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Secrets In Time
Can love endure across time?
When a seventeenth-century cavalier hurls himself over her garden wall, Doctor Jessica Shepherd is more angry than surprised. Although she’s no stranger to military re-enactors, there’s something different about Nathaniel Preston. If he’s to be believed, something…or someone…has sent him forward in time from the midst of a civil war to the quiet English countryside of the twentieth century.
With time working against them, Nathaniel has to convince Jessica why fate brought them together before he’s forced to return to his own era…and certain death in battle.
Can the strength of love overcome all obstacles, even time itself?
A Lyrical Press Historical Fantasy Romance
When a seventeenth-century cavalier hurls himself over her garden wall, Doctor Jessica Shepherd is more angry than surprised. Although she’s no stranger to military re-enactors, there’s something different about Nathaniel Preston. If he’s to be believed, something…or someone…has sent him forward in time from the midst of a civil war to the quiet English countryside of the twentieth century.
With time working against them, Nathaniel has to convince Jessica why fate brought them together before he’s forced to return to his own era…and certain death in battle.
Can the strength of love overcome all obstacles, even time itself?
A Lyrical Press Historical Fantasy Romance
129 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2013
29 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Alison Stuart
25 books362 followersMystery, history, romance and more…
Alison Stuart writes historical romances and short stories set in England and Australia and across different periods of history. She is best known for THE POSTMISTRESS and THE GOLDMINER'S SISTER, stories set in the Victorian goldfields in the 1870s.
She also writes historical mysteries as A.M. Stuart and her popular Harriet Gordon mystery series is set in Singapore in 1910.
She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and a geriatric cat. In a past life Alison worked as a lawyer across a variety of disciplines including the military and emergency services. She has lived in Africa and Singapore and, when circumstances permit, travels extensively - all for research of course!
(This writer is NOT the Alison Stuart who also writes as Kate Tremayne and authored Fateful Shadows, Sin No More, Barefoot Angel, Innocence Betrayed or Loyalty Defiled.)
Alison Stuart writes historical romances and short stories set in England and Australia and across different periods of history. She is best known for THE POSTMISTRESS and THE GOLDMINER'S SISTER, stories set in the Victorian goldfields in the 1870s.
She also writes historical mysteries as A.M. Stuart and her popular Harriet Gordon mystery series is set in Singapore in 1910.
She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and a geriatric cat. In a past life Alison worked as a lawyer across a variety of disciplines including the military and emergency services. She has lived in Africa and Singapore and, when circumstances permit, travels extensively - all for research of course!
(This writer is NOT the Alison Stuart who also writes as Kate Tremayne and authored Fateful Shadows, Sin No More, Barefoot Angel, Innocence Betrayed or Loyalty Defiled.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 2, 2015
TWO DIFFERENT WORLDS
One day in June, 1995, Nathaniel Preston unceremoniously toppled over Jessica’s garden wall, ruining her beautiful flowers. She was irate that this stranger had the audacity to trespass and told him so, in no uncertain terms. But there he was and where did he come from? He came from the same little English village he was in now, but that year was 1645!
Jess and Nathaniel fall in love with each other quite early in the story, so throughout the book, this keeps the reader on edge, wondering about their 350 year time discrepancy and if they have definitive decisions to help them with their dilemma or if they must answer to a higher power.
They traveled back and forth several times between 1645 and 1995, each time facing similar difficulties that being in the wrong time frame presented, and each feeling like an alien in a strange land.
Nathaniel’s acclimatization to all the changes that had taken place from his time to the present is reminiscent of how homecoming Vietnam servicemen felt when they arrived home. It was as if they had entered a different world, a different age. For the first time, they saw bell-bottomed pants, mutton chop sideburns, peace medallions, flower children (hippies),new idioms, free love, etc. It was quite an adjustment for them, to say the least. Imagine all the changes that had taken place during 350 years--Nathaniel’s time--to 1995, the year into which he was thrown.
This book fits into the genres of historical fiction, contemporary fiction, romance, and mystery. It is extremely well planned and, to be sure, well written. The author is highly imaginative, and keeps you guessing what will happen with each turn of a page. In essence, it is interactive mastery and forces you to collaborate in order to solve the mystery of which century will claim the protagonists.
Thank you for an excellent read, Ms. Stuart.
Definitely merits 5 stars!
Phyllis Eisenstadt
One day in June, 1995, Nathaniel Preston unceremoniously toppled over Jessica’s garden wall, ruining her beautiful flowers. She was irate that this stranger had the audacity to trespass and told him so, in no uncertain terms. But there he was and where did he come from? He came from the same little English village he was in now, but that year was 1645!
Jess and Nathaniel fall in love with each other quite early in the story, so throughout the book, this keeps the reader on edge, wondering about their 350 year time discrepancy and if they have definitive decisions to help them with their dilemma or if they must answer to a higher power.
They traveled back and forth several times between 1645 and 1995, each time facing similar difficulties that being in the wrong time frame presented, and each feeling like an alien in a strange land.
Nathaniel’s acclimatization to all the changes that had taken place from his time to the present is reminiscent of how homecoming Vietnam servicemen felt when they arrived home. It was as if they had entered a different world, a different age. For the first time, they saw bell-bottomed pants, mutton chop sideburns, peace medallions, flower children (hippies),new idioms, free love, etc. It was quite an adjustment for them, to say the least. Imagine all the changes that had taken place during 350 years--Nathaniel’s time--to 1995, the year into which he was thrown.
