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Scharlette Day #1
Scharlette Doesn't Matter and Goes Time Travelling
Ever since Scharlette’s parents gave her a name no one can really pronounce, she’s been stuck in a bit of a rut.
She hates her job in airport security, making people take their belts off before they fly away to exotic locations she can only dream about. She lives in a small apartment with large repayments, drinks bargain bin red while she watches Star Trek, and misses her beloved sister, Jenelope, lost to an exploding sandwich press, ten years ago.
Scharlette fears she might live out her entire existence without doing anything important, or mattering to anyone. It still comes as quite a surprise when a handsome time traveller named Tomothy appears out of nowhere and verifies she is correct – that, according to his records, she doesn’t matter at all.
Scharlette isn’t sure this news is as wonderful as Tomothy seems to think it is, but as he explains ...
Given her life was to have no impact on the timeline whatsoever, Scharlette is free to travel time and space, and have amazing adventures with heedless abandon.
She hates her job in airport security, making people take their belts off before they fly away to exotic locations she can only dream about. She lives in a small apartment with large repayments, drinks bargain bin red while she watches Star Trek, and misses her beloved sister, Jenelope, lost to an exploding sandwich press, ten years ago.
Scharlette fears she might live out her entire existence without doing anything important, or mattering to anyone. It still comes as quite a surprise when a handsome time traveller named Tomothy appears out of nowhere and verifies she is correct – that, according to his records, she doesn’t matter at all.
Scharlette isn’t sure this news is as wonderful as Tomothy seems to think it is, but as he explains ...
Given her life was to have no impact on the timeline whatsoever, Scharlette is free to travel time and space, and have amazing adventures with heedless abandon.
365 pages, ebook
First published June 15, 2019
667 people are currently reading
852 people want to read
About the author
Sam Bowring
21 books105 followersI write various genres of books, and some TV stuff from time to time. I also work as a stand-up comic.
sambowring.com
sambowring.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
January 2, 2020
Not since Terry Pratchett or Douglas Adams has an author stepped so boldly into geek fiction and declared "you're all taking yourselves far too seriously and I shan't stand for it". With Scharlette Doesn't Matter Bowring does just that. This book is a lot of fun, which might sound like a weak description until you realise just how much we've been lacking that sense of carefree playfulness of late.
Scharlette Doesn't Matter is a solid sci-fi romp, and this is one of the few times when "romp" is exactly the right description. Bowring's comedic background is evident as he never overplays his hand - the comedy never overpowers the narrative but adds a scrumptious sizzle to a delicious sci-fi steak.
Scharlette Doesn't Matter and Goes Time Travelling snowballs quickly and lays a platform for what will hopefully be an extended series of adventures.
If you're looking for a trip to the lighter side of science fiction then Scharlette Doesn't Matter will prep your away team and set your phasers to fun.
Scharlette Doesn't Matter is a solid sci-fi romp, and this is one of the few times when "romp" is exactly the right description. Bowring's comedic background is evident as he never overplays his hand - the comedy never overpowers the narrative but adds a scrumptious sizzle to a delicious sci-fi steak.
Scharlette Doesn't Matter and Goes Time Travelling snowballs quickly and lays a platform for what will hopefully be an extended series of adventures.
If you're looking for a trip to the lighter side of science fiction then Scharlette Doesn't Matter will prep your away team and set your phasers to fun.
July 3, 2019
I just couldnt get Into this book and that it has such a high rating is baffling to me.
The female main character was not very likeable overall and was pretty much what I would expect a male author trying (and failing) to write a female protagonist to be like.
Much is made about her unusual first name the compromise of her parents between Scarlet and Charlotte. Yes as a child you had no control over it but now you are an adult so change your name and dont just moan about it if its that much trouble.
Then there is the humor, or what passes for it...
I have been accused of liking some absurd humor and dark comedy but it was easy not to laugh when the protagonist contemplates driving a drone through the driver window of a car carrying a baby.
"when she decided not to do that because it would be way too desperate and creepy, she could wait for a car with a ‘Baby On Board’ sign to drive past below, and crash the helicopter through the driver-side window."
The female main character was not very likeable overall and was pretty much what I would expect a male author trying (and failing) to write a female protagonist to be like.
