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  • The Timegod

The Timegod

Timegod's World #1 / 2
by L. E. Modesitt, Jr.
The Timegod (Timegod's World #1) by L. E. Modesitt, Jr.
★ 8.00 / 1
1234567189★10★

Also known as The Fires of Paratime.

On the planes Query, immortality is universal and the ability to time-dive – to swim through the currents of time and history – is common. Those whose talents are developed enough join the Temporal Guard. Formed millennia ago, after the devastating war with the malevolent time-traveling Frost Giants, the elite Guard serves Query as protectors and suppliers, roaming the cosmos and time continuum to deal with races that might threaten Query and to bring back from technologically advanced civilizations the equipment they need, for Query has lost all ability to create its own technology. In actuality, the Guard acts, as well, as the rulers of the planet, and their rule has stood unchallenged for thousands of years...

...Until Loki comes along. Even among the Guards, Loki is something special. The grandson of the great Ragnorak, Loki demonstrated extraordinary time-diving abilities even as a child. Now, as an adult and a member of the Guard, his powers are still growing. He can penetrate the past deeper than the legendary Odinthor; he can outperform his senior officers in speed and accuracy; he can dip millions of years through the undertime and kill an enemy with his bare hands. When there is a problem that other guards cannot handle, they call on Loki. He has become almost a legend himself as a rescuer of lost time-divers and as the hero who single-handedly destroyed the sinister shark people. Mostly, Loki would prefer to be left alone in the unglamorous Maintenance section, where he studies the secrets of technology in the hope that someday Query might once again be free of the need to steal from other cultures.

But great men powerful enemies, and Loki's is the influential and unscrupulous Heimdall. Hating the undisciplined and independent-minded young time-diver, Heimdall will stop at nothing to rid the Guard of Loki... Drawn unwillingly into the web of intrigue woven by Heimdall, Loki is forced to recognize the corruption and evil of a Temporal Guard that destroys entire civilizations with its time-manipulation and must steal from others in order to exist. He knows he must act – an act that will require nothing less than becoming a god...

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Science Fiction
Release date: 1982

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L. E. Modesitt, Jr.

L. E. Modesitt, Jr.

L. E. Modesitt, Jr. is a name that resonates deeply in the world of science fiction and fantasy, particularly for readers who crave intricate world-building, compelling characters, and philosophical musings woven seamlessly into action-packed narratives. With a career spanning decades, Modesitt’s works explore complex themes of power, morality, and societal structure, all set against the backdrop of expansive universes where every decision ripples out with consequences.

Born in the mid-20th century, Modesitt’s early life was shaped by a love of literature, history, and the natural world. His formal education in political science and economics, coupled with his time as a writer, editor, and even a political assistant, gives his work a layer of intellectual depth rarely seen in speculative fiction. These experiences have contributed to the sharp political and ethical dilemmas that surface in his novels, particularly in his Recluce series, which explores a world governed by the struggle between order and chaos.

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Modesitt’s writing is characterized by its thoughtful pacing and philosophical underpinnings, often diving into the nature of power, responsibility, and the human condition. His Saga of Recluce is perhaps his most famous work, set in a universe where magic is governed by the laws of balance and consequences. These novels are not just stories of good versus evil, but rather a reflection on the choices individuals must make when confronted with moral ambiguity, responsibility, and the realities of governance.

A true architect of immersive worlds, Modesitt is known for crafting rich, believable systems of magic, politics, and technology. His worlds feel lived-in, with histories, cultures, and ecosystems that add depth to every adventure. The characters he creates are often ordinary individuals in extraordinary circumstances, whose personal growth mirrors the evolving landscapes around them. This makes his stories relatable yet wondrous, grounded yet filled with fantastical elements.

Throughout his career, L. E. Modesitt, Jr. has gained a loyal following, with his books being translated into multiple languages and earning critical acclaim for their blend of deep world-building and character-driven storytelling. With more than thirty novels to his name, his impact on the genre is undeniable, and his works continue to be a cornerstone for readers who seek thoughtful, adventurous, and immersive speculative fiction.

Whether you are new to Modesitt’s work or have been following his stories for years, his exploration of the complexities of human nature and society, framed within the speculative realms of fantasy and science fiction, offers a rich and rewarding experience for those who delve into his worlds.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0

Timegod's World

Timegod's World consists of two primary books, and includes one additional book that complement the series but is not considered mandatory reads. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.

The Timegod (Timegod's World #1)
★ 8.00 / 1
Timediver's Dawn (Timegod's World #2)
★ 8.00 / 1
Timegods' World (Timegod's World)
Unrated


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