This book fits into the genres of historical fiction, contemporary fiction, romance, and mystery. It is extremely well planned and, to be sure, well written. The author is highly imaginative, and keeps you guessing what will happen with each turn of a page. In essence, it is interactive mastery and forces you to collaborate in order to solve the mystery of which century will claim the protagonists.
Thank you for an excellent read, Ms. Stuart.
Definitely merits 5 stars!
Phyllis Eisenstadt
November 23, 2015
This book was very easy to like because I always enjoy a bit of time travel as long as it is written well. Alison Stuart writes well. The story is short, snappy and interesting, the characters are fun and I enjoyed the developing romance between the two main characters. There were quite a few errors in the text which would have been improved by better editing but since I was reading fast I barely noticed them. Altogether a nicely written piece of historical fiction with a touch of time travel and some entertaining romance. A very pleasant way to spend a few hours.
October 21, 2015
Dr Jessica Shepherd was relaxing in her front garden on a welcome day off when she was interrupted by the sudden arrival of a young man who tumbled over her garden wall and into the flower bed below. His manner of dress made her think he was a friend of her brother; a historian, Alan was part of a group of military re-enactors who would recreate the Civil War with the Battle of Chesham Bridge being acted out at Heatherhill Hall which was owned by the National Trust.
The man, who called himself Nathaniel Preston was wounded – he was shocked to hear the year was 1995 and told Jessica he had been wounded in a battle in 1645. As the sceptical Jess, with the help of Alan and his historical knowledge, gradually began to realise what Nathaniel said was true, the thought that there was three hundred and fifty years between their existences stunned her. But was there a reason Nathaniel had arrived on her doorstep? As Jess’ feelings grew for the dashing soldier, her heart was breaking – there was no way they could change the events of history; the anniversary of the Battle of Chesham Bridge was near…
I absolutely loved this light hearted and fun historical romance novella by Aussie author Alison Stuart. Secrets in Time is a quick, easy read filled with mystery and intrigue; the characters are delightful, the blending of the past and current time done very well. I enjoyed reading the author’s notes at the end regarding the history of 1645 and have no hesitation in highly recommending Secrets in Time, along with all this author’s work.
The man, who called himself Nathaniel Preston was wounded – he was shocked to hear the year was 1995 and told Jessica he had been wounded in a battle in 1645. As the sceptical Jess, with the help of Alan and his historical knowledge, gradually began to realise what Nathaniel said was true, the thought that there was three hundred and fifty years between their existences stunned her. But was there a reason Nathaniel had arrived on her doorstep? As Jess’ feelings grew for the dashing soldier, her heart was breaking – there was no way they could change the events of history; the anniversary of the Battle of Chesham Bridge was near…
I absolutely loved this light hearted and fun historical romance novella by Aussie author Alison Stuart. Secrets in Time is a quick, easy read filled with mystery and intrigue; the characters are delightful, the blending of the past and current time done very well. I enjoyed reading the author’s notes at the end regarding the history of 1645 and have no hesitation in highly recommending Secrets in Time, along with all this author’s work.
January 3, 2021
I was pleasantly surprised with this sweet, time travel romance. (Time period: a Colonel from 1645 who is injured in battle, and while trying to escape from his enemies, all of a sudden finds himself inexplicably climbing over a yard wall and lands up in the presence of Dr. Jessica Shepherd (the year now is 1995)
The story had realistic character chemistry, it was well paced, with relatable and interesting characters. Enjoyable plot. Implied sex, but clean - No burning hot steamy sex scenes, no profanity.
The story had realistic character chemistry, it was well paced, with relatable and interesting characters. Enjoyable plot. Implied sex, but clean - No burning hot steamy sex scenes, no profanity.
June 22, 2016
Oh that was a fun read - not a big fan of time travel books - but this was a lovely romance and it all fitted together really well!!
April 20, 2013
Jess is relaxing in her backyard when a man, dressed in battle clothes from the distant past, jumps over her garden wall and lands in her flowers. Her brother, Alan, is part of a group who re-enact battles so his appearance doesn't shock her ... she assumes Nathaniel's part of Alan's group.
Nathaniel thinks he is from 1645 ... and it turns out he is. When he left 1645, he was in the middle of a battle and is wounded. Jess is a doctor and cleans up his wound. As he is healing, they try to figure out how to get him back to his own time because he must go back ... if he doesn't, English history and the monarchy would be altered.
In the meantime, Jess introduces him to modern times ... his ancestral home is still intact, though it's now a museum. And they fall in love. So Jess is torn between wanting to keep her new found love in the present with her or having to send him back to his own time to his death (he is supposed to die in nine days).
I enjoyed this book. I liked the writing style and it was a quick read. It was interesting to read the dialogues and see the differences between the way they spoke ... Nat was very proper and polite. Because it is a time travel book, you have to leave your sense of belief at the door and go with it.
I liked the characters, Jess and Nat. Though things happen very quickly between them, it's obvious that they care about each other.
I like reading time travel stories. I find it interesting to see how people from the past react to the things we take for granted today and how people from today have to make due without our modern conveniences when they go back in time. When Jess suggests Nat take a bath the first night he is there, he responds there is no need because he's already had his bath for the month! He is mesmerized by the toilet and keeps flushing it. Eating with a fork baffles him.
