Future Unfolds

by J.L. Yarrow

Generations from now, the future of humanity is grim. To save their fate, the Time Forward Project pins their hopes on their force-of-nature time agent, Kristen Winters. She's sent on missions into the past through an unstable wormhole in deep space, attempting to change historical events.

The group determines that the bombing of the Masjid Alahmari Mosque in Manhattan is the trigger to a nuclear conflict on Earth that leads to the post-apocalyptic predicament they inherited. Kristen and her partner, present-day hotshot AI scientist Hunter Coburn, embark on a last-ditch effort to prevent the destruction. The duo is drawn into the Dark Void, a tantalizingly dangerous augmented reality, risking Hunter's powerful AI, Comperi. They plow through nearly insurmountable odds but are astounded to come face-to-face with an even more formidable foe.

Time Unfolded is a fascinating exploration of how the past holds the key to humanity's survival and the lengths we will go to protect it. Buckle up―this extreme adrenaline-fueled race through time will both vex and electrify you.

Genres: Time Travel, Science Fiction

320 pages, Hardcover

Published March 4, 2025

About the author

John Yarrow is the big picture guy in the JL Yarrow writing duo. It started back in college days when he lived in a garage apartment, owned no television, was too broke for date night, and had only a little beer money won playing foosball. Bored, he dug into a copy of Conan the Barbarian. It tripped his creative trigger, and he started writing. John built worlds in destinations unknown, full of space battles and quirky characters. His humor, angst, and imagination spilled onto the page between classes and a full-time job.
Flash forward through a long, happy marriage and raising their family. Throughout the years, John’s career in Information Technology and his involvement in writer’s groups, conferences, and competitions honed his writing hobby into a craft. His imagination still works overtime. John loves to spin a good tale, and he does a mighty fine job of it. He’s known for cracking countless ‘dad’ jokes, never forgets a good line in a movie, and is likely to be found traveling with his bride, playing with the grandkids, fly fishing, four wheeling, or loudly watching football.
Leanne Yarrow has a career background in teaching and program development for seniors and caregivers. Add that to her ‘job’ of keeping the family connections up and running makes for an astute multi-tasker. A bundle of boundless energy, she has a laser focus on detail for whatever task is at hand. Those years of playing the devil’s advocate with her husband’s writing morphed into more years of workshops, conferences, learning, and practice. The JL Yarrow collaborative partnership formed as her contributions to the storyline grew.
When she’s not working with John, Leanne loves to get out in the fresh air to hike or horseback ride, and of late, trying her hand at cross-country skiing. She’s crazy about travel, time with friends and family, especially with the grandies, and is an avid books, arts, and music appreciator. A good early-morning cuppa coffee and John’s amazing steak dinners are favs. She’s always up for learning more, doing for others, and trying to understand the psychology of it all.
The couple’s current Time Forward Trilogy project is in full swing, with their first novel, Future’s Dark Past, garnering awards, and positive reviews from around the globe. Their follow up book, Future Unfolds, arrives February 4th, 2025, and the final book of the series, Future Impact will be released in February 2026

Reviews

[Leanna Streeter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I continue to have such a good time with this series, and Future Unfolds was another fast-paced, high-energy ride. This book really leans into the time-travel adventure side of the story, with constant movement, shifting timelines, and high-stakes missions that kept me fully locked in.

Kristen is easily my favorite part of these books. I love her grit, her determination, and the way she pushes forward no matter how impossible the situation feels. She’s the kind of character I can’t help but root for, and every time the story followed her, I was all in. Watching her navigate the consequences of time travel, loss, and impossible choices made her arc especially compelling.

The pacing was exactly what I wanted from a story like this fast, cinematic, and hard to put down. There’s always something unfolding, whether it’s a reveal, a new complication, or another shift in the timeline. It made this one of those reads where you keep saying “just one more chapter” and suddenly you’re way further in than you meant to be.

Overall, this was a super fun, action packed time travel adventure, and I honestly ate it up. If you enjoy sci-fi with big stakes, shifting timelines, and strong, capable leads, this series continues to deliver.

