|
All of you should know by now that I prefer Science Fiction to Fantasy. So any fantasy
book which gets a review must be something special. This one is just that!
The story occurs in an alternate universe where Sir Isaac Newton discovers the
basic principles of Alchemy. When he applies the mathematics of calculus to their
application, you get some strange devices, such as a sort of wireless fax machine
called an aetherschreiber, an energy cannon for reducing French fortresses, and a
wireless lightbulb.
Newspapers, candlemakers, and the French King Louis XIV are rightfully annoyed.
The French plot to prevail against the English with an invention created their own
group of alchemists. The French are having trouble solving the mathematics of
alchemy.
Meanwhile, in America, Benjamin Franklin serves as an apprentice to his
older brother James at the local newspaper. He's busy exploring Newton's alchemical
principles in his spare time. The newspaper's aetherschreiber is tuned to a
specific machine back in England. When Franklin alters the newspaper's
aetherschreiber to communicate with other machines, he accidentally comes in
contact with the French.
Although the archaic techno-babble can get almost as bad as Star Trek at times,
this is nonetheless a very rewarding book. After reading the whole thing, I can only
say that choosing Ben Franklin as an action hero in the 18th Century was an inspired
concept. I look forward to reading more of Mr. Keyes' work.
|
