By Jenny Robinson
Splinter Effect is a story that both takes place now and then, through history and the mechanics of time travel. In his debut novel, Andrew Ludington introduces us to a protagonist that is lucid while also being complicated. This story feels akin to the great tales of Indiana Jones, but the connection only lands in the hunt. Dr. Rabbit Ward is a modern man who understands not only the history he’s seeking, but the politics and social importances as well. The way he maneuvers through this story, sets him apart.
We follow Rabbit in 2018 and then into 535 CE, from Washington DC to Constantinople. The world Ludington has built gives us a new and interesting take on the tropes of time travel. Rabbit is a chrono-archaeologist working for the Smithsonian. Here is where we are introduced to the fundraising it takes to “jump” through time and the consequences that haunts him. His profession is to go back in time, hide an object that was lost in history, to dig it up in the present. One can argue that his job has made him into a cynic but as the story unfolds, the contrary becomes true. As a reader, he is written as if you are apart of his journey. You are along side him as he works through the puzzle of locating the sought after treasure, for better or worse.
Where Rabbit stands out is with the cast of colorful characters that bring this story to life. Constantinople stays true to history, but feels so much more relate-able through his modern lens. Helen becomes both competitor and companion; Andor both guide and friend; PJ both boss and confidant. The list goes on, and the story breathes within these relationships.
By the moment the last page turns, I was ready to crack the spine again to start the next chapter. Rumor has it, there will be more Rabbit. Not sure what time, what place or with whom, but I am ready. Truly an exciting and electric read for action, history and sci-fi seekers alike.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ANDREW LUDINGTON writes transportive adventure stories intended to make you forget your commute. He graduated from Kenyon College with a BA in English Literature and lives in Evanston, IL where he moonlights as a technologist for Northwestern University. Splinter Effect is his first novel.