Across the Ages is another captivating book Gabrielle Meyer's Timeless series. Time travel is one of my favorite tropes in a book and Meyer does it so well. How does one choose which time to stay in when one finds love and adventure in both? I loved the pirate side of Caroline's life. The author brings the reader right into the scenes of the book. Readers who enjoy historical fiction with drama and adventure will not want to miss this book--or any of the books in the series, for that matter! I'm hoping there is a fifth book to come! I was given a complimentary copy of the book through NetGalley and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are my own.

Two years ago, I participated in @justreadtours campaign for a book with the most unique take on time travel that I'd ever encountered: the main character lived on two timelines and on her 21st birthday, she must choose which life to live for the rest of her days, forfeiting the other lifetime forever. That book was When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer, and it blew me away with how much I loved it. I've eagerly awaited and devoured each book in the series. I am so excited to be able to review the newest installment, Across the Ages!

Each of the sequels to When the Day Comes has a different twist on the original premise. Book 2's heroine has 3 timelines, Book 3's heroines are identical twins, and now Book 4's heroine, Caroline, has to live this challenging existence without a mentor to guide her, to explain the "rules" of being a time crosser and help her carry the burdens that come with living this double existence. Since the reader knows more about Caroline's situation in this regard than she herself does, it adds tension to the book that makes it even more of a page turner than these books usually are (and these are ALWAYS books that I can't put down!).

I loved the theme of redemption. Several characters live unsavory lifestyles, or simply don't exercise good judgement, and they have to come to terms with the consequences of their actions. Gabrielle Meyer handles this theme beautifully; every conflict resolves satisfyingly and authentically. I also loved the inclusion of some familiar friends from previous novels 😉 it was so fun to get to "check in" with them and get a little taste of how their lives played out after the happily ever after.

This is the series that I most frequently recommend, and it just keeps getting better. You do need to begin at the beginning with When the Day Comes, but I have no doubt that if you do, it won't be long before you read and love Across the Ages, too!

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.

“We are all part of God’s story. And He can do what he wills.”

At the close of my review of For a Lifetime, I said, “I am impatiently waiting for book 4 now – is it November yet?!?!?” Well, guess what? IT’S NOVEMBER!!! And I’ve just finished reading Across the Ages, the fourth book in the brilliantly unique Timeless series by Gabrielle Meyer. Every time I turn the last page on one of these novels, I have to pause and reorient myself to the real world, to the knowledge that I have not, in fact, been living two – or three – lives with the protagonist(s). These stories hold me so very captive, engaging my attention & my mind & my heart, and while I always want to know what’s going to happen next I’m also never quite ready for them to end.

Like in the other books, Caroline Reed/Baldwin lives two lives simultaneously – in her particular case, when she goes to sleep in 1727 she wakes in 1927 with no time having passed while she was in the other time period. One of the threads common to each book so far in the Timeless series has been that the time-crosser(s) has/have at least their mother (sometimes more than that) as a guide to how the time-crossing works. In particular, the key components about what happens if you alter history in either of your times and what happens when you reach a certain birthday. But we aren’t very far into Caroline’s story before we realize that she doesn’t have a guide… and instantly my mind began wondering how Meyer was going to handle this lack of knowledge in the decisions Caroline makes and their ramifications. Because as the expert in time-crossing that I now am (haha!) I had a list of things that Caroline NEEDED to know, but not the first clue as to how she was going to learn them. I loved that, even four books in, Meyer continues to introduce a fresh angle to the time-crossing aspect of this series.

Seriously, I can’t ever seem to condense my thoughts on these books so you’re going to have to bear with me just a little longer. The 1727 path of the story takes us aboard a merchant ship bound for Nassau with Caroline disguised as a cabin boy, desperate to find the mother that abandoned her at birth and may possibly be a time-crosser too. But when her world collides with that of a swoony pirate, her mission takes a detour. In 1927, Caroline (aka Carrie, a great name by the way lol) is the daughter of a renowned Prohibition preacher whose reputation she strives to protect at all times, even while keeping the secret of her corrupt brothers’ sins from her parents. Complicating things further is a handsome friend who no longer tries to hide his feelings for her. Each of these paths had me riveted – but for very different reasons – and I enjoyed them both, particularly the complications that kept me on the edge of my chair. I had to remind myself to breathe each time a new twist was introduced because we were barreling toward that pivotal birthday and I NEEDED HER TO KNOW THAT SHE NEEDED TO CHOOSE. Ahem. Sorry about the yelling. I obviously still have not recovered.