I found when the author handled the interaction between Jess and Nat when she was explaining something new to him (like a TV and a remote control) entertaining. Keep in mind that that story takes place in 1995 and Jess is still listening to a Walkman ... imagine how amazed Nat would be with an iPod!
I recommend this book, especially if you are into time travel and English historical stories.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2013/04...
Nathaniel thinks he is from 1645 ... and it turns out he is. When he left 1645, he was in the middle of a battle and is wounded. Jess is a doctor and cleans up his wound. As he is healing, they try to figure out how to get him back to his own time because he must go back ... if he doesn't, English history and the monarchy would be altered.
In the meantime, Jess introduces him to modern times ... his ancestral home is still intact, though it's now a museum. And they fall in love. So Jess is torn between wanting to keep her new found love in the present with her or having to send him back to his own time to his death (he is supposed to die in nine days).
I enjoyed this book. I liked the writing style and it was a quick read. It was interesting to read the dialogues and see the differences between the way they spoke ... Nat was very proper and polite. Because it is a time travel book, you have to leave your sense of belief at the door and go with it.
I liked the characters, Jess and Nat. Though things happen very quickly between them, it's obvious that they care about each other.
I like reading time travel stories. I find it interesting to see how people from the past react to the things we take for granted today and how people from today have to make due without our modern conveniences when they go back in time. When Jess suggests Nat take a bath the first night he is there, he responds there is no need because he's already had his bath for the month! He is mesmerized by the toilet and keeps flushing it. Eating with a fork baffles him.
I found when the author handled the interaction between Jess and Nat when she was explaining something new to him (like a TV and a remote control) entertaining. Keep in mind that that story takes place in 1995 and Jess is still listening to a Walkman ... imagine how amazed Nat would be with an iPod!
I recommend this book, especially if you are into time travel and English historical stories.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2013/04...
April 2, 2013
'Secrets in Time' engages from the very start when an injured soldier, dressed in period costume, lands in Jessica's flower bed. Surely he has concussion when he states he is from the English Civil War which occurred 350 years ago? Is he telling the truth? This story unfolds as a time travel mystery with an elegant love story woven through that will challenge the barriers of time.
This is the kind of story that grabs you and takes you along for a very enjoyable ride. The words flow easily and the characters are instantly likable. You want to know what happens next!
The historic detail is accurate but not over done. The aspects that one might discover if they were transplanted from one time to another are handled in a humorous but believable manner. If you were from the 16th century - what would you make of a television, a bicycle or even a flushing toilet! Nathanial is a very charming and likable fellow and his reactions to modern life are delightful.
The writer renders the story with a very real human emotions, providing the thoughts and feelings of both characters as the journey down this unknown road together. Other characters within the story enhance it without overshadowing especially the role of little Christian and his toy horse. The mystery of how the story will end will keep you turning pages until the end. You won't be disappointed!
'Secrets in Time' left me with the suspended belief that perhaps time travel could be possible!
This is the kind of story that grabs you and takes you along for a very enjoyable ride. The words flow easily and the characters are instantly likable. You want to know what happens next!
The historic detail is accurate but not over done. The aspects that one might discover if they were transplanted from one time to another are handled in a humorous but believable manner. If you were from the 16th century - what would you make of a television, a bicycle or even a flushing toilet! Nathanial is a very charming and likable fellow and his reactions to modern life are delightful.
The writer renders the story with a very real human emotions, providing the thoughts and feelings of both characters as the journey down this unknown road together. Other characters within the story enhance it without overshadowing especially the role of little Christian and his toy horse. The mystery of how the story will end will keep you turning pages until the end. You won't be disappointed!
'Secrets in Time' left me with the suspended belief that perhaps time travel could be possible!
January 20, 2015
Secrets in time is another great read by Alison.
Romance, science fiction, war, action, medical, family, witches, history... all these themes and more come into play, weaving a thoroughly enjoyable mixed genre read.
Jessica (Jessie) is a realistic character. A paediatric doctor, she's smart, driven, and strong. She's an interesting character, one that I was drawn to, even if I didn't always agree with her decisions.
Nathaniel is our male lead, the true gentleman who travelled over 300 years to meet Jessie. He was a little more traditional. Swoon-worthy good looks, sweet, and romantic. But don't let his pretty face make you believe he's shallow and two dimensional. Oh no, this leading male character is complex and just a tiny bit 'deer in the headlights' bewildered too. If that combination doesn't pluck at your heart strings, you'll just have to check out the rest of the package (no not THAT package)...
This is the second book this month that has had a tag line of something like 'can love last through time?' This one was, in one way, a lot more unrealistic, but ultimately a lot more developed and enjoyable.
If you've read others of Alison's, this one is one of her best (well of the ones I've read), if you haven't read any, I would consider starting with this one. It's short enough that you can devour it quickly, but has enough detail to draw you in.
Romance, science fiction, war, action, medical, family, witches, history... all these themes and more come into play, weaving a thoroughly enjoyable mixed genre read.
Jessica (Jessie) is a realistic character. A paediatric doctor, she's smart, driven, and strong. She's an interesting character, one that I was drawn to, even if I didn't always agree with her decisions.
