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The Mark of the Time Traveler #1
Within the Space of a Second Volume 1
A slow-burn, swoon-worthy love story about two people separated by time and dangerous secrets that threaten to tear them apart. A debut time travel romance for fans of
The Seven Year Slip
,
Divine Rivals
and
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
.
Every morning, Mariella Adams wakes with a strange electrical energy buzzing beneath her skin. Terrified she has inherited her late mother’s mental illness, she tells no one, but when she discovers her mother’s lost journals with an entry dated after her death, she’s desperate for answers.
Mariella’s confusion grows when she’s approached by Rose and Parker, who claim to be time travellers from the future. Communicating with the past – and Mariella – is forbidden, but she holds the key to restoring Parker’s ability to time travel before they’re caught in this forbidden timeline.
Shocked, Mariella agrees to help them. They might hold the answers she’s looking for, and the more time she spends with them, the more she finds herself drawn to Parker. As she fights to uncover the mysteries of her past and the secrets of his future, will Mariella discover the truth before time runs out – and Parker disappears forever?
Every morning, Mariella Adams wakes with a strange electrical energy buzzing beneath her skin. Terrified she has inherited her late mother’s mental illness, she tells no one, but when she discovers her mother’s lost journals with an entry dated after her death, she’s desperate for answers.
Mariella’s confusion grows when she’s approached by Rose and Parker, who claim to be time travellers from the future. Communicating with the past – and Mariella – is forbidden, but she holds the key to restoring Parker’s ability to time travel before they’re caught in this forbidden timeline.
Shocked, Mariella agrees to help them. They might hold the answers she’s looking for, and the more time she spends with them, the more she finds herself drawn to Parker. As she fights to uncover the mysteries of her past and the secrets of his future, will Mariella discover the truth before time runs out – and Parker disappears forever?
Audible Audio
First published November 25, 2025
46 people are currently reading
1000 people want to read
About the author
Elise Helliwell
1 book39 followersElise resides on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, with her husband and two young girls. An avid romance reader, Elise writes contemporary and sci-fi/fantasy romance, juggling themes of love, anticipation and emotional angst.
Part time scientist/radiographer and full time hopeless romantic, Elise’s writing combines her love of science and the romance genre to produce suspenseful, swoon-worthy love stories that will keep the reader falling until the very last page.
When Elise isn’t parenting or writing, she’s either in her head watching characters and storylines come to life, or curled up at home with a glass of wine in hand, reading romantasy or contemporary romance.
Connect with Elise:
Instagram/TikTok: @elisehelliwellauthor
Facebook: Elise Helliwell Author
Part time scientist/radiographer and full time hopeless romantic, Elise’s writing combines her love of science and the romance genre to produce suspenseful, swoon-worthy love stories that will keep the reader falling until the very last page.
When Elise isn’t parenting or writing, she’s either in her head watching characters and storylines come to life, or curled up at home with a glass of wine in hand, reading romantasy or contemporary romance.
Connect with Elise:
Instagram/TikTok: @elisehelliwellauthor
Facebook: Elise Helliwell Author
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Currently reading
November 11, 2025Finally reading this! I got the eARC a while back from the author, but I’ve gotten a little behind on my physical reads since the school year started. 🙃 Beyond thrilled to also receive the ALC from Libro.FM this month so I can finally check this out!
Thank you to the author, NetGalley, Libro.FM, and Simon & Schuster Australia for the ARC & ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley, Libro.FM, and Simon & Schuster Australia for the ARC & ALC in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley & the publishers for a chance to review this ARC! Reading is subjective, you might love this one. Sadly, this didn’t live up to the premise or the books it was compared to for me.
DNF at 17% I’m sorry but I really, really can’t do this anymore. This was torture.
Being one of the first negative reviews in a sea of 5 stars is definitely giving me whiplash.
In a bucket full of bad books, this is by far the worst I’ve read in 2025. A lot of choices were made. You’re writing about a character that wants to become a clinical PSYCHOLOGIST but in the first pages, she judges people with tattoos and piercings, saying it’s a cry for attention/a need to stand out? Lmao get lost. She goes on to say that she could *never* understand the *need* to stand out like that and it left me feeling sour. Maybe this was a way for the author to show her character likes to be invisible? It was just incredibly clumsy and unnecessary.
