"Bearing an Hourglass" is the second installment in the popular "Incarnations of Immortality" series by Piers Anthony. The book follows the story of Norton, a young man who is chosen to become the embodiment of Time itself. Endowed with a powerful hourglass, Norton's mission is to maintain balance and order in the universe. However, as he embarks on his journey, he finds himself entangled in a complex web of time paradoxes and moral quandaries that test his limits.
This novel delves deep into the concept of time and its complexities. Anthony skillfully explores the challenges that come with being the personification of Time, highlighting the immense responsibility and burdens that Norton carries on his shoulders. The narrative also introduces the character of Orlene, a troubled young woman who becomes a significant part of Norton's adventures.
Anthony's strength lies in his ability to construct intricate worlds, and "Bearing an Hourglass" is no exception. The vivid descriptions of various time periods and societies add depth and fascination to the overall storyline. The author seamlessly blends elements of science fiction, fantasy, and mythology, creating a truly unique and engaging tale.
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Furthermore, the book tackles philosophical themes that add an extra layer of complexity. Anthony poses thought-provoking questions about morality, destiny, and the nature of existence. These themes are skillfully explored through the challenges that Norton faces as Time, forcing him to confront his own beliefs and values.
In summary, "Bearing an Hourglass" is a captivating and thought-provoking read that builds upon the foundations set in the previous book. With its compelling characters, rich world-building, and profound philosophical exploration, this installment in the "Incarnations of Immortality" series is sure to captivate fans of fantasy and science fiction alike.
What are readers saying?
Bearing an Hourglass, a novel by Piers Anthony, is a book that has garnered a mixed reception from readers on Goodreads. Overall, the book has a rating of 3.84 stars out of 5, indicating a division of opinions among readers.
Many reviewers have commended the book for its unique concept and intricate world-building. They found the time travel element to be fascinating and lauded the author's ability to craft complex and imaginative plots. These readers were captivated by the book's unpredictable twists and turns that kept them engaged from start to finish. Anthony's writing style was also highly regarded, with reviewers noting that it flowed well and contributed to an enjoyable reading experience.
On the other hand, there were reviewers who expressed disappointment with Bearing an Hourglass. They found the book to be confusing and difficult to follow at times, attributed to its complex narrative structure and abundance of characters. These readers struggled to connect with the story and felt that it lacked a clear direction. Additionally, some reviewers felt that the pacing of the book was slow, which hindered their overall enjoyment of the plot.
Opinions regarding the characters in the book were varied. Some readers found the protagonists to be well-developed and relatable, appreciating their growth throughout the story. However, others felt that the characters lacked depth and found it challenging to form an emotional connection with them. Certain reviewers also raised concerns about the treatment of female characters, noting that they were often reduced to stereotypes and lacked agency.
Furthermore, the book's philosophical themes received contrasting opinions from readers. Some readers enjoyed the exploration of these themes and appreciated the depth and complexity they added to the story. On the other hand, a few reviewers found the philosophical elements overwhelming and felt they detracted from the main narrative. They wished for more focus on the plot itself.
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