“Timepiece: An Hourglass Novel,” by Myra McEntire, Egmont, June 12, 2012, Hardcover, $17.99 (young adult)
I admit not being a huge fan of Myra McEntire’s first novel, “Hourglass.” I found it to be a little disjointed and didn’t feel as if all the elements came together.
It was with those thoughts in mind that I sat down with “Timepiece,” the follow-up to “Hourglass.” In truth, I had forgotten much of what had happened in the first book, but it all came rushing back as I re-entered Myra’s time-traveling world.
In “Hourglass” we learn Emerson’s story. Emerson, who has been plagued by these phantoms since the death of her parents in a tragic bus accident. Emerson, who can see through time.
In “Timepiece” readers get to know Kaleb, the son of the Hourglass organization’s founder. Kaleb, the rebel. Kaleb, the boy who can take emotions away.
Kaleb can’t seem to win. His father survived a murder attempt, but only through the manipulation of time. His mother is alive, but she’s an empty shell. Now Kaleb is able to see ripples — cracks in time. And he’s not the only one with expanded powers.
Things appear to go from bad to worse as Jonathan Landers, the man who tried to kill Kaleb’s father, makes an appearance. Landers is on the run, but from what or whom? Then comes a threat: Find Landers and the research he has stolen, or time will be irrevocably altered. Kaleb has no choice to get involved, but at what cost?
As with “Hourglass,” Myra’s prose is once again gentle and comforting. There’s a welcoming feeling to her writing that at once feels familiar. The difference with “Timepiece” is that Myra’s storytelling has improved. Her plotlines are tighter and the subject more compelling. Kaleb’s brooding character feels more authentic, as does his interactions.
“Timepiece” strengthens its predecessor, giving “Hourglass” some of the weight it was missing. The two books are much stronger as a pair than as solo readings. Here’s hoping any following books will be just as complimentary.
