Review of The Past Speaks
Posted: 22 Mar 2024, 01:12
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Past Speaks" by Geoff McCue.]
Martin Clement was fascinated with echoes and wanted to invent a device to capture pre-existing sounds. He enlisted a team to help him, but their prototype did not work. While working alone in his laboratory, Martin had a stroke of luck and got the device to function. He informed his team about this positive development but did not reveal how he made the tool work. As the story unfolds, it becomes increasingly crucial for Martin to keep this occurrence a secret.
Geoff McCue examines the intricate connections between private industry, government, and independent inventors in The Past Speaks. It is a modern-day techno-thriller that combines science fiction, adventure, and espionage elements.
The book explores time travel uniquely by using sound to look into the past. A device that records earlier conversations can be used instead of a classic time machine. The book provides a scientific background that is easy to understand and informative. However, it is presented more like a textbook, focusing on telling rather than showing. The story starts slowly as the science part lays the groundwork for the plot. Incorporating scientific discussions into the conversations can make them more engaging and less tedious.
The story follows Martin as he explores the device in different settings. He displays ingenuity and resourcefulness in getting around security and accessing information. However, some may find it unrealistic that Martin can get away with almost anything. The story could benefit from more tension to make the scenarios feel more realistic. The characters in the story are neither spies nor field operatives, so it makes sense that there are no fight scenes. The lack of physical combat is in line with the profiles of the characters.
The thriller component is more political, focusing on a power struggle over technological innovation. The plot involves murder, mystery, and espionage to illustrate the complex dynamics at play in inventions.
The most appealing aspect to me is the combination of different genres that provides an eye-opening, socially relevant theme. The story explores the intricacies of being an inventor in the present day. It presents a thought-provoking examination of inventions and their impact on the greater good.
The title is a fitting metaphor for sound and echoes, representing the different aspects of the story. Exploring the past is necessary to uncover the secrets that impact the present and future.
The story has some open-ended parts that suggest a possible follow-up. It creates curiosity but does not leave viewers feeling unsatisfied. Also, a romantic angle is introduced later in the story but does not add much to the main plot. However, it could be a potential setup for a future adventure.
I enjoyed reading the book, although I would have preferred it to be more action-packed. However, this is subjective. The unique interpretation of time travel and its significance in society outweigh my inclinations. I suggest the book explore the ethical and legal implications of a device that records past conversations. It will add more depth to the social aspects of the story.
I also noticed that the last paragraph of each chapter is center-aligned, which is consistent across all chapters. I am unsure if this is an intentional formatting choice, but it did not significantly enhance the reading experience. These observations are not negative aspects that would warrant deducting points.
This book is easy to read because of its conversational language. Although there are some swear words, the few intimate scenes only involve on-page kissing. The book is ideal for readers aged sixteen and above who enjoy science fiction, adventure, and amateur espionage. Religious groups will not find anything inappropriate in the material. It explores the mysterious death of Marilyn Monroe, which may interest those curious about the subject. However, those who prefer action-packed thrillers may want to consider other options.
The book provides a fresh perspective on a classic science fiction theme and delves into the complexities of invention and technology. However, some editing errors bring down its rating. I give it four out of five.
******
The Past Speaks
View: on Bookshelves
Martin Clement was fascinated with echoes and wanted to invent a device to capture pre-existing sounds. He enlisted a team to help him, but their prototype did not work. While working alone in his laboratory, Martin had a stroke of luck and got the device to function. He informed his team about this positive development but did not reveal how he made the tool work. As the story unfolds, it becomes increasingly crucial for Martin to keep this occurrence a secret.
Geoff McCue examines the intricate connections between private industry, government, and independent inventors in The Past Speaks. It is a modern-day techno-thriller that combines science fiction, adventure, and espionage elements.
The book explores time travel uniquely by using sound to look into the past. A device that records earlier conversations can be used instead of a classic time machine. The book provides a scientific background that is easy to understand and informative. However, it is presented more like a textbook, focusing on telling rather than showing. The story starts slowly as the science part lays the groundwork for the plot. Incorporating scientific discussions into the conversations can make them more engaging and less tedious.
The story follows Martin as he explores the device in different settings. He displays ingenuity and resourcefulness in getting around security and accessing information. However, some may find it unrealistic that Martin can get away with almost anything. The story could benefit from more tension to make the scenarios feel more realistic. The characters in the story are neither spies nor field operatives, so it makes sense that there are no fight scenes. The lack of physical combat is in line with the profiles of the characters.
The thriller component is more political, focusing on a power struggle over technological innovation. The plot involves murder, mystery, and espionage to illustrate the complex dynamics at play in inventions.
The most appealing aspect to me is the combination of different genres that provides an eye-opening, socially relevant theme. The story explores the intricacies of being an inventor in the present day. It presents a thought-provoking examination of inventions and their impact on the greater good.
The title is a fitting metaphor for sound and echoes, representing the different aspects of the story. Exploring the past is necessary to uncover the secrets that impact the present and future.
The story has some open-ended parts that suggest a possible follow-up. It creates curiosity but does not leave viewers feeling unsatisfied. Also, a romantic angle is introduced later in the story but does not add much to the main plot. However, it could be a potential setup for a future adventure.
I enjoyed reading the book, although I would have preferred it to be more action-packed. However, this is subjective. The unique interpretation of time travel and its significance in society outweigh my inclinations. I suggest the book explore the ethical and legal implications of a device that records past conversations. It will add more depth to the social aspects of the story.
I also noticed that the last paragraph of each chapter is center-aligned, which is consistent across all chapters. I am unsure if this is an intentional formatting choice, but it did not significantly enhance the reading experience. These observations are not negative aspects that would warrant deducting points.
This book is easy to read because of its conversational language. Although there are some swear words, the few intimate scenes only involve on-page kissing. The book is ideal for readers aged sixteen and above who enjoy science fiction, adventure, and amateur espionage. Religious groups will not find anything inappropriate in the material. It explores the mysterious death of Marilyn Monroe, which may interest those curious about the subject. However, those who prefer action-packed thrillers may want to consider other options.
The book provides a fresh perspective on a classic science fiction theme and delves into the complexities of invention and technology. However, some editing errors bring down its rating. I give it four out of five.
******
The Past Speaks
View: on Bookshelves