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Splinter Effect #2
Double Shadow: A Splinter Effect Novel
In this thrilling installment of the Splinter Effect series, time-traveling archaeologist Rabbit Ward returns to the past to help save his former adversary and track down a murderous thief in first century Jerusalem.
ROME, 2019. Time-traveling, Smithsonian archaeologist Rabbit Ward is back in the present, but not for long. Helen, his former adversary and growing ally, is in trouble with the law after being framed for a murder she didn’t commit. Stuck in hiding and running out of other options, she turns to Rabbit for help. "Help" in this case involves a trip to first century Jerusalem to track down a mysterious man named Einar Eshek.
But Rabbit won't have to do this mission alone; as soon as he arrives in 68 CE, he meets a younger version of Helen, one who has never met him before. Together, they work to track down Eshek, who turns out to be not only a time-traveling thief, but a murderous psychopath.
As they pursue Eshek through time, Rabbit and Helen feel something even bigger pulling them together. Torn between the two versions of the woman he knows, and with the clock ticking down on Helen’s fate in 2019, Rabbit might have no choice but to betray her past self to secure Helen’s safety in the future. Tensions rise as Jerusalem prepares to go to war with Rome, and Rabbit races to capture Eshek, clear Helen’s name, and make it back to 2019 in one piece—a feat that’s proving to be easier said than done—before everything falls apart.
ROME, 2019. Time-traveling, Smithsonian archaeologist Rabbit Ward is back in the present, but not for long. Helen, his former adversary and growing ally, is in trouble with the law after being framed for a murder she didn’t commit. Stuck in hiding and running out of other options, she turns to Rabbit for help. "Help" in this case involves a trip to first century Jerusalem to track down a mysterious man named Einar Eshek.
But Rabbit won't have to do this mission alone; as soon as he arrives in 68 CE, he meets a younger version of Helen, one who has never met him before. Together, they work to track down Eshek, who turns out to be not only a time-traveling thief, but a murderous psychopath.
As they pursue Eshek through time, Rabbit and Helen feel something even bigger pulling them together. Torn between the two versions of the woman he knows, and with the clock ticking down on Helen’s fate in 2019, Rabbit might have no choice but to betray her past self to secure Helen’s safety in the future. Tensions rise as Jerusalem prepares to go to war with Rome, and Rabbit races to capture Eshek, clear Helen’s name, and make it back to 2019 in one piece—a feat that’s proving to be easier said than done—before everything falls apart.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2026
About the author
Andrew Ludington
3 books65 followersAndrew Ludington writes transportive adventure stories intended to make you forget your commute. He graduated from Kenyon College with a BA in English Literature and lives in Evanston, IL where he moonlights as a technologist for Northwestern University. Splinter Effect is his first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
April 24, 2026
Double Shadow
by Andrew Ludington
Splinter Effect #2
Science Fiction Thriller
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Apr 21, 2026
St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books
Ages: 16+
During a trip for the Smithsonian, time-traveling archaeologist Rabbit Ward walks in on a ritual sacrifice, and he almost joins the victim, but, speaking in English, the murderer lets him go.
Back in his own time, Rabbit is contacted by his former adversary, now friend, Helen, who asks for his help to prove she had no part in a murder, but to get the real murderer, he needs to travel back to 68 CE, Jerusalem.
There, he meets a younger version of Helen who is on her very first mission. Together they track down Eshek, a thief and a murderous psychopath, but they have to chase him to different times.
This book didn't drag on as much as the first book did. The author did a good job blending the past into the story instead of overly describing it as they did in the first.
The story was as straightforward as a mystery/thriller could be, giving just enough info about who they were looking for. I did have that person figured out pretty quickly.
As for content, there is violence and gore, there is 'lead-up', but the 'adult content' is kept behind closed doors.
But I am torn about continuing with the series. This story was good and moved along at a good pace, but there was something missing that made this story feel flat, so it just couldn't reach the next star.
2 Stars
by Andrew Ludington
Splinter Effect #2
Science Fiction Thriller
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Apr 21, 2026
St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books
Ages: 16+
During a trip for the Smithsonian, time-traveling archaeologist Rabbit Ward walks in on a ritual sacrifice, and he almost joins the victim, but, speaking in English, the murderer lets him go.
Back in his own time, Rabbit is contacted by his former adversary, now friend, Helen, who asks for his help to prove she had no part in a murder, but to get the real murderer, he needs to travel back to 68 CE, Jerusalem.
There, he meets a younger version of Helen who is on her very first mission. Together they track down Eshek, a thief and a murderous psychopath, but they have to chase him to different times.
This book didn't drag on as much as the first book did. The author did a good job blending the past into the story instead of overly describing it as they did in the first.
The story was as straightforward as a mystery/thriller could be, giving just enough info about who they were looking for. I did have that person figured out pretty quickly.
As for content, there is violence and gore, there is 'lead-up', but the 'adult content' is kept behind closed doors.
But I am torn about continuing with the series. This story was good and moved along at a good pace, but there was something missing that made this story feel flat, so it just couldn't reach the next star.
2 Stars
April 22, 2026
I was so excited to catch up with Rabbit and Helen again in this fast-paced, action-packed second installment of a series that reminds me so much like an Indiana Jones story only with a wild and crazy time travel twist. I love a good story with a time travel twist and this one checks all the boxes for me.
The book summary basically lays out the primary storyline of Rabbit going back in time to 68CE (which is the same as AD in time travel speak) to help save Helen. There is also a secondary storyline of the war between Jerusalem and Rome and the battles between the Jewish Zealots and the Jewish Sicarii. There is also another storyline of Rabbit and Helen who met and worked together in the first installment. This installment has them working together again, only this time, Helen has no idea who he is because it’s her first assignment. So, Rabbit is determined to help her succeed so that she makes it out alive so that they can meet in the future.
It’s a constant battle for Rabbit and Helen to stay alive and out of the hands of either the Zealot soldiers or the Sicarii assassins. This is the part that I loved, and I totally see a young Harrison Ford like character in the Rabbit with Helen as the feisty and wacky character like Karen Allen. I loved the ending and what a great lead-in to the next installment, that I am so looking forward to reading.
The continuing character development of Rabbit and Helen was well done along with a couple of other ensemble characters. The pacing was, once again, fast and action-packed. The storyline was very interesting and I’m really getting into all the history of the storyline. So much, that it had me googling the time period. The writing was well done and this time around, with the transitions being crisper and more intense. The history of the time periods seemed to flow better with the character’s activities. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.4 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #StMartinsPress #DoubleShadow
The book summary basically lays out the primary storyline of Rabbit going back in time to 68CE (which is the same as AD in time travel speak) to help save Helen. There is also a secondary storyline of the war between Jerusalem and Rome and the battles between the Jewish Zealots and the Jewish Sicarii. There is also another storyline of Rabbit and Helen who met and worked together in the first installment. This installment has them working together again, only this time, Helen has no idea who he is because it’s her first assignment. So, Rabbit is determined to help her succeed so that she makes it out alive so that they can meet in the future.
It’s a constant battle for Rabbit and Helen to stay alive and out of the hands of either the Zealot soldiers or the Sicarii assassins. This is the part that I loved, and I totally see a young Harrison Ford like character in the Rabbit with Helen as the feisty and wacky character like Karen Allen. I loved the ending and what a great lead-in to the next installment, that I am so looking forward to reading.
The continuing character development of Rabbit and Helen was well done along with a couple of other ensemble characters. The pacing was, once again, fast and action-packed. The storyline was very interesting and I’m really getting into all the history of the storyline. So much, that it had me googling the time period. The writing was well done and this time around, with the transitions being crisper and more intense. The history of the time periods seemed to flow better with the character’s activities. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.4 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #StMartinsPress #DoubleShadow
April 16, 2026
Thank you to Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read an advance copy of Andrew Ludington’s Double Shadow, the second book to feature chrono-archaeologist, Rabbit Ward.
What’s a chrono-archaeologist, you ask? Well, it’s an archaeologist who is authorized to time-travel back to a particular time and place to grab/rescue objects before they are lost to time! It’s a fascinating premise and I really enjoyed this book as well as the first book in the series, Splinter Effect. Rabbit is authorized to time-travel by the Smithsonian. There are some who do it without authorization and that’s where things get really interesting.
Rabbit (a nickname, obviously) travels back to Judea in 68 CE from 2019 after he gets an urgent text from Helen, with whom he has both a rivalry and fondness, from previous time-travel experiences. (While you could read this as a standalone, I believe your enjoyment and understanding will be better served if you’ve already read Splinter Effect.) Twist - when he gets there, he does meet up with Helen, but it’s a younger Helen who hasn’t met Rabbit before! This book will definitely keep you on your toes. Helen needs Rabbit to help her track down a man named Einar Eshek, not a valuable antiquity, as is their usual goal. They run into dangerous situations and they have to think quickly to keep from getting killed. There are some rather gruesome scenes along the way, so be advised.
This story shines a light on the political situation in Judea at that time, with Roman occupation and a Jewish revolt brewing, with at least two factions with differing ideas on how to get rid of the Romans.
I loved learning more about Helen and her backstory. I enjoyed the development of Rabbit’s and Helen’s relationship, and how he had to keep in mind that he knew and had worked with/against an older version of Helen, but THIS Helen only met him for the first time. A bit mind-boggling. The historical detail was great - and I’m sure a lot of people will learn a lot via this book.
I love this mix of science fiction, history/historical fiction and mystery/thriller, plus a bit of romance. I can’t wait for book three!
What’s a chrono-archaeologist, you ask? Well, it’s an archaeologist who is authorized to time-travel back to a particular time and place to grab/rescue objects before they are lost to time! It’s a fascinating premise and I really enjoyed this book as well as the first book in the series, Splinter Effect. Rabbit is authorized to time-travel by the Smithsonian. There are some who do it without authorization and that’s where things get really interesting.
