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The Chronicles of Engella Rhys #1
The Lights of Time
Would you sacrifice your future to save your past?
Engella Rhys is alone, adrift and on the run. Pursued by a secret agency, known only as the Hunters, she must stay ahead to stay alive.
As she travels through space-time using dangerously experimental technology, she only has one wish: to be reunited with her lost parents. After a close shave with a Hunter on the streets of New Shanghai, Engella escapes to find herself on a deserted beach. When she meets a kind stranger, who offers her food and shelter, Engella feels safe and protected for the first time in years.
But who is this woman? And why did their paths cross at the most convenient of times?
Engella soon discovers their lives are intertwined in more ways than she could ever imagine.
If you're a fan of science fiction action and adventure, The Lights of Time is the book for you.
Review quotes
'There's action, sci-fi, technology and mystery all wrapped up in this novel and I had a great time reading from the beginning until the end,' Jessica Rachow, Book Blogger
'If time travel is your bag then check out this fabulous young adult novel,' Louise Wise, Book Blogger
'Mystery, action, complex world building and amazingly well written characters that bring out the story more,' says the Jess Bookish Life Blog
Engella Rhys is alone, adrift and on the run. Pursued by a secret agency, known only as the Hunters, she must stay ahead to stay alive.
As she travels through space-time using dangerously experimental technology, she only has one wish: to be reunited with her lost parents. After a close shave with a Hunter on the streets of New Shanghai, Engella escapes to find herself on a deserted beach. When she meets a kind stranger, who offers her food and shelter, Engella feels safe and protected for the first time in years.
But who is this woman? And why did their paths cross at the most convenient of times?
Engella soon discovers their lives are intertwined in more ways than she could ever imagine.
If you're a fan of science fiction action and adventure, The Lights of Time is the book for you.
Review quotes
'There's action, sci-fi, technology and mystery all wrapped up in this novel and I had a great time reading from the beginning until the end,' Jessica Rachow, Book Blogger
'If time travel is your bag then check out this fabulous young adult novel,' Louise Wise, Book Blogger
'Mystery, action, complex world building and amazingly well written characters that bring out the story more,' says the Jess Bookish Life Blog
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 27, 2018
8 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
About the author
Paul Ian Cross
27 books39 followersPAUL IAN CROSS, BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD, is a scientist, writer, and author of STEM-inspired books for children and young adults.
Paul works in clinical research (developing new medicines) and he’s also a science communicator; helping people understand science, even if they aren’t scientists themselves. He has a passion for introducing children and young people to STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). If you follow Paul on social media you’ll find lots of fascinating STEM content!
Paul has written several hilarious and informative books including How To Vanquish A Virus, Bodies, Brains & Bogies and Cyborgs, Genes & Tiny Machines. He also writes STEM-inspired fiction, such as The Chronicles of Engella Rhys, The Secret STEM Squad and the award-winning Praxx & Zobott picture books.
Paul’s favourite subject is biology and he has a particular interest in health, medicine and nature. He’s also fascinated by technology, the environment and outer space, and he’s super interested in the possibility of life on other planets! How awesome is that!
Paul works in clinical research (developing new medicines) and he’s also a science communicator; helping people understand science, even if they aren’t scientists themselves. He has a passion for introducing children and young people to STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). If you follow Paul on social media you’ll find lots of fascinating STEM content!
Paul has written several hilarious and informative books including How To Vanquish A Virus, Bodies, Brains & Bogies and Cyborgs, Genes & Tiny Machines. He also writes STEM-inspired fiction, such as The Chronicles of Engella Rhys, The Secret STEM Squad and the award-winning Praxx & Zobott picture books.
Paul’s favourite subject is biology and he has a particular interest in health, medicine and nature. He’s also fascinated by technology, the environment and outer space, and he’s super interested in the possibility of life on other planets! How awesome is that!
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 2, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Teenager Engella is travelling through time trying to find her parents whilst being chased by the Hunters. She was sent through a wormhole aged eight when her parents were captured. The Hunters work for a corporation that wants the technology to travel through time to be theirs alone.
After a close call, Engella travels to the Isle of Skye, Scotland, 2016 and is helped by a woman called Annys. It turns out that Annys know who Engella is and that she has been waiting for her for many years and that she is her watcher.