The writing was truly… for lack of a better word - atrocious. A lot of changes have to be made for this to be a good book. The way the past sequences were incorporated in the book were snapping me out. The interactions were stilted and awkward, to the point I just wanted to skip them all. It was hurtful to read. A few times I said : well… who talks like that? By the time I clocked out, there were 3 POVs and they were all insufferable. The only good character was Anna and she wasn’t a POV. I was confused as to who was who, and kept going back between chapters because the characters were interchangeable. Parker, the MMC was a walking red flag and you can’t convince me otherwise.
The start of the story wasn’t gripping at all. I wanted to DNF from page 1… which never happens to me. The writing was truly problematic and I struggle to believe this went through a first round of editing. And this is clearly a subjective thought… but talking about vapes in a Fantasy setting? A choice was made... especially since one of the characters felt the need to judge people with tattoos and piercings lol.
And a slow burn? They met, talked for 5 minutes and the next time they see each other the FMC is trying to convince herself she’s okay with the fact that he was with another girl… insta lust is embarrassing at this point. I feel like a crime was made against my precious time.
I don’t like giving 1 star reviews and I barely do. But I failed to find any redeeming qualities about this.
As always, reading is subjective.
DNF at 17% I’m sorry but I really, really can’t do this anymore. This was torture.
Being one of the first negative reviews in a sea of 5 stars is definitely giving me whiplash.
In a bucket full of bad books, this is by far the worst I’ve read in 2025. A lot of choices were made. You’re writing about a character that wants to become a clinical PSYCHOLOGIST but in the first pages, she judges people with tattoos and piercings, saying it’s a cry for attention/a need to stand out? Lmao get lost. She goes on to say that she could *never* understand the *need* to stand out like that and it left me feeling sour. Maybe this was a way for the author to show her character likes to be invisible? It was just incredibly clumsy and unnecessary.
The writing was truly… for lack of a better word - atrocious. A lot of changes have to be made for this to be a good book. The way the past sequences were incorporated in the book were snapping me out. The interactions were stilted and awkward, to the point I just wanted to skip them all. It was hurtful to read. A few times I said : well… who talks like that? By the time I clocked out, there were 3 POVs and they were all insufferable. The only good character was Anna and she wasn’t a POV. I was confused as to who was who, and kept going back between chapters because the characters were interchangeable. Parker, the MMC was a walking red flag and you can’t convince me otherwise.
The start of the story wasn’t gripping at all. I wanted to DNF from page 1… which never happens to me. The writing was truly problematic and I struggle to believe this went through a first round of editing. And this is clearly a subjective thought… but talking about vapes in a Fantasy setting? A choice was made... especially since one of the characters felt the need to judge people with tattoos and piercings lol.
And a slow burn? They met, talked for 5 minutes and the next time they see each other the FMC is trying to convince herself she’s okay with the fact that he was with another girl… insta lust is embarrassing at this point. I feel like a crime was made against my precious time.
I don’t like giving 1 star reviews and I barely do. But I failed to find any redeeming qualities about this.
As always, reading is subjective.
December 4, 2025
⭑ ⭒ ⭒ ⭒ ⭒
1.5 stars for Rose
ꨄ︎ I’m free!! Worst experience of my life
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ Oh my GOD, this is gold. Actual gold. I’m crying laughing because I genuinely was about to give this book at least 2.75 stars out of pure respect for the vision.
ᝰ.ᐟ Like, everything was annoying, but I kept telling myself, “Okay… I see what you were trying to do. I see the blueprint. I see the floor plan. I see what this could have been.”
And then😂😂😂😭😭😭
GUYS
GUYS😭😭 I cannot breathe.
This took all the stars from the book btw
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ Can you imagine, for HALF the book, I was backing this girl? (rose) She was the only smart one whiles Parker was being a lovesick brainless fool, chasing a girl in the past and actively ruining the memories of everyone in the future.
ᝰ.ᐟ Rose was actively telling Parker “DON’T GO AND MESS UP HER LIFE.” “DON’T GO AND GET INVOLVED.” “DON’T GO NEAR HER.”
And she’s right! Because everyone knows you don’t fuck with the past.
