Howard Loring

"Piercing the Elastic Limit: An Epic Fable" by Howard Loring invites readers on a remarkable journey through a world of limitless imagination and profound storytelling. Loring's book captures the essence of an epic fable, weaving together elements of adventure, myth, and introspection in a unique and captivating manner.

From the opening pages, Loring's writing captivates with its vivid descriptions and lyrical prose. The author skillfully constructs a fantastical realm where the boundaries of reality are stretched to their limits, allowing readers to explore themes of self-discovery, courage, and the indomitable power of the human spirit.

At the heart of the story is a compelling cast of characters, each with their own strengths, flaws, and motivations. Through their journeys, readers are taken on a transformative quest, filled with both external and internal obstacles to overcome. The character development is deep and nuanced, allowing readers to form emotional connections and empathize with their struggles and triumphs.

"Piercing the Elastic Limit" excels in its ability to transport readers into a richly imagined world. The intricate world-building is a testament to Loring's creativity and attention to detail. From enchanting landscapes to mythical creatures, every aspect of the story's universe is meticulously crafted, immersing readers in a tapestry of wonder and awe.

The narrative unfolds at a deliberate pace, allowing readers to savor the intricate layers of the plot. Loring seamlessly blends moments of high-stakes action with quieter introspective passages, creating a balanced rhythm that keeps readers engaged throughout. The book's fable-like structure adds to its charm, offering profound lessons and reflections on the human condition.

While "Piercing the Elastic Limit" is a captivating read, there are instances where the complexity of the narrative may require readers to invest their full attention. The intricate plot and philosophical undertones may challenge some readers who prefer a more straightforward storytelling approach.

In conclusion, "Piercing the Elastic Limit: An Epic Fable" is a testament to Howard Loring's remarkable storytelling ability. Through intricate world-building, compelling characters, and a thought-provoking narrative, the book transports readers to a realm where imagination knows no bounds. This epic fable invites readers to reflect on their own journey and discover the boundless potential that lies within.

Overall, "Piercing the Elastic Limit" is a captivating and enchanting read that leaves a lasting impression, making it a worthwhile addition to any reader's bookshelf.… (mais)

This is a terrific time travel story, well written. Where some authors, myself included, provide detailed description of the setting, Loring’s style is to peer omnisciently into the heads of his characters to develop his characters between the action. That is not to say that there is no action. There is more than enough for an action movie, especially in the latter half of the book. This is a space-opera of sorts, after all. However, I like the first part of the book better, where the mystery and suspense of this complicated story pulls you along, and each time you unravel part of the puzzle you fall deeper into the maze. I didn’t see the ending coming, as satisfying as the “epic fable” was, because I was caught up in the chaos of temporal disturbance. Very enjoyable.… (mais)

This is a very nice time travel story. The introduction places the magic within a captivating setting of children playing among the branches of a large magnolia tree, a poetic and romantic image to start the tale. We then go with Caesar to visit an oracle, and next watch Christopher Marlowe demand to meet Satan. These two parts were exceptional, and the author’s voice was perfect. When we return to the present, however, the same style of phrase seemed odd to me. What I thought should have been normal, had a strange sound. The story as well, changes its presentation during the third adventure. Perhaps that was necessary, but I did not like it as much as Caesar and Marlowe. And then to the time travel. I personally prefer at least an attempt at making the time travel hard sci-fi, rather than pure fantasy. This story and its “elastic limit” chose an in between approach.
Despite its flaws, this book is worth the time. And, as the author says, “anyone outside his or her natural timeline ceases to age as a function of displacement.”… (mais)

So, I won this on GoodReads. I don't think this was a masterpiece but I did enjoy most of the book. The first thing that stand out in my head is how vague the description is. I felt disjointed in the beginning without having any basic synopsis but I do believe that was the authors goal. It gets much easier to read once you hit the 4th chapter and flows much better. It still jumps around but has a semblance of a plot.

I liked the jumping around to a degree once I was used to the writing style. The story as a whole was good but not brilliant. There were definite weak aspects and it is difficult to be specific without giving much away. The idea of how the "Grunts" were brought together did not seem to hold much water as a plausibility based on what is known in our own past. Some areas dragged on for a while while other areas could have been expanded upon. Again this could be done on purpose since time is a specific plot device. The one part that I found a bit trite and a bit of a "cop out" was the very last little bit. I think I rolled my eyes when I read the last couple lines especially since it could have been so much more original.

So overall- I enjoyed most of the read once I got used to the writing style. The writing style could have had better pacing but that I think may be intentional and the very last lines were a waste. Not bad- not great...just OK.… (mais)