Bottom Line: Across the Ages by Gabrielle Meyer deeply engrosses the reader in the two lives of time-crosser Caroline Reed and the different man in each path who loves her. From the complexities of posing as a cabin boy aboard a ship at sea to the equal complexities of life as the daughter of a ‘Billy Sunday type’ preacher in the late 1920s, Caroline’s story was impossible to put down. The thoughtful and layered exploration of God’s sovereignty and our own free will spoke to my heart in Across the Ages, as it did in the three books before it, and I found the redemption threads in this story to be particularly moving. I loved getting to know Caroline, Lewis, and Marcus – as well as the supporting characters – and I really loved seeing some cameos from book three. I may never recover from this series, and that’s perfectly okay (and I’m delighted that are more to come). The best stories become a part of you, after all, and these are certainly the best kinds of stories.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Caroline lives two lives. In 1727, Caroline Reed lives in South Carolina with her grandfather, her only relative, who wants to marry her off to the governor’s son. In 1927, Caroline Baldwin is the youngest child and only daughter of preacher and prohibitionist Rev. Daniel Baldwin.

Caroline has no idea why she has two lives.
What Caroline doesn’t know—but the series reader does know—is that she is going to have to choose one of her lives on her twenty-first birthday. That knowledge provides an additional degree of tension, particularly in the second half of the novel.

Her 1727 self finds a letter from her long-lost mother, and discovers she left South Carolina and headed to Nassau, Bahamas. She runs away and finds herself in the company of a handsome pirate. In 1927, she is being pursued by her brothers friend, a policeman, and trying to ensure her brothers don’t destroy her father’s ministry with their lies and crimes.

I loved Across the Ages.
(I loved it so much I actually read it twice in three days.)

Caroline was a great heroine. She’s intelligent, driven, and remarkably well-adjusted considering her strange life. She also has a strong Christian faith in both timelines, and trusts that God knows what he’s doing.

I loved the romance side of the plot. I’ve always had a soft spot for pirate stories, so enjoyed that side of the plot. I also had a lot of admiration for Caroline’s 1927 beau, who seems to be the only honest cop in Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Across the Ages is the fourth book in Gabrielle Meyer’s Timeless series, and it’s my favourite so far. If you haven’t read any of the Timeless series yet, this would be a good place to start because this is more of a standalone than the last two books (and because Caroline doesn’t understand her strange life, so it won’t matter if the reader doesn’t).

If you have read the previous stories, you will want to read this one. You’ll also want to read the series in order, because Across the Ages does have a few references to the characters from For a Lifetime. I’m hoping those references might be a hint as to who the next book in the series will follow …

If you haven’t read the earlier stories and you’re looking for a Christian historical romance with a dual timeline twist, checkout Across the Ages. Recommended.

Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

Being part of Gabrielle Meyer’s launch team for her latest book is always an incredible honor! "Across the Ages" has been at the top of my must-read list for the year, and once again, Gabrielle has completely blown me away (but honestly, did I expect anything less? Absolutely not!). This mesmerizing time-slipping series is a recommendation I always give to friends craving an adventure that grips them from start to finish and leaves them wanting more!

Book 4 in the series does not disappoint, and while you can dive in from any point, I wholeheartedly encourage you to start from the beginning for the ultimate experience! Each character’s faith journey captivates me, and Caroline's is no exception. Her struggles echo something we've all faced at some point: the nagging question of "Am I good enough? Does God really care about me?" Caroline's battle with feelings of worthiness and the heavy chains of perfectionism are so relatable, and witnessing her growth in understanding and finding her faith is nothing short of inspiring.

I was hooked by her two distinct paths! Each one so unique, yet there's always a clever connection where insights from one journey enrich the other. Picture this: Caroline is aboard a pirate ship in 1727 and simultaneously the daughter of a minister navigating the speakeasies of 1927! The thrill of guessing which path she’ll choose next had me on the edge of my seat, rooting for my favorites every step of the way.

What made Caroline’s story particularly gripping is that she didn’t have a guide or clear explanations for her time slip, like in previous books; this absence fuels her quest for answers and drives her decisions. I can't give too much away without spoiling the magic! Trust me, if you're a fan of time travel mixed with faith and romance, this book and the entire series are an absolute must-read!

I absolutely love this series! I am so glad there are going to be 5 books! I could definitely see it going even longer! My favorite thing about these stories is their uniqueness. I’ve read time travel before, but nothing this creative or exciting! There are so many unexpected things that happen within each timeline! It’ll keep you on your toes, for sure.

Caroline is living in two different times- 1727 and 1927. I really enjoyed both timelines, but I have to say, 1727 was my favorite. I really liked how different this timeline was. I loved Marcus and his back story. I also loved how kind he was to Caroline and their adventures on the ship. I felt like the 1927 timeline was missing something and while I did really like this story, I felt like it was missing some conflict that was prevalent in the other stories in this series. I can’t go into any details because of spoilers. That being said, I did enjoy this story and definitely recommend it!