The two travel to various places and times but the Hunters are close on their tail again. Can the two avoid being captured and find Engella’s parents?
The Lights of Time is a middle-grade novel that features a feisty teenager who is travelling the world and time alone. She last saw her parents nine years ago and has never stopped searching for them.
Each chapter is a shift in time and whilst most are told from Engella’s point of view there are a few from the Hunters perspective too. I would have liked to of known from the beginning why Engella was travelling through time and what happened to start her journey but overtime this information was feed through the plot.
The book is engaging and had me enthralled from the first chapter to the very last. It is a fun, exciting adventure and keeps you on your toes wondering where Engella will end up next and in what time.
Overall, this is a great sci-fi story that I’m sure older children and teenagers will enjoy. I now can’t wait to read book two in the series.
Teenager Engella is travelling through time trying to find her parents whilst being chased by the Hunters. She was sent through a wormhole aged eight when her parents were captured. The Hunters work for a corporation that wants the technology to travel through time to be theirs alone.
After a close call, Engella travels to the Isle of Skye, Scotland, 2016 and is helped by a woman called Annys. It turns out that Annys know who Engella is and that she has been waiting for her for many years and that she is her watcher.
The two travel to various places and times but the Hunters are close on their tail again. Can the two avoid being captured and find Engella’s parents?
The Lights of Time is a middle-grade novel that features a feisty teenager who is travelling the world and time alone. She last saw her parents nine years ago and has never stopped searching for them.
Each chapter is a shift in time and whilst most are told from Engella’s point of view there are a few from the Hunters perspective too. I would have liked to of known from the beginning why Engella was travelling through time and what happened to start her journey but overtime this information was feed through the plot.
The book is engaging and had me enthralled from the first chapter to the very last. It is a fun, exciting adventure and keeps you on your toes wondering where Engella will end up next and in what time.
Overall, this is a great sci-fi story that I’m sure older children and teenagers will enjoy. I now can’t wait to read book two in the series.
January 15, 2022
I have a confession, my name is Zoé and I am a book cover hoe! I saw this cover and before I read the blurb I knew I wanted to read it! I mean look at it! Now Sci-Fi is not my normal genre to read but #sorrynotsorry I was already hooked and had to check out the book, plus it sounds fab too doesn’t it!
It is the first book in a series and it such a fabulous start to a series! We have time travel, mystery, secrets and sacrifice. It is an intense way to start the book, knowing that Engella is on the run, hiding from the Hunters when a woman comes to her rescue and she knows things!
I love that it is a story told from different perspectives so there is no chance of the story getting stale and then add the short and snappy chapters, you are in for a treat. It keeps the story fresh and keeps the reader engaged throughout as we jump through time. Now I did worry that I might not understand the time travelling but it is explained in a way where you do not feel like it has been “dumbed” down for you. I found I was equally nervous and excited when Engella had the chance that she might see herself when she travel back in time. You do not mess with timelines!
The descriptions of the different places that Engella travelled too was done in a way where I felt like I could be there. Some of these places I have never been too, so it made it that bit more special for me.
I really can not wait to read the next book in this exciting series and to see what adventures we are going on!
It is the first book in a series and it such a fabulous start to a series! We have time travel, mystery, secrets and sacrifice. It is an intense way to start the book, knowing that Engella is on the run, hiding from the Hunters when a woman comes to her rescue and she knows things!
I love that it is a story told from different perspectives so there is no chance of the story getting stale and then add the short and snappy chapters, you are in for a treat. It keeps the story fresh and keeps the reader engaged throughout as we jump through time. Now I did worry that I might not understand the time travelling but it is explained in a way where you do not feel like it has been “dumbed” down for you. I found I was equally nervous and excited when Engella had the chance that she might see herself when she travel back in time. You do not mess with timelines!
The descriptions of the different places that Engella travelled too was done in a way where I felt like I could be there. Some of these places I have never been too, so it made it that bit more special for me.
I really can not wait to read the next book in this exciting series and to see what adventures we are going on!
December 4, 2018
Engella has been on the run from Hunters since she was eight years old, travelling through space and time. The only thing she wants is to find her parents, the only clue is a cryptic message left by her father.
After a particularly close call Engella ends up on the Isle of Skye in Scotland back in 1998. See meets a woman by the name of Annys who offers her a safe place for the night.