Much is made about her unusual first name the compromise of her parents between Scarlet and Charlotte. Yes as a child you had no control over it but now you are an adult so change your name and dont just moan about it if its that much trouble.
Then there is the humor, or what passes for it...
I have been accused of liking some absurd humor and dark comedy but it was easy not to laugh when the protagonist contemplates driving a drone through the driver window of a car carrying a baby.
"when she decided not to do that because it would be way too desperate and creepy, she could wait for a car with a ‘Baby On Board’ sign to drive past below, and crash the helicopter through the driver-side window."
April 12, 2019
I've already read it. That's how good a time travel book it is.
I read a pre-release copy of this book and it is fantastic. I'm a big fan of science fiction and have read a lot and this book has some truly original and very funny ideas that are executed really well.
The way this book approaches time travel is really great, it's a key part of the book but it doesn't feel overdone. It works really well and leads to some truly funny Doglas Adams'ish moments.
The characters are really interesting, the growth and change that happens to Scharlette in particular is captivating. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I read a pre-release copy of this book and it is fantastic. I'm a big fan of science fiction and have read a lot and this book has some truly original and very funny ideas that are executed really well.
The way this book approaches time travel is really great, it's a key part of the book but it doesn't feel overdone. It works really well and leads to some truly funny Doglas Adams'ish moments.
The characters are really interesting, the growth and change that happens to Scharlette in particular is captivating. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
April 19, 2019
Great easy read. So refreshingly different from anything I've read in a while. I liked Scharlette's relatable character. Funny, feel good read. Definitely reminiscent of Hitchhiker's Guide to the galaxy. The time travel was explained really well, and was easy to follow. Thoroughly enjoyed.
December 27, 2019
I really, really want to like Scharlette Doesn't Matter and Goes Time Travelling, but, in the end, I just can not. Despite the wildly original plotting and the fresh approach to time travel, I find the characters a bit annoying at times and the mood and events way too silly. Maybe, someday, when I'm in the right mood I'll revisit this potentially charming read. All I know, right now, is that this levity could take some serious seriousness.
August 21, 2025
Completely nuts but hugely enjoyable.
Go to the pub with mates, brainstorm all the reasons why time travel isn’t possible and then (probably after several pints), arrive at the most outrageous ways that these might be overcome.
Or was that in a different timeline?
Oh, love the references to Star Trek, especially the nomenclature 😁
Go to the pub with mates, brainstorm all the reasons why time travel isn’t possible and then (probably after several pints), arrive at the most outrageous ways that these might be overcome.
Or was that in a different timeline?
Oh, love the references to Star Trek, especially the nomenclature 😁
July 1, 2019
A more than All Kay time travel tale that’s both witty and enthralling. Main characters were layered and relatable, my favorite being the enigmatic timeship Gordon. I can’t wait to read the next one to see how Gordon and Sally’s complex relationship develop.
July 1, 2019
It is a rare TimeTravel novel that both pokes fun at itself, while still giving a solid story. 5 stars
Scharlette loathes her life! Her dead-end job as airport security , her parents for saddling her with a unpronounceable name, and the fact that her life is going absolutely nowhere. But somehow being told by an attractive stranger: 'her life Doesn't Matter at all, not one Iota......'
Is Good News?
Because now she can be a Time Traveler.....?
Scharlette is one of those unique books that both pokes fun, as wel as celebrate the genre it was written in, while doing a good job of it! Bowring manages to write an interesting and entertaining novel filled with an enjoyable plot and memorable characters. Both Scharlette and Gordon (The timeship) are hilarious and worked well with the absurdity of some of the plot elements.
I greatly enjoyed reading this novel and will definitely be reading any followup novel in this series.
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Scharlette loathes her life! Her dead-end job as airport security , her parents for saddling her with a unpronounceable name, and the fact that her life is going absolutely nowhere. But somehow being told by an attractive stranger: 'her life Doesn't Matter at all, not one Iota......'
Is Good News?
Because now she can be a Time Traveler.....?
Scharlette is one of those unique books that both pokes fun, as wel as celebrate the genre it was written in, while doing a good job of it! Bowring manages to write an interesting and entertaining novel filled with an enjoyable plot and memorable characters. Both Scharlette and Gordon (The timeship) are hilarious and worked well with the absurdity of some of the plot elements.