[Chloe · Rating 3 out of 5]

this built so much onto the foundation of the first installment in the best way. it was fast paced, started bringing a lot of plot points together across the various timelines the series has presented, and was a captivating read.

*special thanks to J.L. Yarrow for providing me with an ARC.*

[Tabatha Shipley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Note: This is the second book in a series. We are reviewing this one on its ability to stand alone apart from the series.

What I Did Like:
+Hunter is a well written character. There’s depth to him as well as changes he undergoes as the book goes on, which makes him relatable.
+The AI concept is played around with in an interesting way. No spoilers but I definitely hadn’t seen all of this before and original is always good.
+The twists in the plot come together and make sense eventually, which is all you really want in a time travel science fiction.

Who Should Read This One:
-Time Travel fans. This one has a lot to offer.
-Readers who enjoy stories where the characters thought they were doing what was right and have unintended consequences, specifically with technology.

My Rating: 3 Stars

For Full Review: https://alltherightreads.com/2024/07/...

[MikeLikesBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Future’s Dark Past last year and it had me spellbound, so I was thrilled to be able to get the ebook of Future Unfolds. At one time, time travel books were not my thing but this series has had me change my opinion. I have latched on to Hunter to see what he’s going to do next. He’s hopping all over the place to change the course of history. Things in the future look bad. No spoilers, just go read this series. If Hunter finds himself in Dallas in 2025, he can stay with me to hide out. Things are getting extremely precarious and I’m ready for book 3.

[Lisa King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, J.L Yarrow had me spellbound and completely sucked in! Future Unfolds, the second book in their Time Forward Trilogy, is another gripping adventure following agents Kristen Winters and Hunter Coburn as they embark through space and time. Akin to Book #1 (Future’s Dark Past) all the elements of great sci-fi come alive on the page (actualized and immersive world-building, imaginative plot weaving, exploration and adventure) but do so in a fresh, creative way. A truly riveting read and highly recommended series.

[Demi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A long long time ago…. Or is it a time we haven’t visited quite yet… a future unfolds.
In a world where time means everything and nothing. Twisted fates meets untimely demise for some but not all. You can’t ever tell when one is truly dead yet, but you know for certain you have to prevent them all from dying.
Time loops, AI, other dimensions and planets. It has it all.
Fast paced edge of your seat, never seen it coming moments from beginning to end. All the characters in the story are truly important and impressive throughout. Pay attention… Time changes things including the characters and their destiny or does it? Is it all happening has it’s supposed to, or do their actions in each time period truly affect change for the world ?

I’m not at liberty to say… so you should just read it and find out for yourself.
Did I convince you? I sure hope so, sorry no spoilers in my reviews.
Epically phenomenal book! Well written, unique and one of a kind story! Dive in and let the adventure begin!! 10/10 recommend!

[Sidharth Vardhan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Future Unfolds by John Yarrow (J.L. Yarrow) is a sequel to Future's Dark Past in his Time Forward trilogy. I enjoy time travel in movies like those from Marvel, but I haven’t read much science fiction that explores it—except, of course, H.G. Wells’ classic The Time Machine. To be frank, this book feels more like an action novel than science fiction, though I suspect that’s at least partially because I was missing much of the context, not having read the first book in the series. It felt like being thrown into the middle of things, with characters, relationships, and conflicts already established. Not that all the time travel helped.


Yet, considering that I only picked up this book because my friend recommended (more like ranted about) it to me, I was surprised by how much I still enjoyed certain aspects of it. The story has quite a few lighthearted moments—especially those involving AI characters, which often provided comic relief amid the more intense plot developments. Yarrow's cinematic prose made the book a fast and engaging read.

One of the most intriguing aspects of time travel stories, in my opinion, is how they allow characters to experience events with foresight—something we often long for in our own lives. When we reflect on our past decisions, it's common to wish we had known then what we know now. This book plays with that idea in subtle but thought-provoking ways. For example, I found it fascinating when one of the characters, upon hearing that his partner was pregnant, already knew not only the news but also what their child’s name would be—thanks to his knowledge of future events. Moments like this highlight how time travel can transform the emotional dynamics between characters, creating a unique tension between knowledge and experience.