ᝰ.ᐟ Rose is literally holding ol’boy together mentally for seven months. Seven. Months. She’s turning into a vape-dependent, insomnia-riddled, losing-her-fucking-grip-on-reality mess just to hold him in the timeline because he lost his powers and she asks for one thing!!! For him to not interfere but NO A STRAIGHT WHITE MAN WHO THINKS THE WORLD REVOLVES AROUND HIM was out there playing house in the past.
ᝰ.ᐟ So yes. She was angry. And I said, “Good. She has a RIGHT to be angry. She is making sense.”
And THEN😭😭😭
And THEN!!!
Guys. I’m laughing so hard I’m choking.There’s a reveal.
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ So background to the reveal: Parker gets shot and since he has no powers and is being anchored by rose he is practically a ghost.
ᝰ.ᐟ No one can touch or feel him except rose and for him to be felt rose has to boost him or wtv which also takes a lot of energy (mind you she’s Litch anchoring him too in addition).
They get into an argument and rose makes him able to be touched so Mariella (his gf in the future, the one he keeps trying to meddle in her past) can dress his wound. And instead they started kissing!!! Ugh I fucking can’t stand Parker ! Anyways rose walks in and starts an argument AGAIN then Parker chased after her
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ Now the reveal
ᝰ.ᐟ Parker asks her why she hates him so much, and she goes:
And I was like …Excuse me?
The LESBIAN character?? How??
The ONLY queer character in the entire book??
ᝰ.ᐟ So me and Parker are both genuinely confused Parker goes “I thought you like women” (same bro like what?)
And she says “well yeah not exclusively” I was made to think she was lesbian for like 56% of the book 😭😭
ᝰ.ᐟ She’s in love with Parker because he’s so majestic *gag* and beautiful*eyeroll* and has breathtaking biceps that she apparently wants to fall to her knees the moment she looks at him?
ARE YOU SERIOUS??? wtf⚰️⚰️⚰️
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ You might be thinking “oh okay that’s bad but it’s low-key your assumption so to remove that many stars?”
ᝰ.ᐟ Think about it guys 😭 HEAR ME OUTTTTT
the whole time I thought she was a stressed, intelligent, justified, mentally exhausted woman making sense… she turns out to be a jealous “pick me” coded woman. I kid you not she literally says “you don’t see anything in-front of you apart from her” or something along that line. Mind youuu said “her” is his gf 😭😭😭😭 LIKE I’D HOPE???
ᝰ.ᐟ When I tell you my SOUL left my body. Oh yeah and he fucking rejects her !!! 😭😭😭🥀🥀🥀
Making your only queer character(an alleged lesbian)turn around and fall in love with a boring bland man because he’s just THAT special?🙄
And then use it as the explanation for her anger?
ᝰ.ᐟ Sue me!! I think that’s weird asf. Did I assume? Yes but that’s because that’s what the book made it out to be!! Unless I fucking missed something mentioning she was into dudes at the beginning?
Broo the whole time I thought she would be inlove with Ella😭😭
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ At that point NOTHING and I mean NOTHING could save this book.
ᝰ.ᐟ The author had to be joking.
They had to be trolling.
They had to be, like, spiritually jerking off.
Because what the hell did I just read?😭
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ And honestly? Putting all that shit aside this book is genuinely boring.
ᝰ.ᐟ Even if I remove the very thing that made me slam this book down to 1 star, it is STILL boring. The concept? Super interesting. The execution? So catastrophically wrong I’m convinced the author was writing blindfolded.
ᝰ.ᐟ Nothing about this book is intriguing. NOTHING. I genuinely thought it was a standalone, but from the way the ending looked? Oh no. They plan on CONTINUING. And I’m just sitting here like Is it ever that deep?
ᝰ.ᐟ Just let her die. She’s boring. She has zero substance. I’m so sorry, but she brings NOTHING to the table for everyone to be losing their goddamn minds over her.
ᝰ.ᐟ Even the big bad villain apparently centered his entire villain arc around saving her. EVERYBODY is obsessed with her. EVERYONE. And for WHAT? For WHO? For this bland, flavorless, dry piece of white bread?(wait that was lwk harsh😔. I’m just mad rn)
Apparently she gets interesting when she gets to the school.