I greatly enjoyed reading this novel and will definitely be reading any followup novel in this series.
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2019
Quirky and fun, with some interesting thought points. Fans of Hitchhikers will enjoy this book. After reading it I find myself wishing I could do edits. So useful! Time travel stories already always tricky, but this one manages to avoid sticky plot holes with the use of a dimension ex machina and breaking the 4th wall once or twice to remind you to just enjoy and not over-think things.
June 16, 2019
A wickedly fun & funny read following some lovely little twists and turns with the heroine, Scharlotte. There are some really interesting concepts in the story which could have easily gone pear-shaped but in the hands of the author were pulled off masterfully. PLUS so great to read some sci-fi with a compelling female protagonist. Highly recommended!
May 1, 2019
A lovely book with some funny and clever stuff about the nature of time, space and love.
November 12, 2021
I just wanted it to be over and it dragged on and on. Just didn th be enough substance for the length of the book. No more.
April 27, 2019
This book seemed like a light read to pick up to get some laughs out of me , but, not only did it succeed at that, but it also delivered on it's promise of a witty mystery and twisty plot.
The book carefully explained the limits of time travel and stuck to that in a way that seems realistic and plausible throughout.
Characterization was also great, as the author left lots of room for individual characters to shine.
Altogether it was a very enjoyable read, one that was punctuated with bursts of laughter.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book carefully explained the limits of time travel and stuck to that in a way that seems realistic and plausible throughout.
Characterization was also great, as the author left lots of room for individual characters to shine.
Altogether it was a very enjoyable read, one that was punctuated with bursts of laughter.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 12, 2019
Great character development and explanations of difficult concepts make this book easy to comprehend and easy to get lost in. Five meow meow beans.
May 16, 2019
!!Ridiculously delightful & delightfully ridiculous!!
So when I first heard “a time travelling comedy” I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect BUT once I had started reading I was glad I didn’t refuse. It was a delightful book that kept me smiling the whole time and wanting to read more!
From my perspective the humour was based in pointing out the ridiculousness of the world and did this through engaging dialogue between various characters which was utterly charming. The key to making this work was definitely in the character’s (though from different worlds/time periods) relatability and believability as real, existing people.
Furthermore, though primarily an entertaining and humorous story, the whole premise of the plot was based in some pretty interesting ideas that I enjoyed exploring and am keen to see how they play out in subsequent books (if there are more)!
So far, this has been a brimming review and that’s because I genuinely enjoyed the whole thing. I’ll be honest in that, I did have some concerns about some small plot directions on first reading (very minor) BUT Sam being a top notch author listened to reader feedback (mine and others’) and acted on it. (FYI i got an advanced copy, in exchange for an honest review). He’s assured me that there have been big improvements - what a swell dude! So, in summary…
I AM VERY KEEN to read it again and see these improvements in situ!
Would 100% recommend!
So when I first heard “a time travelling comedy” I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect BUT once I had started reading I was glad I didn’t refuse. It was a delightful book that kept me smiling the whole time and wanting to read more!
From my perspective the humour was based in pointing out the ridiculousness of the world and did this through engaging dialogue between various characters which was utterly charming. The key to making this work was definitely in the character’s (though from different worlds/time periods) relatability and believability as real, existing people.
Furthermore, though primarily an entertaining and humorous story, the whole premise of the plot was based in some pretty interesting ideas that I enjoyed exploring and am keen to see how they play out in subsequent books (if there are more)!
So far, this has been a brimming review and that’s because I genuinely enjoyed the whole thing. I’ll be honest in that, I did have some concerns about some small plot directions on first reading (very minor) BUT Sam being a top notch author listened to reader feedback (mine and others’) and acted on it. (FYI i got an advanced copy, in exchange for an honest review). He’s assured me that there have been big improvements - what a swell dude! So, in summary…
I AM VERY KEEN to read it again and see these improvements in situ!
Would 100% recommend!
April 23, 2021
Crazy fun!
This is a wild ride through time and space, and a ton of fun. It's well written, but it kind of breaks the fourth wall. Not everyone likes that, but I thought it added to the fun.
This is a wild ride through time and space, and a ton of fun. It's well written, but it kind of breaks the fourth wall. Not everyone likes that, but I thought it added to the fun.