Another concept that stood out to me was how the book hinted at the blurred lines between human advancement and alien intervention. At one point, two possible explanations for a newly discovered highly advanced technology are proposed: either it originates from extraterrestrials or from highly evolved humans of the distant future. I’m not sure if the author intended this contrast to carry deeper meaning, but it made me wonder how much humans might change over the course of centuries. Would someone from the 25th century appear as alien to us as a visitor from another planet? The novel doesn't dwell on this question for long, but it’s the kind of thought experiment that lingers long after turning the final page.

Despite provoking all these ideas, I couldn’t shake the feeling that the book's prose lacked the polish I usually look for in fiction. However, I acknowledge that this might be a matter of personal preference. Contemporary science fiction isn’t really my go-to genre, and jumping into the middle of a series undoubtedly affected my experience. If I had started with the first book, I might have been more invested in the characters and worldbuilding. That’s why I decided to bump my otherwise somewhat strict rating from three stars to four.

[Jillian Marlowe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Future Unfolds follows a unique cast of characters as they attempt to change history and prevent a nuclear war that destroys Earth and annihilates most of humanity. The reader is thrust into various critical time points that play critical roles in the lead up to end of the world. Kirsten, a futuristic time agent, and Hunter, a top-notch AI scientist, jump through time to change the course of time. Meanwhile, in the future, Kants, an enhanced soldier, defends the only human settlement on Mars from human invaders. Together this book blends a classic time-travel adventure with military science fiction.

This is the second book in the Time Forward trilogy, and it was an engaging read. The hook of this story is a glimpse into the (book’s) future which was an instant draw into the story. The authors do a nice job of weaving together present and future events, leaving the reader constantly guessing and waiting for answers. The story is filled with reveals and twists which are established through meticulous groundwork planted earlier in the story. Still unexplained ‘future meddling’ from both books promises more twists and revelations to come. The cyclical nature of this book, starting and ending with the same events from different perspectives, gave the book a satisfying conclusion.

However, the story’s large scope and multiple concurrent plots could be disorienting. I never completely lost my way but including a location/character indication along with the date would have improved clarity. At times it also felt like reading two different books. Both stories were well-written but the integration of the primary time-travel plot with the military battle on Mars struggled a little bit. The military battles, while ultimately necessary for background development, slowed the overall pace. Character balance is another issue. I found myself really enjoying certain characters and really questioning the backgrounds/motivations of others leaving those characters feeling flat. This may be intentional in order to hold information until the conclusion of the story, but it prevented complete enjoyment of those characters.

Overall, Future Unfolds is an engaging mix of time-travel and military science fiction with a complex storyline that keeps readers engaged. Despite some issues with narrative flow and character development I genuinely look forward to the eventual finale of the trilogy and would recommend the series anyone enjoying adventure/military sci-fi.

Trigger warnings: general violence/gore, violence against women

This review was originally posted on Reedsy and I received a free copy of the ARC for review. All opinions and thoughts expressed are my own and given voluntarily.

[Pallavi Sareen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hmmm.. how do I begin? Do you remember watching one of those secret agent movies, where the stakes keep getting higher and higher and if they lose the world gets destroyed? Well, that’s exactly what the book reads like. And no I don’t just mean the plot. I mean the writing structure, the narration, the interaction between characters, the unfolding of the real story, the way incidents are described in the book. I could imagine it in my mind scene-by-scene like a movie.
If anything, I definitely think this book looks ready to be adapted to screen. It is fast-paced and thrilling. I enjoyed seeing how little elements and scenes that are thrown here and there throughout the novel end up connecting to the greater plot eventually. It was definitely a page-turner with crisp editing and not too much detailing that takes away from the story at hand. The writing creates this sense of urgency, this high-adrenaline rush and keeps moving without a pause. (Note: I would suggest finishing the book in one-sitting, the breaking of continuity would ruin the fun).
Now that we got my feelings out of the way, let’s dissect the book so you can see if it is our cup of tea (or vodka) or not.

