Description
Tempus vesanicum
Book Summary
A novel that fuses science fiction with historical adventure, in which an ego-driven scientist from Santiago de Compostela travels to the past to recover lost papyri. The plot complicates with the kidnapping of a Roman noblewoman by barbarians, a rescue mission undertaken by a group of outcast legionnaires, and a time machine with a mind of its own. With an acidic and lighthearted tone, the work offers a mix of dark humor and fast-paced action that defies genre conventions.
What is it about?
The story follows a lonely and narcissistic scientist from Santiago who develops a fickle time machine with ideas of its own. His goal is to travel to the past to retrieve valuable papyri that could change history. However, his mission is disrupted when a Roman noblewoman is kidnapped by barbarians. A group of unconventional, outcast legionnaires, each with their own personal conflicts, is sent to rescue her. The plot combines Roman historical elements with anachronistic technology, creating a cocktail of dark humor, sarcasm, and social critique. The machine, with its unpredictable character, adds a factor of chaos that complicates every attempt the characters make to achieve their goals.
Main Themes
- Time travel and its unpredictable consequences.
- The conflict between scientific ego and historical reality.
- Marginality and redemption through action.
- The culture clash between ancient Rome and contemporary mentality.
- Dark humor as a tool to address extreme situations.
Who is it recommended for?
For readers looking for a science fiction and historical adventure novel with an irreverent and satirical approach. It is ideal for those who enjoy time travel plots, morally ambiguous characters, and an acidic tone that parodies both academia and the historical genre. Also for lovers of narrative that mixes the epic with the grotesque, without fear of sharp wit and corrosive humor.
What this book offers
- An original and lighthearted perspective on time travel, far from genre clichés.
- Complex, unheroic characters that bring realism and depth to the plot.
- An agile, twist-filled plot with sharp dialogue and unpredictable situations.
- A biting critique of academic ego and the idealization of the historical past.
- An entertaining read that combines action, humor, and reflection on power and technology.
Technical Specifications
- Author: ALEJANDRO CARNEIRO
- Publisher: GRUPO EDITORIAL AJEC
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY FICTION, HISTORICAL ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION, HISTORICAL FICTION
- Collection: TANGENTES
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication date: December 2011
- Number of pages: 244
- Weight: 384 g
Editorial Review
Tempus vesanicum is a daring proposal that breaks with the conventions of science fiction and the historical novel. Its sarcastic tone and unpleasant protagonist may not please everyone, but that very lack of political correctness gives it a unique personality. The blend of historical erudition with dark humor and a capricious time machine makes it a stimulating read for those looking for something different. Although its pacing may feel uneven at times, the originality of the plot and the narrative voice make it stand out within the Tangentes collection catalog.