May 31, 2021
DNF. I just could not get into this book and I didn't think it was nearly as clever or funny as other people seem to. Maybe I'll try it again some other day but for now, it's not worth the time or energy to keep forcing myself to pick it up.
August 18, 2019
If you've read "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" by Douglas Adams, I can almost guarantee this book will be your cup of tea.
Sam Bowring's writing is wonderful and he manages to depict many extraordinary worlds with an easiness I seldom find.
Despite the many Star Wars / Star Treck references I didn't grasp, this book was incredibly easy to follow – I was expecting a more complex reading since this is about time travel and I was assuming it would have loads of descriptions, but I was completely wrong since the author focused more on dialogues (thank God!).
I also enjoyed the author's humor, something I find crucial when reading sci-fi or I'll get bored. I was not surprised when I found out Bowring is a stand-up comedian and despite not having watched his videos yet, I can tell you that in this book you can expect charming jokes (I was always smiling like a fool while reading). His style reminded me of the guy who can always make you have a laugh when you're least expecting, I loved it.
The characters were entertaining, the perfect mix of deep with relatable. Since our main character is as clueless as us, it's amazing to see her grow and learn at the same pace as we do.
Speaking of pace, this story's rhythm was fast and addictive and I never felt bored.
Bowring managed to talk about grief, sterility and the meaning of life in a light, fun way, reminding his readers there's always a fun adventure waiting for them.
The only thing I disliked a bit was the need to make Scharllette perfect and change her body. I know it served a purpose (to describe a future when such things are possible) but I don't like this obsession with flawless bodies and perfect characters every writer nowadays seems to adopt. Write about real bodies, people! Please!
In conclusion, buy this book, you won't regret it (and if you do, send a message to your PPC to change the timeline).
I certainly will be getting a physical copy (yes, I'm one of those people who receive ARCs and buys the book nonetheless).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sam Bowring's writing is wonderful and he manages to depict many extraordinary worlds with an easiness I seldom find.
Despite the many Star Wars / Star Treck references I didn't grasp, this book was incredibly easy to follow – I was expecting a more complex reading since this is about time travel and I was assuming it would have loads of descriptions, but I was completely wrong since the author focused more on dialogues (thank God!).
I also enjoyed the author's humor, something I find crucial when reading sci-fi or I'll get bored. I was not surprised when I found out Bowring is a stand-up comedian and despite not having watched his videos yet, I can tell you that in this book you can expect charming jokes (I was always smiling like a fool while reading). His style reminded me of the guy who can always make you have a laugh when you're least expecting, I loved it.
The characters were entertaining, the perfect mix of deep with relatable. Since our main character is as clueless as us, it's amazing to see her grow and learn at the same pace as we do.
Speaking of pace, this story's rhythm was fast and addictive and I never felt bored.
Bowring managed to talk about grief, sterility and the meaning of life in a light, fun way, reminding his readers there's always a fun adventure waiting for them.
The only thing I disliked a bit was the need to make Scharllette perfect and change her body. I know it served a purpose (to describe a future when such things are possible) but I don't like this obsession with flawless bodies and perfect characters every writer nowadays seems to adopt. Write about real bodies, people! Please!
In conclusion, buy this book, you won't regret it (and if you do, send a message to your PPC to change the timeline).
I certainly will be getting a physical copy (yes, I'm one of those people who receive ARCs and buys the book nonetheless).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 16, 2019
I have received this ARC from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review
4.5 STARS
Scharlette Doesn't Matter and Goes Time Travelling is an hilarious read, that reflects the fact that the author is a comedian.
I haven’t read the The Hitchhiker's Guide so I can’t compare the two books like everybody else is doing, but I can say that I love sci-fi books and I liked that this novel is not super serious but, at the same time, has a well-structured story and deep characters.
The author created a very interesting world, which us readers understand bit by bit together with Scharlette and I ABSOLUTELY ADORED the fact that he took the time to point out (through dialogues) the differences in language between the present and the future and I’ve really appreciated the subtle talks about gender equality, life and death and other deep themes. It reminded me, a little bit, of what Gaiman did in Good Omens, using humour to talk about important things.
I can totally say that I didn’t expect the story to turn out the way it did, and that’s another reason why I loved this book. You can never tell what the author will do and that’s super refreshing. I’ve read there will be other books (can’t wait), but at the same time the story in this novel has a clear ending and I appreciated it.
