Conor S. (-hamster-) - , reviewed on 8/7/2009 + 2 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

I went into this book quite excited as I enjoy both science fiction and biblical fiction. On the whole I was quite disappointed by the sophistication of the writing. I suspect that is a major reason why the novel is not published by a more mainstream label.

In the novel, two old friends work for a company working to develop a time travel device. One is a devout Christian, the other an affirmed atheist (stemming from a tragedy in his past). A successful test of such a device leads to the ability to go back in time. In a not-so-sober moment Tom, the atheist, brashly travels back to the time of the ministry of Jesus Christ in order to prove he was a fraud. David follows and the pair become an integral part of the twelve disciples. Hijinks ensure in the present (or future) time, leading to a climax culminating in a life changing realization for Tom.

As others have said, the book is certainly not too "preachy" and could be enjoyed by anyone. I do feel the story got a bit too fantastic toward the end with the appearance of Legion in the present day. Perhaps I wasn't expecting this element of fantasy in what I would otherwise consider a hard science fiction novel with historical elements.

In the end, I felt the book was not fleshed out enough. I see that Mr. Robinson has been involved in writing several comics--that is what the story felt like to me (and I think this novel would lend itself well to a graphic novel format). The concept was terrific but the actual descriptions of the characters, setting, science, etc. were a letdown. If you are looking for a quick read with some interesting ideas, I recommend 'The Didymus Contingency'...if you are looking for a serious scifi novel look elsewhere. I might recommend 'The Doomsday Book' by Connie Willis as an example of an extremely well written time travel adventure.

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