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CHASING TIME
A time-bending adventure like no other
A Literary Titan Gold Award winner
“A brilliant debut novel from start to finish, you won't be able to put it down.” — N.N light’s review
“It had me sitting on the edge of my seat until the conclusion.” — Reader’s Favorite
"An earnest and moving novel, Chasing Time is an emotive mixture of contemporary fiction and fantasy, for a story that reads like a potential film.” — Self-Publishing Review
Chasing Time takes the reader on a thrilling adventure as history professor Tony Lucas seeks an ancient time-bending key that may hold the secrets to a miracle cure for his beloved wife, trapped in the throes of the debilitating and deadly ALS. Racing against time as the disease extracts its unforgiving toll, Tony embarks on an amazing quest involving a series of unexpected plot twists, cryptic clues, and memorable characters.
Driven by a strong male lead, this heartwarming book combines realistic medical elements with a hint of fantasy to create a gripping, suspenseful narrative. Reilly spins a compelling tale of a devoted husband’s resilience and perseverance as he pursues a life-saving mission that extends from ancient Rome to modern-day America to the lush olive groves of Andalusia. The story takes the classic medical drama, historical fiction, and fantasy genres and turns them all completely on their heads. With its precise and witty style, Chasing Time is an engaging, must-read story like nothing you have read before.
A Literary Titan Gold Award winner
“A brilliant debut novel from start to finish, you won't be able to put it down.” — N.N light’s review
“It had me sitting on the edge of my seat until the conclusion.” — Reader’s Favorite
"An earnest and moving novel, Chasing Time is an emotive mixture of contemporary fiction and fantasy, for a story that reads like a potential film.” — Self-Publishing Review
Chasing Time takes the reader on a thrilling adventure as history professor Tony Lucas seeks an ancient time-bending key that may hold the secrets to a miracle cure for his beloved wife, trapped in the throes of the debilitating and deadly ALS. Racing against time as the disease extracts its unforgiving toll, Tony embarks on an amazing quest involving a series of unexpected plot twists, cryptic clues, and memorable characters.
Driven by a strong male lead, this heartwarming book combines realistic medical elements with a hint of fantasy to create a gripping, suspenseful narrative. Reilly spins a compelling tale of a devoted husband’s resilience and perseverance as he pursues a life-saving mission that extends from ancient Rome to modern-day America to the lush olive groves of Andalusia. The story takes the classic medical drama, historical fiction, and fantasy genres and turns them all completely on their heads. With its precise and witty style, Chasing Time is an engaging, must-read story like nothing you have read before.
215 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 20, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
May 1, 2026
Chasing Time is an ambitious debut that blends historical fiction, medical drama, and light fantasy into a fast-paced and emotionally driven story. At its core, the novel is about love, desperation, and the lengths one man is willing to go to save the person who matters most to him.
The story follows Tony Lucas, a history professor whose life is turned upside down when his wife is diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Faced with the harsh reality of the illness, Tony embarks on a dangerous and mysterious quest to find a time-bending artifact that could hold the key to curing her. This premise alone sets the stage for a narrative that is both deeply personal and wildly imaginative.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its emotional core. Tony’s devotion feels genuine, and his determination gives the story weight beyond its adventurous surface. The stakes are clear from the beginning, and the urgency created by the progression of ALS adds a constant tension that keeps the reader engaged.
Reilly also does an impressive job weaving together different timelines and settings. From ancient Rome to modern-day America and the scenic landscapes of Andalusia, the shifting backdrops add richness and variety. The historical elements are intriguing without becoming overwhelming, making the story accessible even to readers who don’t usually gravitate toward historical fiction.
However, while the plot is undeniably engaging, there are moments where the pacing feels uneven. Some twists arrive quickly and could benefit from deeper development, and a few secondary characters might have been explored more fully. That said, these issues don’t significantly detract from the overall experience.
The writing style is clear and purposeful, with moments of wit and insight that elevate the narrative. Reilly’s ability to balance suspense with emotional storytelling is particularly noteworthy for a debut novel.
Overall, Chasing Time is a compelling and heartfelt read that successfully combines genres to create something unique. It’s a story about hope, resilience, and the power of love in the face of impossible odds.
The story follows Tony Lucas, a history professor whose life is turned upside down when his wife is diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Faced with the harsh reality of the illness, Tony embarks on a dangerous and mysterious quest to find a time-bending artifact that could hold the key to curing her. This premise alone sets the stage for a narrative that is both deeply personal and wildly imaginative.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its emotional core. Tony’s devotion feels genuine, and his determination gives the story weight beyond its adventurous surface. The stakes are clear from the beginning, and the urgency created by the progression of ALS adds a constant tension that keeps the reader engaged.