The characters are funny, kinda bizarre but deep and well-rounded. Scharlette is sick of her life and, at the beginning of the book, is one of those empty people who survive life but not really live it. She’s odd, sarcastic and becomes a whole new person when she starts time travelling. Tom is unexpected, hiding secrets behind his wit and was not really ready to take a woman like Scharlette in. Shout out to Gordon my (second) favourite AI, you’re awesome girl (seeee, gender talks).
All in all, I absolutely loved this book and I cannot recommend it enough. If you like sci-fi and a good laugh, then this book is for you.
4.5 STARS
Scharlette Doesn't Matter and Goes Time Travelling is an hilarious read, that reflects the fact that the author is a comedian.
I haven’t read the The Hitchhiker's Guide so I can’t compare the two books like everybody else is doing, but I can say that I love sci-fi books and I liked that this novel is not super serious but, at the same time, has a well-structured story and deep characters.
The author created a very interesting world, which us readers understand bit by bit together with Scharlette and I ABSOLUTELY ADORED the fact that he took the time to point out (through dialogues) the differences in language between the present and the future and I’ve really appreciated the subtle talks about gender equality, life and death and other deep themes. It reminded me, a little bit, of what Gaiman did in Good Omens, using humour to talk about important things.
I can totally say that I didn’t expect the story to turn out the way it did, and that’s another reason why I loved this book. You can never tell what the author will do and that’s super refreshing. I’ve read there will be other books (can’t wait), but at the same time the story in this novel has a clear ending and I appreciated it.
The characters are funny, kinda bizarre but deep and well-rounded. Scharlette is sick of her life and, at the beginning of the book, is one of those empty people who survive life but not really live it. She’s odd, sarcastic and becomes a whole new person when she starts time travelling. Tom is unexpected, hiding secrets behind his wit and was not really ready to take a woman like Scharlette in. Shout out to Gordon my (second) favourite AI, you’re awesome girl (seeee, gender talks).
All in all, I absolutely loved this book and I cannot recommend it enough. If you like sci-fi and a good laugh, then this book is for you.
April 25, 2019
The baroque title doesn’t quite give you a sense of what this book will be, but it does hint to the sense of humour you’ll be greeted with. While some reviewers have compared this to Douglas Adams and his Hitchhikers books, Scharlette to me feels far more Australian than the dour British Arthur Dent. Also, apart from one glaring, yet hilarious chapter, the humour is in service to the story here, not the other way around, as often was the case with Adams.
Comparisons aside, taking this book on its merits, it is a fun romp, and very much reminded me of the kind of thing I enjoyed as a teenager, albeit with a couple of more adult moments (not Game of Thrones adult, so perhaps more adolescent than adult…) The humour is gentle, not caustic, and the science, while properly thought out and holds together well, is not rendered as impenetrable technobabble. Having a relatable character like Scharlette as our eyes into the fantastical elements of the story means we are never overwhelmed or bewildered by the concepts. The more unwieldy conceptual moments are deftly handled, not unlike recent Doctor Who episodes, where things are explained simply enough to be understood, but I never felt that I was being talked down to or patronised.
I really did enjoy the romance elements, which is not something science fiction books usually handle well, outside of the brilliant and hilarious works of Connie Willis. Also, I loved that this book had an ending. So often now you get to the end of a science fiction or fantasy novel only to find that you are barely into a multi-novel epic. There was one dangling plot thread (and I know from talking to Sam that there are more books to come), but the bulk of the story is resolved inside this volume, and that is something I am always thankful for. I like revisiting characters in book series, but I do find multi-book narratives exhausting.
This is a fun book, that you will likely knock over fairly swiftly, and Sam’s cheeky narrative voice will deftly lead you through all the twists and turns. There are times I wanted to kick Scharlette, and several times I started to think this wasn’t my kind of book, most probably due to the humour* but I had quite an emotional response to the ending, so it obviously got under my skin at some point.
*When comedy is your job, you tend not to be able to enjoy it in your downtime.
DISCLAIMER: I was given a preview copy of this book to read by the author, and I know some revisions have been made since I read it (I sent him notes – I’m a busybody, and can’t help myself). Other than the free e-book, no other compensation has been offered for this review. While Sam is a mate, I’m not exactly shy about my opinions, and would happily savage my besties in a review.