After another close call she and Annys find themselves on the run. Who is this woman and how does she know so much?
Now there was a little confusion on what category this book was, is it Middle Grade or Young Adult? For me it was definitely within the Middle Grade age range which I have to be honest I don’t usually read this type of book but I’m glad I took a chance on it!
What a rip roaring Sci-fi adventure this was! Not only do you travel through time but across the world from Scotland to the US even to Asia!
I really could see this being turned into a children’s animated adventure series or film.
Engella and Annys are a really good, strong female characters, something I always felt was missing in fiction I read as a child. Engella has been through so much but she’s still got a kind heart and tries her best to help people. I liked the little mystery surrounding Annys but boy when you find out who she really is...well you’ll just have to read it to find out yourself!
I also liked Eric, a teenager obsessed with the paranormal who sees lights in the sky, which he thinks are aliens but instead accidentally stumbles across Engella and the Hunters.
The Sci-fi aspect was well done, new technology was explained well without being over complicated or confusing even for someone like me who never really got the hang of science at school.
I did feel there were a few plot holes but with a character travelling through time, it’s probably quite hard to keep track of everything.
Overall The Lights of Time is a fast paced, fun, sci-fi adventure perfect for science fiction lovers of all ages.
After a particularly close call Engella ends up on the Isle of Skye in Scotland back in 1998. See meets a woman by the name of Annys who offers her a safe place for the night.
After another close call she and Annys find themselves on the run. Who is this woman and how does she know so much?
Now there was a little confusion on what category this book was, is it Middle Grade or Young Adult? For me it was definitely within the Middle Grade age range which I have to be honest I don’t usually read this type of book but I’m glad I took a chance on it!
What a rip roaring Sci-fi adventure this was! Not only do you travel through time but across the world from Scotland to the US even to Asia!
I really could see this being turned into a children’s animated adventure series or film.
Engella and Annys are a really good, strong female characters, something I always felt was missing in fiction I read as a child. Engella has been through so much but she’s still got a kind heart and tries her best to help people. I liked the little mystery surrounding Annys but boy when you find out who she really is...well you’ll just have to read it to find out yourself!
I also liked Eric, a teenager obsessed with the paranormal who sees lights in the sky, which he thinks are aliens but instead accidentally stumbles across Engella and the Hunters.
The Sci-fi aspect was well done, new technology was explained well without being over complicated or confusing even for someone like me who never really got the hang of science at school.
I did feel there were a few plot holes but with a character travelling through time, it’s probably quite hard to keep track of everything.
Overall The Lights of Time is a fast paced, fun, sci-fi adventure perfect for science fiction lovers of all ages.
November 27, 2018
This is the first book I have ever read of Paul Ian Cross and I liked this book a lot. It's the first book of a new series and that means it's the introduction of the world and the main character and all the companions and people around her. Which of course came with a lot of questions and various open doors for the future of the series, and I will be keeping it in mind because I'm curious.
I liked the main character (her name is just intriguing and give this sci-fi vibe that made sense because of genre). Engella is a complex character that I could connect with. It was fun and intriguing to read how she acted and reacted in all the different situations she ended up in and how she interacted with the all the characters along the way.
I also liked the plot and the world building a lot. I found it interesting, since it was a take on the time traveling aspect with some new and unique components that made this world be mysterious and really in a different time. So, of course I was glued to the screen while reading this book.
Overall, this was a great start to a sci-fi series. With mystery, action, complex world and amazingly well written characters that bring out the story more.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Paul for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and by being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book.]
I liked the main character (her name is just intriguing and give this sci-fi vibe that made sense because of genre). Engella is a complex character that I could connect with. It was fun and intriguing to read how she acted and reacted in all the different situations she ended up in and how she interacted with the all the characters along the way.
I also liked the plot and the world building a lot. I found it interesting, since it was a take on the time traveling aspect with some new and unique components that made this world be mysterious and really in a different time. So, of course I was glued to the screen while reading this book.
Overall, this was a great start to a sci-fi series. With mystery, action, complex world and amazingly well written characters that bring out the story more.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Paul for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and by being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book.]
November 28, 2018
I rarely touch on this, but I'm obsessed with the cover of Lights of Time. Also, the story is top notch. There's action, scifi, technology and mystery all wrapped up in this novel and I had a great time reading from the beginning until the end.
