be displeased.
I woke up in the middle of the night, processing my thoughts on writing this review for Samurai Steal, and I couldn't think of the last series I was equally excited for. The more I thought, I went through a list in my head. Hunger Games? No. I tried reading the first book, but stopped. I enjoyed the movies, though. Percy Jackson? I read the first three books and stopped. Harry Potter, perhaps? About 30 years ago. Yes, I think maybe that's it! But whenever I engage in Harry Potter, usually now days by a rewatch of the movie during the fall, I always think, you know Hermione is a better wizard than the title role and I wish she had her own series. I think that's why I love Maddy from The Time Travel Chronicles by Paulene Turner. She's got spunk like Hermione, and in this series leading back to Secrets of the Nile, she leads the series with an appeal of human flaws that we all can relate to. If you are a teen experiencing crushes and emotional investments, you will enjoy this book. If you are an adult, you will enjoy it just as much, reminiscing and growing in nostalgia at the adventures of a female strong lead that in some capacity we can see ourselves in like a mirror. To top it all off, we have the exhilarating journey of time travel and places we can get lost in through the talented creativity and world building of Paulene Turner.
So, if you have read all of the other books, especially Black Tides, definitely get your hands on this one too! If you don't know this series or author, pick up one of her books and you'll be in for a real treat! Not only for a fun time reading about the adventures, but the book covers done by Holly Dunn will look like a completed artistic masterpiece sitting on your bookshelf!
(PS. You're going to love Kiku in Samurai Steal, my favorite new character to the series. Hilarity ensues. Trust me.)
With my other reviews in the series, I have said that you could probably read any of the books out of order and still enjoy them as Paulene will get you caught up to what is happening in the beginning. With this book, I would definitely recommend reading Black Tides for sure. The ending to that one was wildly profound that knocked me off my seat and had me thinking about it for days after. We pick up at the same spot in Samurai Steal as was ended with Black Tides. I really love this series, and hope if you are reading this right now on whether or not to take a chance on this author, I say go all out for it. You will not be displeased.
I woke up in the middle of the night, processing my thoughts on writing this review for Samurai Steal, and I couldn't think of the last series I was equally excited for. The more I thought, I went through a list in my head. Hunger Games? No. I tried reading the first book, but stopped. I enjoyed the movies, though. Percy Jackson? I read the first three books and stopped. Harry Potter, perhaps? About 30 years ago. Yes, I think maybe that's it! But whenever I engage in Harry Potter, usually now days by a rewatch of the movie during the fall, I always think, you know Hermione is a better wizard than the title role and I wish she had her own series. I think that's why I love Maddy from The Time Travel Chronicles by Paulene Turner. She's got spunk like Hermione, and in this series leading back to Secrets of the Nile, she leads the series with an appeal of human flaws that we all can relate to. If you are a teen experiencing crushes and emotional investments, you will enjoy this book. If you are an adult, you will enjoy it just as much, reminiscing and growing in nostalgia at the adventures of a female strong lead that in some capacity we can see ourselves in like a mirror. To top it all off, we have the exhilarating journey of time travel and places we can get lost in through the talented creativity and world building of Paulene Turner.
So, if you have read all of the other books, especially Black Tides, definitely get your hands on this one too! If you don't know this series or author, pick up one of her books and you'll be in for a real treat! Not only for a fun time reading about the adventures, but the book covers done by Holly Dunn will look like a completed artistic masterpiece sitting on your bookshelf!
(PS. You're going to love Kiku in Samurai Steal, my favorite new character to the series. Hilarity ensues. Trust me.)
September 29, 2024
5 stars = As enjoyable as Black Tides!
After reading Books 3 and 4 of Paulene Turner's Time Travel Chronicles this summer, I was very impatient for Book 5, Samurai Steal, to show up! And now I'm waiting very impatiently for Book 6!
Samurai Steal was much shorter than the four previous books, but still just as enjoyable. Maddy and her friend have a simple mission: go to Edo Japan, steal a well-guarded samurai sword, and get home safely again, all in the hopes of saving Maddy's friend Riley from death in the pirate era. Naturally, things go awry, as time travel adventures tend to do! Rather than being a full-on adventure like the previous books, Samurai Steal serves to solidify many of the plot questions that have been swirling around since Book 3, and prepares us to hurtle head-on into the future for the last challenge. But while we're getting answers, we're still getting a taste of Japanese customs, more weapons training, and just a hint of romance.
This was a satisfying read, and I can't wait to see how the series wraps up!
