Permutations

by Jessica M. Coronado

A striking debut of speculative fiction that asks to what extent we’d go to change the past, and explores what happens when we go too far.

All Aiden wants is to go back to a time before he ruined everything.

Since his team at Psitech Labs has achieved teleportation through space, Aiden is determined to do the same through time. While he and his colleague Priya work to refine the lab’s technology during the day, Aiden tests his own calculations in secret by night.

But when going back proves more complex than he realized, Aiden is left with just days to escape a chain reaction he never could have anticipated. Now, all Aiden wants is to go home, to his own life, before it’s too late.

All that’s standing in his way is time.

Permutations is a fast-paced, thought-provoking debut exploring how identity and choice shape each other, and the responsibility we bear for the decisions we make.

318 pages, Paperback

Expected publication September 9, 2026

Reviews

[Mohit Mahajan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an exceptional piece of writing, Jessica! I was especially impressed by how the author had blended science fiction, astrophysics, and ideas about healing into a compelling and thought-provoking story. It takes real creativity to weave together complex scientific concepts with philosophical and human themes in such an engaging way. Jessica’s work left me thinking long after I finished reading it. It is a fascinating read, and I admire the creativity and depth behind her work. Her storytelling made complex ideas accessible while keeping the narrative engaging throughout. That’s a wonderful achievement.
It’s not just about science and astro-physics alone, but how the author has integrated this with our human consciousness and how we experience life, brings a whole new meaning to our thoughts, identity and our journey in this universe.

[Yvette Loughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Permutations is an intriguing and beautifully written story that explores the many facets of our lives as they were, as they are, and as they might have been across parallel universes. This booked moved me deeply and brought me to tears more than once as I traveled through its story of heartache, loss, fear, hope, and love. But what stayed with me most was its journey toward acceptance - the idea that learning to love every version of ourselves can bring us to a place of peace and a deeper understanding of our connection to one another and the universe. A beautiful, thought-provoking read that will stay with me.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Permutations took me on a journey I didn't expect. This is not an average "time-travelling" book but something much deeper, much more profound. Jessica has the amazing capability to weave sci-fi with philosophy in a way I haven't read before. Just when I thought the story was going one direction- it took another and the end surprised me and moved me to tears. The characters will live in my heart forever and I honestly can't wait to read it again. I have a feeling I will learn something else about myself and the universe each time.

[Laura Tapper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a new genre for me, and I had so much fun reading it!! Jessica seamlessly wove astrophysics into a heartfelt story, and I found myself learning so much without even realizing it. I was completely invested in Aiden's journey and couldn't stop turning the pages to see what would happen next! I also loved the way the flashbacks were woven throughout the story-they felt like little Easter eggs that kept me wondering how each one would connect to the bigger picture. I can't wait see what's next from Jessica!!

[CT · Rating 5 out of 5]

I felt connected to the characters and the author did a really beautiful job making me feel Aiden's pain as she shifted through his journey. I'm a little heartbroken that this is a standalone because I could have spent at least one more book learning about Priya. Maybe in another timeline. I look forward to reading everything Coronado writes.

[Jessica Strom · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not generally a sci-fi girly, but I enjoyed this one!

Grief, redemption, friendship, science, time travel, and multiverse scenarios.

I appreciate how key notes from the beginning chapters came together at the end and the ending was not what I expected, but I liked it! Recommend for sci-fi fans! I would have preferred first person, but third person worked.

[Nicki Coronado · Rating 5 out of 5]

I felt the ghost of Isaac Asimov, peering over my shoulder as I read. The movement and energy of the story takes us on a journey woven by guilt, obsession, and never ending determination. The provoking thoughts of the protagonist and his questions about the universe, will challenge our perspective and how we view our lives. The writing is descriptive and beautiful, with heart wrenching moments at each turn. Not only is this a thought provoking book, but a life-changing book. It truly is a good read.