I loved Engella. You really get a sense of her, as a character and she is relatable on a lot of levels. I enjoyed cheering for her.
I'm a fan of Paul Ian Cross' writing, and I'm really looking forward to reading more of his work. Highly recommend checking this one out.
* I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour. All opinions are my own.*
I loved Engella. You really get a sense of her, as a character and she is relatable on a lot of levels. I enjoyed cheering for her.
I'm a fan of Paul Ian Cross' writing, and I'm really looking forward to reading more of his work. Highly recommend checking this one out.
* I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour. All opinions are my own.*
November 28, 2018
This is a thrilling mixture of searching for the truth, keeping out of evil's grasp and darting through time.
Engella is on the run and has been for a long time. Unfortunately, the Hunters are getting closer. She springs through time in an attempt to stay one step ahead, but almost lands in their clutches. When a woman unexpectedly comes to her rescue, Engella isn't sure what to think. Not only that, but the woman knows things...things she's not allowed to tell. Engella doesn't know if she can trust her, but with the Hunters so close and questions about her parents still open, she doesn't have a choice.
The tension starts high and stays pretty much that way through the entire tale. There are a few more descriptive moments but these developed a fairly intricate world. The story flashes through different moments in time and various places, but the author keeps this from becoming confusing with an entry at the beginning of each chapter. The story doesn't stay in one character's point of view but switches at the right times...usually with an entire chapter. In the first chapters, it took a bit sometimes to sink into the new perspectives simply because the characters and their purpose were unclear, but this slides into place quickly. There were moments during the chapters themselves that the point of view would switch suddenly between the characters, and this caused hiccups. But the story flows nicely otherwise.
Engella is a character on a mission. She does fear certain things but is ready to sacrifice everything when it comes to finding her parents. She's pretty level-headed and her decisions, for the most part, understandable. The other characters add the right amount of depth and are as fun to cheer along as Engella. This isn't all action but ta
As to the time travel, it's an interesting mix. The jumps are well done and hold enough logic to allow the reader to sink into the world. There's a nice dash of intrigue and many surprises along the way. In other words, Engella is kept on her toes at all times. It's a lovely read science fiction fans are sure to enjoy
I received a complimentary copy and found this to be such an engaging read that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts.
Engella is on the run and has been for a long time. Unfortunately, the Hunters are getting closer. She springs through time in an attempt to stay one step ahead, but almost lands in their clutches. When a woman unexpectedly comes to her rescue, Engella isn't sure what to think. Not only that, but the woman knows things...things she's not allowed to tell. Engella doesn't know if she can trust her, but with the Hunters so close and questions about her parents still open, she doesn't have a choice.
The tension starts high and stays pretty much that way through the entire tale. There are a few more descriptive moments but these developed a fairly intricate world. The story flashes through different moments in time and various places, but the author keeps this from becoming confusing with an entry at the beginning of each chapter. The story doesn't stay in one character's point of view but switches at the right times...usually with an entire chapter. In the first chapters, it took a bit sometimes to sink into the new perspectives simply because the characters and their purpose were unclear, but this slides into place quickly. There were moments during the chapters themselves that the point of view would switch suddenly between the characters, and this caused hiccups. But the story flows nicely otherwise.
Engella is a character on a mission. She does fear certain things but is ready to sacrifice everything when it comes to finding her parents. She's pretty level-headed and her decisions, for the most part, understandable. The other characters add the right amount of depth and are as fun to cheer along as Engella. This isn't all action but ta
As to the time travel, it's an interesting mix. The jumps are well done and hold enough logic to allow the reader to sink into the world. There's a nice dash of intrigue and many surprises along the way. In other words, Engella is kept on her toes at all times. It's a lovely read science fiction fans are sure to enjoy
I received a complimentary copy and found this to be such an engaging read that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts.
November 28, 2018
This is a phenomenal book, but definitely one that can mess with your head sometimes! I'm not going to give away spoilers, but if you're into time travel or just looking for something a bit different to read, this is definitely one for you. And I certainly recommend it highly for anyone from young adult upwards. I really hope the author writes a follow-up book, as I'm dying to know what happens next in the characters' journey(s).