Rabbit (a nickname, obviously) travels back to Judea in 68 CE from 2019 after he gets an urgent text from Helen, with whom he has both a rivalry and fondness, from previous time-travel experiences. (While you could read this as a standalone, I believe your enjoyment and understanding will be better served if you’ve already read Splinter Effect.) Twist - when he gets there, he does meet up with Helen, but it’s a younger Helen who hasn’t met Rabbit before! This book will definitely keep you on your toes. Helen needs Rabbit to help her track down a man named Einar Eshek, not a valuable antiquity, as is their usual goal. They run into dangerous situations and they have to think quickly to keep from getting killed. There are some rather gruesome scenes along the way, so be advised.
This story shines a light on the political situation in Judea at that time, with Roman occupation and a Jewish revolt brewing, with at least two factions with differing ideas on how to get rid of the Romans.
I loved learning more about Helen and her backstory. I enjoyed the development of Rabbit’s and Helen’s relationship, and how he had to keep in mind that he knew and had worked with/against an older version of Helen, but THIS Helen only met him for the first time. A bit mind-boggling. The historical detail was great - and I’m sure a lot of people will learn a lot via this book.
I love this mix of science fiction, history/historical fiction and mystery/thriller, plus a bit of romance. I can’t wait for book three!
November 25, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest evaluation of its merits.
Having enjoyed the first book in this series, I was eager to read the second. I am happy to report I was not disappointed. The story was fast-paced and the historical details were fun (and I am assuming accurate). The development of the relationship between Rabbit and Helen was very interesting (and that's all I'll say so as to not spoil anything) and the ending caught me a bit off-guard, but in a good way.
I am looking forward to more books in the series.
Having enjoyed the first book in this series, I was eager to read the second. I am happy to report I was not disappointed. The story was fast-paced and the historical details were fun (and I am assuming accurate). The development of the relationship between Rabbit and Helen was very interesting (and that's all I'll say so as to not spoil anything) and the ending caught me a bit off-guard, but in a good way.
I am looking forward to more books in the series.
January 5, 2026
I received a digital ARC from the publisher. Loved this book as much as the first! Another fun time travel adventure following Rabbit Ward. This book delved into the characters a bit more, which was satisfying. While you could read as a standalone, I would advise starting at the beginning.
April 20, 2026
This entertaining sequel to Splinter Effect continues the story of the adventures of Rabbit Ward, a time traveling archaeologist. In this book, he’s trying to track down someone to clear the name of Helen, his adversary turned friend and potential love interest. But in his trip back to ancient Jerusalem, he encounters a lot more than that - a time traveling Helen from 4 years before he met her, a murderer, a search for the most riches of the Temple, and more!
The first book in this series did not get as much attention as it deserves, so I hope with the release of this sequel people will go back to the first book and then read this one too. The books are such a fun blend of genres - time travel, history, mystery, adventure, and even a little romance. Imagine if Indiana Jones could time travel! This book leaves the door open for a sequel and I’m for sure going to read it. The books would also make great movies or a tv show.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my e-ARC (out 4/21/26); all opinions are my own.
The first book in this series did not get as much attention as it deserves, so I hope with the release of this sequel people will go back to the first book and then read this one too. The books are such a fun blend of genres - time travel, history, mystery, adventure, and even a little romance. Imagine if Indiana Jones could time travel! This book leaves the door open for a sequel and I’m for sure going to read it. The books would also make great movies or a tv show.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my e-ARC (out 4/21/26); all opinions are my own.
April 22, 2026
Time-traveling, Smithsonian archaeologist Rabbit Ward witnessed a horrific murder in the past and barely survived it. Back in the present, he discovers that his former adversary and current friend, Helen, is being framed for a crime he's certain she didn't commit. Her call for help sends him to first-century Jerusalem to find a man who can clear her name. Not only will he find past Helen there, he'll also discover that the man he's hunting is not just a time-travelling thief, but he's the murderous psychopath he faced before. It becomes a race through time to capture the culprit and save Helen, but what will Rabbit have to sacrifice if he hopes to succeed?
We return to the complex world of sanctioned time travel with a trip that tests everything Rabbit believes in. It's fascinating and full of history, but it's also slightly savage and heartbreaking. The disconnect Rabbit counts on of looking at the people he meets as individuals long gone and unassistable will see him face some very tough decisions that come with heavy consequences. He's a fascinating character who fills the page with his personality, so it's great that we get to explore more of Helen and see how interacting with her changes Rabbit in fundamental ways. And it's not just him, major props to Ludington for how he made the villain feel like such an empathetic character that you end up comprehending why he is like he is. I never thought I'd root for the murderer to get treated with compassion, yet here we are.
The plot is a weird mix of fast and slow pacing that sees Rabbit rushing through danger only to then find himself luxuriating in peace. It sounds like it would make reading a chore, but it gives the characters (and the reader) time to fully absorb everything that's going on and all the revelations. It worked to keep me hooked despite some moments hitting a little too hard for my taste.
You can't read this and understand all the nuances and decisions made if you didn't read the first volume, Splinter Effect. Ludington jumps right into the story without much exposition of the world and characters that make this a page turner if you're familiar with them. You might still be able to follow the plot, but I don't think it'd be as enjoyable.
Delighted thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the excellent read!
We return to the complex world of sanctioned time travel with a trip that tests everything Rabbit believes in. It's fascinating and full of history, but it's also slightly savage and heartbreaking. The disconnect Rabbit counts on of looking at the people he meets as individuals long gone and unassistable will see him face some very tough decisions that come with heavy consequences. He's a fascinating character who fills the page with his personality, so it's great that we get to explore more of Helen and see how interacting with her changes Rabbit in fundamental ways. And it's not just him, major props to Ludington for how he made the villain feel like such an empathetic character that you end up comprehending why he is like he is. I never thought I'd root for the murderer to get treated with compassion, yet here we are.
The plot is a weird mix of fast and slow pacing that sees Rabbit rushing through danger only to then find himself luxuriating in peace. It sounds like it would make reading a chore, but it gives the characters (and the reader) time to fully absorb everything that's going on and all the revelations. It worked to keep me hooked despite some moments hitting a little too hard for my taste.
You can't read this and understand all the nuances and decisions made if you didn't read the first volume, Splinter Effect. Ludington jumps right into the story without much exposition of the world and characters that make this a page turner if you're familiar with them. You might still be able to follow the plot, but I don't think it'd be as enjoyable.
Delighted thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the excellent read!
January 17, 2026
Double Shadow: A Splinter Effect Novel is the second entry in Andrew Ludington’s genre-blending series, and it delivers an engaging mix of science fiction, time travel, suspense, and historical adventure that will appeal to fans across all those categories.
In this installment, Smithsonian time traveler “Rabbit” is sent back into Judeo-Roman history to assist a colleague during one of her earlier expeditions—before he even knew her. What begins as a mission to stop a thief from looting valuable artifacts quickly expands into something darker, as Rabbit becomes entangled in the hunt for a serial killer.
Like the first book, Ludington keeps the story tightly structured and full of rich historical detail. However, for me, the sheer volume of background material—while fascinating and clearly well researched—occasionally slowed the momentum. That said, the immersive setting and layered plot more than compensate, and the novel remains a compelling read.
I recommend both this book and the series as a whole. While some sequels work as stand-alones, readers will benefit from starting with Ludington’s first novel, Splinter Effect, before diving into Double Shadow—it deepens the characters and makes the stakes even more satisfying.
In this installment, Smithsonian time traveler “Rabbit” is sent back into Judeo-Roman history to assist a colleague during one of her earlier expeditions—before he even knew her. What begins as a mission to stop a thief from looting valuable artifacts quickly expands into something darker, as Rabbit becomes entangled in the hunt for a serial killer.
Like the first book, Ludington keeps the story tightly structured and full of rich historical detail. However, for me, the sheer volume of background material—while fascinating and clearly well researched—occasionally slowed the momentum. That said, the immersive setting and layered plot more than compensate, and the novel remains a compelling read.
I recommend both this book and the series as a whole. While some sequels work as stand-alones, readers will benefit from starting with Ludington’s first novel, Splinter Effect, before diving into Double Shadow—it deepens the characters and makes the stakes even more satisfying.
March 2, 2026
I love following Dr Rabbit Ward through time. (This is the second book in a series so make sure to read the first, Splinter Effect!) This was such an interesting and harrowing adventure, with twists I loved and never saw coming. It was hard to put this one down. If you love sci-fi with a historical twist, or chasing down a serial killer while finding a slow burn romance spanning two thousand years, you’re going to love this book!
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the eARC of this book.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Archaeologists dig up formerly hidden caches of important artifacts all the time. As often as Egypt’s Valley of the Kings has been explored and looted over the millennia, the last undiscovered royal tomb of the 18th Egyptian dynasty (the dynasty that included Tutankhamun), wasn’t discovered until February, 2025. It’s not that historians and archaeologists didn’t know that Thutmose II existed, or that he must have a tomb someplace, they just couldn’t locate it.
Until they did.
But if time travel were an actual thing, as it is in this Splinter Effect series, such discoveries might not be so uncommon. After all, that’s what Dr. Robert “Rabbit” Ward is famous for – and what his expeditions get funded for. He doesn’t just dig up the past in the present – he goes back to the past and steals or saves (opinions vary) important artifacts and places them EXACTLY where he knows he can find them again in the present.
For Rabbit, it’s about being able to experience history by being there. The artifacts he “finds” are just an excuse to get funding. He’s in it for the adventure – and the thrill of it all.
But just as billionaires pay their way into space travel, in a world in which time travel is a viable technological thing there would be some who would pay their way into the past. Even if the practice was illegal. Which it needs to be because, well, imagine the mess if anyone with enough money could go back in time and manipulate the present?
(It’s been imagined, that’s the story in Nicholas Binge’s Extremity. It’s not a pretty picture. AT ALL)
In this version of time travel, similar to John Scalzi’s 3 Days, 9 Months, 27 Years, the time traveler can’t change their own timeline, but they can ‘splinter’ the timeline to create a different future for a different version of themselves and their world.