Comparisons aside, taking this book on its merits, it is a fun romp, and very much reminded me of the kind of thing I enjoyed as a teenager, albeit with a couple of more adult moments (not Game of Thrones adult, so perhaps more adolescent than adult…) The humour is gentle, not caustic, and the science, while properly thought out and holds together well, is not rendered as impenetrable technobabble. Having a relatable character like Scharlette as our eyes into the fantastical elements of the story means we are never overwhelmed or bewildered by the concepts. The more unwieldy conceptual moments are deftly handled, not unlike recent Doctor Who episodes, where things are explained simply enough to be understood, but I never felt that I was being talked down to or patronised.
I really did enjoy the romance elements, which is not something science fiction books usually handle well, outside of the brilliant and hilarious works of Connie Willis. Also, I loved that this book had an ending. So often now you get to the end of a science fiction or fantasy novel only to find that you are barely into a multi-novel epic. There was one dangling plot thread (and I know from talking to Sam that there are more books to come), but the bulk of the story is resolved inside this volume, and that is something I am always thankful for. I like revisiting characters in book series, but I do find multi-book narratives exhausting.
This is a fun book, that you will likely knock over fairly swiftly, and Sam’s cheeky narrative voice will deftly lead you through all the twists and turns. There are times I wanted to kick Scharlette, and several times I started to think this wasn’t my kind of book, most probably due to the humour* but I had quite an emotional response to the ending, so it obviously got under my skin at some point.
*When comedy is your job, you tend not to be able to enjoy it in your downtime.
DISCLAIMER: I was given a preview copy of this book to read by the author, and I know some revisions have been made since I read it (I sent him notes – I’m a busybody, and can’t help myself). Other than the free e-book, no other compensation has been offered for this review. While Sam is a mate, I’m not exactly shy about my opinions, and would happily savage my besties in a review.
July 21, 2025
This book was great. It was silly, it was cool. It ended in a way that makes me want to read the next two.
Scharlette is a largely unremarkable security agent at the Sydney airport who, upon lamenting her ordinary life, is suddenly swept up in a space/time adventure such as I have never encountered in a book before. I realise that space travel (not being a real thing) comes with a bunch of made up rules but this book has rules and laws that actually make sense! So if you are someone who looks for that type of thing or who wants magic systems in their fantasy novels to have rules and explanations, then this book will scratch that particular itch.
It is a very silly book and appeals to the English Lit scholar in me, despite (and perhaps because of) the very deliberate usage of ridiculous language substitutions such as "ALL KAY" en lieu of "okay" as well as the silliness of the characters' names themselves.
I thought this book was a riot and was surprised to find myself reading every word and not having any desire to DNF it. In fact, it was quite the opposite. I actually wanted to return to it above any of my other reads of the moment, despite it being a Kindle read (anyone who knows me, knows also that e-reading is my least favorite way to consume book media). So that says a lot about this one.
I got it for free via Kindle but like it well enough to purchase the physical copy as well as its companions.
Well done Same Bowring. I will be reading your backlist.
Scharlette is a largely unremarkable security agent at the Sydney airport who, upon lamenting her ordinary life, is suddenly swept up in a space/time adventure such as I have never encountered in a book before. I realise that space travel (not being a real thing) comes with a bunch of made up rules but this book has rules and laws that actually make sense! So if you are someone who looks for that type of thing or who wants magic systems in their fantasy novels to have rules and explanations, then this book will scratch that particular itch.
It is a very silly book and appeals to the English Lit scholar in me, despite (and perhaps because of) the very deliberate usage of ridiculous language substitutions such as "ALL KAY" en lieu of "okay" as well as the silliness of the characters' names themselves.
I thought this book was a riot and was surprised to find myself reading every word and not having any desire to DNF it. In fact, it was quite the opposite. I actually wanted to return to it above any of my other reads of the moment, despite it being a Kindle read (anyone who knows me, knows also that e-reading is my least favorite way to consume book media). So that says a lot about this one.
I got it for free via Kindle but like it well enough to purchase the physical copy as well as its companions.
Well done Same Bowring. I will be reading your backlist.