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
November 30, 2018
::..Reviewed for Red's Midnight Readers..::
I was very kindly offered an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. I have given The Lights of Time 3 stars.
I had never heard of this author but this book had a rather interesting blurb and I knew I just had to give it ago.
This story is an action packed, time travelling adventure. It's full of secrets that start to unravel as Engella digs deeper into her own past. This is quite a complex story with great world building and intriguing characters.
Definitely a good start to a new series.
I was very kindly offered an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. I have given The Lights of Time 3 stars.
I had never heard of this author but this book had a rather interesting blurb and I knew I just had to give it ago.
This story is an action packed, time travelling adventure. It's full of secrets that start to unravel as Engella digs deeper into her own past. This is quite a complex story with great world building and intriguing characters.
Definitely a good start to a new series.
December 4, 2018
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I really enjoyed this one, it was well written and I loved the story!
The story moves at a good pace and I was really enthralled in the story - the book had some unexpected twists too. The setting for the story were great, I loved the time travel aspect too as it made the book stand out for me from other books available.
The characters were great I thought that they were well developed and worked really well together - and I do love that cover as well, it really fits the book! This is a great start to the series.
This was a great introduction to the author for me - four stars for this one - a very enjoyable and entertaining story!
I really enjoyed this one, it was well written and I loved the story!
The story moves at a good pace and I was really enthralled in the story - the book had some unexpected twists too. The setting for the story were great, I loved the time travel aspect too as it made the book stand out for me from other books available.
The characters were great I thought that they were well developed and worked really well together - and I do love that cover as well, it really fits the book! This is a great start to the series.
This was a great introduction to the author for me - four stars for this one - a very enjoyable and entertaining story!
November 27, 2018
Good book. It has a great storyline and characters. I love time travel books and the author did a phenomenal job in tying everything together. Learning about Annys’ and Eddie’s role was an awesome twist. An absolutely brilliant, action-packed story that will keep you entertained from beginning to end. Engella is on an adventure of a lifetime with more to come, I can’t wait for the next installment. You should definitely get this book you won’t regret it.
November 15, 2018
Wow, different concept of a story. Engella is alone, and on the run. She’s escaping using space time technology. Extremely dangerous. She only wants to go to her parents. Loved it.
January 22, 2019
"Would you sacrifice your future to save your past?
Engella Rhys is alone, adrift and on the run. Pursued by a secret agency, known only as the Hunters, she must stay ahead to stay alive.
As she travels through space-time using dangerously experimental technology, she only has one wish: to be reunited with her lost parents. After a close shave with a Hunter on the streets of New Shanghai, Engella escapes to find herself on a deserted beach. When she meets a kind stranger, who offers her food and shelter, Engella feels safe and protected for the first time in years.
But who is this woman? And why did their paths cross at the most convenient of times?
Engella soon discovers their lives are intertwined in more ways than she could ever imagine"
Whilst reading this book i can definitely say that I got caught up in a whirlwind of the story - it was very fast paced and at times I was slightly confused to what was going on - although i think that this was deliberate by the author as everything became clear when I got to the end! It was very cleverly done :)
I'm not sure how i felt about Engella, i didn't feel like i got to know her character enough (in my personal opinion) but if this does become a series maybe there will be more to discover and learn about her.
I however did enjoy the story line and thought that the whole idea was fantastic and cleverly written! I did try reading this with my 9 year old but he couldn't keep up with the pace. I would definitely recommend for teenage readers and maybe young adult readers. I would definitely read more if there became any! Worthy 4 star read!
Engella Rhys is alone, adrift and on the run. Pursued by a secret agency, known only as the Hunters, she must stay ahead to stay alive.
As she travels through space-time using dangerously experimental technology, she only has one wish: to be reunited with her lost parents. After a close shave with a Hunter on the streets of New Shanghai, Engella escapes to find herself on a deserted beach. When she meets a kind stranger, who offers her food and shelter, Engella feels safe and protected for the first time in years.
But who is this woman? And why did their paths cross at the most convenient of times?
Engella soon discovers their lives are intertwined in more ways than she could ever imagine"
Whilst reading this book i can definitely say that I got caught up in a whirlwind of the story - it was very fast paced and at times I was slightly confused to what was going on - although i think that this was deliberate by the author as everything became clear when I got to the end! It was very cleverly done :)
I'm not sure how i felt about Engella, i didn't feel like i got to know her character enough (in my personal opinion) but if this does become a series maybe there will be more to discover and learn about her.