Reilly also does an impressive job weaving together different timelines and settings. From ancient Rome to modern-day America and the scenic landscapes of Andalusia, the shifting backdrops add richness and variety. The historical elements are intriguing without becoming overwhelming, making the story accessible even to readers who don’t usually gravitate toward historical fiction.
However, while the plot is undeniably engaging, there are moments where the pacing feels uneven. Some twists arrive quickly and could benefit from deeper development, and a few secondary characters might have been explored more fully. That said, these issues don’t significantly detract from the overall experience.
The writing style is clear and purposeful, with moments of wit and insight that elevate the narrative. Reilly’s ability to balance suspense with emotional storytelling is particularly noteworthy for a debut novel.
Overall, Chasing Time is a compelling and heartfelt read that successfully combines genres to create something unique. It’s a story about hope, resilience, and the power of love in the face of impossible odds.
April 7, 2026
This book is a powerful reminder of why storytelling matters. From the very beginning, I was drawn into a narrative that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. The author writes with confidence and clarity, allowing the story to unfold naturally while still maintaining a strong emotional core. What stood out most to me was how effortlessly the writing balances depth with readability; it’s engaging without being overwhelming, thoughtful without being heavy-handed.
The characters are crafted with care and intention, each one contributing meaningfully to the story’s progression. I found myself emotionally invested in their journeys, celebrating their victories and feeling the weight of their struggles. There’s an authenticity here that makes the experience feel real rather than simply fictional.
By the time I reached the final pages, I wasn’t just satisfied, I was moved. This is the kind of book that lingers in your thoughts and invites reflection long after you’ve finished. A truly exceptional read that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for something both engaging and meaningful.
The characters are crafted with care and intention, each one contributing meaningfully to the story’s progression. I found myself emotionally invested in their journeys, celebrating their victories and feeling the weight of their struggles. There’s an authenticity here that makes the experience feel real rather than simply fictional.
By the time I reached the final pages, I wasn’t just satisfied, I was moved. This is the kind of book that lingers in your thoughts and invites reflection long after you’ve finished. A truly exceptional read that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for something both engaging and meaningful.
May 26, 2026
Chasing Time by Thomas Reilly is an ambitious and emotionally resonant novel that skillfully bridges two vastly different worlds—ancient Rome and modern-day Brooklyn—through a compelling narrative centered on love, destiny, and self-discovery. What makes this book particularly engaging is its ability to seamlessly weave together two timelines without losing clarity or emotional depth. Lucius Fabius Antonius’ struggle for survival in Rome contrasts beautifully with Tony Lucas’ journey of identity in the present day, yet both stories feel intrinsically connected. Reilly explores profound themes such as purpose, consequence, and the invisible threads that bind human lives across time. The mysterious key serves not only as a plot device but as a powerful symbol of transformation and choice. This novel stands out for its thoughtful pacing, emotional authenticity, and philosophical undertones, making it a rewarding read for those who appreciate layered storytelling with heart.
March 31, 2026
Chasing Time is a compelling blend of emotion, mystery, and high-stakes urgency that keeps you turning pages from start to finish. The story follows Tony Lucas, a man driven by love and desperation as he searches for a way to save his wife, and that emotional core gives the entire novel real weight.
What stands out most is how the book balances its intriguing, time-centered concept with deeply human moments. It’s not just about the race against time it’s about what that race costs, and what it reveals about love, sacrifice, and hope. The pacing keeps things engaging, while the emotional depth makes it memorable.
The writing is accessible yet thoughtful, and the story lingers even after the final chapter. If you enjoy stories that mix suspense with heartfelt storytelling, Chasing Time is definitely worth the read.
What stands out most is how the book balances its intriguing, time-centered concept with deeply human moments. It’s not just about the race against time it’s about what that race costs, and what it reveals about love, sacrifice, and hope. The pacing keeps things engaging, while the emotional depth makes it memorable.
The writing is accessible yet thoughtful, and the story lingers even after the final chapter. If you enjoy stories that mix suspense with heartfelt storytelling, Chasing Time is definitely worth the read.
April 7, 2026
This book exceeded my expectations in every way. The writing is polished and professional, yet still approachable and engaging. From the first chapter, it’s clear that the author understands how to hook a reader and keep them invested.