May 16, 2019
*I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
This a fun little sci-fi romp that felt familiar but just different enough to enjoy it. For the first 25% or so, I was so into this book. Scharlette's love of sci-fi and thus being able to sort-of-follow what was happening was a refreshing take on a time traveller and his companion. Additionally, it's pretty funny! The humour lands well a lot of the time, with maybe some being a dud. However, there reached a point mid-way when I felt just… bored and unable to care. I persevered and the read picked up for me and overall I'd say I liked this just fine. I definitely regained my emotional investment in it by the end -- and I can't tell from other reviews (or recall at the moment, frankly!) -- whether this is going to be a series, but if it is, I'd be interested in reading on as the author gets more of a feel on the characters and humour, but 3-star feels just the right rating from me for now.
You might like this if you enjoy Doctor Who, though. I definitely saw a lot of influence from that, plus this is definitely a quirky read if that's your style.
Review on blog: https://heyannarld.wordpress.com/2019...
This a fun little sci-fi romp that felt familiar but just different enough to enjoy it. For the first 25% or so, I was so into this book. Scharlette's love of sci-fi and thus being able to sort-of-follow what was happening was a refreshing take on a time traveller and his companion. Additionally, it's pretty funny! The humour lands well a lot of the time, with maybe some being a dud. However, there reached a point mid-way when I felt just… bored and unable to care. I persevered and the read picked up for me and overall I'd say I liked this just fine. I definitely regained my emotional investment in it by the end -- and I can't tell from other reviews (or recall at the moment, frankly!) -- whether this is going to be a series, but if it is, I'd be interested in reading on as the author gets more of a feel on the characters and humour, but 3-star feels just the right rating from me for now.
You might like this if you enjoy Doctor Who, though. I definitely saw a lot of influence from that, plus this is definitely a quirky read if that's your style.
Review on blog: https://heyannarld.wordpress.com/2019...
November 17, 2024
Sam Bowring pens a funny, fast paced time travel story with endearing characters and lots of action. Full of puns like “Ten Thousand Years Under the Sea,” and insider writer jokes, such as “How about I try and unconfuse you in the meantime? Feel like a bit more exposition?” this well-crafted novel takes readers on a joyride through alternative timelines facing humanity’s foibles and greatest enemies, sentient vessels and the conundrums caused by the ability to edit time to fix mistakes.
The author sums up the theme of the book in this quote: “Scharlette was wise, for sometimes events flow so strongly that one must simply ride the current. However, she would have done well to remember that eventually all must pick up the oars, else we become mere passengers in the story of our lives.” The main character decides to take control of her life and saves the day. Everything ends well for our protagonist and the novel leaves the door open for further escapades.
I really liked the humorous approach to time travel, the narration and the solid writing and editing. I would highly recommend this for lovers of Sci-Fi, humor, and rollicking good adventure tales.
The author sums up the theme of the book in this quote: “Scharlette was wise, for sometimes events flow so strongly that one must simply ride the current. However, she would have done well to remember that eventually all must pick up the oars, else we become mere passengers in the story of our lives.” The main character decides to take control of her life and saves the day. Everything ends well for our protagonist and the novel leaves the door open for further escapades.
I really liked the humorous approach to time travel, the narration and the solid writing and editing. I would highly recommend this for lovers of Sci-Fi, humor, and rollicking good adventure tales.
May 30, 2021
A surprisingly good story! So it's not serious SFF and it won't make you think deep thoughts about the world and our place in it, but it's still a good romp through time. The one thing it does do is help people who feel useless and hopeless about their lot in life feel more valuable. I appreciated that. Anyway, it's a good story and I liked it quite a bit. I look forward to the next one in the series.
July 30, 2023
This was an entertaining read with light-hearted humor that consistently hit its mark.
That being said, for me it was "pleasantly mid" -- light humor mixed with light sci-fi, both solid, but neither aspect stood out strongly enough for me.
That being said, for me it was "pleasantly mid" -- light humor mixed with light sci-fi, both solid, but neither aspect stood out strongly enough for me.
September 25, 2021
I'm surprised to say I actually enjoyed this. Huh.
Read
December 4, 2021I'll definitely give any other books by this author a go.
April 24, 2019
If Arthur Dent morphed into River Song, it would probably have happened just like this, with a lot of second chances and a good cup of tea.