I however did enjoy the story line and thought that the whole idea was fantastic and cleverly written! I did try reading this with my 9 year old but he couldn't keep up with the pace. I would definitely recommend for teenage readers and maybe young adult readers. I would definitely read more if there became any! Worthy 4 star read!
December 3, 2018
What a way to start a series! This is an exciting introduction to a world of time travel and follows the journey of a young girl - Engella - as she seeks to find the truth about herself while trying to escape from The Hunters who are dogged in their pursuit of her. No matter where she goes they follow, so she has to be very wary of meeting new people wherever she goes.
This is a story full of action and adventure and I loved the different settings used - from the rugged Scottish coasts, to the deserts of New Mexico and city streets of a future New Shanghai, Engella is caught up in a complex world where she's desperate to find out the truth of her family and more of The Corporation who are determined to track her down because they think she knows more than she's letting on!
The Corporation are a nasty bunch to get mixed up with, and that leads to some dark encounters throughout and they will stop at nothing to get what they want.
I loved the flow of this book! The change of timelines and scenery work so well to keep the pace going, and there's always a new element being introduced just to add to the tension and adventure! Engella is a really smart character and so inquisitive and brave, and the connection she had with various characters she met along the way was very touching. So glad to see that this is the first in a series as I can't wait to find out what is in store next for Engella!! A great read for YA and adult readers!
My thanks to the author and publisher for the advanced reading copy in return for a fair and honest review.
This is a story full of action and adventure and I loved the different settings used - from the rugged Scottish coasts, to the deserts of New Mexico and city streets of a future New Shanghai, Engella is caught up in a complex world where she's desperate to find out the truth of her family and more of The Corporation who are determined to track her down because they think she knows more than she's letting on!
The Corporation are a nasty bunch to get mixed up with, and that leads to some dark encounters throughout and they will stop at nothing to get what they want.
I loved the flow of this book! The change of timelines and scenery work so well to keep the pace going, and there's always a new element being introduced just to add to the tension and adventure! Engella is a really smart character and so inquisitive and brave, and the connection she had with various characters she met along the way was very touching. So glad to see that this is the first in a series as I can't wait to find out what is in store next for Engella!! A great read for YA and adult readers!
My thanks to the author and publisher for the advanced reading copy in return for a fair and honest review.
December 30, 2018
Paul Ian Cross certainly doesn’t mess about with the start of this book, as you are thrown straight into the action as Engella struggles to escape her would be captors. The Lights of Time is an adrenalin-filled race through time and space, with Engella’s travels spanning over 100 years (and beyond), and taking her to places as far apart as Skye and New Zealand.
Time travel books and films frequently baffle me, but in The Lights of Time, Paul Ian Cross explains the quirks (or indeed in this case quarks) simply and effectively, without blinding my extremely non-scientific brain with overly complicated facts and figures.
Throughout the book, I loved the descriptions of all the places that Engella visited. I particularly enjoyed reading about New Shanghai, and found that I could really picture what it looked like. The Yixing Forest sounded so beautiful, and it really felt like I was there with Engella. The little cottage on Skye felt so real and welcoming, that reading about it was like coming home. I have always wanted to visit Skye, and now that urge is stronger than ever.
Each of the characters is endearing in their own way, and the way their lives all intermingled was fascinating – this book must have taken some serious plotting to keep straight who had been where and when! I was intrigued by the Hunters, Tala and Lera, and wonder what made them into the people that they are. I do hope we get to find out more about them next time around.
Time travel books and films frequently baffle me, but in The Lights of Time, Paul Ian Cross explains the quirks (or indeed in this case quarks) simply and effectively, without blinding my extremely non-scientific brain with overly complicated facts and figures.
Throughout the book, I loved the descriptions of all the places that Engella visited. I particularly enjoyed reading about New Shanghai, and found that I could really picture what it looked like. The Yixing Forest sounded so beautiful, and it really felt like I was there with Engella. The little cottage on Skye felt so real and welcoming, that reading about it was like coming home. I have always wanted to visit Skye, and now that urge is stronger than ever.