Nathaniel is our male lead, the true gentleman who travelled over 300 years to meet Jessie. He was a little more traditional. Swoon-worthy good looks, sweet, and romantic. But don't let his pretty face make you believe he's shallow and two dimensional. Oh no, this leading male character is complex and just a tiny bit 'deer in the headlights' bewildered too. If that combination doesn't pluck at your heart strings, you'll just have to check out the rest of the package (no not THAT package)...
This is the second book this month that has had a tag line of something like 'can love last through time?' This one was, in one way, a lot more unrealistic, but ultimately a lot more developed and enjoyable.
If you've read others of Alison's, this one is one of her best (well of the ones I've read), if you haven't read any, I would consider starting with this one. It's short enough that you can devour it quickly, but has enough detail to draw you in.
April 21, 2013
What a lovely story who wouldn't want a dashing 17th century cavalier turning up in the garden and the reasoning behind it such a moving story thank you Alison for another fantastic read :)
March 6, 2020
A sweet timeswept romance
Although short, this is by no means a lacklustre story. The author has managed to pack a lot in this novella (?) and while I didn’t have high expectations, I mean it’s less than 150 pages, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I came to enjoy the characters.
Jessica and Nathaniel’s relationship was rushed, but I found myself strangely enchanted by them. The addition of a real reason for the time slip escape over the wall was heartbreaking, yet explained a whole lot about the intentions of both Dame Alice and Nathaniel.
Would have loved this to be a 400+ page story that could delve more deeply into their emotions and expand upon the circumstances surrounding douchy Dr. Mark and his unforgivable action at the hospital, plus I would have loved to have seen more of the last Preston, the current occupant of the Hall... ah, missed opportunities 😉
4 stars ⭐️
Although short, this is by no means a lacklustre story. The author has managed to pack a lot in this novella (?) and while I didn’t have high expectations, I mean it’s less than 150 pages, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I came to enjoy the characters.
Jessica and Nathaniel’s relationship was rushed, but I found myself strangely enchanted by them. The addition of a real reason for the time slip escape over the wall was heartbreaking, yet explained a whole lot about the intentions of both Dame Alice and Nathaniel.
Would have loved this to be a 400+ page story that could delve more deeply into their emotions and expand upon the circumstances surrounding douchy Dr. Mark and his unforgivable action at the hospital, plus I would have loved to have seen more of the last Preston, the current occupant of the Hall... ah, missed opportunities 😉
4 stars ⭐️
August 1, 2016
I recently joined Alison Stuart's mailing list and received a copy of her novella Secrets In Time with her welcome email.
What a treat this story has been! I'm not normally a great fan of time travel novels, but Ms Stuart has managed the shifts between 1995 and 1645 well. In addition to being a love story, this novella also provides readers with plausible glimpses of life in 17th century England.
Despite this story's short length, the characters were well rounded and it was easy to feel for both Jessie and Nat as they faced the various challenges thrown in their paths. After this taste, I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
What a treat this story has been! I'm not normally a great fan of time travel novels, but Ms Stuart has managed the shifts between 1995 and 1645 well. In addition to being a love story, this novella also provides readers with plausible glimpses of life in 17th century England.
Despite this story's short length, the characters were well rounded and it was easy to feel for both Jessie and Nat as they faced the various challenges thrown in their paths. After this taste, I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
February 8, 2013
I enjoyed Alison Stuarts new book Secrets in Time. It was a book that I didn’t want to put down until it was finished. I enjoyed the story and the characters. It had some twist and turns that kept you wanting to know what happens next. The writing style of the book made it easy for me to read and the text flowed nicely. It is a book I would read again. I look forward to reading other stories by the author.
March 2, 2014
I think this was a lovely story. To set it in an area of England where they re-enact Civil War was brilliant. I think it's the Silk Knot that does that sort of thing, but to have a Cavalier jump over the wall into a modern day garden was fantastic. I wondered about his confusion at what had happened since he did have his own agenda for coming into the future. However, there were moments when I burst out laughing (tetanus shot etc). I can and will recommend this book.
December 13, 2016
Wonderful tale, very well written with interesting characters! Even though my family of reenactors are in the USA, I suspect that reenactors of any time period have the same rabid attention to minutiae. I feel that the time travel aspects were handled very well without a whole lot of fuss. The publisher's blurb gives hints and clues but can't begin to help the reader appreciate this book. You just have to read it!
October 12, 2013
In a steadily growing and often crowded genre of time travel, this light and breezy confection stands out.
Read full review in the October 2013 issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the October 2013 issue of InD’tale Magazine.
February 8, 2016
Loved this time travel book. I loved Nathaniel and I was happy to see him show up in Jessica's life. It was great how Nathaniel was able to learn more about the future and be accepting as he had a scientific mind. Great book!
September 4, 2016
What's with the cover? It doesn't match the book at all??? I would prefer a man in a civil war uniform to this nonsense.
September 22, 2025
Pick a tense and stick with it. This is dual POV, but not what you'd expect. Usually there is a chapter from one MC alternating with a chapter frommthe other MC. Here, they just switch. He narrates in present tense and she in past tense. This is annoying. As for the rest of it, I am not a fan of the writing style or the characters. Example: The FMC, in present day, says "he waved a hand at my person". Who talks like that? Regency romance writers use that kind of thing to set the time. We don't talk like that anymore. For context, he was pointing out that she was in a swimsuit. Just say 'he waved a hand at my body', or even 'at me'. So weird. I can't read this.