The pacing is particularly well done. There’s a steady progression that keeps the story moving while still allowing time for character development and emotional depth. Nothing feels rushed, and nothing feels unnecessary. It’s a well balanced and thoughtfully structured narrative.
What truly sets this book apart is its ability to connect with the reader. It’s not just about what happens in the story, but how it makes you feel while it’s happening. That level of engagement is what transforms a good book into a great one, and this book absolutely delivers.
The pacing is particularly well done. There’s a steady progression that keeps the story moving while still allowing time for character development and emotional depth. Nothing feels rushed, and nothing feels unnecessary. It’s a well balanced and thoughtfully structured narrative.
What truly sets this book apart is its ability to connect with the reader. It’s not just about what happens in the story, but how it makes you feel while it’s happening. That level of engagement is what transforms a good book into a great one, and this book absolutely delivers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2026
It’s rare to come across a book that manages to be both entertaining and thought provoking, but this one achieves that balance beautifully. The storytelling is smooth and immersive, pulling the reader in without relying on unnecessary complexity. Instead, the author focuses on delivering a clear, impactful narrative that resonates on multiple levels.
What impressed me most was the emotional intelligence behind the writing. The themes are explored with subtlety and care, allowing readers to interpret and connect in their own way. There’s a quiet depth to the story that builds gradually, making the overall experience incredibly satisfying.
This is more than just a good book; it’s a memorable one. The kind you recommend not just because it’s well written, but because it made you feel something real. A definite five-star read.
What impressed me most was the emotional intelligence behind the writing. The themes are explored with subtlety and care, allowing readers to interpret and connect in their own way. There’s a quiet depth to the story that builds gradually, making the overall experience incredibly satisfying.
This is more than just a good book; it’s a memorable one. The kind you recommend not just because it’s well written, but because it made you feel something real. A definite five-star read.
April 18, 2026
Chasing Time is an emotionally gripping and beautifully constructed story that immediately draws the reader into its world. From the opening chapters, the narrative establishes a strong sense of urgency and introspection, weaving together themes of time, consequence, and human connection.
What truly elevates this book is its character development. The protagonist feels layered and authentic, with motivations that evolve naturally as the story unfolds. The emotional stakes are high, yet handled with subtlety, allowing readers to form a genuine connection without feeling overwhelmed.
The pacing is well-balanced, blending reflective moments with tension-driven scenes that keep the pages turning. Overall, this is a compelling and thought-provoking read that lingers long after the final chapter
What truly elevates this book is its character development. The protagonist feels layered and authentic, with motivations that evolve naturally as the story unfolds. The emotional stakes are high, yet handled with subtlety, allowing readers to form a genuine connection without feeling overwhelmed.
The pacing is well-balanced, blending reflective moments with tension-driven scenes that keep the pages turning. Overall, this is a compelling and thought-provoking read that lingers long after the final chapter
April 7, 2026
I found this book to be both compelling and refreshing. The author brings a unique voice to the story, one that feels confident and authentic from beginning to end. There’s a strong sense of purpose behind the writing, which makes the reading experience all the more impactful.
The characters feel real and layered, with motivations and emotions that are easy to understand and relate to. Even the smaller moments carry weight, adding depth to the overall narrative. It’s clear that a great deal of thought went into crafting not just the story, but the experience of reading it.
By the end, I felt both satisfied and reflective, a combination that doesn’t happen often. This is a book that offers more than entertainment; it offers perspective. Highly recommended.
The characters feel real and layered, with motivations and emotions that are easy to understand and relate to. Even the smaller moments carry weight, adding depth to the overall narrative. It’s clear that a great deal of thought went into crafting not just the story, but the experience of reading it.
By the end, I felt both satisfied and reflective, a combination that doesn’t happen often. This is a book that offers more than entertainment; it offers perspective. Highly recommended.
April 24, 2026
Chasing Time is a deeply moving and imaginative novel that blends emotional storytelling with a gripping sense of urgency. Thomas Reilly does an excellent job of weaving together historical elements, medical realism, and a touch of fantasy into a narrative that feels both unique and compelling.
Tony Lucas is a powerful and relatable protagonist, driven by love and desperation as he searches for a cure for his wife. The emotional weight of his journey adds real depth to the story, while the time-bending adventure keeps the pages turning.
The vivid settings from ancient Rome to modern-day landscapes make the story feel cinematic and immersive. Overall, this is a beautifully written novel that combines heart, suspense, and creativity in a way that truly stands out.