Each of the characters is endearing in their own way, and the way their lives all intermingled was fascinating – this book must have taken some serious plotting to keep straight who had been where and when! I was intrigued by the Hunters, Tala and Lera, and wonder what made them into the people that they are. I do hope we get to find out more about them next time around.
July 1, 2019
Well I’m finally out of my reading slump and its all because of this book. I read this book over the weekend and could never put down. When I did eventually put it down I couldn’t stop thinking about it. The whole concept is amazing. It did remind me a lot about time cop (yes the Van Damme film) Engella is a young woman travelling through time running from a group of hunters and trying to find her family who she hasn’t seen for god knows how many years.
Right come on lets get on with the review or we will be here all day. As I said the story is about Engella who has a nifty wristband that lets her travel through time. Shes on a mission to find her parents while trying to escape from a group of hunters. The hunters are after her as she has something that they need. (im saying nothing more about that as I dont want to spoil the story) Engella has been to some very interesting places and times in the past and the future.
The book does offer quite a few different views points. Especially with the different characters and the different times they were in. I thought it may of confused the reader. I also thought this might struggle to tie in the whole book together but Paul didnt dissapoint. This book tied in really well leaving me literally hanging on edge wanting to read the second book.
If you like a futuristic science fiction read then this is the book for you to add to your collection (and come on the cover is ridiculously awesome)
Right come on lets get on with the review or we will be here all day. As I said the story is about Engella who has a nifty wristband that lets her travel through time. Shes on a mission to find her parents while trying to escape from a group of hunters. The hunters are after her as she has something that they need. (im saying nothing more about that as I dont want to spoil the story) Engella has been to some very interesting places and times in the past and the future.
The book does offer quite a few different views points. Especially with the different characters and the different times they were in. I thought it may of confused the reader. I also thought this might struggle to tie in the whole book together but Paul didnt dissapoint. This book tied in really well leaving me literally hanging on edge wanting to read the second book.
If you like a futuristic science fiction read then this is the book for you to add to your collection (and come on the cover is ridiculously awesome)
December 18, 2018
Amanda and I love The Lights of Time. It's a high adventure, science-fiction, time travel story. This is the first book in The Chronicles of Engella Rhys. The author, Paul Ian Cross, has been working on this series for a while now to make sure that all the events in the future books line up correctly. I'm sure it's a daunting task. For us as readers, it's just a lot of fun!
Engella is a 17-year-old girl who was separated by her parents when she was young while they were fleeing from the Hunters. Her parents were part of a small team that developed the time travel technology that Hunting Corporation stole and wants to control completely. Engella is always on the run from the Hunters. They want the shiftbands that her parents created and she has one of them. Engella just wants to find her parents, but the more she travels, the more she learns, and the more determined she becomes to put things straight.
Amanda (age 10) loves that Engella can go back to her past self and also Annys's. She likes that they can travel into different times and in the future there are bots. She was really happy that Engella could clone a pet. She's really excited to find out what will happen in the next book and if some of the Hunters are still alive or not.
Engella is a 17-year-old girl who was separated by her parents when she was young while they were fleeing from the Hunters. Her parents were part of a small team that developed the time travel technology that Hunting Corporation stole and wants to control completely. Engella is always on the run from the Hunters. They want the shiftbands that her parents created and she has one of them. Engella just wants to find her parents, but the more she travels, the more she learns, and the more determined she becomes to put things straight.
Amanda (age 10) loves that Engella can go back to her past self and also Annys's. She likes that they can travel into different times and in the future there are bots. She was really happy that Engella could clone a pet. She's really excited to find out what will happen in the next book and if some of the Hunters are still alive or not.
December 28, 2018
I will reiterate what I said previously….WOW! This book was absolutely fantastic from beginning to end. I was completely pulled into the world of Engella; I loved the time travel elements finding myself captivated as I delved deeper and deeper into the book and despite the various jumps through time, the book never became confusing and I was able to follow the story easily. I had so much fun reading this story and found it very difficult to put it down.
Engella is such a likeable character, I saw how determined she was and felt the emotions as she aimed towards her main goal. I felt her fear of the Hunters and read with a racing heart as she avoided capture. I was happy with how the story panned out, but not happy that it was over. I am so glad that this isn’t the end of this story and that there is more to come. I cannot wait to read more about Engella and see where she goes from here. I loved the interaction between the other characters and the dialogue flowed easily. This was a true page-turner and a book that kept you guessing….definately one to add to the TBR list.
