The Time Ships

by Stephen Baxter
The Time Ships cover
Good Books rating 3.67
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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  • ID: 6608
  • Added: 2025-11-26
  • Updated: 2025-11-26
  • ISBN: 9780061056482
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published: 1995-11-27
  • Reviews: 3

Stephen Baxter's 'The Time Ships' revisits the iconic conflict between the Eloi and the Morlocks, a century after H.G. Wells' original work. This novel not only expands on Wells' vision but also incorporates modern understandings of quantum physics, offering a radical departure from the original story. The narrative follows a secret passage through time that leads to the end of eternity, with a journey that comes at a terrible cost, altering both the future and the present we know. Baxter's acclaimed 'hard SF' style brings a fresh perspective to the classic tale, blending adventure, science, and speculative fiction in a way that intrigues and captivates readers. /n/n The book is praised for its scientific accuracy and imaginative storytelling, making it a standout in the science fiction genre. Baxter's attention to detail and his ability to weave complex scientific concepts into a compelling narrative set 'The Time Ships' apart from other time-travel stories. Fans of Wells' original work and new readers alike will find this novel to be a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of time, destiny, and the consequences of altering the course of history.

Reviews
NS Ford Writer · N S Ford · 2025-11-26
complex 3.50

The story is sprawling and complex, with a focus on alternative history. The reviewer notes that the author's dislike for a particular element of the original story is evident.

This reviewer delves into the book's sprawling and complex narrative, which primarily involves alternative Second World War history. They observe that the author's personal feelings about certain elements of the original story are evident, particularly a dislike for the rescue-of-Weena plotline. The reviewer appreciates the book's ambition and complexity but notes that it can be overwhelming at times.

Quick quotes

    A sprawling, complex story follows, mainly involving alternative Second World War history.

    I think Stephen Baxter must have really disliked the rescue-of-Weena ...

    The book's ambition and complexity are evident, but it can be overwhelming at times.

At Boundary's Edge · 2022-02-05
good 3.00

The book is a solid sequel that captures the essence of the original but doesn't quite reach the same revolutionary heights. It's a good read, but it's not groundbreaking.

This reviewer appreciates the book's attempt to expand on the original work, noting its strengths in maintaining the original's spirit. However, they feel it falls short of being truly revolutionary, acknowledging that it's a good read but not a groundbreaking one. The story is well-crafted and engaging, but it doesn't quite reach the same level of innovation as the original.

Quick quotes

    It's a very good book, but it isn't revolutionary in the way the original is — in part because it really can't be.

    The book is a solid sequel that captures the essence of the original.

    It's a good read, but it's not groundbreaking.

Sealion Press · 2021-06-09
awe-inspiring 4.50

The book is a masterful exploration of time, inspiring awe through its complex and intricate plot. It's a compelling read that stands out in the genre.

This reviewer is impressed by the book's ambitious exploration of time, comparing it favorably to other works that tackle similar themes. They highlight the book's intricate plot and the awe it inspires, making it a standout read. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the story, which they find compelling and engaging.

Quick quotes

    James Michener's work inspires awe through the passage of time; Baxter inspires awe through the twisting of time on scales rivaling that of any ...

    The book is a masterful exploration of time, inspiring awe through its complex and intricate plot.

    It's a compelling read that stands out in the genre.

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