I received a free advance copy of the book and I must say I'm glad.
I received a free advance copy of the book and I must say I'm glad.
September 20, 2022
I loved this book
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved it so much that the minute I finished it, I bought the second one in the series. The 2nd one is now nearly finished & then what am I to do with my life?!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved it so much that the minute I finished it, I bought the second one in the series. The 2nd one is now nearly finished & then what am I to do with my life?!
February 11, 2020
received this book as an ARC and am leaving an honest review.
I loved this book. I usually shy away from time travel as a theme in books. I just find it so contrived. Sam Bowring has written a book which features time travel and it works. He really has a unique take on it. He has developed his own vocabulary to accompany the concept and even attempts to explain it using his own take as well as some elements of 'classical' time travel tropes. I almost understood it! (lol) He's really thought it through. His explanation of how the temporal paradox works and doesn't, is brilliant.
Scharlette Day is a TSA agent in Australia, She hates her life, her job, her world. Its boring. boring. boring. One day an incident occurs at the x ray scanner involving two strangers with laser guns and aliens. Due to Scharlette deciding to be especially diligent at her job for a moment, she ends up with a device belonging to one of the strangers in her possession. When he returns to retrieve it, all the fun begins. Enter Time Agent Tomothy from very far in the future. Scharlette can't and won't give him his device back and he really needs it. She overhears another Agent analysing her and finds out she is sterile and therefore 'doesn't matter'. This means she has no offspring and therefore her time line ends right here, in this present. This is great! Because she doesn't matter, she can time travel and not cause any ripples that will change the future or the present. She decides to go along with Tomothy.
The central plot concerns a general recall of a historic timeline. Something has been 'edited' in order to purposely make a change to the future in an effort to change the history of mankind. Tomothy is somehow aware that something has changed, but he can't remember it and wants to know why. What follows is his, Scharlette and Gordon, his time ship's, pursuit of the missing thread. On this central thread is braided a wonderful story which encompasses all the things one would want from a sci fi 'space opera': space battles, mysterious relationships, talking time ships, HD rooms in which your fantasies can come true and more.
I really thought the story was going to end a certain way. It certainly seemed so, but then Bowring flipped the script and an element of the story which had seemed somewhat superfluous and almost forgotten, suddenly became central to the resolution of the story. It was very satisfying.
I highly recommend this book. I hope, when I have time, to read more from this author.
I loved this book. I usually shy away from time travel as a theme in books. I just find it so contrived. Sam Bowring has written a book which features time travel and it works. He really has a unique take on it. He has developed his own vocabulary to accompany the concept and even attempts to explain it using his own take as well as some elements of 'classical' time travel tropes. I almost understood it! (lol) He's really thought it through. His explanation of how the temporal paradox works and doesn't, is brilliant.
Scharlette Day is a TSA agent in Australia, She hates her life, her job, her world. Its boring. boring. boring. One day an incident occurs at the x ray scanner involving two strangers with laser guns and aliens. Due to Scharlette deciding to be especially diligent at her job for a moment, she ends up with a device belonging to one of the strangers in her possession. When he returns to retrieve it, all the fun begins. Enter Time Agent Tomothy from very far in the future. Scharlette can't and won't give him his device back and he really needs it. She overhears another Agent analysing her and finds out she is sterile and therefore 'doesn't matter'. This means she has no offspring and therefore her time line ends right here, in this present. This is great! Because she doesn't matter, she can time travel and not cause any ripples that will change the future or the present. She decides to go along with Tomothy.
The central plot concerns a general recall of a historic timeline. Something has been 'edited' in order to purposely make a change to the future in an effort to change the history of mankind. Tomothy is somehow aware that something has changed, but he can't remember it and wants to know why. What follows is his, Scharlette and Gordon, his time ship's, pursuit of the missing thread. On this central thread is braided a wonderful story which encompasses all the things one would want from a sci fi 'space opera': space battles, mysterious relationships, talking time ships, HD rooms in which your fantasies can come true and more.
I really thought the story was going to end a certain way. It certainly seemed so, but then Bowring flipped the script and an element of the story which had seemed somewhat superfluous and almost forgotten, suddenly became central to the resolution of the story. It was very satisfying.
I highly recommend this book. I hope, when I have time, to read more from this author.
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