Review of All Manner of Thing Shall Be (The Time Traveler’s Passport)
As someone who’s always had a soft spot for whimsical tales that mix the historical with the absurd, All Manner of Thing Shall Be by Olivie Blake leaped off the shelf and into my reading list faster than a time-traveling bus. When I discovered this author’s unique blend of fantasy and humor, it felt like discovering a new best friend in the literary world. Little did I know, I was about to embark on a delightful adventure filled with vampire-ish characters, Philippine mythology, and a plot that occasionally leaves you scratching your head—but that’s part of the fun!
Set in a Victorian mansion on modern-day Earth, the narrative brings together an eclectic ensemble of characters who possess the superpower of time travel. My personal favorite was undoubtedly the revolutionary princess whose unrelenting mission is to go back in time to eliminate Ferdinand Magellan. Talk about a refreshing twist on historical narrative! Each character seems to revel in their quirks and backstories, making them incredibly engaging even if, at times, they blurred into a delightful jumble.
Now, let’s address what may be the most complex part of the book: its pacing and structure. While the narrative is undoubtedly character-driven, I found that the abundance of personalities often led to moments of confusion. I couldn’t help but wish that some characters had received more "screen time" to fully flesh out their stories. The plot, while entertaining, felt a bit muddled at times, making it challenging to grasp the overarching narrative thread. Yet, despite these shortcomings, I ultimately found myself charmed by the chaotic nature of it all. The random hilarity and unexpected twists made me embrace the chaos and simply enjoy the ride.
Blake’s writing style is lively and punchy, perfectly suited for an audio version. I opted for an ALC (Audiobook Listening Copy) from NetGalley, and I can confidently say that the narrator brought just the right level of sarcasm and matter-of-factness. Listening to the story was akin to sharing a laugh with a witty friend who doesn’t take themselves too seriously.
What really stood out to me was how Olivie Blake embraced her Filipino heritage. As she weaves elements of local mythology—like featuring the aswang and manananggal—you could feel snippets of cultural richness embedded in her storytelling. This not only adds depth to the narrative but also honors the traditions she beautifully incorporates. It left me pleasantly surprised and enchanted by how diverse perspectives can transform a well-trodden genre.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a cozy read filled with vibrant characters, twists of time travel, and a pinch of cultural folklore, then All Manner of Thing Shall Be is certainly for you. Just don’t expect a neatly wrapped-up plot—sometimes, the best adventures embrace their own eccentricities. I walked away from this book feeling lighter and more amused than when I began, and I think that’s precisely the point. So grab your time-traveling passport and join the delightful chaos. What a joyride it is!
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