Time Travel. Check.
A humorous AI character. Check.
Highly believable protagonists with angst and inner turmoil regarding their choices and decisions they have to make. Check.
Complexity of Plot with different timelines. Double Check
Action-packed scenes that make you taste blood. Also Check.

Yet, there is more to this story than previously explored tropes and cliches. And that difference comes in the reasoning and the themes that the book deals with. The element of morality, the consequence for actions and the utter dilemma of doing what IS good for the world but doesn’t FEEL right. It is in these nuances that the book is able to stand apart from the crowd. The writer imbues emotions and feelings, genuine thoughts and being haunted by one’s actions in the story. It is not as simple as fighting an evil force but coming to terms with humanity and the ugly shape it can take. I found it so relevant to the contemporary world we live in. The book read like a mixture between a Doctor-Who episode and a James bond movie. Highly recommend.

[Katinka · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hunter Coburn has found himself jumping through time to the past, present, and future through seemingly random jumps that he has no control over. Each time, he has found himself traveling with a woman from the future named Kristin. The two of them are doing everything they can to stop a cataclysmic war from destroying the planet & spreading to other worlds. Each time they time jump, they encounter other time travelers who are working to make sure “The Purge” as it is being called, does happen.

I read an Advance Review Copy of this book, and it is a very complex, but interesting story with quite a bit happening. And reading it has the possibility of getting a little confusing at times if the reader isn’t paying attention as to when in time the characters happen to be. Fortunately, the authors do a good job of making it as clear as possible for the reader to keep track of the current time period that is being focused on, though be sure to pay closer attention as you get to the end of the book, as that is where the biggest potential for confusion might occur.

And while this book doesn’t complete the story (there will be a book three), we do gain quite a bit of insight into what is happening, though I’m still uncertain as to what the original event that began it all was. But I’m also fairly certain that is something we will finally learn in the next book. And I have to say, at this point I am more than a little curious as to how the authors are going to wrap up this story.

So if you’re looking for an intricate and complex tale involving time travel as well as people both trying to save the planet as well as others seeking to destroy it, then you’ll want to give this series a try. Time travel is a funny thing, and those attempting to change an outcome must be careful about unintended results of their actions. Because as the characters in this book do see at times, those unintended consequences can have far reaching effects. But also adds the question of whether or not those eventual outcomes were pre-determined the moment the very first time traveler began their journey.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Future Unfolds, by J. L. Yarrow, is a captivating sci-fi novel that delves into the complexities of advanced time travel, weaving together multiple storylines that intersect in intriguing ways. Among the diverse cast of lead characters, Hunter emerges as the protagonist, grappling with the consequences of his time-travel escapades. Accompanied by his AI companion, Comperi, Hunter embarks on a series of time jumps to uncover the truth behind the Time Forward Project and his pivotal role in shaping the future of the world.

Yarrow's writing style is engaging, drawing readers into a meticulously crafted time-traveling world where even the villains have richly-developed timelines and stories. The narrative is filled with twists and turns and brilliant action sequences that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The intertwining timelines add a complexity that invites readers to engage deeply with the story. While I believe it may require some back-and-forth reading to fully grasp, this intricacy is balanced by the fast-paced action, which provides constant excitement and motivation to continue.

One of the many standout aspects of the book is the character of Chen-Yi, who elicits strong emotions from the reader—a testament to Yarrow's skill in character development, especially in the sci-fi genre where such emotional engagement is often rare. The novel's depiction of planets and colonies is vivid and immersive, with genetic advancements, cohabitation with aliens, and advanced AI contributing to the rich atmosphere of a futuristic world. The central theme of time travel is explored in depth, highlighting the complexities and far-reaching consequences of tampering with time. The interplay between the present, past, and future is skillfully handled, showcasing the ripple effects of the characters' actions.

Future Unfolds offers a fresh and thrilling take on the time travel genre. Sci-fi enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy time travel plots, will find Hunter's journey through time a compelling and exhilarating ride.

