"The Time Machine Did It" by John Swartzwelder is an incredibly entertaining and imaginative story that follows the adventures of Frank Burly, a loveable private detective who unexpectedly discovers a time-traveling device. With each leap through time and space, Burly is faced with a series of intriguing cases that span different eras, ranging from the search for a missing feline friend to an investigation into his own untimely demise. Swartzwelder's writing style is hilarious and engrossing, filled with outlandish plot twists that keep readers hooked from beginning to end.
One of the greatest strengths of Swartzwelder's storytelling is his seamless integration of a classic detective narrative with elements of science fiction and comedy. The inclusion of time travel adds a unique and thrilling dimension to the story, allowing for unexpected and humorous situations that keep readers engaged and entertained. Moreover, the author's fast-paced writing style, featuring short and snappy chapters, makes it nearly impossible to put the book down. It's a constant joyride from one chapter to the next.
Another standout aspect of "The Time Machine Did It" is its protagonist, Frank Burly. As brought to life by Swartzwelder, Burly is a wonderfully eccentric character who instantly captures readers' hearts. His dry wit and constant self-deprecating humor inject even more amusement into the narrative. Despite his clumsy demeanor and simplistic thinking, Burly is endearing and relatable, making readers root for him even in the most absurd situations.
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Additionally, Swartzwelder's storytelling prowess shines through in the book's imaginative and unpredictable plot. Each case initially appears unrelated, but as the story unfolds, the pieces gradually come together in a surprising and satisfying climax. Swartzwelder's ability to skillfully connect all the dots and tie up loose ends is remarkable and showcases his talent as a writer.
Overall, "The Time Machine Did It" is a truly exceptional and enjoyable read that flawlessly combines humor, mystery, and science fiction. Swartzwelder's clever writing style, memorable characters, and unpredictable plot make this novel a must-read for enthusiasts of comedic and detective fiction alike. Prepare to be whisked away on a hilarious and mind-bending journey through time with Frank Burly.
What are readers saying?
John Swartzwelder's book "The Time Machine Did It" has received mixed reactions from readers. While some found the humor and wit of Swartzwelder's writing enjoyable, others felt it didn't live up to their expectations.
Many readers appreciated the quirky and offbeat humor that permeated the book. They found Swartzwelder's writing style clever and entertaining, filled with witty wordplay and surprising twists. The humor was described as zany and unconventional, appealing to those who enjoy absurdist comedy. These readers considered the book a refreshing and lighthearted read.
However, some felt that the humor in "The Time Machine Did It" was too exaggerated and forced. According to them, the jokes often missed the mark and felt contrived, leading to frustration. These readers mentioned that the continuous stream of humor overshadowed the plot, making it difficult to engage with the story on a deeper level.
In terms of the plot, a few readers found it lacking substance. They felt it was too simplistic and lacked depth, following a predictable and formulaic structure. These readers were disappointed by the lack of character development and complexity, describing the book as light and disposable.
On the other hand, some readers appreciated the simplicity of the plot, considering it a deliberate stylistic choice that allowed the humor to shine. They found the straightforward narrative to be a refreshing respite from more intricate and demanding books, making it an enjoyable and easy read.
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