Tony Lucas is a powerful and relatable protagonist, driven by love and desperation as he searches for a cure for his wife. The emotional weight of his journey adds real depth to the story, while the time-bending adventure keeps the pages turning.
The vivid settings from ancient Rome to modern-day landscapes make the story feel cinematic and immersive. Overall, this is a beautifully written novel that combines heart, suspense, and creativity in a way that truly stands out.
May 27, 2026
I picked up Chasing Time expecting an entertaining time-travel story, but what I found was something much deeper and far more emotional. The connection between Lucius and Tony across centuries was handled beautifully, and the novel constantly made me reflect on how our choices shape who we become. The ancient Rome sections were vivid and immersive, while the modern storyline carried real emotional weight. What impressed me most was how naturally the themes of love, destiny, and purpose unfolded without ever feeling forced. By the end, this felt less like a sci-fi adventure and more like a deeply human story about searching for meaning. Easily one of the most memorable books I’ve read this year.
May 27, 2026
Thomas Reilly created something special with Chasing Time. The premise immediately hooked me, but it was the emotional depth that kept me turning pages late into the night. Lucius’s struggle in ancient Rome felt incredibly real, and Tony’s modern-day journey mirrored it in such a powerful way. The mysterious key tied everything together brilliantly. I especially loved how the book balanced suspense, romance, and self-discovery without losing momentum. There were several moments that genuinely surprised me, and the ending stayed in my mind long after I finished. If you enjoy stories that combine heart, mystery, and philosophical questions about destiny and time, this book absolutely deserves your attention.
April 11, 2026
This is the kind of book that quietly draws you in and then refuses to let go. The writing is smooth and engaging, making it easy to become fully immersed in the story. What starts as a simple read quickly evolves into something much more meaningful.
The author does an excellent job of building emotional connections without forcing them. Everything feels natural and earned, which makes the story all the more powerful. The writing is sincere, that’s hard to ignore.
By the time I finished, I realized this wasn’t just a book I enjoyed, it was a book that stayed with me. Those are the ones that matter most, and this is definitely one of them.
The author does an excellent job of building emotional connections without forcing them. Everything feels natural and earned, which makes the story all the more powerful. The writing is sincere, that’s hard to ignore.
By the time I finished, I realized this wasn’t just a book I enjoyed, it was a book that stayed with me. Those are the ones that matter most, and this is definitely one of them.
April 11, 2026
A truly well-crafted book that showcases the author’s skill and passion for storytelling. Every element from the writing style to the character development feels intentional and thoughtfully executed.
One of the standout aspects for me was the atmosphere. The author creates a vivid, immersive setting that allows the reader to step into the story's world fully. Combined with strong narrative pacing, it makes for an incredibly engaging reading experience.
This is a book that respects the reader’s intelligence while still being accessible and enjoyable. It’s a rare combination, and it’s handled beautifully here.
One of the standout aspects for me was the atmosphere. The author creates a vivid, immersive setting that allows the reader to step into the story's world fully. Combined with strong narrative pacing, it makes for an incredibly engaging reading experience.
This is a book that respects the reader’s intelligence while still being accessible and enjoyable. It’s a rare combination, and it’s handled beautifully here.
April 18, 2026
This novel stands out as a deeply engaging exploration of choices, timing, and the ripple effects of our decisions. Chasing Time combines a strong narrative voice with an intriguing premise, resulting in a story that is both entertaining and meaningful.
The author demonstrates a clear command of storytelling, carefully layering tension while maintaining a steady emotional core. The dialogue is natural and impactful, helping to further develop the relationships between characters.
It’s a book that invites reflection, encouraging readers to consider how time shapes our lives. A well-written and memorable read.
The author demonstrates a clear command of storytelling, carefully layering tension while maintaining a steady emotional core. The dialogue is natural and impactful, helping to further develop the relationships between characters.
It’s a book that invites reflection, encouraging readers to consider how time shapes our lives. A well-written and memorable read.
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May 19, 2026Chasing Time is a beautifully written and emotionally engaging novel that blends romance, mystery, and historical fiction with remarkable skill. The dual timeline between ancient Rome and 1960s Brooklyn is handled seamlessly, creating a story that feels both intimate and expansive. What impressed me most was the emotional depth behind the time-bending concept. Beneath the mystery and suspense is a thoughtful exploration of love, identity, and the choices that shape our lives. The characters feel authentic, and their journeys are genuinely moving. A compelling and memorable read that stays with you long after the final chapter.