They can also go back in time to, let’s say, act out their worst impulses with the certainty that it won’t have any effect on their own present. (A variation of Jack the Ripper’s time travel in the movie Time After Time.)
In this second book in this series, however, Rabbit’s motives for this particular jaunt back to the waning days of the Second Temple period of Jewish history (68 CE), isn’t about an artifact or even a treasure – not that he isn’t using one as an excuse.
He’s going back in time to chase a serial killer and help a frenemy – not expecting the two things to turn out to be the same thing after all.
Escape Rating A: I did read the first book in this series, Splinter Effect, for a Library Journal review but didn’t write it up because OMG Rabbit’s story in that first one is a fascinating but confusing mess. (I definitely enjoyed it, I just couldn’t wrap my mind around a review of the length I use here. I either had too many words or not nearly enough.)
This second book is even more fascinating, because there’s a bit more of a through line to tie the past, present, present past (that makes sense in the story, I swear), and the unknown future together into a rollicking historical adventure.
It helps a lot that Rabbit finally figures out his weird relationship with frenemy/rival time traveler (Dr.) Helen Fletcher. I didn’t catch the hints the first time around, because it’s sorta/kinda the relationship in The Time Traveler’s Wife – and I haven’t read that. Also, that impression isn’t strictly correct although it is adjacent.
In other words, the relationship between Rabbit and Helen isn’t as much like The Time Traveler’s Wife as it IS like a different SFnal relationship that was based on that book. By that, I’m referring to the relationship between the Doctor and River Song in Doctor Who (“The Silence in the Library” – and I can’t believe I’m referring to that twice in the same week) in that they’ve met out of order. Rabbit’s first meeting with Helen was in Splinter Effect. Her first meeting with him is here in Double Shadow, back in 68 CE in Qumran. Judaea is about to fall to the Romans, and Rabbit and Helen are caught up in the turmoil that leads to the destruction of the Second Temple and the fall of Jerusalem.
Which leads straight into the other fascinating thing about time travel stories. The “you are there” effect. The reason Rabbit does what he does, the reason Helen got caught up by the same compulsion, the thing that makes this series compulsively readable, is that they are us. They’re people from our time who are able to go back and experience history as it happened who can see things through our eyes.
Including the desire to make things better with the acknowledgement that they can’t. That for them, this is settled history. They can’t save anyone because they are already dead. And they have to do their damndest to experience the world as it was and stand by and bear witness to history even when it’s awful and not lose their humanity in the process.
So we feel for them and with them even as we watch with fascination as history unfolds – very much warts and blood and guts and all. That they’ve brought the excesses of our present into the excesses of the past – which goes back to Time After Time AGAIN – added a touch of mystery to a story that was already riveting – AND opens the series up to further (mis)adventures in its future. And I’m looking forward to reading them!
Originally published at Reading Reality
Until they did.
But if time travel were an actual thing, as it is in this Splinter Effect series, such discoveries might not be so uncommon. After all, that’s what Dr. Robert “Rabbit” Ward is famous for – and what his expeditions get funded for. He doesn’t just dig up the past in the present – he goes back to the past and steals or saves (opinions vary) important artifacts and places them EXACTLY where he knows he can find them again in the present.
For Rabbit, it’s about being able to experience history by being there. The artifacts he “finds” are just an excuse to get funding. He’s in it for the adventure – and the thrill of it all.
But just as billionaires pay their way into space travel, in a world in which time travel is a viable technological thing there would be some who would pay their way into the past. Even if the practice was illegal. Which it needs to be because, well, imagine the mess if anyone with enough money could go back in time and manipulate the present?
(It’s been imagined, that’s the story in Nicholas Binge’s Extremity. It’s not a pretty picture. AT ALL)
In this version of time travel, similar to John Scalzi’s 3 Days, 9 Months, 27 Years, the time traveler can’t change their own timeline, but they can ‘splinter’ the timeline to create a different future for a different version of themselves and their world.
They can also go back in time to, let’s say, act out their worst impulses with the certainty that it won’t have any effect on their own present. (A variation of Jack the Ripper’s time travel in the movie Time After Time.)
In this second book in this series, however, Rabbit’s motives for this particular jaunt back to the waning days of the Second Temple period of Jewish history (68 CE), isn’t about an artifact or even a treasure – not that he isn’t using one as an excuse.
He’s going back in time to chase a serial killer and help a frenemy – not expecting the two things to turn out to be the same thing after all.
Escape Rating A: I did read the first book in this series, Splinter Effect, for a Library Journal review but didn’t write it up because OMG Rabbit’s story in that first one is a fascinating but confusing mess. (I definitely enjoyed it, I just couldn’t wrap my mind around a review of the length I use here. I either had too many words or not nearly enough.)
This second book is even more fascinating, because there’s a bit more of a through line to tie the past, present, present past (that makes sense in the story, I swear), and the unknown future together into a rollicking historical adventure.
It helps a lot that Rabbit finally figures out his weird relationship with frenemy/rival time traveler (Dr.) Helen Fletcher. I didn’t catch the hints the first time around, because it’s sorta/kinda the relationship in The Time Traveler’s Wife – and I haven’t read that. Also, that impression isn’t strictly correct although it is adjacent.
In other words, the relationship between Rabbit and Helen isn’t as much like The Time Traveler’s Wife as it IS like a different SFnal relationship that was based on that book. By that, I’m referring to the relationship between the Doctor and River Song in Doctor Who (“The Silence in the Library” – and I can’t believe I’m referring to that twice in the same week) in that they’ve met out of order. Rabbit’s first meeting with Helen was in Splinter Effect. Her first meeting with him is here in Double Shadow, back in 68 CE in Qumran. Judaea is about to fall to the Romans, and Rabbit and Helen are caught up in the turmoil that leads to the destruction of the Second Temple and the fall of Jerusalem.
Which leads straight into the other fascinating thing about time travel stories. The “you are there” effect. The reason Rabbit does what he does, the reason Helen got caught up by the same compulsion, the thing that makes this series compulsively readable, is that they are us. They’re people from our time who are able to go back and experience history as it happened who can see things through our eyes.
Including the desire to make things better with the acknowledgement that they can’t. That for them, this is settled history. They can’t save anyone because they are already dead. And they have to do their damndest to experience the world as it was and stand by and bear witness to history even when it’s awful and not lose their humanity in the process.
So we feel for them and with them even as we watch with fascination as history unfolds – very much warts and blood and guts and all. That they’ve brought the excesses of our present into the excesses of the past – which goes back to Time After Time AGAIN – added a touch of mystery to a story that was already riveting – AND opens the series up to further (mis)adventures in its future. And I’m looking forward to reading them!
Originally published at Reading Reality
February 1, 2026
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and honestly think I loved the second one even more. Adventure, romance, action, twists and turns.
I believe this one had more disturbing elements, which as a horror reader I loved but you might want to check trigger warnings if you are easily upset by gore.
This book flew by and I loved every minute. I hope there will be a third!
I believe this one had more disturbing elements, which as a horror reader I loved but you might want to check trigger warnings if you are easily upset by gore.
This book flew by and I loved every minute. I hope there will be a third!
April 22, 2026
Real Rating: 4.5* of five
The Publisher Says: In this thrilling installment of the Splinter Effect series, time-traveling archaeologist Rabbit Ward returns to the past to help save his former adversary and track down a murderous thief in first century Jerusalem.
ROME, 2019. Time-traveling, Smithsonian archaeologist Rabbit Ward is back in the present, but not for long. Helen, his former adversary and growing ally, is in trouble with the law after being framed for a murder she didn’t commit. Stuck in hiding and running out of other options, she turns to Rabbit for help. "Help" in this case involves a trip to first century Jerusalem to track down a mysterious man named Einar Eshek.
But Rabbit won't have to do this mission alone; as soon as he arrives in 68 CE, he meets a younger version of Helen, one who has never met him before. Together, they work to track down Eshek, who turns out to be not only a time-traveling thief, but a murderous psychopath.
As they pursue Eshek through time, Rabbit and Helen feel something even bigger pulling them together. Torn between the two versions of the woman he knows, and with the clock ticking down on Helen’s fate in 2019, Rabbit might have no choice but to betray her past self to secure Helen’s safety in the future. Tensions rise as Jerusalem prepares to go to war with Rome, and Rabbit races to capture Eshek, clear Helen’s name, and make it back to 2019 in one piece—a feat that’s proving to be easier said than done—before everything falls apart.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY. THANK YOU.
My Review: Author Ludington...are you stark staring mad?! In this absolutely bonkers passage in world history, which no matter how long the editing process on this story took you were writing while the US political landscape's ablaze with AIPAC news, you release a book set in a rebellious Judea! It's a choice....
So, aside from the geopolitical timing seeming to my eyes a bit on the nose, I was verschmeckeled at the twist of Rabbit...I really wish his nickname wasn't evocative of Rabbit bloody Angstrom, that pusillanimous milquetoast...encountering a younger version of his frenemy Helen from the first book. I know a lot of people who find time travel stories not to their taste for this very trope, to the point of not watching Doctor Who despite the glorious beauty of Alex Kingston as River Song, if you can imagine such masochism, because she meets the Doctor at asymmetric moments in each of their lives. "It can't happen! It's never happened!" Maybe...but don't you crave a Jake-and-Sadie moment from 11/22/63? I, clearly, do not share this cavil. In this particular iteration of the trope, I found a real aha! moment for some things in the first book. I really like that in a series story. I want to feel there are webs of interconnection that I sense but don't yet see because that happens in life as well.
