In Ray Ingles' Secondary, anthropologist Jim McAllister's dream job with the Time Eye project turns into a nightmare. A rogue experiment sends a virus back in time, altering history and leaving Jim stranded in a drastically changed Bronze Age. Now a bizarrely-dressed anomaly, he's thrust into a world where women hold absolute power, and men are rendered virtually powerless, and potentially dangerous. With his own existence a paradox, Jim must navigate this alien culture, convince anyone to believe his impossible tale, and find allies to help him survive and return to his own time. His survival depends on his anthropological skills, and his ability to convince people to listen to a story they'll likely find deeply offensive and unbelievable.
Review SECONDARY
Secondary completely blew me away! It's one of those books that burrows its way under your skin and stays with you long after you've turned the final page. The premise itself – a time-traveling anthropologist accidentally stranded in a radically altered future where women hold the power – is brilliantly inventive, and Ray Ingles executes it with such skill and imagination. The world-building is truly exceptional; Ingles doesn't just tell you about this drastically different society, he shows you, weaving intricate details into the narrative seamlessly. I was constantly fascinated by the subtle yet profound ways in which gender roles and societal structures had evolved in this new timeline, and the impact this has on every aspect of life, from interpersonal relationships to technology and even language.
What truly resonated with me, though, was the emotional depth of the story. Jim McAllister, our protagonist, isn’t just a passive observer; he's a complex, relatable character who grapples with fear, confusion, and a profound sense of displacement. Ingles masterfully captures Jim's internal struggles, his desperate attempts to understand his surroundings, and his yearning for connection in a world that fundamentally rejects him. The author’s skill in portraying emotion extends beyond Jim; the supporting characters, too, feel fully realized, with their own motivations, vulnerabilities, and strengths. Their interactions felt incredibly authentic, adding layers of nuance and complexity to the narrative.
The pacing is fantastic. While there are moments of exposition – necessary given the vast societal changes – they never feel tedious or heavy-handed. Ingles expertly balances the explanations of this new world with the thrilling unfolding of the plot, keeping the reader engaged and invested in Jim’s journey. I especially appreciated the creative way the author addressed the language barrier, using footnotes and context clues to subtly bridge the gap without ever interrupting the flow of the story. It’s a clever technique that enhances, rather than detracts from, the immersive experience.
Furthermore, the book isn't just a fascinating thought experiment; it tackles some serious and timely themes about power dynamics, gender roles, and the consequences of unchecked scientific ambition. It's a story that prompts reflection and encourages the reader to question their own assumptions about the world. The inclusion of the rape scene, while difficult to read, is handled with sensitivity and serves to underscore the profound societal shifts and the lasting impact of trauma. It adds weight and realism to the narrative, showcasing the brutal realities that can arise from imbalances of power.
Overall, Secondary is a remarkably well-written and thought-provoking piece of science fiction. It's a gripping adventure story, a poignant exploration of human nature, and a brilliant piece of world-building all rolled into one. I genuinely couldn't put it down, and I’m already eagerly anticipating the sequel to discover what happens to Jim and this captivating new world he’s found himself in. Highly, highly recommended.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.92 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 368
- Publication date: 2024
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