Good. She better. Because if she stays this bland in book two, I might actually combust.
ᝰ.ᐟ Also I think Parker is a red flag sorry. That and the relationship between him and Mariella is genuinely eyeroll worthy. She falls in love with him the moment they met. He brings nothing to the table. By day two she was feeling sometime of way that he would potentially be fucking someone else. I’d really love for her character to be explored more because so far she and that ending speech was borderline cringe.
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ And then CAN YOU IMAGINE at the end of the book, my girl Rose is STILL PINING after Parker. After PARKER. It was like 6 years later or something After a boring, bland bitch of a man who contributes NOTHING except existing like a mediocre white swan floating on a pond of delusion.
ᝰ.ᐟ And y’all want me to sit here and accept a queer woman pining after a straight man who has NEVER shown interest in her? That was the moment I felt my soul leave my body a second time.
I genuinely had to sit down, put my hands together, and cry. Real tears. Because WHAT DO YOU MEAN.😭😭😭🥀
ᝰ.ᐟ I cannot get past it. Like, at all. The light is not shining. The path is not opening. My brain has flatlined on this hill.
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ Honestly? I feel BAD giving this book one star. I swear I do😭😭!! Because if you can ignore the catastrophic queer plotline that made me lose brain cells, you might genuinely enjoy the book enough to give it maybe three stars.
1.5 stars for Rose
ꨄ︎ I’m free!! Worst experience of my life
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ Oh my GOD, this is gold. Actual gold. I’m crying laughing because I genuinely was about to give this book at least 2.75 stars out of pure respect for the vision.
ᝰ.ᐟ Like, everything was annoying, but I kept telling myself, “Okay… I see what you were trying to do. I see the blueprint. I see the floor plan. I see what this could have been.”
And then😂😂😂😭😭😭
GUYS
GUYS😭😭 I cannot breathe.
This took all the stars from the book btw
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ Can you imagine, for HALF the book, I was backing this girl? (rose) She was the only smart one whiles Parker was being a lovesick brainless fool, chasing a girl in the past and actively ruining the memories of everyone in the future.
ᝰ.ᐟ Rose was actively telling Parker “DON’T GO AND MESS UP HER LIFE.” “DON’T GO AND GET INVOLVED.” “DON’T GO NEAR HER.”
And she’s right! Because everyone knows you don’t fuck with the past.
ᝰ.ᐟ Rose is literally holding ol’boy together mentally for seven months. Seven. Months. She’s turning into a vape-dependent, insomnia-riddled, losing-her-fucking-grip-on-reality mess just to hold him in the timeline because he lost his powers and she asks for one thing!!! For him to not interfere but NO A STRAIGHT WHITE MAN WHO THINKS THE WORLD REVOLVES AROUND HIM was out there playing house in the past.
ᝰ.ᐟ So yes. She was angry. And I said, “Good. She has a RIGHT to be angry. She is making sense.”
And THEN😭😭😭
And THEN!!!
Guys. I’m laughing so hard I’m choking.There’s a reveal.
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ So background to the reveal: Parker gets shot and since he has no powers and is being anchored by rose he is practically a ghost.
ᝰ.ᐟ No one can touch or feel him except rose and for him to be felt rose has to boost him or wtv which also takes a lot of energy (mind you she’s Litch anchoring him too in addition).
They get into an argument and rose makes him able to be touched so Mariella (his gf in the future, the one he keeps trying to meddle in her past) can dress his wound. And instead they started kissing!!! Ugh I fucking can’t stand Parker ! Anyways rose walks in and starts an argument AGAIN then Parker chased after her
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ Now the reveal
ᝰ.ᐟ Parker asks her why she hates him so much, and she goes:
“I don’t hate you.
I hate the way you make me feel.”😭😭😭😭
And I was like …Excuse me?
The LESBIAN character?? How??
The ONLY queer character in the entire book??
ᝰ.ᐟ So me and Parker are both genuinely confused Parker goes “I thought you like women” (same bro like what?)
And she says “well yeah not exclusively” I was made to think she was lesbian for like 56% of the book 😭😭
ᝰ.ᐟ She’s in love with Parker because he’s so majestic *gag* and beautiful*eyeroll* and has breathtaking biceps that she apparently wants to fall to her knees the moment she looks at him?
