Book Review: Yestertime by Andrew Cunningham
I recently dove into Yestertime, and what a journey it was! As a long-time fan of time travel novels, I was immediately intrigued by its premise. The opening line, “I’m going to die a hundred years before I was born…,” had me hooked right from the start. The story follows Ray Burton, a journalist who discovers an old trunk in a cave, which leads him into a labyrinth of time travel and mystery. The blend of history, adventure, and a hint of romance promised an engaging read, and I wasn’t disappointed.
One of the most commendable aspects of Yestertime is the character development. Ray and Natalie are well-rounded protagonists who navigate their challenges with authenticity and grace. This is echoed by other readers, such as Linda H. who praised the characters as "interesting and well-developed." I found myself rooting for them, hoping they could untangle the complexities of time. Their journey is marked with moments of genuine emotion, which makes the story resonate deeply.
The pacing of the book deserves a mention as well. Many readers, including Bridget Hollister, noted that it flows smoothly without getting bogged down in the technical details of time travel. This aspect made it accessible, allowing for a quick and enjoyable read. I could easily dive into the next chapter without losing interest, and I appreciated that the author was able to keep the narrative moving.
However, Yestertime does have its drawbacks. Some readers, like pwhinatlanta, pointed out that there are logical gaps and moments where the pacing falters. While I agree that certain elements could have used deeper exploration—especially in the realm of time travel mechanics—I felt that the story’s charm compensated well for these shortcomings. The author’s light touch allowed readers to suspend disbelief and simply enjoy the adventure.
In terms of thematic depth, the book tackles complex ideas about time, existence, and consequence, which could leave some readers craving more depth. Although Diane McGrath complimented the presence of backstories, I found myself wishing for a bit more philosophical exploration rather than just action-driven plot points. Yet, the combination of mystery and personal stakes is what really immerses you as you wonder about the implications of Ray’s discoveries.
What surprised me was how the book seamlessly weaves the past into the present. The trunk isn’t just a relic; it’s a connection to a thread that ties together history and future. This is particularly exemplified when Ray encounters the characters from different timelines, making you ponder about fate and choice.
Overall, Yestertime offers a captivating mix of mystery, character development, and compelling themes about time and consequence. Despite its minor flaws, I found it to be an engaging addition to the time travel genre. Readers looking for adventure blended with a touch of heart will find this book appealing.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Yestertime for its well-crafted characters, lively plot, and the sheer fun it promises. Whether you’re a seasoned time travel aficionado or just dipping your toes into the genre, this novel will entertain and leave you eagerly anticipating what comes next in this series. After all, time is precious, and this book is a delightful way to spend some of it!