May 19, 2026
Thomas Reilly delivers an impressive debut that combines emotional storytelling with an imaginative and well-structured narrative. Chasing Time is much more than a time-travel mystery. It is a deeply human story about destiny, personal growth, and emotional connection across generations. The transitions between timelines are smooth, and both storylines are equally engaging. The novel balances suspense with heartfelt moments in a way that feels natural and sincere. The writing is polished, immersive, and cinematic throughout. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy thoughtful fiction with emotional depth.
May 26, 2026
From the very first chapter, Chasing Time pulls you into a fascinating world where past and present collide through a mysterious key connected to time itself. Thomas Reilly crafts a compelling narrative full of emotion, suspense, and thought-provoking moments. It’s a deeply human story wrapped inside an imaginative time-bending adventure.
Chasing Time is more than a time-travel novel—it’s a powerful story about identity, love, and discovering what truly matters. The emotional connection between the characters and the themes of destiny and transformation made this an unforgettable reading experience. Thomas Reilly’s storytelling style is immersive, intelligent, and emotionally resonant.
Chasing Time is more than a time-travel novel—it’s a powerful story about identity, love, and discovering what truly matters. The emotional connection between the characters and the themes of destiny and transformation made this an unforgettable reading experience. Thomas Reilly’s storytelling style is immersive, intelligent, and emotionally resonant.
May 27, 2026
This book completely exceeded my expectations. Chasing Time is not just about time travel — it’s about identity, growth, sacrifice, and the emotional connections that transcend generations. The writing has a cinematic quality that made every scene feel alive, especially the ancient Rome sequences. I found myself deeply invested in both timelines, which is rare for dual-perspective novels. The emotional layers surprised me the most; there’s real vulnerability in these characters, and their journeys feel authentic. It’s thoughtful, emotional, adventurous, and romantic all at once. I can absolutely see why this won awards.
June 16, 2026
Chasing Time is one of those rare novels that stays with you long after you've turned the final page. Thomas Reilly masterfully blends historical mystery, medical drama, and fantasy into a deeply emotional story about love, hope, and determination. Tony Lucas is a protagonist you can't help but root for as he embarks on a desperate race against time to save the person he loves most. The twists kept me guessing, the emotional moments felt genuine, and the ending was incredibly satisfying. If you enjoy stories that combine heart, adventure, and suspense, this book deserves a place at the top of your reading list.
April 12, 2026
This book reads like a movie. The pacing, the tension, and the way the timelines intersect kept me hooked from beginning to end. I especially loved the Roman storyline—it felt vivid and immersive without being overwhelming.
The idea of a key that can alter contracts and hint at the future is fascinating, but it’s the human element that makes this story shine. Tony’s coming-of-age journey adds heart and relatability. Highly recommended if you enjoy stories that blend history with a touch of the supernatural.
The idea of a key that can alter contracts and hint at the future is fascinating, but it’s the human element that makes this story shine. Tony’s coming-of-age journey adds heart and relatability. Highly recommended if you enjoy stories that blend history with a touch of the supernatural.
April 18, 2026
A captivating and thought-provoking novel, Chasing Time delivers a powerful narrative that explores the delicate balance between past, present, and future. The author’s ability to craft tension while maintaining emotional authenticity is particularly impressive.
The characters are well-developed, each contributing to the story in meaningful ways. Their interactions feel genuine, adding depth and realism to the narrative.
With its strong pacing and reflective undertones, this book offers a satisfying reading experience that stays with you long after you’ve finished.
The characters are well-developed, each contributing to the story in meaningful ways. Their interactions feel genuine, adding depth and realism to the narrative.
With its strong pacing and reflective undertones, this book offers a satisfying reading experience that stays with you long after you’ve finished.
April 18, 2026
Chasing Time is a beautifully written story that examines the complexities of life and the passage of time. The narrative is engaging, with a steady pace that allows the story to unfold naturally.
The strength of this book lies in its characters. They are realistic, flawed, and ultimately relatable, which makes their journeys all the more impactful. The author’s writing style enhances this connection, offering moments of introspection alongside plot-driven tension.
This is a thoughtful and emotionally rich novel that will appeal to a wide range of readers
The strength of this book lies in its characters. They are realistic, flawed, and ultimately relatable, which makes their journeys all the more impactful. The author’s writing style enhances this connection, offering moments of introspection alongside plot-driven tension.