Although Across the Ages by Gabrielle Meyer is book 4 in the Timeless series, it can be read as a standalone. I would suggest reading them in order though because there are pop up characters from other stories and you will more fully understand what the timelines mean for each character and the decisions they must make. I highly recommend this entire series. It is excellent!

I purchased this book and received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is prominent. 4 stars.

I adored it! I preface my raving five star review with the following points to know about me:

1. I have not (yet) read the other books in the Timeless series. I fully intended to pick this one up from the point of view of a reader starting with a stand-alone book. I was drawn in by two of my favorite time periods, and was here for the pirates and the roaring 20s. I have always intended to read the entire series but haven’t yet, and this one was too good to miss and I had to read it ASAP.
2. Although I have not read the other Timeless books, I am aware of the “rules” of time-crossing in this series, having briefly flipped through the first one before buying it and deciding I definitely needed to read it, talking with Gabrielle Meyer about the series at a reader retreat, and researching if the books always have happy endings (they do!). The rules of time-crossing may or may not confuse those who haven’t read the other books first— I am not the best judge of that.
3. I love book spoilers. I am someone who begs for spoilers from friends and who flips to the end of a book to make sure I am: a)rooting for the right love interest b)going to see a happy ending. If you read this book out of order of the series, you will get spoilers to previous books. I didn’t mind it at all, but some would hate that!

All of that being said, I absolutely adored Across the Ages! I have been searching for a clean alternative to Outlander for years, and this series delivers! Gabrielle Meyer is enchanting readers with compelling storytelling done in a unique way while including plenty of swoony romance, historical insight, and adventurous excitement! I absolutely adored the mash-up of the roaring 20s and pirates on the high seas. Best of all, the truth of God’s saving grace and redemption is woven through both time periods, reminding us how great our Father’s love is for us!

Don’t sleep on this series like I have been! Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some catching up to do!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts are my own— I really did love it!

Across the Ages
Timeless, Book 4
Author Gabrielle Meyer

Thank you, @austenprose @bethanyhousefiction and @gabrielle_meyer, for my #gifted copy! This is my first read by Gabrielle Meyer, and oh, what a beauty!

Across the Ages is a historical fiction novel that is incredible researched and filled with dynamic characters, a rich plot, and an atmospheric setting. Dual timeline historical fiction novels are my favorite right along with time travel and amazing leading ladies. The best part is that you don't necessarily have to begin with book one, but maybe those who have may disagree. I'll be sure to read Gabrielle's book five.

Thank you @bethanyhousefiction for an advance copy!

Have I not told you enough? Run, don't walk, to get a copy of this series! Across the Ages is the latest installment in the Timeless series, one of my all time favorites, and a 5 STAR SERIES (as in every book has been a 5 star).

I don't know if I can pick a favorite as each book is special. This one speaks about grace and forgiveness, which we ALL need.

In this book, Caroline is in search of answers. Unlike all the previous heroines, she doesn't know anyone else who's a time-crosser, so she understandably has a lot of questions - why is it happening? How is it happening? Is it a curse?

When she finds a letter from the mother-who-abandoned-her detailing similar circumstances, Caroline sets off on a dangerous journey to find her. Sneaking aboard a ship dressed as a cabin boy, she is faced with a man's world, sea storms, pirates, and a handsome and intriguing captain.

In her other life in the 1920's, she's the daughter of a famous preacher, so she feels suffocated, afraid to put a toe out of line, especially when she finds out her brothers are living double lives.

As she goes on her quest to find answers, she becomes entangled with situations beyond her wildest imaginings, but she also encounters grace, forgiveness and redemption.

This was absolutely well-written and full of heart. I loved it! 🥹 Caroline was such a joy to follow in both of her timelines. I enjoyed reading her thoughts as she grew deeper in her faith, especially as the mysteries were revealed one by one. Above all, her courage and loyalty were really admirable.

I can't wait for the next ones in this series!

Caroline lives in both 1727 and 1927. Each morning she wakes in the other timeline, alternating her days. In 1727, Caroline finds a note from her mother, hinting that she is also a time-crosser. Running away from her plantation, she sails to the Bahamas. Before she can find her mom, the ship is boarded by pirates and she is conscripted as a cabin boy. In 1927, Caroline is the daughter of a famous preacher. Her two brothers are rum running, and one is cheating on his spouse.