ARE YOU SERIOUS??? wtf⚰️⚰️⚰️
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ You might be thinking “oh okay that’s bad but it’s low-key your assumption so to remove that many stars?”
ᝰ.ᐟ Think about it guys 😭 HEAR ME OUTTTTT
the whole time I thought she was a stressed, intelligent, justified, mentally exhausted woman making sense… she turns out to be a jealous “pick me” coded woman. I kid you not she literally says “you don’t see anything in-front of you apart from her” or something along that line. Mind youuu said “her” is his gf 😭😭😭😭 LIKE I’D HOPE???
ᝰ.ᐟ When I tell you my SOUL left my body. Oh yeah and he fucking rejects her !!! 😭😭😭🥀🥀🥀
Making your only queer character(an alleged lesbian)turn around and fall in love with a boring bland man because he’s just THAT special?🙄
And then use it as the explanation for her anger?
ᝰ.ᐟ Sue me!! I think that’s weird asf. Did I assume? Yes but that’s because that’s what the book made it out to be!! Unless I fucking missed something mentioning she was into dudes at the beginning?
Broo the whole time I thought she would be inlove with Ella😭😭
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ At that point NOTHING and I mean NOTHING could save this book.
ᝰ.ᐟ The author had to be joking.
They had to be trolling.
They had to be, like, spiritually jerking off.
Because what the hell did I just read?😭
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ And honestly? Putting all that shit aside this book is genuinely boring.
ᝰ.ᐟ Even if I remove the very thing that made me slam this book down to 1 star, it is STILL boring. The concept? Super interesting. The execution? So catastrophically wrong I’m convinced the author was writing blindfolded.
ᝰ.ᐟ Nothing about this book is intriguing. NOTHING. I genuinely thought it was a standalone, but from the way the ending looked? Oh no. They plan on CONTINUING. And I’m just sitting here like Is it ever that deep?
ᝰ.ᐟ Just let her die. She’s boring. She has zero substance. I’m so sorry, but she brings NOTHING to the table for everyone to be losing their goddamn minds over her.
ᝰ.ᐟ Even the big bad villain apparently centered his entire villain arc around saving her. EVERYBODY is obsessed with her. EVERYONE. And for WHAT? For WHO? For this bland, flavorless, dry piece of white bread?(wait that was lwk harsh😔. I’m just mad rn)
Apparently she gets interesting when she gets to the school.
Good. She better. Because if she stays this bland in book two, I might actually combust.
ᝰ.ᐟ Also I think Parker is a red flag sorry. That and the relationship between him and Mariella is genuinely eyeroll worthy. She falls in love with him the moment they met. He brings nothing to the table. By day two she was feeling sometime of way that he would potentially be fucking someone else. I’d really love for her character to be explored more because so far she and that ending speech was borderline cringe.
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ And then CAN YOU IMAGINE at the end of the book, my girl Rose is STILL PINING after Parker. After PARKER. It was like 6 years later or something After a boring, bland bitch of a man who contributes NOTHING except existing like a mediocre white swan floating on a pond of delusion.
ᝰ.ᐟ And y’all want me to sit here and accept a queer woman pining after a straight man who has NEVER shown interest in her? That was the moment I felt my soul leave my body a second time.
I genuinely had to sit down, put my hands together, and cry. Real tears. Because WHAT DO YOU MEAN.😭😭😭🥀
ᝰ.ᐟ I cannot get past it. Like, at all. The light is not shining. The path is not opening. My brain has flatlined on this hill.
·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳ Honestly? I feel BAD giving this book one star. I swear I do😭😭!! Because if you can ignore the catastrophic queer plotline that made me lose brain cells, you might genuinely enjoy the book enough to give it maybe three stars.
November 22, 2025
Outstanding!! 🕐💖✨️
July 28, 2025
Oh my LORDY, we have a banger. Do yourself a favour and read this book.
I picked up this book and found myself instantly immersed in this magical story. The time travelling aspect was done so well and the love story, epic.
There's so much I want to gush about and tell you, but I think it would be a disservice when every page is such a joy to read. I was torn between wanting to race through the pages and cherishing every moment. For romance readers who like that little bit of something special, something deeper and just EXTRA in their books, this has different mysteries and questions we want answered, and they are expertly woven throughout the story. And can we talk about that ending? We are given information, and then we are given something else that makes you instantly want to go back to the beginning and read again. This book is something special and deserves all the hype.
