Review of Sent to Watch
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Claudia Angelucci
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Review of Sent to Watch
[Following is a volunteer review of "Sent to Watch" by David J. Lebenstein.]
Earth 48 is an interesting planet characterized by its extensive oceans and a majority of right-handed inhabitants. Its solitary moon is perfectly positioned to orchestrate captivating solar eclipses. Indeed, Earth 48 is none other than our beloved planet Earth, a pivotal part of the multiverse depicted in "Sent to Watch," where numerous Earths coexist.
The story opens in a post-Napoleonic English pub, introducing Major Weatherby with a scarred left face from the Battle of Waterloo and Lieutenant Greenhill, clearly inebriated, both of whom are left-handed. As the story unfolds, we learn that Major Weatherby is actually Ori Svavapass, and Lieutenant Greenhill is none other than Urelt Sraymlat. They are undercover alien agents on a mission to integrate Earth 48 into the Confederation of Civilized Planets, a coalition of 27 autonomous, advanced, and peaceful planets.
Alien agents discreetly observe and document Earth's nations, including the British Empire, France, Prussia, Spain, and the United States, following a strict Noninterference Protocol. They accelerate Earth 48's development but face a looming starfaring empire. To secure Confederation membership before the invaders arrive, they devise an audacious plan: one male agent marries Unni Vlaytork, alias Jenny Carter on Earth, with the aim of having a future prime minister son. This mission strains their commitment to the Noninterference Protocol.
"Sent to Watch" is a meticulously crafted narrative that seamlessly blends elements of history, science fiction, space exploration, and a subtle hint of romance. David J. Lebenstein, the author, brings a distinct viewpoint as a geoscientist deeply passionate about history and planetary science. With skillful finesse, he captivates readers by weaving historical insights in an engaging and accessible manner.
Who will rule Earth 48? Will French become the most spoken and internationally used language? Will Germany triumph? Will the royal family die out, and will a republic replace the monarchy? The aliens' discussions about Earth's politics during the 19th-century Georgian era provide a relatable and enjoyable aspect to the narrative.
Intriguing details, such as the Confederation's use of the calendar of Earth 1 with a year of 380 days, highlight the meticulous world-building in the story.
"Sent to Watch" is not only professionally edited and well-written, but it's a book that educates while entertaining.
Although the beginning may start off a bit slow and present a challenge in becoming acquainted with all the characters, the story picks up momentum and keeps the reader engaged. Overall, I would rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
******
Sent to Watch
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Earth 48 is an interesting planet characterized by its extensive oceans and a majority of right-handed inhabitants. Its solitary moon is perfectly positioned to orchestrate captivating solar eclipses. Indeed, Earth 48 is none other than our beloved planet Earth, a pivotal part of the multiverse depicted in "Sent to Watch," where numerous Earths coexist.
The story opens in a post-Napoleonic English pub, introducing Major Weatherby with a scarred left face from the Battle of Waterloo and Lieutenant Greenhill, clearly inebriated, both of whom are left-handed. As the story unfolds, we learn that Major Weatherby is actually Ori Svavapass, and Lieutenant Greenhill is none other than Urelt Sraymlat. They are undercover alien agents on a mission to integrate Earth 48 into the Confederation of Civilized Planets, a coalition of 27 autonomous, advanced, and peaceful planets.
Alien agents discreetly observe and document Earth's nations, including the British Empire, France, Prussia, Spain, and the United States, following a strict Noninterference Protocol. They accelerate Earth 48's development but face a looming starfaring empire. To secure Confederation membership before the invaders arrive, they devise an audacious plan: one male agent marries Unni Vlaytork, alias Jenny Carter on Earth, with the aim of having a future prime minister son. This mission strains their commitment to the Noninterference Protocol.
"Sent to Watch" is a meticulously crafted narrative that seamlessly blends elements of history, science fiction, space exploration, and a subtle hint of romance. David J. Lebenstein, the author, brings a distinct viewpoint as a geoscientist deeply passionate about history and planetary science. With skillful finesse, he captivates readers by weaving historical insights in an engaging and accessible manner.
Who will rule Earth 48? Will French become the most spoken and internationally used language? Will Germany triumph? Will the royal family die out, and will a republic replace the monarchy? The aliens' discussions about Earth's politics during the 19th-century Georgian era provide a relatable and enjoyable aspect to the narrative.
Intriguing details, such as the Confederation's use of the calendar of Earth 1 with a year of 380 days, highlight the meticulous world-building in the story.
"Sent to Watch" is not only professionally edited and well-written, but it's a book that educates while entertaining.
Although the beginning may start off a bit slow and present a challenge in becoming acquainted with all the characters, the story picks up momentum and keeps the reader engaged. Overall, I would rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
******
Sent to Watch
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Brothers Bound by Bruce K. Berger