After reading Books 3 and 4 of Paulene Turner's Time Travel Chronicles this summer, I was very impatient for Book 5, Samurai Steal, to show up! And now I'm waiting very impatiently for Book 6!
Samurai Steal was much shorter than the four previous books, but still just as enjoyable. Maddy and her friend have a simple mission: go to Edo Japan, steal a well-guarded samurai sword, and get home safely again, all in the hopes of saving Maddy's friend Riley from death in the pirate era. Naturally, things go awry, as time travel adventures tend to do! Rather than being a full-on adventure like the previous books, Samurai Steal serves to solidify many of the plot questions that have been swirling around since Book 3, and prepares us to hurtle head-on into the future for the last challenge. But while we're getting answers, we're still getting a taste of Japanese customs, more weapons training, and just a hint of romance.
This was a satisfying read, and I can't wait to see how the series wraps up!
September 15, 2024
I had the opportunity for an advance read of Samurai Steal, all opinions are my own**
I have been hooked on The Time Travel Chronicles since the first book, and couldn't wait to get my hands on the latest, especially since the, ahem, cliffhanger at the end of the last.
In her usual engaging style, Ms. Turner once again brings Madison into another time and place--this time with a new companion from home. We have ninjas, swords, samurais, and tales of family honor. Unlikely allies and new antagonists. A fast pace, high stakes that just get higher, a satisfying resolution, and the setup that will bring the series to conclusion.
True of the entire series, I couldn't put this one down, and couldn't wait to discover what happens next.
The one thing that makes me sad in finishing this book is that only one more remains in the series.
Highly recommend!
I have been hooked on The Time Travel Chronicles since the first book, and couldn't wait to get my hands on the latest, especially since the, ahem, cliffhanger at the end of the last.
In her usual engaging style, Ms. Turner once again brings Madison into another time and place--this time with a new companion from home. We have ninjas, swords, samurais, and tales of family honor. Unlikely allies and new antagonists. A fast pace, high stakes that just get higher, a satisfying resolution, and the setup that will bring the series to conclusion.
True of the entire series, I couldn't put this one down, and couldn't wait to discover what happens next.
The one thing that makes me sad in finishing this book is that only one more remains in the series.
Highly recommend!
October 4, 2024
WOW! I loved this book! I was surprised by the twists within this one, and the different characters made this an amazing adventure, full of excitement. The descriptions are done so well, and give you a great sense of the different times and cultures! This series is one I will be recommending for years to come! Paulene Turner does not disappoint with her creativity, and imagination within each of her books.
December 26, 2024
An absolutely fantastic read as always! The characters in this book felt particularly sneaky and deceptive - I was on the edge of my seat the whole time, questioning everyone and everything. I loved Chi’s role in this book and how she and Maddy took centre stage and worked together to solve their predicaments - they made such a fun and clever team. My heart was racing the whole time while reading it!! Absolutely loved this as always.
September 24, 2024
An enjoyable penultimate instalment to the series. I don’t really buy how easily Madison masters weaponry and combat skills, but younger readers will no doubt enjoy living vicariously through the character.
October 17, 2024
Book 5 of the YA series The Time Travel Chronicles takes us on a journey to Edo Japan. The scene setting is exquisite, think tea houses, manicured gardens and polite society with a myriad of social etiquette rules.
Madison is with her friend Chi as they navigate a world quite alien to them and they team up with Kiku, who has her own game to play.
Maddy is on a quest for an aqua pearl in a bid to right some previous wrongs, but she is not the only one after the jewel. What I particularly loved about this instalment of the series, was the strong female characters, taking what life has thrown at them and rising to the challenge.
Ultimately, this is another action packed novel, but there are some beautiful quiet moments in this book. Plenty of reflection and time to take stock before hurling headlong into the next chapter.
Clever time travel weaving and wonderful storytelling, in this the penultimate book of the series.
Madison is with her friend Chi as they navigate a world quite alien to them and they team up with Kiku, who has her own game to play.
Maddy is on a quest for an aqua pearl in a bid to right some previous wrongs, but she is not the only one after the jewel. What I particularly loved about this instalment of the series, was the strong female characters, taking what life has thrown at them and rising to the challenge.
Ultimately, this is another action packed novel, but there are some beautiful quiet moments in this book. Plenty of reflection and time to take stock before hurling headlong into the next chapter.
Clever time travel weaving and wonderful storytelling, in this the penultimate book of the series.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews