In 1927 St. Paul, Minnesota, Caroline grapples with her other life as the daughter of a renowned preacher. Her two older brothers have fallen prey to the corruption rampant during Prohibition, and Caroline struggles to keep their involvement hidden to save her father's career. As her search for answers about her time-crossing leads her to the dangerous yet exciting world of speakeasies, Caroline enlists the help of a childhood friend who is now a police officer. But with her family's future at risk and their loyalties tested, Caroline faces a life-altering decision that could reshape her destiny.
Debuting in the spring of 2022, Gabrielle Meyer’s Timeless series has been a smashing success. Her main characters are “time crossers” who experience two lives, with each life separated by their nightly sleep. This concept intrigued me from the start. Although other activities have kept me from reading these novels for a couple of years, they have been high on my TBR list. When I was accepted into the Austenprose promotional tour for the fourth book in the series, Across the Ages, I not only wanted to read this latest work, but I also wanted to be fully immersed into Meyer’s world. All four novels are connected in some way, and while it is possible to read them singularly, it is preferable to read them in succession. On November 3rd I began reading the first volume, When the Day Comes, both in print and on audiobook. By the evening of November 12th, I had completed volume four. While this was a bit of a daunting task, I have had the best time!
When the Day Comes was a thrilling introduction into Meyer’s time crossing universe. I was utterly captivated, and easily can offer my highest recommendation. Its sequel In This Moment took me by surprise in that it was just as enjoyable as its predecessor. Oftentimes with serial storytelling (in novels, movies, and television programs for example), sequels are rarely able to capture the magic of the original tale. There were times during the reading of In This Moment wherein I had to force myself not to read the printed text. My eyes simply couldn’t slow down, I was so riveted to the story. It was an act of discipline to utilize the audiobook edition, especially during pivotal moments such as the September 11, 2001 attacks. The third novel, For a Lifetime was still compelling, as one of the narratives includes many scenes within the world of aviation. As the wife of a professional pilot, I reveled in those moments. However, the alternate timeline which follows the Salem Witch Trials was on occasion difficult to read. Meyer is not gratuitous in her details, but that period of history was a dark one. That said, I'm glad that Meyer decided to shine a light on humanity's propensity for prejudice, lusting for power, and the misusing of religion in the service of selfish intentions. Let us not forget.
The fourth and latest addition to the series, Across the Ages similarly tackles difficult issues, but the tone is a bit lighter than For a Lifetime. It is also quite captivating and continues the excellent storytelling of the previous novels. Those who enjoy tales of swashbuckling pirates will find much entertainment as main character Caroline is taken aboard the pirate ship Ocean Curse against her will. There she meets the dashing yet wayward Marcus Zale in the year 1727. As a time crosser she also inhabits the year 1927. Her life there stands in stark contrast, as she is the daughter of a prominent preacher and the member of a seemingly upstanding family.
In both of Caroline’s lives, the theme of God’s redeeming love is quite present. The pirates of the 18th century are certainly in need of redemption as they plunder, steal, and kidnap. In the early 20th century, the family of the Reverend Daniel Baldwin appears to be squeaky-clean on the outside, but daughter Caroline knows the truth. The Reverend and his wife may be authentic as they live out their faith, but their children have secret sinful lives of their own. In both the 18th and 20th century narratives, many characters are faced with the choice of repentance vs. rebellion and are also given the opportunity to be forgiven and loved.
The Timeless series has been a whirlwind read for the last several days. It has kept me company as I’ve raked leaves in my yard and listened to the audio production on ear buds. I would also grab chapters here and there as I’ve waited for appointments, print book in hand. To say that these novels are page-turners is an understatement. I haven’t had this much fun in a very long time. Although the time-traveling concept requires a certain suspension of belief, if readers are able to accept the premise they are in for a delightful journey. The protagonists are likeable, the villains are nefarious, and the romantic relationships are wholesome yet tantalizing. Many chapters concluded with suspenseful moments that kept the pages flying by.
I also appreciate the theological messages that Gabrielle Meyer presents in her stories. They are heartfelt and have a welcoming tone for those who are asking questions about matters of faith. Serious adult subjects are also addressed, including adultery, theft, hypocrisy, spiritual doubt, and painful relationship issues. Readers can prepare to be thoroughly entertained, but also inspired to consider important matters of life and spirituality. I offer my hearty endorsement of Across the Ages, but moreover I recommend the entire Timeless series. Gabrielle Meyer’s time crossing novels are worth reading from start to finish, and are deserving of all the accolades they have been receiving. The fifth title in the collection, Every Hour Until Then is set to debut in May 2025, and I have no doubt that it will be a winner. Congratulations to Gabrielle Meyer. May the time crossing continue for years to come!
About the Author
Gabrielle Meyer is an ECPA bestselling author. She has worked for state and local historical societies and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides along the banks of the Mississippi River in central Minnesota with her husband and four children. By day, she's a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and nonfiction filled with hope.