This story is magic.
Pop it immediately on your TBR for when it is released on November 25th.
Thank you so much to Elise, Atria & Simon & Schuster for sending me an early copy. I'll be obsessively waiting to see what happens in book 2.
I picked up this book and found myself instantly immersed in this magical story. The time travelling aspect was done so well and the love story, epic.
There's so much I want to gush about and tell you, but I think it would be a disservice when every page is such a joy to read. I was torn between wanting to race through the pages and cherishing every moment. For romance readers who like that little bit of something special, something deeper and just EXTRA in their books, this has different mysteries and questions we want answered, and they are expertly woven throughout the story. And can we talk about that ending? We are given information, and then we are given something else that makes you instantly want to go back to the beginning and read again. This book is something special and deserves all the hype.
This story is magic.
Pop it immediately on your TBR for when it is released on November 25th.
Thank you so much to Elise, Atria & Simon & Schuster for sending me an early copy. I'll be obsessively waiting to see what happens in book 2.
November 18, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Atria for the opportunity to read this ARC! All opinions are my own.
Mysterious, romantic, and fast-paced. Within the Space of a Second tells the story of Mariella, a psychology student who is determined to understand her late mother’s mental illness - and to find out if she will experience the same fate. When she finds a journal entry dated after her mother’s death and is approached by two strangers who claim to be from the future, Mariella’s understanding of her own symptoms and her past are turned upside down. Can Mariella help Parker and Rose while also discovering the truth about herself?
What a wonderful debut! I’ve been lucky enough to follow along with Elise’s journey, and I’m so happy I was able to read an ARC! I love any story that has an element of time travel, and Mariella’s story reminded me so much of one of my favorite books, The Unmaking of June Farrow. Mariella has been tortured by her symptoms and is so afraid to end up like her mother. When Parker and Rose show up, she is finally making her way to living a “normal” life, and they really throw a wrench in her plans.
I absolutely loved the forbidden romance between Mariella and Parker! Parker knows her from the future, and it is so endearing to see him meeting her younger self and to see Mariella meeting him for the first time. There story is heart wrenching, and I can’t wait to see where the second book takes them! I also absolutely loved Rose as a character. She was so determined to help Parker and her friends at Neurovida and would do anything to help those she cares about.
Beyond the romance, I love how mysterious and fast paced the story was! There’s so much happening with Mariella’s past with her mother, the present with college and trying to become a psychologist, and the future at Neurovida. This first book has left me with so many questions and is a great set up to the next book, I can’t wait to read more!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Atria for the opportunity to read this ARC! All opinions are my own.
Mysterious, romantic, and fast-paced. Within the Space of a Second tells the story of Mariella, a psychology student who is determined to understand her late mother’s mental illness - and to find out if she will experience the same fate. When she finds a journal entry dated after her mother’s death and is approached by two strangers who claim to be from the future, Mariella’s understanding of her own symptoms and her past are turned upside down. Can Mariella help Parker and Rose while also discovering the truth about herself?
What a wonderful debut! I’ve been lucky enough to follow along with Elise’s journey, and I’m so happy I was able to read an ARC! I love any story that has an element of time travel, and Mariella’s story reminded me so much of one of my favorite books, The Unmaking of June Farrow. Mariella has been tortured by her symptoms and is so afraid to end up like her mother. When Parker and Rose show up, she is finally making her way to living a “normal” life, and they really throw a wrench in her plans.
I absolutely loved the forbidden romance between Mariella and Parker! Parker knows her from the future, and it is so endearing to see him meeting her younger self and to see Mariella meeting him for the first time. There story is heart wrenching, and I can’t wait to see where the second book takes them! I also absolutely loved Rose as a character. She was so determined to help Parker and her friends at Neurovida and would do anything to help those she cares about.
Beyond the romance, I love how mysterious and fast paced the story was! There’s so much happening with Mariella’s past with her mother, the present with college and trying to become a psychologist, and the future at Neurovida. This first book has left me with so many questions and is a great set up to the next book, I can’t wait to read more!
