Time's Raven

Time’s Raven is the second book in the Eternity Loop series for teens and is the sequel to Indigo Moon. In the first book, we are introduced to Indigo and Rigel, the ‘offspring’ of a generation who were virally optimised after an illness. The offspring and their parents can read others' thoughts, ‘shift’ into another animal and jump through time – although the teenagers are not meant to time travel.

Time’s Raven follows three first-person narratives – Indigo, Rigel and the villainous Billy Raven. The book begins with Indigo in trouble with the Black Spiral Intelligence Agency (BSI) for unlawful time travel. Rigel’s father is missing and he is determined to find him. As the book progresses they jump back and forth through time discovering what they can about Billy but also discovering the ever-confusing Eternity Loop.

While Time's Raven is primarily a time-travel tale, it also touches on important real-world issues such as friendship, family, and the ethical issues of our future on Earth. Not only did the M-virus change Indigo and Rigel’s parents but now there is a new coronavirus – Riva. This new virus is easily transmitted and is making humans infertile. Mankind is at risk!

The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with a mix of introspective moments and thrilling time travel adventures. Merriman skillfully weaves together multiple timelines, creating a cohesive and satisfying narrative that keeps readers on their toes.