April 17, 2022
What a wonderful quick read. I don’t usually read contemporary stories but I really enjoyed this one. This one flowed nicely without a lot of fillers, but there was one part that I felt could have had more content but I am not putting in any spoilers. The characters were very likable and the storyline had lots of surprises to keep you reading. There was only the mention of sex in this book, which suits this reviewer well. Well worth the read.
May 6, 2013
Secrets In Time isn't your typical time travel story in that both protagonists get to experience each other's time period in a cleverly plotted storyline where there's a specific reason behind the travel. One man's desire to save his son has him looking to the future and willing to give up all he knows to get him the medical help he needs. Through the use of witchcraft, and a crafty old woman, Nathaniel sets forth a plan that has him landing in Doctor Jessica Shepherd's backyard. His charm and old school gallantry soon has them forming a strong bond that has her doing all in her power to see BOTH him and his son safe in a story that's a bit slow moving in parts but one that you can't put down.
Jessica is a strong-willed woman with an ex-boyfriend who won't go away. Her ex has left her doubting that love exists and believing in only what science has taught her. So an unexpected visitor in historical garb falling over her garden wall immediately puts her defenses up. With help from her brother who's a history professor she soon has to accept the truth of time travel and the fear of death that history says will befall Nathaniel. The attraction between them built quickly but believably as his charm and intense nature drew her in. The sexual encounters between them were of a more sweet nature, not at all graphic, but no less satisfying. Her time in the past was fraught with danger as she desperately tried to change fate and save Nat but she faced it with strength and bravery. Once back in our time her fight wasn't over as her ex again decided to cause problems as she continued to show her bravery which made her HEA all the more satisfying.
Nat too doesn't disappoint as he shows great bravery in adjusting to modern times. He has an insatiable desire for knowledge so all the new discoveries excited him and made his adjustment fun to watch. His romance with Jess was full of sexual tension from the moment their eyes met and his old world ways of romancing were right out of a romance novel, and though she subtly mocked it, he completely won her heart. Nat always seemed in control, always calm, never showing anger and it made me feel confident that his plan would succeed even when things looked at their bleakest. Nat is a heroes hero and I was completely drawn to him and rooted for his HEA every moment.
This story was cleverly written with moments of the paranormal seamlessly inserted into the storyline. This resulted in a bit of head hopping as Nat communicated with his Grandmother who kept him focused on what needed to be done. Some readers might be turned off by this but I enjoyed seeing these extra insights and thought it added to the overall storyline. Likable characters, a sensually satisfying romance, realistic scenes of battle, and a clever mish-mash of paranormal elements and time travel all combine to create a memorable and intriguing story. Add this to another feather in Alison Stuart's writing cap.
Jessica is a strong-willed woman with an ex-boyfriend who won't go away. Her ex has left her doubting that love exists and believing in only what science has taught her. So an unexpected visitor in historical garb falling over her garden wall immediately puts her defenses up. With help from her brother who's a history professor she soon has to accept the truth of time travel and the fear of death that history says will befall Nathaniel. The attraction between them built quickly but believably as his charm and intense nature drew her in. The sexual encounters between them were of a more sweet nature, not at all graphic, but no less satisfying. Her time in the past was fraught with danger as she desperately tried to change fate and save Nat but she faced it with strength and bravery. Once back in our time her fight wasn't over as her ex again decided to cause problems as she continued to show her bravery which made her HEA all the more satisfying.
Nat too doesn't disappoint as he shows great bravery in adjusting to modern times. He has an insatiable desire for knowledge so all the new discoveries excited him and made his adjustment fun to watch. His romance with Jess was full of sexual tension from the moment their eyes met and his old world ways of romancing were right out of a romance novel, and though she subtly mocked it, he completely won her heart. Nat always seemed in control, always calm, never showing anger and it made me feel confident that his plan would succeed even when things looked at their bleakest. Nat is a heroes hero and I was completely drawn to him and rooted for his HEA every moment.
This story was cleverly written with moments of the paranormal seamlessly inserted into the storyline. This resulted in a bit of head hopping as Nat communicated with his Grandmother who kept him focused on what needed to be done. Some readers might be turned off by this but I enjoyed seeing these extra insights and thought it added to the overall storyline. Likable characters, a sensually satisfying romance, realistic scenes of battle, and a clever mish-mash of paranormal elements and time travel all combine to create a memorable and intriguing story. Add this to another feather in Alison Stuart's writing cap.
May 5, 2015
Review on 4.29.13
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Secrets in Time was a quick read for me. Since it is a Time Travel Romance, expect the impossible. Personally, I thought the story was ok. I wasn’t blown away by the whole Time Travel aspect of it. Probably because I am a skeptic when in comes to time travel.
The story starts with the hero Nathaniel Preston running from the enemy in 1645 and going over a wall to land in Jessica’s garden in the year 1995. The heroine ends up helping Nat and calling her brother, conveniently a history professor with expertise in the 1700s, and a member of a reenactment club. I just want to mention that Jessica is a pediatrician who used to date another doctor specializing in pediatrician heart surgery. I say this because this is in fact the reason why Nat has traveled to the present (with the help of his grandmother with unusual powers), to save his twin son with a congenital heart defect. Of course, he did not mean to fall in love but he did. He ended up traveling back in time with Jessica where the plan was revealed to her. This whole thing happened during the 350th anniversary of the battle of Chesham Bridge where Nat died. Predictably, Jess was able to save Nat and his son Christian and was able to travel back to the future. Enter her ex, the surgeon, who was able to do the surgery on the child (even without the right papers and identification) and also reported Nat to the immigration.
