An archeologist, Raquel, faces personal and professional turmoil in a future where pocket universes are exploited by corporations for profit, leading to environmental devastation and grief. The novella delves into themes of loss, redemption, and the consequences of unchecked capitalism in a world where time is a commodity controlled by greed.

Reader Review Summary

"Time's Agent" by Brenda Peynado is a masterfully crafted science fiction novella that takes readers on a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant journey. At its core, this story revolves around the profound concepts of time, grief, love, and the consequences of unchecked corporate greed.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its innovative and imaginative premise: the existence of "pocket worlds" – hidden offshoots of reality with varying time dilations, where time moves either faster or slower relative to Earth's standard time. This brilliant concept immediately captures the reader's imagination, sparking curiosity about the endless possibilities and implications of such worlds. Peynado's worldbuilding is meticulous and immersive, allowing readers to vividly envision these pocket worlds and the ways in which they could be explored, exploited, or protected.

At the heart of the story is Raquel, an archaeologist whose life is irrevocably altered when she becomes trapped in a pocket world, only to emerge forty years later to find her world drastically changed. Peynado masterfully explores the depths of Raquel's grief and loss, rendering her emotional journey with raw authenticity. Readers cannot help but empathize with Raquel as she grapples with the devastating consequences of her absence, including the death of her daughter and the fracturing of her relationship with her wife, Marlena.

Peynado's narrative is both a poignant character study and a searing commentary on the perils of corporate greed and environmental exploitation. The author paints a chillingly realistic picture of a future where pocket worlds have been commodified and drained of their resources by megacorporations, driven solely by profit motives. This cautionary tale serves as a powerful reminder of the need to preserve and protect our world's natural wonders and to prioritize scientific exploration over blind consumerism.

Throughout the novella, Peynado's prose is richly descriptive and evocative, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of Raquel's journey. The author's talent for crafting vivid imagery and conveying complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner is truly remarkable. Additionally, the inclusion of elements such as indigenous mysticism and the integration of Taino culture adds depth and cultural richness to the narrative.

While the novella form presents inherent limitations in terms of character development and pacing, Peynado navigates these challenges with finesse. Raquel's emotional arc is rendered with nuance and authenticity, and the story's climax, though perhaps a bit rushed, remains satisfying and impactful.

In conclusion, "Time's Agent" is a captivating and thought-provoking work of speculative fiction that seamlessly blends scientific concepts, emotional depth, and social commentary. Peynado's imaginative premise, coupled with her skilled storytelling and evocative prose, make this novella a must-read for fans of science fiction and anyone seeking a poignant exploration of the human condition.