So all that to say I found this story as much to my liking as it's ever gonna get when there are straight people centering it. Rabbit and Helen's dynamic in particular feels richly textured with powerful emotions clashing and shifting in each of them every time they meet. In this story, as Helen does not know Rabbit yet, we get the unedited version of her responses to him. If the fact she's trying to kill him says anything, it's something *good* about her character...she is a professional with clear goals. I admit that, as the story began, I was a bit surprised that Helen reached out to Rabbit for this specific kind of help, but it made perfect sense as I was swept along in the tides of developments. Einar Eshek, our villain, was villainous. Rabbit, our hero, was resourceful, determined, and required always to think on his feet; that's a feat any author who's using this character trait gets kudos from me the more successfully they pull it off. I didn't notice Rabbit navigating his altered relationship to Helen as awkward or forced into convenient resolutions to knotty conflicts. That is a rare compliment from someone like me, very experienced in reading series stories.
I found the resolution to the central conundrum...chasing Einar, exonerating *2018-Helen...fit the facts, satisfied the overarching plot, and resolved the immediate story tensions with a very clear intent to publish more of these characters' stories in the future.
Bring it. Soon, please and thank you.
The Publisher Says: In this thrilling installment of the Splinter Effect series, time-traveling archaeologist Rabbit Ward returns to the past to help save his former adversary and track down a murderous thief in first century Jerusalem.
ROME, 2019. Time-traveling, Smithsonian archaeologist Rabbit Ward is back in the present, but not for long. Helen, his former adversary and growing ally, is in trouble with the law after being framed for a murder she didn’t commit. Stuck in hiding and running out of other options, she turns to Rabbit for help. "Help" in this case involves a trip to first century Jerusalem to track down a mysterious man named Einar Eshek.
But Rabbit won't have to do this mission alone; as soon as he arrives in 68 CE, he meets a younger version of Helen, one who has never met him before. Together, they work to track down Eshek, who turns out to be not only a time-traveling thief, but a murderous psychopath.
As they pursue Eshek through time, Rabbit and Helen feel something even bigger pulling them together. Torn between the two versions of the woman he knows, and with the clock ticking down on Helen’s fate in 2019, Rabbit might have no choice but to betray her past self to secure Helen’s safety in the future. Tensions rise as Jerusalem prepares to go to war with Rome, and Rabbit races to capture Eshek, clear Helen’s name, and make it back to 2019 in one piece—a feat that’s proving to be easier said than done—before everything falls apart.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY. THANK YOU.
My Review: Author Ludington...are you stark staring mad?! In this absolutely bonkers passage in world history, which no matter how long the editing process on this story took you were writing while the US political landscape's ablaze with AIPAC news, you release a book set in a rebellious Judea! It's a choice....
So, aside from the geopolitical timing seeming to my eyes a bit on the nose, I was verschmeckeled at the twist of Rabbit...I really wish his nickname wasn't evocative of Rabbit bloody Angstrom, that pusillanimous milquetoast...encountering a younger version of his frenemy Helen from the first book. I know a lot of people who find time travel stories not to their taste for this very trope, to the point of not watching Doctor Who despite the glorious beauty of Alex Kingston as River Song, if you can imagine such masochism, because she meets the Doctor at asymmetric moments in each of their lives. "It can't happen! It's never happened!" Maybe...but don't you crave a Jake-and-Sadie moment from 11/22/63? I, clearly, do not share this cavil. In this particular iteration of the trope, I found a real aha! moment for some things in the first book. I really like that in a series story. I want to feel there are webs of interconnection that I sense but don't yet see because that happens in life as well.
So all that to say I found this story as much to my liking as it's ever gonna get when there are straight people centering it. Rabbit and Helen's dynamic in particular feels richly textured with powerful emotions clashing and shifting in each of them every time they meet. In this story, as Helen does not know Rabbit yet, we get the unedited version of her responses to him. If the fact she's trying to kill him says anything, it's something *good* about her character...she is a professional with clear goals. I admit that, as the story began, I was a bit surprised that Helen reached out to Rabbit for this specific kind of help, but it made perfect sense as I was swept along in the tides of developments. Einar Eshek, our villain, was villainous. Rabbit, our hero, was resourceful, determined, and required always to think on his feet; that's a feat any author who's using this character trait gets kudos from me the more successfully they pull it off. I didn't notice Rabbit navigating his altered relationship to Helen as awkward or forced into convenient resolutions to knotty conflicts. That is a rare compliment from someone like me, very experienced in reading series stories.
I found the resolution to the central conundrum...chasing Einar, exonerating *2018-Helen...fit the facts, satisfied the overarching plot, and resolved the immediate story tensions with a very clear intent to publish more of these characters' stories in the future.
Bring it. Soon, please and thank you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: April 21, 2026
In Andrew Ludington’s “Double Shadow”, readers return to the adventures of the time traveling archaeologist, Rabbit Ward, that was introduced in the first novel in the series, “Splinter Effect”.
In “Shadow”, Rabbit is finally back in the present day when his adversary-turned-ally Helen reaches out to him with a desperate plea. She is being framed for a murder she didn’t commit and she needs Rabbit’s help to clear her name. The only problem? In order to help Helen, Rabbit needs to time travel to first century Jerusalem to track down a man named Einar Eshek. Used to hunting objects, not people, Rabbit sets out to help Helen and soon discovers that the man he is hunting is not only a time-traveler himself, but a serial killer.
“Splinter Effect” was the first novel in the series, and the debut novel by Ludington. Its unique premise caught my eye, combining archaeology and history with time travel, and it did not disappoint. When “Shadow” came my way there was no doubt I was going to read it but the question was whether I would enjoy it as much as the first and I’m glad to say that I really, truly did.
This is definitely one of those series of books that you should read in chronological order. The plot lines are different but the characters and their backstories, as well as all of the intricacies of the time traveling archaeology component, are introduced in the first novel and you don’t want to miss out, as this will take away your enjoyment from future novels in this series.
Rabbit and Helen have a strong friends-to-lovers thing going on that started to ignite during the first novel and it continues to flame throughout the second. In “Shadow”, Rabbit travels to first century Jerusalem where he works together with a past version of Helen, a version of Helen that hasn’t met him yet in his current time. This element is very “The Time Traveler's Wife”, but that is where the comparisons stop.
“Shadow” has a small but tight knit group of characters that made their appearance in the first novel, so they’re easily distinguishable from each other and the historical specifics of first century Jerusalem are intriguing. Then, of course, you have a few very gruesome murders and some shady identity confusion, and Ludington has drawn you in.
I was intrigued by this series from the start, due to its unique premise, and I continue to be invested in Rabbit and his historical adventures and now there is a will-they-or-won’t-they vibe between Rabbit and Helen that interjects a bit of romantic chemistry into the story line. I continue to be surprised that this series is Ludington’s debut, and I look forward to book three.
Expected publication date: April 21, 2026
In Andrew Ludington’s “Double Shadow”, readers return to the adventures of the time traveling archaeologist, Rabbit Ward, that was introduced in the first novel in the series, “Splinter Effect”.
In “Shadow”, Rabbit is finally back in the present day when his adversary-turned-ally Helen reaches out to him with a desperate plea. She is being framed for a murder she didn’t commit and she needs Rabbit’s help to clear her name. The only problem? In order to help Helen, Rabbit needs to time travel to first century Jerusalem to track down a man named Einar Eshek. Used to hunting objects, not people, Rabbit sets out to help Helen and soon discovers that the man he is hunting is not only a time-traveler himself, but a serial killer.
“Splinter Effect” was the first novel in the series, and the debut novel by Ludington. Its unique premise caught my eye, combining archaeology and history with time travel, and it did not disappoint. When “Shadow” came my way there was no doubt I was going to read it but the question was whether I would enjoy it as much as the first and I’m glad to say that I really, truly did.
This is definitely one of those series of books that you should read in chronological order. The plot lines are different but the characters and their backstories, as well as all of the intricacies of the time traveling archaeology component, are introduced in the first novel and you don’t want to miss out, as this will take away your enjoyment from future novels in this series.
Rabbit and Helen have a strong friends-to-lovers thing going on that started to ignite during the first novel and it continues to flame throughout the second. In “Shadow”, Rabbit travels to first century Jerusalem where he works together with a past version of Helen, a version of Helen that hasn’t met him yet in his current time. This element is very “The Time Traveler's Wife”, but that is where the comparisons stop.
“Shadow” has a small but tight knit group of characters that made their appearance in the first novel, so they’re easily distinguishable from each other and the historical specifics of first century Jerusalem are intriguing. Then, of course, you have a few very gruesome murders and some shady identity confusion, and Ludington has drawn you in.
I was intrigued by this series from the start, due to its unique premise, and I continue to be invested in Rabbit and his historical adventures and now there is a will-they-or-won’t-they vibe between Rabbit and Helen that interjects a bit of romantic chemistry into the story line. I continue to be surprised that this series is Ludington’s debut, and I look forward to book three.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for an Advanced Reader Copy - pub date 4/21/2026. Take time travel and Indiana Jones but with more government oversight and throw in a splash of murder mystery but filter it all through the History Channel. It may sound weird but it really does work. This is the second book in a series so I did miss some of the references but Ludington actually does a good job of making his main character Rabbit Ward and the crew around him feel lived in and real enough that you can glide on into the story. It also helps that, aside from a financing side plot and a spot of foreshadowing, the references don’t provide any heavy lifting for the story itself. Starting in ancient Rome, Rabbit has a brush with a murderer and comes back to his home timeline to find a different kind of problem closing in on his friend/acquaintance/rival/lady-of-interest. Back to the Past, we say! And, after that brief jaunt in the modern world, we spend most of the rest of the book back in 68CE Jerusalem as Rabbit hunts for answers and a very specific man alongside a younger version of said lady-friend. These paradoxes are near things, I tell you, but Ludington manages to avoid any critical fails. In fact, he addresses things like splinters, a nod to the fact that you could split a timeline off if you do something. It’s not a butterfly effect and it’s not always going to happen but there is a chance. Which is why chrono-travel is so highly organized and regulated. Well, that and it being hella expensive.
The book is very strong on historical research and felt grounded in the time period with just enough side-noting and vibe-checks from Rabbit himself. At one point, he found himself wanting to encourage an older woman who had some amazingly “modern” ideas about equality and governance and you could feel his strain in not giving her a push to move it faster (well not much of a push, it turns out…) He kept to his rules, though, and kept on the hunt of treasure or books or what were we looking for again? Oh, yes, this guy who should help clear lady-friend. Slowly but surely, the murder subplot rose higher and tangled up with the main reason for the jaunt to the past. Once that point was hit, things started moving faster… Until they quite suddenly weren’t. There is a strange lull in the third act which, while realistic and intended to heighten emotional attachments, kinda throws off the pacing. I can’t decide if it works or not. Then we have our denouement suddenly and some actual horrors are revealed. Again, I’m not quite sure how I feel about the murderer/antagonists suddenly having a backstory and reasons. It makes sense and yet it feels a bit awkwardly placed.
Overall, the book was a fun read with action, LOTS of history and names and learning, and a likeable (but somewhat less charming than Dr Jones) hero who does what he thinks best and really has a passion for his work. I’ll be interested in seeing where the series goes.
The book is very strong on historical research and felt grounded in the time period with just enough side-noting and vibe-checks from Rabbit himself. At one point, he found himself wanting to encourage an older woman who had some amazingly “modern” ideas about equality and governance and you could feel his strain in not giving her a push to move it faster (well not much of a push, it turns out…) He kept to his rules, though, and kept on the hunt of treasure or books or what were we looking for again? Oh, yes, this guy who should help clear lady-friend. Slowly but surely, the murder subplot rose higher and tangled up with the main reason for the jaunt to the past. Once that point was hit, things started moving faster… Until they quite suddenly weren’t. There is a strange lull in the third act which, while realistic and intended to heighten emotional attachments, kinda throws off the pacing. I can’t decide if it works or not. Then we have our denouement suddenly and some actual horrors are revealed. Again, I’m not quite sure how I feel about the murderer/antagonists suddenly having a backstory and reasons. It makes sense and yet it feels a bit awkwardly placed.
Overall, the book was a fun read with action, LOTS of history and names and learning, and a likeable (but somewhat less charming than Dr Jones) hero who does what he thinks best and really has a passion for his work. I’ll be interested in seeing where the series goes.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
I will start with saying that I have not read the first book in this series, so there's always a risk jumping in without a clue about what is going on, and that's perfectly acceptable for a series that is one long story arc. Fortunately Splinter Effect isn't like that, while there is of course a core arc running through it, this book came off nearly standalone, anything I really needed to know was included. And maybe I've read enough time travel books that all the concepts, especially that of a splinter ,came perfectly naturally. Now of course I got some spoilers for the first book, one almost could have left out mentioning Aaron entirely, but then Rabbit wouldn't be able to talk to Aaron's mom without some background on who they were. It did make me want to go back and read that first book, it sounded like an interesting story there.
What we have here is a bit of an Indiana Jones type story (with main character have an equally fun first name of Rabbit), only with time travel. See, if some artifact got lost in time, say due to a fire, send an archeologist back in time right before its destruction, have him hide it somewhere, and then dig it up again a couple thousand years later. No impact on the timeline since the artifact would have been destroyed otherwise. Easy peasy right?
Only Rabbit isn't time travelling alone. Right before he leaves a burning Rome, he runs into someone who has just eviscerated some poor Roman citizen. A someone who speaks English. The book is a cross between a time travel adventure, and one of those dark police thrillers hunting down a mad serial killer.
And then there's the other fun bit of time travel. Where you can meet someone you already know, before they've met you (and that also means when they did first meet you, they already knew you though you didn't know time...aren't these time travel books wonderful brain teasers!). That kind of things gets all the more interesting when this someone is a someone you might be starting to have feelings for...but they are clueless about you.
Of course I loved the historical aspect of the novel. I knew almost nothing about this time and place, I mean yeah, I knew the Roman conquered Jerusalem, but didn't know the details, the main players, and of course, the treasures.
So this book had a lot of things like I liked, its science fiction, its historical, its a mystery/thriller, and a little bit of romance thrown in. Add in the fact that I liked Rabbit, it made for a very enjoyable read. Seems I'll be having to go back and read that first book after all, too many intriguing hints dropped to simply skip it. And of course, looking forward to a third.
What we have here is a bit of an Indiana Jones type story (with main character have an equally fun first name of Rabbit), only with time travel. See, if some artifact got lost in time, say due to a fire, send an archeologist back in time right before its destruction, have him hide it somewhere, and then dig it up again a couple thousand years later. No impact on the timeline since the artifact would have been destroyed otherwise. Easy peasy right?
Only Rabbit isn't time travelling alone. Right before he leaves a burning Rome, he runs into someone who has just eviscerated some poor Roman citizen. A someone who speaks English. The book is a cross between a time travel adventure, and one of those dark police thrillers hunting down a mad serial killer.
And then there's the other fun bit of time travel. Where you can meet someone you already know, before they've met you (and that also means when they did first meet you, they already knew you though you didn't know time...aren't these time travel books wonderful brain teasers!). That kind of things gets all the more interesting when this someone is a someone you might be starting to have feelings for...but they are clueless about you.
Of course I loved the historical aspect of the novel. I knew almost nothing about this time and place, I mean yeah, I knew the Roman conquered Jerusalem, but didn't know the details, the main players, and of course, the treasures.
So this book had a lot of things like I liked, its science fiction, its historical, its a mystery/thriller, and a little bit of romance thrown in. Add in the fact that I liked Rabbit, it made for a very enjoyable read. Seems I'll be having to go back and read that first book after all, too many intriguing hints dropped to simply skip it. And of course, looking forward to a third.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review of Uncorrected Digital Galley
Robert Ward, better known as Rabbit, serves as the Smithsonian’s senior chrono-archaeologist working in the ancient and classical Mediterranean and understands exactly what is expected of him. Since the late 1990s when time travel became practical, the process was unchanged. Steal the treasure and hide it. Return to the exact spot where you entered the time-space twenty days ago. Go home. Don’t change anything.
As fire engulfed the northside of the Aventine Hill, Rabbit buried the scrolls of Emperor Claudius . . . including the Etruscan dictionary . . . in a thick lead box at the foot of the Domus Tiberiana. He knows Nero will begin reconstruction following the fire, including a pedestrian bridge of the shops that connect the palace to the forum. Rabbit hopes the bridge will keep the box safe, ready for him to excavate when he makes the return jump.
As he returns to his travel point, he hears a man scream. He knows he should ignore it, knows he shouldn’t become involved as the “Don’t change anything” mantra echoes in his head. Another scream . . . and Rabbit decides to investigate.
He realizes it wasn’t the smartest decision he’d ever made when he discovers a tortured man and is attacked by a masked assailant.
Who was the tortured man? And why did the assailant speak to Rabbit in perfect English?
=========
"Double Shadow" is second in the author’s Splinter Effect series, and, like the first book, historical acts are seamlessly woven into the telling of the tale. The story is told around an intriguing premise of traveling back in time to stop current-day time travelers from returning to ancient times and stealing treasures.
Well-defined characters, a strong sense of places, and unexpected plot twists keep the pages turning and readers are sure to find themselves captivated by the suspenseful tale. Although there is sufficient backstory for readers new to the series, readers would benefit from reading the first book to gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their relationships to each other.
Readers who enjoy history along with their mysteries will find much to appreciate here as the story deftly wends its way toward a denouement they simply will not see coming.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#DoubleShadow #NetGalley
Robert Ward, better known as Rabbit, serves as the Smithsonian’s senior chrono-archaeologist working in the ancient and classical Mediterranean and understands exactly what is expected of him. Since the late 1990s when time travel became practical, the process was unchanged. Steal the treasure and hide it. Return to the exact spot where you entered the time-space twenty days ago. Go home. Don’t change anything.
As fire engulfed the northside of the Aventine Hill, Rabbit buried the scrolls of Emperor Claudius . . . including the Etruscan dictionary . . . in a thick lead box at the foot of the Domus Tiberiana. He knows Nero will begin reconstruction following the fire, including a pedestrian bridge of the shops that connect the palace to the forum. Rabbit hopes the bridge will keep the box safe, ready for him to excavate when he makes the return jump.
As he returns to his travel point, he hears a man scream. He knows he should ignore it, knows he shouldn’t become involved as the “Don’t change anything” mantra echoes in his head. Another scream . . . and Rabbit decides to investigate.
He realizes it wasn’t the smartest decision he’d ever made when he discovers a tortured man and is attacked by a masked assailant.
Who was the tortured man? And why did the assailant speak to Rabbit in perfect English?
=========
"Double Shadow" is second in the author’s Splinter Effect series, and, like the first book, historical acts are seamlessly woven into the telling of the tale. The story is told around an intriguing premise of traveling back in time to stop current-day time travelers from returning to ancient times and stealing treasures.
Well-defined characters, a strong sense of places, and unexpected plot twists keep the pages turning and readers are sure to find themselves captivated by the suspenseful tale. Although there is sufficient backstory for readers new to the series, readers would benefit from reading the first book to gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their relationships to each other.
Readers who enjoy history along with their mysteries will find much to appreciate here as the story deftly wends its way toward a denouement they simply will not see coming.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#DoubleShadow #NetGalley
April 22, 2026
Mr. Ludington, are you going to continue this series?
I just finished book one and now book two, and I can happily say that reading these stories feels like an intense vacation through history. As someone from Macedonia, I absolutely loved the Macedonian references—it's not often you see that history captured with such energy! I’m a total history enthusiast but I usually avoid "historical fiction," and this is the perfect blend; it allows you to see the world on the page during tense, authentic moments while still being a total page-turner.
In the Splinter Effect universe, time travel is a reality that changes the entire game of discovery. This is exactly what Dr. Robert “Rabbit” Ward is famous for. He doesn’t just hope to stumble upon the past; he travels back to "save" (or strategically relocate) important artifacts, burying them exactly where his modern-day self knows to look. For Rabbit, the artifacts are just the paperwork that justifies the thrill—he’s really there for the adrenaline of experiencing history firsthand.
However, the series also poses a fascinating moral question: if billionaires can currently buy their way into orbit, imagine the chaos if they could purchase a ticket to the past. In this world, time travel is a viable technology, but it’s a dangerous one. It has to be illegal; the moment wealth can buy the power to manipulate history, the present becomes a fragile mess.
The first book in this series didn’t get nearly the attention it deserved, so I truly hope that with the release of Double Shadow, more readers will discover this world. These books are a fantastic genre-mashup of time travel, history, mystery, and adventure, with just a hint of romance. It’s basically Indiana Jones with a sci-fi upgrade!
Double Shadow leaves the door wide open for a sequel, and I am already looking for news on a book three. That being said, if you don’t read book one, you might feel a little lost—this sequel hits the ground running from page one. I’m already planning to recommend this to everyone, and I’ll happily read a book three (or anything else Mr. Ludington writes) as long as it involves this world.
I just finished book one and now book two, and I can happily say that reading these stories feels like an intense vacation through history. As someone from Macedonia, I absolutely loved the Macedonian references—it's not often you see that history captured with such energy! I’m a total history enthusiast but I usually avoid "historical fiction," and this is the perfect blend; it allows you to see the world on the page during tense, authentic moments while still being a total page-turner.
In the Splinter Effect universe, time travel is a reality that changes the entire game of discovery. This is exactly what Dr. Robert “Rabbit” Ward is famous for. He doesn’t just hope to stumble upon the past; he travels back to "save" (or strategically relocate) important artifacts, burying them exactly where his modern-day self knows to look. For Rabbit, the artifacts are just the paperwork that justifies the thrill—he’s really there for the adrenaline of experiencing history firsthand.
However, the series also poses a fascinating moral question: if billionaires can currently buy their way into orbit, imagine the chaos if they could purchase a ticket to the past. In this world, time travel is a viable technology, but it’s a dangerous one. It has to be illegal; the moment wealth can buy the power to manipulate history, the present becomes a fragile mess.
The first book in this series didn’t get nearly the attention it deserved, so I truly hope that with the release of Double Shadow, more readers will discover this world. These books are a fantastic genre-mashup of time travel, history, mystery, and adventure, with just a hint of romance. It’s basically Indiana Jones with a sci-fi upgrade!
Double Shadow leaves the door wide open for a sequel, and I am already looking for news on a book three. That being said, if you don’t read book one, you might feel a little lost—this sequel hits the ground running from page one. I’m already planning to recommend this to everyone, and I’ll happily read a book three (or anything else Mr. Ludington writes) as long as it involves this world.
April 26, 2026
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Double Shadow by Andrew Ludington is the second book in the Splinter Effect series. The book follows time traveler archaeologist Rabbit Ward tracking down artifacts and criminals.
Rabbit Ward, archeologist extraordinaire and time-traveling artifacts hunter goes back to 68 CE Jerusalem to save his friend Helen from being punished for a murder she didn’t commit. This is past Helen though, they have yet to meet.
Helen and young Helen must work together, he’s in love, she doesn’t know who he is except that he’s from the future like her. Rabbit, however, has to betray Helen so he can create a splinter which might rewrite her whole life.
I enjoyed Splinter Cell very much and this book hits on the same high notes. It’s fast paced, immersive, and incorporates some cool history lessons along the way.
As before, I enjoyed the cleverness of the whole time traveling technology and rules that come with it. As it happens, time travel is controlled by governments around the world as to not be abused, or create splinters. Changing history doesn’t fix anything, but creates an alternate timeline which, if not careful, can trap the traveler.
Old Jerusalem felt very real. A holy place, sure, but one where all three Abrahamic religtions leave togther. Some might not like one another, but they at least suffer one other. The city’s descriptions are very real, rich and bring the dangers of a medieval city whose fortunes are always turning to the forefront.
Unlike the previous book, Double Shadow by Andrew Ludington is not a treasure hunt, but a personal mission. Tracking down a murderous time-traveling thief named Einar Eshek is just as dangerous as it sounds. Time travel is expensive, so Eshek must either be very rich or have rich benefactors, so Rabbit must tread carefully.
The fact that no-one knows his real name or what he looks like doesn’t help.
I have always liked time-travel books, and this one is no exception. This book is an enjoyable yarn, we learn more about Rabbit and Helen and the storyline kept my attention.
Double Shadow by Andrew Ludington is the second book in the Splinter Effect series. The book follows time traveler archaeologist Rabbit Ward tracking down artifacts and criminals.
Rabbit Ward, archeologist extraordinaire and time-traveling artifacts hunter goes back to 68 CE Jerusalem to save his friend Helen from being punished for a murder she didn’t commit. This is past Helen though, they have yet to meet.
Helen and young Helen must work together, he’s in love, she doesn’t know who he is except that he’s from the future like her. Rabbit, however, has to betray Helen so he can create a splinter which might rewrite her whole life.
I enjoyed Splinter Cell very much and this book hits on the same high notes. It’s fast paced, immersive, and incorporates some cool history lessons along the way.
As before, I enjoyed the cleverness of the whole time traveling technology and rules that come with it. As it happens, time travel is controlled by governments around the world as to not be abused, or create splinters. Changing history doesn’t fix anything, but creates an alternate timeline which, if not careful, can trap the traveler.
Old Jerusalem felt very real. A holy place, sure, but one where all three Abrahamic religtions leave togther. Some might not like one another, but they at least suffer one other. The city’s descriptions are very real, rich and bring the dangers of a medieval city whose fortunes are always turning to the forefront.
Unlike the previous book, Double Shadow by Andrew Ludington is not a treasure hunt, but a personal mission. Tracking down a murderous time-traveling thief named Einar Eshek is just as dangerous as it sounds. Time travel is expensive, so Eshek must either be very rich or have rich benefactors, so Rabbit must tread carefully.
The fact that no-one knows his real name or what he looks like doesn’t help.
I have always liked time-travel books, and this one is no exception. This book is an enjoyable yarn, we learn more about Rabbit and Helen and the storyline kept my attention.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Double Shadow by Andrew Ludington is a highly recommended time travel/historical fiction novel. This is the second novel in the series, following Splinter Effect, featuring Robert "Rabbit" Ward.
Rabbit Ward is a chrono-archaeologist who travels through time for the Smithsonian on sponsored expeditions to the past to secure precious artifacts moments before they are lost to history. But in this outing he travels to Jerusalem in 68 CE, to help save his now ally but former adversary, Helen. She is in hiding after being framed for a murder, so she turned to Rabbit to help find Einar Eshek, a murderous thief in first century Jerusalem. Rabbit and Helen determine that Eshek is thief, but also a murderous psychopath. Tension rise due to the search but also because Jerusalem is preparing to go to war with Rome.
This is another well-written historical fiction time travel adventure. Expect many historical details while reading, which will be appreciated best by those who enjoy detailed historical fiction. There is also plenty of further character development of relationships introduced in the first novel.
Personally, I'd recommend reading the series in order, first Splinter Effect, then Double Shadow, because of the continuing character development, histories, and the continuing relationship between Rabbit and Helen. The first novel also explains the time traveling procedures and along with all ethical archaeological considerations involved is traveling back in time to collect historical artifacts before they are lost. This is an imaginative action story, but is mostly a historical fiction novel.
Double Shadow is a great choice for those who are following the series, and anyone who enjoys history and the idea of a time traveling archeologist should start reading reading it. Thanks to St. Martin's Press for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
Rabbit Ward is a chrono-archaeologist who travels through time for the Smithsonian on sponsored expeditions to the past to secure precious artifacts moments before they are lost to history. But in this outing he travels to Jerusalem in 68 CE, to help save his now ally but former adversary, Helen. She is in hiding after being framed for a murder, so she turned to Rabbit to help find Einar Eshek, a murderous thief in first century Jerusalem. Rabbit and Helen determine that Eshek is thief, but also a murderous psychopath. Tension rise due to the search but also because Jerusalem is preparing to go to war with Rome.
This is another well-written historical fiction time travel adventure. Expect many historical details while reading, which will be appreciated best by those who enjoy detailed historical fiction. There is also plenty of further character development of relationships introduced in the first novel.
Personally, I'd recommend reading the series in order, first Splinter Effect, then Double Shadow, because of the continuing character development, histories, and the continuing relationship between Rabbit and Helen. The first novel also explains the time traveling procedures and along with all ethical archaeological considerations involved is traveling back in time to collect historical artifacts before they are lost. This is an imaginative action story, but is mostly a historical fiction novel.
Double Shadow is a great choice for those who are following the series, and anyone who enjoys history and the idea of a time traveling archeologist should start reading reading it. Thanks to St. Martin's Press for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
May 13, 2026
With a bit of history, time travel and murder, Andrew Ludington gives his readers all of the entertainment of an Indiana Jones adventure. Rabbit Ward is a chronoarchaeologist, working for the Smithsonian. Traveling back in time, he searches for artifacts that he can relocate for safekeeping until they can be found in the present. After narrowly escaping from a murderer in his last assignment, he returns to an inquiry by the police. Someone has been selling unsanctioned trips to the past. These trips are strictly regulated by the government. He is shown pictures of the suspects and he recognizes one face among them. Helen was a thief that he met on one of his assignments and they have subsequently helped each other on some trips to the past. When she sends him a plea for help he arranges a trip to Jerusalem in 68CE. It is a time that predates his first encounter with Helen so when she finally meets him she has no idea of their history or that he is there to help her. She is there to find Einar Eshek, a psychopath and a thief. With only a general description of Eshek, they must work quickly to identify him. They have landed just as the Roman’s are advancing on Jerusalem, whose population is divided between zealots and assassins. Among them is the time traveler who almost killed Rabbit on his last assignment and has eyes in him once again.
Rabbit is fluent in ancient languages and was an avid student of history. With his knowledge of a war to come, he and Helen travel with the zealots to the gates of Jerusalem. This is Helen’s first assignment. Unaware of their previous encounters, she is once again learning to trust Rabbit and their relationship begins to grow once again. Ludingon’s story is fast paced and his descriptions of events and locations make them easy to visualize as you read. He leaves you with a hint of what is to come and hoping to join Rabbit and Helen on many more adventures. I would like to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing this book.
Rabbit is fluent in ancient languages and was an avid student of history. With his knowledge of a war to come, he and Helen travel with the zealots to the gates of Jerusalem. This is Helen’s first assignment. Unaware of their previous encounters, she is once again learning to trust Rabbit and their relationship begins to grow once again. Ludingon’s story is fast paced and his descriptions of events and locations make them easy to visualize as you read. He leaves you with a hint of what is to come and hoping to join Rabbit and Helen on many more adventures. I would like to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The nice thing about reading a series is not having to learn all the characters from the start. You have some inkling, even if time has passed since the previous novel, of whom you’re working with. In a series the stories follow a specific pattern. In a way it’s like visiting a town you know well.
The Splinter Effect series revolves around a time traveler named Rabbit Ward. Rabbit specializes in what is called chrono-archaeology, or travel to a previous time to recover an artifact. Rabbit speaks many dead languages and is well versed in history, so his travel to these spaces is not suspect. However, he sometimes comes up against some pretty fierce characters that don’t want to see him succeed. He’s not just a time traveler, but in many ways a spy and criminal as well.
This trip has Rabbit chasing down his adversary Helen from the previous novel. He only knows that a cryptic message was left for him, sending him on a goose chase to 68 CE. This is the time when Jerusalem and Rome will do battle. When he runs into an earlier version of Helen, who hasn’t met Rabbit yet, he knows what their future holds. She is on the trail of a murdering time traveler called Einar Eshek. Together they will try to trap this sadistic killer. There might be a bit of buried treasure and a little romance in the works as well.
These novels are endlessly fascinating with their deep dive into history. As not a huge history buff, I like learning about things I may have missed in school. It’s also a lot more interesting when you add in time travel and intrigue. Helen and Rabbit are a great pair. Ludington has done well to match the wits and gifts of them. As always there are a host of bad guys to tackle along the way as well.
I enjoy these books. They can be a fun departure from traditional fiction. This one is no different. Also, while it does help to understand the premises behind current time travel, reading the first novel is helpful, but not entirely necessary.
The Splinter Effect series revolves around a time traveler named Rabbit Ward. Rabbit specializes in what is called chrono-archaeology, or travel to a previous time to recover an artifact. Rabbit speaks many dead languages and is well versed in history, so his travel to these spaces is not suspect. However, he sometimes comes up against some pretty fierce characters that don’t want to see him succeed. He’s not just a time traveler, but in many ways a spy and criminal as well.
This trip has Rabbit chasing down his adversary Helen from the previous novel. He only knows that a cryptic message was left for him, sending him on a goose chase to 68 CE. This is the time when Jerusalem and Rome will do battle. When he runs into an earlier version of Helen, who hasn’t met Rabbit yet, he knows what their future holds. She is on the trail of a murdering time traveler called Einar Eshek. Together they will try to trap this sadistic killer. There might be a bit of buried treasure and a little romance in the works as well.
These novels are endlessly fascinating with their deep dive into history. As not a huge history buff, I like learning about things I may have missed in school. It’s also a lot more interesting when you add in time travel and intrigue. Helen and Rabbit are a great pair. Ludington has done well to match the wits and gifts of them. As always there are a host of bad guys to tackle along the way as well.
I enjoy these books. They can be a fun departure from traditional fiction. This one is no different. Also, while it does help to understand the premises behind current time travel, reading the first novel is helpful, but not entirely necessary.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Double Shadow, by Andrew Ludington, is the second book in the "Splinter Effect" series, a work of science fiction, adventure, and time-travel. The series focuses on Smithsonian archaeologist Rabbit Ward, primarily. Double Shadow picks up in 2019, where his ally and former adversary, Helen, has been framed for murder. To clear her name, Rabbit must travel back to 68 CE Jerusalem. When he arrives, Rabbit finds that this Helen is younger than the Helen he already knows, and she doesn't know him at all! That part was fun.
Although I liked Double Shadow, it felt far more complicated and lengthy than Splinter Effect had been. Too many characters and too many plot twists. (I was surprised when I saw that this book had fewer pages than the first one.)
TRIGGER WARNING: There's torture in this book. Although it wasn't overly explicit, I still found it hard to read about the parts of abuse that were shared, even when they entailed just screams and moans.
It was quite entertaining reading the author's notes at the end of the book, and how he and his family all worked together to keep the time changes in the book straight, haha.
I'm looking forward to reading book #3 ... I just hope it's a bit less complicated.
Thank you, #Minotaur Books, for providing this book for consideration and review via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Double Shadow has an expected publication date of April 21, 2026.
Although I liked Double Shadow, it felt far more complicated and lengthy than Splinter Effect had been. Too many characters and too many plot twists. (I was surprised when I saw that this book had fewer pages than the first one.)
TRIGGER WARNING: There's torture in this book. Although it wasn't overly explicit, I still found it hard to read about the parts of abuse that were shared, even when they entailed just screams and moans.
It was quite entertaining reading the author's notes at the end of the book, and how he and his family all worked together to keep the time changes in the book straight, haha.
I'm looking forward to reading book #3 ... I just hope it's a bit less complicated.
Thank you, #Minotaur Books, for providing this book for consideration and review via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Double Shadow has an expected publication date of April 21, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the second book in the Splinter Effect series. You don't have to have read the first to read this one. But I have really enjoyed both books, so I would recommend the first for that reason.
I read the first in the series last spring. I was offered an advanced digital copy, and I have a real problem saying no when I am offered books. I wasn't sure about it though, simply because I don't prefer books with time travel in them. But I do love history, mysteries, and action packed books, and the book didn't disappoint.
Neither did book 2, Double Shadow. Our main character, Rabbit Ward, is a time-traveling archeologist for the Smithsonian. Rabbit's job is to retrieve precious artifacts in the past and hide them somewhere they can be retrieved in the future.
This story takes place mostly during 68 CE in Jerusalem. Rabbit Ward is asked by his adversary turned ally, Helen, to travel to 68 CE to try and track down a man, Einar Eshek who has stolen from her employer. But, this man isn't just a thief. He is a murderer.
I couldn't wrap my mind around some of the aspects of the time travel. Rabbit went back to 68 CE and meets a younger Helen, who hasn't met him yet. He meets another time traveler who he knows dies in another timeline, and the discussion on splinters made my head swim a bit.
But, the historical aspects of this book are fascinating, and the quest to track down Einar was full of heart pounding action. As I got to the end, I couldn't put it down. I recommend this one to history and sci-fi buffs. I will absolutely keep reading if there are more books in the series.
Thank you to Minotaur Books for the advanced digital copy of this book.
I read the first in the series last spring. I was offered an advanced digital copy, and I have a real problem saying no when I am offered books. I wasn't sure about it though, simply because I don't prefer books with time travel in them. But I do love history, mysteries, and action packed books, and the book didn't disappoint.
Neither did book 2, Double Shadow. Our main character, Rabbit Ward, is a time-traveling archeologist for the Smithsonian. Rabbit's job is to retrieve precious artifacts in the past and hide them somewhere they can be retrieved in the future.
This story takes place mostly during 68 CE in Jerusalem. Rabbit Ward is asked by his adversary turned ally, Helen, to travel to 68 CE to try and track down a man, Einar Eshek who has stolen from her employer. But, this man isn't just a thief. He is a murderer.
I couldn't wrap my mind around some of the aspects of the time travel. Rabbit went back to 68 CE and meets a younger Helen, who hasn't met him yet. He meets another time traveler who he knows dies in another timeline, and the discussion on splinters made my head swim a bit.
But, the historical aspects of this book are fascinating, and the quest to track down Einar was full of heart pounding action. As I got to the end, I couldn't put it down. I recommend this one to history and sci-fi buffs. I will absolutely keep reading if there are more books in the series.
Thank you to Minotaur Books for the advanced digital copy of this book.
April 21, 2026
Andrew Ludington is back with another super exciting installment in the Splinter Effect series. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the first book in this series and was looking forward to reading the second book. Double Shadow did not disappoint at all. This highly adventurous story kept me quickly flipping through each chapter of the book to find out what happened next right up until the very end. A huge thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the eARC of the book.
Rabbit Ward, the time-traveling Smithsonian archeologist, is on the move once again. He’s voyaging back through time to first-century Jerusalem to help his once-adversary Helen, whom he views as more of an ally now. Rabbit is on the hunt to catch Einar Eshek, a time-traveling thief, to help clear Helen of murder in the present day. But when he arrives, he meets a younger version of Helen that he’s never encountered on his previous missions. The two of them instantly have feelings that attract them towards each other.
Rabbit is up against the clock, so together they must work to chase down this thief through time before an approaching war begins between Rome and Jerusalem. Can they find Eshek, who might also be the murderer in time? Will Rabbit be able to make it back to 2019 to absolve Helen before she is actually convicted of murder?
Double Shadow is the perfect immersion of time travel fiction, historical fiction, suspense-filled mystery, and action-adventure thriller. The enthralling, fast-paced storyline kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book. I definitely cannot wait to see where Rabbit Ward’s time travel exploits take him in the next book.
Rabbit Ward, the time-traveling Smithsonian archeologist, is on the move once again. He’s voyaging back through time to first-century Jerusalem to help his once-adversary Helen, whom he views as more of an ally now. Rabbit is on the hunt to catch Einar Eshek, a time-traveling thief, to help clear Helen of murder in the present day. But when he arrives, he meets a younger version of Helen that he’s never encountered on his previous missions. The two of them instantly have feelings that attract them towards each other.