I thought the whole story was presented to us in a neat little bow, with everything coming into place very conveniently for my taste. There wasn’t any surprises in the book but a weird twist in the end that I thought was pushing it. The author did try her best to solve the problem of Nat with no identification and birth certificate. When she added in an old man with no family and the last of the Preston line, I thought this was just too convenient. I realize that traveling and staying in the future would bring about problems of ID and other info as opposed to traveling and staying in the past. I also want to add that even though this is a romance novel, it has a heat level of 1, with no description of the sex at all. I rate this book a 2.5-3 hearts.
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Secrets in Time was a quick read for me. Since it is a Time Travel Romance, expect the impossible. Personally, I thought the story was ok. I wasn’t blown away by the whole Time Travel aspect of it. Probably because I am a skeptic when in comes to time travel.
The story starts with the hero Nathaniel Preston running from the enemy in 1645 and going over a wall to land in Jessica’s garden in the year 1995. The heroine ends up helping Nat and calling her brother, conveniently a history professor with expertise in the 1700s, and a member of a reenactment club. I just want to mention that Jessica is a pediatrician who used to date another doctor specializing in pediatrician heart surgery. I say this because this is in fact the reason why Nat has traveled to the present (with the help of his grandmother with unusual powers), to save his twin son with a congenital heart defect. Of course, he did not mean to fall in love but he did. He ended up traveling back in time with Jessica where the plan was revealed to her. This whole thing happened during the 350th anniversary of the battle of Chesham Bridge where Nat died. Predictably, Jess was able to save Nat and his son Christian and was able to travel back to the future. Enter her ex, the surgeon, who was able to do the surgery on the child (even without the right papers and identification) and also reported Nat to the immigration.
I thought the whole story was presented to us in a neat little bow, with everything coming into place very conveniently for my taste. There wasn’t any surprises in the book but a weird twist in the end that I thought was pushing it. The author did try her best to solve the problem of Nat with no identification and birth certificate. When she added in an old man with no family and the last of the Preston line, I thought this was just too convenient. I realize that traveling and staying in the future would bring about problems of ID and other info as opposed to traveling and staying in the past. I also want to add that even though this is a romance novel, it has a heat level of 1, with no description of the sex at all. I rate this book a 2.5-3 hearts.
June 21, 2013
Secrets in Time by Alison Stuart had me as soon as I read the words "Can Love Endure Across Time" on the cover.
Jessica Shepherd is enjoying the sun in her garden in Chesham, England when a man comes crashing over the wall into her flowers. He is dressed oddly and is carrying a sword, but she assumes he is part of one of the local re-enactors groups in the area. He is Nathaniel Preston and he is not part of any reenactors group. Somehow he has come forward in time from the English Civil War. Jessica's brother Alan is a historian and as soon as he sees Nat and hears his name, he know who he is. Colonel Nathaniel Preston who died on June 15, 1645 during the Battle of Chesham Bridge.
I found it difficult to put this book down. A fast, easy read; the romance is sweet; there is kissing and waking up in bed together, but no sex scenes. The secondary characters -- the nurses at the hospital where Jessica is a pediatrician to Nat's family in the past are; in my opinion, well written and well rounded. One of the nice things about this book is both Nat & Jessie get to experience the others time.
Nat has two little boys -- twins Christian and Nathaniel. Their mother is dead. Christian, the older of the two is much smaller than his brother. Jessica determines that the little boy has a hole in his heart and will not live to see adulthood. Nathaniel on the other hand, is a healthy toddler, but very close and caring of his brother. If Christian lived in the future -- but that would be impossible. Or would it? With the help of Alice, Nat's grandam, Jessica may be able to save not only Christian, but Nat, the man she has come to love.
This book is written in first person for both Jessica & Nat. It was a little disconcerting at the beginning as I wasn't always sure who was telling the story; but once I got used to the tempo and the difference in their 'voices' I fell in love with the story.
Alison Stuart is a new author to me and I have never read any books about this period in English history. But I will certainly bo on the lookout for more books set in this period.
Jessica Shepherd is enjoying the sun in her garden in Chesham, England when a man comes crashing over the wall into her flowers. He is dressed oddly and is carrying a sword, but she assumes he is part of one of the local re-enactors groups in the area. He is Nathaniel Preston and he is not part of any reenactors group. Somehow he has come forward in time from the English Civil War. Jessica's brother Alan is a historian and as soon as he sees Nat and hears his name, he know who he is. Colonel Nathaniel Preston who died on June 15, 1645 during the Battle of Chesham Bridge.
I found it difficult to put this book down. A fast, easy read; the romance is sweet; there is kissing and waking up in bed together, but no sex scenes. The secondary characters -- the nurses at the hospital where Jessica is a pediatrician to Nat's family in the past are; in my opinion, well written and well rounded. One of the nice things about this book is both Nat & Jessie get to experience the others time.