Engella is such a likeable character, I saw how determined she was and felt the emotions as she aimed towards her main goal. I felt her fear of the Hunters and read with a racing heart as she avoided capture. I was happy with how the story panned out, but not happy that it was over. I am so glad that this isn’t the end of this story and that there is more to come. I cannot wait to read more about Engella and see where she goes from here. I loved the interaction between the other characters and the dialogue flowed easily. This was a true page-turner and a book that kept you guessing….definately one to add to the TBR list.
January 24, 2019
This was reviewed by my 10 and a half year old daughter (she told me the half was very important)..... Engella is on the run, she can jump from one place to another, sometimes just in time. She is being chased by an agency called the Hunters. She has to stay at least one step ahead of the Hunters at all times to stay safe. On one jump (to a beach) she meets a woman, this woman is a stranger, but, there is something about her that makes Engella feel safe. She finds they are connected through their lives throughout the story.....
I loved this read, I did have to concentrate a little more than usual to be able to keep up with the twists in the story, but, I liked that. I think that maybe this book should be for a slightly older reader than me, but, I really enjoyed this book and would happily read another one from this author.
I loved this read, I did have to concentrate a little more than usual to be able to keep up with the twists in the story, but, I liked that. I think that maybe this book should be for a slightly older reader than me, but, I really enjoyed this book and would happily read another one from this author.
January 20, 2019
Not normally a Sci Fi fan but I enjoyed reading about Engella and her struggle to follow the clues left by her parents. Her adventures were well imagined and the story well structured building to a satisfactory climax. I think young sci fi fans will love this book. I agree with other reviewers the cover is great and invites you to pick it up.
February 7, 2019
I enjoyed the way in which the story unfolded and the time travel element. Engella is a strong character and I was rooting for her to succeed in her quest. I find the concept of a character meeting their past self difficult but it was handled well.
January 24, 2019
***As told by the 10 yo*†*****
This was a very engaging story with a lot of sci-fi stuff happening.
The time travel and the gadgets used made it very interesting.
Engela is in search of her parents and has to be careful of The Hunters and how she does this is what the story is about.
I enjoyed it.
This was a very engaging story with a lot of sci-fi stuff happening.
The time travel and the gadgets used made it very interesting.
Engela is in search of her parents and has to be careful of The Hunters and how she does this is what the story is about.
I enjoyed it.
December 21, 2019
I like the general story line and the characters but have a real problem with an important story element, .
January 1, 2019
Intriguing read
I really enjoyed this story. I couldn’t put it down. The author has done a great job drawing the reader into this world and the characters.
I really enjoyed this story. I couldn’t put it down. The author has done a great job drawing the reader into this world and the characters.
January 11, 2019
I received a copy of this book in order to take part in the blog tour. This has not influenced my rating.
I am a sucker for anything with time travel, and was excited to read a middle grade novel in the genre. And I’m thrilled to say it lived up to my hopes.
The age range lends itself wonderfully to the whimsy of time travel. From a futuristic city, to a more recent rural setting there’s a great mix of locations. And I’m excited to see where we get taken to next!
At the heart of the story is Engella our protagonist. She’s a fantastic character, on the run and trying to survive alone after the death of her parents.
Some of the twists I could see coming when reading, but given it’s target audience I don’t see this as a problem and it certainly didn’t taint my enjoyment.
The ending was left open for a sequel, and I for one can’t wait!
I am a sucker for anything with time travel, and was excited to read a middle grade novel in the genre. And I’m thrilled to say it lived up to my hopes.
The age range lends itself wonderfully to the whimsy of time travel. From a futuristic city, to a more recent rural setting there’s a great mix of locations. And I’m excited to see where we get taken to next!
At the heart of the story is Engella our protagonist. She’s a fantastic character, on the run and trying to survive alone after the death of her parents.
Some of the twists I could see coming when reading, but given it’s target audience I don’t see this as a problem and it certainly didn’t taint my enjoyment.
The ending was left open for a sequel, and I for one can’t wait!
November 29, 2018
If you love this author this is a must read. I volunteered to read an advance copy for an honest review.
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