[Story Eater · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is cross-posted across the series.

Readers who love a great sci-fi time travel plot with twists, turns, and breakneck pacing will take instantly to this gripping series. Whether it’s in fantasy or science fiction, time travel plots fascinate me. I love seeing how different authors come up with rules for time travel, and the plot twists and turns can get complicated enough to keep my attention. Yarrow’s series, which has a third book coming out as well, goes on my list of favorite time travel books.

My thanks to J.L. Yarrow for the eARC, for which I willingly give my own, honest opinion.

See the full review on my blog!

Blog / Instagram / Literal / BookBub

[Brad · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a fan of time travel this series is absolutely a must read!! It is action packed, filled with memorable characters jumping across multiple timelines and time periods. The scale here is absolutely epic and complex, but the pacing is incredibly fast. This is the second installment in the series continuing Kristen and Hunters stories into save earth from disastrous outcomes of past events.

Hunter is an incredibly well written character, interesting and fun to follow him jumping around timelines. The use of AI is also timely and interesting as well.

Anxiously awaiting book 3.

Thanks to JL Yarrow for the ARC.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked almost instantly. Middle books in a trilogy often just seem to be a story bridge and feel a bit of a let down. For me this was not the case in Future Unfolds. There are new concepts at work in the story and some unexpected twists and turns. I don’t want to give spoilers but for myself this book built onto Future’s Dark Past beautifully and I cannot wait for book three. Wonderful sci-fi story not into heavy spice (closed door).

[Sonya · Rating 3 out of 5]

Grab your popcorn cause this reads like a scifi blockbuster, filled with action, questionable characters, and catchphrases galore. Also, an FMC with a schtick for always pointing out how well someone is…equipped. 🫠


Rating Breakdown:
Characters: 2 ⭐️
Setting: 3 ⭐️
Plot: 3 ⭐️
Themes: 3 ⭐️
Emotional: 2 ⭐️
Enjoyment: 3 ⭐️



* Thank you to the authors for the ARC *

[Rousey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A relentless, electrifying adventure! From the very first page, this book sinks its hooks into me and never lets go. With a strong, determined protagonist and a plot that spirals into thrilling unpredictability, it’s the perfect blend of science and suspense. Bravo.

[Authordesire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sci-fi at its finest! Future Unfolds is a masterstroke of storytelling, blending intelligent themes with jaw-dropping action. The Dark Void concept is hauntingly brilliant, and the stakes couldn't be higher. If you're a fan of time-travel adventures with real emotional weight, this is for you!

[Burnett Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A breathtaking fusion of time travel, AI, and augmented reality! Future Unfolds is a gripping, high-intensity thriller that keeps you on edge from start to finish. The chemistry between Kristen and Hunter adds depth to an already exhilarating narrative. A must read for sci-fi lovers!

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book. I am so glad I got to read it. If you get a chance make sure you read this. It’s completely completely worth it.

[Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just like its bold, dynamic cover, Future Unfolds is a high octane sci-fi thriller that demands to be devoured!

[David Darling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant world building, edge of my seat twists, and unforgettable characters!

[GIOVANNI · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smart, cinematic, and utterly gripping!

[Jadolita · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cover that radiates mystery and danger, just like the time bending, reality shattering story waiting inside!

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

With a cover as striking as its story, Future Unfolds will delivers a pulse pounding, time-twisting adventure you won’t forget

[DE SAMURAI · Rating 5 out of 5]

Striking, mysterious, and powerful the cover sets the stage for a sci-fi adventure like no other

[Roxanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover teases the danger ahead

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cover that commands attention, just like the story inside—Future Unfolds is sci-fi at its most exhilarating!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

he cover hints at the chaos within time travel, AI, and a battle for survival collide in this sci-fi masterpiece!

[Aslae · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover captures the thrill, but the story inside is even more explosive, an unforgettable, high-stakes sci-fi adventure!

[Worre · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover hints at the intensity within Future Unfolds is a breathtaking sci-fi thriller that never