Nat has two little boys -- twins Christian and Nathaniel. Their mother is dead. Christian, the older of the two is much smaller than his brother. Jessica determines that the little boy has a hole in his heart and will not live to see adulthood. Nathaniel on the other hand, is a healthy toddler, but very close and caring of his brother. If Christian lived in the future -- but that would be impossible. Or would it? With the help of Alice, Nat's grandam, Jessica may be able to save not only Christian, but Nat, the man she has come to love.
This book is written in first person for both Jessica & Nat. It was a little disconcerting at the beginning as I wasn't always sure who was telling the story; but once I got used to the tempo and the difference in their 'voices' I fell in love with the story.
Alison Stuart is a new author to me and I have never read any books about this period in English history. But I will certainly bo on the lookout for more books set in this period.
April 9, 2013
Dr. Jessica Shepherd can hardly believe her eyes when a cavalier from seventeenth century England tumbles into her garden. To make thing supremely complicated, he's war wounded - from the English Civil War in the seventeenth century. Well, musket ball wounds aren't common in the modern age. Jessica does her best, however. I mean, you can't exactly turn up at the local hospital with mortal wounds and expect to get away without a few questions.
This is a charming timeslip story - an historical fantasy in which people fall in love with each other across the centuries. Nathaniel Preston certainly has all the positive attributes one expects of an alpha male - the excellent physique, the bravery, the charm. Enough to put a girl in quite a nostalgic mood - as in gone are the days when men were men etc. That Jessica's quite a lucky girl.
However, as the story unfolds, it transpires that Nat didn't reach the modern era all by himself. Moreover, he came to the twentieth century with a mission.
The twentieth century? Yes, the story is set in 1995, which wasn't really that long ago. So Nat has to get to grips with cars, bicycles and television. It would have been something amazing to see him grapple with the netbook and the smartphone. This love story is something that gripped me from start to finish. You keep on wondering will things work out, will the couple ever be able to legitimately bring their two worlds together.
All in all, a piece of innovative romantic fiction which will probably please readers of fantasy romance, historical romance, contemporary romance and even medical romance. Highly recommended.
This is a charming timeslip story - an historical fantasy in which people fall in love with each other across the centuries. Nathaniel Preston certainly has all the positive attributes one expects of an alpha male - the excellent physique, the bravery, the charm. Enough to put a girl in quite a nostalgic mood - as in gone are the days when men were men etc. That Jessica's quite a lucky girl.
However, as the story unfolds, it transpires that Nat didn't reach the modern era all by himself. Moreover, he came to the twentieth century with a mission.
The twentieth century? Yes, the story is set in 1995, which wasn't really that long ago. So Nat has to get to grips with cars, bicycles and television. It would have been something amazing to see him grapple with the netbook and the smartphone. This love story is something that gripped me from start to finish. You keep on wondering will things work out, will the couple ever be able to legitimately bring their two worlds together.
All in all, a piece of innovative romantic fiction which will probably please readers of fantasy romance, historical romance, contemporary romance and even medical romance. Highly recommended.
June 5, 2013
I really like time travel books. I love the magic, the mystery, the ‘what if’ possibilities. The tricky part is keeping your rules straight.
Alison Stuart did a good job with making this a believable tale where what happened in the past influenced the future. It makes you wonder if we are fated to our path or if we have choices.
As Nathaniel and Jessica’s relationship develops the reader is given hints that he needs something from her. When the two are transported back to Nathaniel’s own time we find out what it is: his son is gravely ill and will certainly die if left in that time. Jessica is asked to take the child back to her own time and save him using the advanced medical knowledge. But Jessica can’t just leave Nathaniel to die in the Civil War battle he is fighting so she manages to bring both back to her own time.
What I loved was how Stuart wove in the trials Nate and his son would have in the twentieth century: they have no identification, proof of birth, medical coverage. Throw in a vengeful ex-boyfriend of Jessica’s and the tension mounts as Nate is thrown in jail for being an illegal and Jessica has to figure out a way to save the man she loves and his child from death.
Overall, it was a lovely romance with tension thrown in the last half of the novel to keep you turning the pages. I love how all the details linked up in the end to fit perfectly within the time travel world Stuart created.
4 out of 5 stars.
I received a copy of this novel for an honest review
Alison Stuart did a good job with making this a believable tale where what happened in the past influenced the future. It makes you wonder if we are fated to our path or if we have choices.
As Nathaniel and Jessica’s relationship develops the reader is given hints that he needs something from her. When the two are transported back to Nathaniel’s own time we find out what it is: his son is gravely ill and will certainly die if left in that time. Jessica is asked to take the child back to her own time and save him using the advanced medical knowledge. But Jessica can’t just leave Nathaniel to die in the Civil War battle he is fighting so she manages to bring both back to her own time.
What I loved was how Stuart wove in the trials Nate and his son would have in the twentieth century: they have no identification, proof of birth, medical coverage. Throw in a vengeful ex-boyfriend of Jessica’s and the tension mounts as Nate is thrown in jail for being an illegal and Jessica has to figure out a way to save the man she loves and his child from death.
Overall, it was a lovely romance with tension thrown in the last half of the novel to keep you turning the pages. I love how all the details linked up in the end to fit perfectly within the time travel world Stuart created.
4 out of 5 stars.