Out of the two storylines the 1727 storyline was much more intriguing than the other. The 1920’s storyline seemed less developed and less flushed out. I’ve really enjoyed this series, and hope that the author continues writing these books. Overall, 4 out of 5 stars.

I enjoyed this story! It is my least favorite in the series so far, but the third book is a tough one to follow. I did like seeing some familiar faces, though! I love this series and recommend it to anyone who loves OUTLANDER but wants Christian fiction.

Caroline is a time traveler living two lives: one in the 1920s and the other in the 1720s. In both timelines, she goes on a coming-of-age story to discover who she is, what she stands for, and where she wants her life direction to go. Both timelines bring their own set of logistical and social issues. She must ultimately figure out who she is and who she wants to be.

Loved this one! It was so unique and I loved the different perspectives! Loved the pirates and it was a great addition to the series!

Thank you to the publisher and author for my eARC. All thoughts are my own.

This is book 4 in the Timeless series that follows women who live 2 lives in different time periods in history.

This story follows Caroline who lives in 1727 and 1927. Battling pirates in one lifetime and the influence of fastening the other, Caroline has to decide what role her faith plays in her life and if the sins of her parents apply to her.

I thought Caroline’s struggle with her faith was very relatable and I felt a lot of sympathy for her. I loved this book and how it ties in book 3. I can’t wait for the next book coming in the spring!

Time travel is one of my favorite tropes, and 𝗔𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝘀 makes use of the dual timelines in a very interesting way that I don’t think I’ve ever seen before!! This is the fourth book in Gabrielle Meyer’s 𝘛𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 series and, while interconnected, they can also be read as standalones. 𝗔𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝘀 is a captivating read with beautiful writing, vivid historical details, swoony romance, an exciting treasure hunt adventure, intriguing characters (including pirates and gangsters!), and an inspirational, uplifting message of faith and love.

Caroline exists simultaneously in 1727 and 1927. Each night she goes to sleep in one life and wakes up in the other. She keeps her mysterious existence a secret and thinks she is the only one like her until one day she finds a hidden letter from her mother implying she was also a time-crosser. In her 1727 existence, Caroline decides to board a ship to the Bahamas to try to find her mother. Along the way she meets a handsome pirate, and soon she’s plunged into a world of danger and deception. In her 1927 life, her family is at risk and as she uncovers more about her mysterious existence, she faces an impossible decision that will change her destiny.

I loved being swept away to both worlds of pirates and Prohibition! Caroline was such a relatable character and grows so much throughout her journey. The romance was full of swoony tension and tenderness, and the ending was so satisfying and uplifting! All the stars for this beautiful story! I can’t wait to start this series from the beginning!

This book was so dang good. I loved the eras highlighted in this story— the Prohibition and pre-revolutionary when pirates sailed the seas!
This one kept things fresh. (An impressive task when you’re 4 books deep in a series!)
I loved the balance of romance to relationships and history.
This author writes fantastic historical gentlemen! (And pirates!)

From the very first book in this series that I read, to reading this one, I have been blown away with the absolute creativity and immersive nature of this series. With each book I have become even more hooked, invested, and obsessed. Across the Ages just solidified that.
This book is totally binge worthy and binge it I did. I was so intrigued with the historical aspects, but also with which time period and life Caroline would choose. I loved the twists in this book, particularly as Caroline not only lived two lifetimes, but tried to discover why. The connections to the other stories just made it all the more special. I loved the romance and because I don’t want to spoil anything I won’t say which particularly romance curled my toes, but curl my toes it did. Talk about swoon. Honestly, this book was exactly what I needed to read and I fully loved it! I completely recommend this book and am already counting down for book five in what is 100% a favorite series.
I recommend this book. While it is a standalone, I recommend reading this series in order as it builds and connects in such a powerful way that just adds to each story. I also really liked the message of redemption and forgiveness in this particular book.
Thank you Netgalley and Bethany House for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Well my goodness, talk about a roller coaster ride! It took me a while to get into this book, but once I did, I was ALL IN.

Can you imagine being a time crosser without any knowledge of what it means, what it is, or what the rules are? Caroline had no guidance with it, and in fact, thought she was the only one with this "curse".

And oh, the emotions that roiled through me starting at about halfway through this book. The pressures of perfectionism and all those secrets, the family dynamics, the diving bell! Whew!

This is one of those books where you just don't know how it'll end. With one chapter, you think one thing, the next chapter, something else, and back and forth throughout. I truly didn't know until the end of the book.

I cried, I got goosebumps, my heart beat faster, I was half afraid to turn the page because I just didn't know what would happen. I didn't know for sure what I wanted to happen. There were both sweet and painful moments in each era.

Yeah. I was all in.

~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~

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!