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Chess Desalls is the author of the YA time travel series, The Call to Search Everywhen. She's a longtime reader of fantasy and sci-fi novels, particularly classics and young adult fiction. Her non-fiction writing has led to academic and industry publications. She’s also a contributing editor for her local writing club’s monthly newsletter. The California Writers Club, South Bay branch, has awarded two of Chess’ stories first place for best short fiction. When she's not reading or writing, she enjoys traveling and trying to stay in tune on her flute.
Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite
In Travel Glasses (The Call to Search Everywhen, Book 1) by Chess Desalls, a young woman named Calidora ‘Calla’ Winston meets Valcas, an otherworldly time traveler who traverses time and space with a pair of altered sunglasses. When an ethereal being attacks Calla near her family’s lakeside cottage, Valcas uses the Travel Glasses to help her escape. He offers his further protection in exchange for a promise. Intrigued by Valcas and the possibility of time travel, Calla accepts. That is until she learns that his search for her was no mere coincidence.
I’m impressed with Desalls’ spin on the time travel theme, and the beautiful cover art complements the story well. The concept is very imaginative and well-defined. That said, it took a while for me to figure out the direction of the plot. Also, I found Calla to be too offhand at times even when she was in dangerous situations. Nevertheless, as the story progressed, everything became clearer and Calla shows more depth as a character. The mystery about Valcas is also well-written and will no doubt evoke readers’ curiosity.
The ‘science’ of the theme is complex, but the time travel method and the world building are clearly explained in a timely manner, chapter after chapter. This also allows the story to progress at a swift pace. In spite of the sci-fi fantasy theme, the notion of love and trust in Travel Glasses made quite an impression on me. Overall, I enjoyed the story and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