I received a copy of this novel for an honest review
February 12, 2018
Love has no bounds. Nathaniel thought that he could outrun the men chasing him but he was nearly at the wall and he has no choice but to jump it. He hopes that Alice is correct about this all. Jessica is catching so much needed sun when a man comes over her wall and lands in her flowers and he is hurt and very confused. He thinks that it is 1645. Jessica thinks that he is playing the fool so she calls her brother Alan to come over and talk to Nathaniel. Alan can't believe that he is here how and why? Can Alan & Nathaniel prove to Jessica that the story is true and that he does somehow come from the past. But they know that he can't stay here as it could change the course of history. Nathaniel learns that he did die on the day that he disappeared and that his legacy did continue. But what now they know that they don't have much time and Nathaniel still has no idea why he needs to bring Jessica back with him. He knows that he hasn't much time left but he needs her to bring his son back with her as he will die if he stays in Nathaniel's time but she doesn't want to go back home with Nathaniel but she knows that she can't stay as he is about to be killed. But what happens if that isn't how the story ends? Will they find a way to be together like Dame Alice said? A good read.
March 9, 2018
I'm picky about time travel romances. I generally prefer the HEA to take place in the historical era, rather than modern day (or 1995, in this case) But I have one notable exception: if the historical character died in their era. then I'm okay with them getting a second chance in a different time.
That's what happens here, when a 17th century cavalier crashes into a modern day doctor's garden, with an agenda and a desperate hope. Add in some English Civil War reenactors, reenacting the historic battle that did/will kill our hero in his own time, an elderly modern-day descendant, and one heroine's ex with an axe to grind, and what we get is a well thought out tale, flavored with an eye to historical detail, and two characters who literally come from different worlds, but couldn't be more right for each other.
This was my first book by Alison Stuart, but definitely not my last. I look forward to reading much more from this author.
That's what happens here, when a 17th century cavalier crashes into a modern day doctor's garden, with an agenda and a desperate hope. Add in some English Civil War reenactors, reenacting the historic battle that did/will kill our hero in his own time, an elderly modern-day descendant, and one heroine's ex with an axe to grind, and what we get is a well thought out tale, flavored with an eye to historical detail, and two characters who literally come from different worlds, but couldn't be more right for each other.
This was my first book by Alison Stuart, but definitely not my last. I look forward to reading much more from this author.
June 14, 2016
This review is from: Secrets in Time (Kindle Edition) by Alison Stuart
Secrets in Time was a lovely surprise. I bought it primarily because of the 17th-century historical-fiction theme, and was interested to see that most of the story takes place in the modern era. Also, my first love in books is not the romance genre--because I dislike the usual template of boy-girl attraction, misunderstanding, lust, but then pushing away again when you know they'll come back together... Alison Stuart didn't do that! Yay! That means that there was actually some suspense for the reader. And she was able to suspend my disbelief in the impossibility of time travel with some clean plot twists.
It took me less than five hours to read through the book. I'd classify it in the (17th century) historical romance genre, suitable for teens and adults.
Secrets in Time was a lovely surprise. I bought it primarily because of the 17th-century historical-fiction theme, and was interested to see that most of the story takes place in the modern era. Also, my first love in books is not the romance genre--because I dislike the usual template of boy-girl attraction, misunderstanding, lust, but then pushing away again when you know they'll come back together... Alison Stuart didn't do that! Yay! That means that there was actually some suspense for the reader. And she was able to suspend my disbelief in the impossibility of time travel with some clean plot twists.
It took me less than five hours to read through the book. I'd classify it in the (17th century) historical romance genre, suitable for teens and adults.
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November 16, 2015Time Travel with a purpose...
This is a quick read packed with a great story line and a lot of detail!
Jessica is quite upset when she finds Nat in her garden crushing her flowers. At first believing him to be one of the historical reenacters that her brother participates with as a history professor at a local college. She very soon believes he may indeed have arrived here from another time and place. I don't want to give too much away so will just say his reason for his arrival and visit back to the past are full of surprises. Great characters that are so easy to fall in love with and a very creative way too clear Nat's ability to live in this time.
Definitely worth a read!
This is a quick read packed with a great story line and a lot of detail!
Jessica is quite upset when she finds Nat in her garden crushing her flowers. At first believing him to be one of the historical reenacters that her brother participates with as a history professor at a local college. She very soon believes he may indeed have arrived here from another time and place. I don't want to give too much away so will just say his reason for his arrival and visit back to the past are full of surprises. Great characters that are so easy to fall in love with and a very creative way too clear Nat's ability to live in this time.
Definitely worth a read!
May 23, 2016
What a wonderful, entertaining and interesting contemporary historical romance to read. This story is about Jessica a feisty pediatric doctor and Nathaniel an injured soldier, dressed in period costume (from the English Civil War in the seventeenth century) who lands in Jessica's flower bed. This book has humor, a man coming to terms, dealing with modern life, intrigue, sexual tension, war, action, time-travel and romance. The story is well-written and the characters intertwined well with each other and the situation they found themselves in. I definitely recommend this book
June 7, 2013
A lovely read - subtle sense of humour, an adventure story which retains a real sense of the horror of war, a time-travel story that makes the most of the shock of finding oneself in a different century, and a love story which does not turn a blind eye to the challenges of a 300-year-odd age gap! Perhaps the story was a little abbreviated, requiring that the relationship develop faster than entirely believeable, but that is a small quibble over what is truly a charming tale.
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