This is a thoughtful and emotionally rich novel that will appeal to a wide range of readers
April 24, 2026
Thomas Reilly’s Chasing Time is an impressive debut that successfully merges multiple genres into a cohesive and engaging narrative. The novel stands out for its strong emotional foundation, supported by a well-paced plot and intriguing time-travel elements.
The author’s ability to balance personal stakes with a broader, adventurous storyline demonstrates both creativity and control. It is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of contemporary fiction, historical intrigue, and light fantasy alike.
The author’s ability to balance personal stakes with a broader, adventurous storyline demonstrates both creativity and control. It is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of contemporary fiction, historical intrigue, and light fantasy alike.
May 7, 2026
I really enjoyed how this book combined adventure with a surprisingly emotional storyline. At first glance, it seems like a straightforward animal adventure, but there’s a deeper layer underneath about survival, loyalty, and hope in difficult circumstances. Atomic City feels broken and dangerous, and the author does a great job making the environment feel like a real obstacle the characters must overcome. The cats themselves are memorable because they work together rather than relying on one single hero. That sense of unity gave the story a lot of heart.
May 7, 2026
This was a very immersive read from beginning to end. The atmosphere is one of the strongest aspects of the booK everything from the polluted streets to the mysterious purple sludge creates a strong sense of tension and uncertainty. I appreciated how the story balanced darker themes with moments of friendship and courage. The emotional stakes kept me invested, especially during the more dangerous parts of the journey. It’s an adventure story, but it also carries an uplifting message about resilience and teamwork.
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May 19, 2026This novel surprised me in the best possible way. Chasing Time combines historical intrigue, emotional storytelling, and mystery into a narrative that feels unique and meaningful. The concept of the Janus key is fascinating, but it is the emotional journey of the characters that truly makes the story stand out. Tony’s coming-of-age journey is relatable and heartfelt, while Lucius’s storyline brings tension and historical richness to the novel. The themes of love, fate, and self-discovery are handled with maturity and care. An engaging and highly rewarding read from beginning to end.
May 19, 2026
A thoughtful and emotionally resonant novel that explores the connection between time, destiny, and personal transformation. The author does an excellent job balancing mystery and romance without losing sight of the emotional core of the story. The atmosphere of both ancient Rome and Brooklyn is vividly brought to life, making the transitions between timelines feel effortless. What stayed with me most was the message about choices and how they shape identity and purpose. A smart, moving, and beautifully crafted novel.
May 19, 2026
Chasing Time is an ambitious and compelling story that succeeds on multiple levels. It works as a mystery, a historical adventure, and an emotional exploration of love and purpose. The writing is confident and engaging, and the pacing keeps the reader invested throughout. I especially appreciated how the novel explored the emotional consequences of fate and foreknowledge rather than relying only on the fantasy elements. The result is a story that feels meaningful as well as entertaining. A highly impressive debut with strong emotional impact.
May 22, 2026
The supporting characters in this book deserve more attention than they usually get in reviews.
Pietro Rossi this elderly Italian man in rural Spain who has quietly been carrying an ancient key for decades without knowing why is one of the most charming figures I've come across in fiction this year. His generosity toward Tony feels so genuine it almost hurts.
And Rosa Martini, who unknowingly holds the link to everything her scenes are electric. Reilly builds a whole web of people connected without knowing they're connected, and it works beautifully.
Pietro Rossi this elderly Italian man in rural Spain who has quietly been carrying an ancient key for decades without knowing why is one of the most charming figures I've come across in fiction this year. His generosity toward Tony feels so genuine it almost hurts.
And Rosa Martini, who unknowingly holds the link to everything her scenes are electric. Reilly builds a whole web of people connected without knowing they're connected, and it works beautifully.
May 22, 2026
I kept thinking about the olive oil.
It shows up everywhere Ancient Rome, 1960s Brooklyn, modern Spain, a Polish pharmaceutical company. It sounds strange when you say it out loud, but in the book it becomes this quiet symbol of endurance. The olive tree survives drought. It grows in hard, rocky soil. It has outlasted empires. And somehow it ends up being the source of the compound that saves Ann's life.
That's not an accident. Reilly is saying something there about what persists across time, and it is beautiful.
It shows up everywhere Ancient Rome, 1960s Brooklyn, modern Spain, a Polish pharmaceutical company. It sounds strange when you say it out loud, but in the book it becomes this quiet symbol of endurance. The olive tree survives drought. It grows in hard, rocky soil. It has outlasted empires. And somehow it ends up being the source of the compound that saves Ann's life.
That's not an accident. Reilly is saying something there about what persists across time, and it is beautiful.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews