Killing Time by Mike Murphey

Sharp wit, insolent humor and prurient curiosity.

Though never an old man himself, Leon Trotsky is credited with the quote, “Old age is the most unexpected of all things that can happen to a man.” Generally, this is true. But not so for 93 year old Sean Brody, not in this universe anyway. On a time sensitive mission to recover a fellow traveler abandoned to time, Marshall and the gang look to a retirement home for help. While Sean may not be the ideal candidate for time travel due to his unsurprising physical infirmities, his sense of wonder and a desire to finally take a chance in life has him considering the inevitably suicidal mission. Beyond the limits imposed by science and the universes, there are moral issues and a boatload of bureaucratic oversight to contend with. And as usual, there are the everpresent echoes of greed and lust tailing each decision.

In what I’ve come to look forward to and expect from Mike Murphey, the pulse of Killing Time is the easy flow of sharp wit, insolent humor and prurient curiosity. I love the way all the smaller story lines are concluded in this book about second chances. And lest the story get too heavy or serious, Marta Hamilton in her role as administrator is as abrasive and snarky as ever, making for a fun contrast to an ever-evolving Marshall. The inclusion of an ornery yet perceptive old man looking for some redemption is a nice addition, bringing out a tender, more humane side in some of the returning characters. Satire and subterfuge are paired flawlessly in this wildly entertaining and unexpectedly heartwarming piece of futuristic fiction.

Amazon

Amazon