Imagining how the past and present can merge can be
daunting, but the author introduces it gradually. At first, a woman is startled
to see her older image in the mirror, and her children treat her as if her mind
is addled. A famous podcast personality visits a holocaust concentration camp
and becomes overwhelmed by the smell and despair of the slaughter. His
emotional breakdown is broadcast live for all to see. A man in Japan visits a
memorial at the site of the atomic bomb and is overcome by the terror and
searing heat during the explosion. The effects of temporal scent bombard the
senses, “… a bizarre new reality where the past could be sensed, like a
lingering smell of history.”
Temporal scent becomes a mystery, as much of the plot tries
to understand everything about it. Several scientists from various fields of
study interview and observe three subjects. Two men and a woman are put in
situations to activate the phenomenon, while the scientists take notes. All
three report that their experiences started about two months ago, but there’s
no evidence that they’re a result of environmental factors. The military is
leading the investigation, so skeptical readers will wonder what the army will
do with any information they learn. Also, a select group is formed to protect
the highest level of specials, and a scientist wonders about its combination of
knowledge and power.
Other chapters share the variety of experiences and points
of view toward temporal scent. One charlatan tries to make money by pretending
to have the ability, while another man uses specials to locate hidden
treasures. A detective becomes a valuable asset when he can sense new
information from crime scenes and evidence. A TSA worker is transferred to
border patrol, because her temporal scent allows her to identify suspicious
people and vehicles. Other stories are presented as people discover new ways to
use this new ability.
What didn’t work as well:
NetGalley listed this book for middle grades, but it’s probably
best for an older audience. All of the characters are adults, which will make
it less relatable for middle-grade readers. The story doesn’t have main
characters, although a few personalities begin to stand out near the end. A few
characters’ dialogue is sprinkled with the f-word.
The final verdict:
The plot is very creative, but the book feels like it’s
establishing the backstory for future books. The ending will have readers
wanting to turn the page for more information, but they won’t find it. Overall,
this book will appeal to an older audience, but I can’t recommend it for most
middle-grade readers.
