Book Review: Across the Ages by Gabrielle Meyer

About the Book:

Caroline holds a deep secret. Living in 1727 and 1927 simultaneously, each night she goes to sleep in one life and wakes up in the other. In search of answers to her unique existence, Caroline stumbles upon a letter from her mother hinting at her own experiences as a time-crosser, sending Caroline on a daring quest to uncover the truth. In 1727, Caroline disguises herself as a cabin boy and joins a ship sailing for the Bahamas, her mother's last known location, where she crosses paths with a ruthless but handsome pirate and is caught in a web of secrets, deception, and unexpected alliances.

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.

---

My Thoughts:

Across the Ages by Gabrielle Meyer was hard to put down. The story grabbed my attention from the beginning as it immediately dropped me straight into Caroline’s world and her issues. As the plot progressed, I found myself favoring the 1727 timeline. I had to know what would happen, and I stayed up quite late flipping the pages.

In both timelines of Across the Ages, Caroline faced challenging circumstances that connected strongly with the novel’s themes and advanced her character development. For example, Caroline questioned if she had been cursed from birth. (There was a backstory that led her to the idea.) As the plot unfolded, this lie disintegrated in the light of the truth. Other themes in the story included wanting to control the choices of others, finding redemption, and the craving for a quiet, but meaningful life. For me, the themes were a favorite story element and added a pleasing depth to the story. I also enjoyed the romance and historical details.

Across the Ages lands as book four in the Timeless series by Gabrielle Meyer. I recommend starting with book one (When the Day Comes) and reading through the novels in order as family connections tie into each book. Each installment in the series has been a four or five star read, including Across the Ages to which I give five stars. May there be many more books in this series!

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

---

About the Author:

Gabrielle Meyer (GabrielleMeyer.com) 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.

---