Rabbit is up against the clock, so together they must work to chase down this thief through time before an approaching war begins between Rome and Jerusalem. Can they find Eshek, who might also be the murderer in time? Will Rabbit be able to make it back to 2019 to absolve Helen before she is actually convicted of murder?
Double Shadow is the perfect immersion of time travel fiction, historical fiction, suspense-filled mystery, and action-adventure thriller. The enthralling, fast-paced storyline kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book. I definitely cannot wait to see where Rabbit Ward’s time travel exploits take him in the next book.
April 29, 2026
Double Shadow, the second book in Andrew Ludington’s A Splinter Effect series, takes everything I enjoyed about the first installment and elevates it. I really liked book one, but this sequel is even better. The story opens with time‑traveling archaeologist Rabbit Ward on a Smithsonian trip that goes sideways fast. He stumbles into what appears to be a ritual sacrifice, and he nearly becomes the next victim. It’s a gripping start that sets the tone for the rest of the book.
Back in his own time, Rabbit is pulled into a new mystery involving Helen. To uncover the truth, Rabbit must travel back to Jerusalem in 68 CE, where he encounters a younger version of Helen on her very first mission. Together, they track the dangerous and unpredictable Eshek, a thief and psychopath whose crimes force them to chase him across multiple time periods.
One of the strongest elements of Double Shadow is how seamlessly Ludington weaves together the two timelines. The interplay between past and present feels purposeful, with important events unfolding in both eras. The historical detail enriches the story without ever slowing down the thriller pacing. The action is fast, vivid, and descriptive when it needs to be, but never excessive.
Rabbit and Helen both grow meaningfully in this installment, and their dynamic becomes even more compelling as the stakes rise. I found the entire story consistently interesting, with a satisfying blend of tension, character development, and historical intrigue.
Thank you Minotaur Books for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest review.
Back in his own time, Rabbit is pulled into a new mystery involving Helen. To uncover the truth, Rabbit must travel back to Jerusalem in 68 CE, where he encounters a younger version of Helen on her very first mission. Together, they track the dangerous and unpredictable Eshek, a thief and psychopath whose crimes force them to chase him across multiple time periods.
One of the strongest elements of Double Shadow is how seamlessly Ludington weaves together the two timelines. The interplay between past and present feels purposeful, with important events unfolding in both eras. The historical detail enriches the story without ever slowing down the thriller pacing. The action is fast, vivid, and descriptive when it needs to be, but never excessive.
Rabbit and Helen both grow meaningfully in this installment, and their dynamic becomes even more compelling as the stakes rise. I found the entire story consistently interesting, with a satisfying blend of tension, character development, and historical intrigue.
Thank you Minotaur Books for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest review.
April 27, 2026
3.5/5 stars
I enjoyed the initial book in this series (Splinter Effect) and had high hopes for this one as well, but unfortunately, it just didn't quite measure up for me.
The historical detail was impeccably done, and as I was not that familiar with that time period/location, it was fascinating and informative. Rabbit was still the humorous, intriguing character that I had grown to like from his first adventure. Helen...well, Helen was just Helen...I'm not really sure what to make of her yet but was still glad to see her included in this book, and it sounds as if I'll be seeing more of her in the follow ups.
I think my issue with this book was the sheer number of different things going on. Multiple plotlines (both in the past and the present), lots of guest characters/factions made the names/groups a bit complicated/frustrating to keep up with. I often found myself bogged down a bit in keeping everyone/everything straight (as well as what meant what in each timeline) and with that bogging down came some mind wandering. I found myself becoming more easily distracted than I should have been, and unfortunately it felt a bit of a chore to get to the finish line. However, there was an interesting turn of events at the ending, and I'm looking forward to seeing where that takes Rabbit's story.
My thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press / Minotaur Books for providing the free early arc of Double Shadow for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
I enjoyed the initial book in this series (Splinter Effect) and had high hopes for this one as well, but unfortunately, it just didn't quite measure up for me.
The historical detail was impeccably done, and as I was not that familiar with that time period/location, it was fascinating and informative. Rabbit was still the humorous, intriguing character that I had grown to like from his first adventure. Helen...well, Helen was just Helen...I'm not really sure what to make of her yet but was still glad to see her included in this book, and it sounds as if I'll be seeing more of her in the follow ups.
I think my issue with this book was the sheer number of different things going on. Multiple plotlines (both in the past and the present), lots of guest characters/factions made the names/groups a bit complicated/frustrating to keep up with. I often found myself bogged down a bit in keeping everyone/everything straight (as well as what meant what in each timeline) and with that bogging down came some mind wandering. I found myself becoming more easily distracted than I should have been, and unfortunately it felt a bit of a chore to get to the finish line. However, there was an interesting turn of events at the ending, and I'm looking forward to seeing where that takes Rabbit's story.
My thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press / Minotaur Books for providing the free early arc of Double Shadow for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars. This non-spicy time travel novel is the second in a series. The MMC, Rabbit, works for the Smithsonian as a collector who can, with the aid of a Time Machine go back and collect priceless artifacts that went missing at points in the past. Backstory to this book, he met another time traveling thief named Helen who he aided and became attracted to. In this book he gets a message from her asking for his help-but in 68 BCE in Judea. He spins a story to get the Smithsonian to send him back there to help her. Helen is there to retrieve another operative from the Agency her sister works for. Unfortunately she doesn’t know what he looks like and he has no intention of going back after he retrieved the information he needs to collect a fortune in gold.
The book provides a lot of historic details about that period in history where Jewish zealots were trying to eradicate Roman forces occupying their lands. I liked the plot twist at the end of the book which will lead into future books in this series, but I would have appreciated more time spent on character development of the MMC and FMC and less on the historic details that didn’t really move the story along enough to justify their inclusion.
The book provides a lot of historic details about that period in history where Jewish zealots were trying to eradicate Roman forces occupying their lands. I liked the plot twist at the end of the book which will lead into future books in this series, but I would have appreciated more time spent on character development of the MMC and FMC and less on the historic details that didn’t really move the story along enough to justify their inclusion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A good read for history buffs!!
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series and was sure that in Double Shadow archaeologist Rabbit Ward’s trip back to the first century of the Christian era would include some exciting adventures as well as some interesting historical insight. I looked forward to both!
I got my first chuckle from the author’s dedication of the book to his parents before the story even started. The opening scene, where Rabbit arrives in Rome just as the Great Fire of Rome begins in order to rescue precious scrolls and bring them back for study in modern times, promised me a very intriguing story, and it definitely delivered on that expectation. However, I do NOT know much about the history or the era and learning some history is a big part of my enjoyment of this genre of fiction. The many references to historical figures I do not know and events that may have happened or may not have left me confused and uncertain. In addition, I had a hard time keeping many of the names of places or people in the story straight, especially when they are referred to by multiple names or nicknames. I did not see this mentioned in other reviews, so I suspect the problem might be mine.
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series and was sure that in Double Shadow archaeologist Rabbit Ward’s trip back to the first century of the Christian era would include some exciting adventures as well as some interesting historical insight. I looked forward to both!
I got my first chuckle from the author’s dedication of the book to his parents before the story even started. The opening scene, where Rabbit arrives in Rome just as the Great Fire of Rome begins in order to rescue precious scrolls and bring them back for study in modern times, promised me a very intriguing story, and it definitely delivered on that expectation. However, I do NOT know much about the history or the era and learning some history is a big part of my enjoyment of this genre of fiction. The many references to historical figures I do not know and events that may have happened or may not have left me confused and uncertain. In addition, I had a hard time keeping many of the names of places or people in the story straight, especially when they are referred to by multiple names or nicknames. I did not see this mentioned in other reviews, so I suspect the problem might be mine.
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Minotaur Books and Netgalley for this eARC, these opinions are my own. Another exciting adventure! Rabbit Ward is back and he’s returned from his previous adventure. But he won’t be home for long as Helen his former adversary turned alley needs his help. She’s being framed for murder, one she didn’t commit. Now she needs Rabbit’s help, he needs to go to first century Jerusalem to track down a man named Einar Eshek. While there he meets a younger version of Helen that he’s never met before and the two work together to track down Einar. Who just happens to be a murderous psychopath. As they search they feel something bigger pulling at them. And Rabbit may just need to betray Helen’s past self in order to protect her future self. As Jerusalem prepares for war with Rome and Rabbit chases Einar he’ll have to race to save Helen and make it back to his own time in one piece, something that is proving very difficult. Can he make it home? Can he save Helen? Full of mystery, thrills, and plot twists that kept me reading and unable to put it down! Andrew Ludington’s newest is great for history lovers as well as mystery lovers!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another enjoyable read in the Splinter series. After a job in ancient Rome goes horribly wrong, Rabbit receives a text from Helen that sends him chasing after Einer Eshek in ancient Jerusalem. But Rabbit winds up meeting a version of Helen that has never met him. I was reminded of the whole thing between River Song and the Doctor (and that isn't a bad thing). It added a level of mystery around the two. Rabbit learns things about Helen he never new before. Helen learns things about Rabbit she knows in her interactions with him in the first book. I really liked that.
The setting is vivid and realistic. The setting for this is primarily Jerusalem only two years before the Romans sack the city. The city is teeming with zealots, Romans, and refugees, and it is all brought to life through the narrative.
There are a few places where I would have liked a bit more character development, but the plot carries those spaces well. It is just my personal preference to like deeper characterization, but for the most part the character development is well done.
A very fun read. This would be a great series for anyone who loves Indiana Jones.
The setting is vivid and realistic. The setting for this is primarily Jerusalem only two years before the Romans sack the city. The city is teeming with zealots, Romans, and refugees, and it is all brought to life through the narrative.
There are a few places where I would have liked a bit more character development, but the plot carries those spaces well. It is just my personal preference to like deeper characterization, but for the most part the character development is well done.
A very fun read. This would be a great series for anyone who loves Indiana Jones.
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