July 20, 2025
"𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒍 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒐𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒊𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒊𝒕."
Within the Space of a Second is one of those stories that will live in my head rent-free for a long time 💕
My immediate thought when I finished reading and put it down was that I should pick it back up and read it again immediately, it was that good!
I truly loved how I was kept just as in the dark as the FMC, Mariella. Stories that spoon-feed me information as I go are honestly my favourites!
I want to talk about the characters but no spoilers here so all I can say is firstly, I need more Rose backstory 🥹 She was so strong and I spent so much time with her, but I know so little about her. Secondly, Parker was everything from the moment he showed up and I love him 😩 Thirdly, all of the side characters have ended up being super memorable, even the ones we didn't see all that often. I really hope we get more with all of them in the future!
After all the mystery of this book, I am desperate for the next one. I read this book so early! How am I supposed to wait 😭
Overall, this slow-burn time-travel romance blew me away! Best believe I will be grabbing a copy with the pretty sprayed edges when it is released 😏
➛ 𝟓 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘈𝘙𝘊. 𝘔𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
Within the Space of a Second is one of those stories that will live in my head rent-free for a long time 💕
My immediate thought when I finished reading and put it down was that I should pick it back up and read it again immediately, it was that good!
I truly loved how I was kept just as in the dark as the FMC, Mariella. Stories that spoon-feed me information as I go are honestly my favourites!
I want to talk about the characters but no spoilers here so all I can say is firstly, I need more Rose backstory 🥹 She was so strong and I spent so much time with her, but I know so little about her. Secondly, Parker was everything from the moment he showed up and I love him 😩 Thirdly, all of the side characters have ended up being super memorable, even the ones we didn't see all that often. I really hope we get more with all of them in the future!
After all the mystery of this book, I am desperate for the next one. I read this book so early! How am I supposed to wait 😭
Overall, this slow-burn time-travel romance blew me away! Best believe I will be grabbing a copy with the pretty sprayed edges when it is released 😏
➛ 𝟓 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘈𝘙𝘊. 𝘔𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
August 12, 2025
alexa, play “forget i exist” by sam macpherson🥺
I love the concept of time travel in novels, & this one outdid itself🤯
I enjoyed reading the main characters’ POVs, and how they interconnected with one another.
The ending killed me😭 & need book 2 now
Thank you NetGalley & Simon & Schuster (Australia) for the digital ARC copy.
I love the concept of time travel in novels, & this one outdid itself🤯
I enjoyed reading the main characters’ POVs, and how they interconnected with one another.
The ending killed me😭 & need book 2 now
Thank you NetGalley & Simon & Schuster (Australia) for the digital ARC copy.
August 1, 2025
If you pick this book up make sure you clear your schedule because you will not want to put it down!
Prior to reading this book, I had seen the cover all over my social media accounts. I know they say not to judge a book by its cover but I am so pleased that I did! Reading that the book had been compared to The Seven Year Slip had me incredibly nervous because I had DNF’d that book, but have no fear friends, this book will have you captivated from the start to the finish.
Within the Space of a Second is a fast-paced read, brimming with slow-burn romance, mystery and complex topics including mental health. The characters of this book were written exquisitely, with all characters feeling unique and memorable.
If you are a lover of romance but crave something deeper, something special, then add this to your TBR immediately. I can’t wait for Within the Space of a Second to be released on November 25th, and for you all to experience the magic within.
Thank you to Elise Helliwell and Simon & Schuster Australia for reaching out and for supplying an eARC of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Prior to reading this book, I had seen the cover all over my social media accounts. I know they say not to judge a book by its cover but I am so pleased that I did! Reading that the book had been compared to The Seven Year Slip had me incredibly nervous because I had DNF’d that book, but have no fear friends, this book will have you captivated from the start to the finish.
Within the Space of a Second is a fast-paced read, brimming with slow-burn romance, mystery and complex topics including mental health. The characters of this book were written exquisitely, with all characters feeling unique and memorable.
If you are a lover of romance but crave something deeper, something special, then add this to your TBR immediately. I can’t wait for Within the Space of a Second to be released on November 25th, and for you all to experience the magic within.
Thank you to Elise Helliwell and Simon & Schuster Australia for reaching out and for supplying an eARC of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 21, 2025
Magical and heartbreaking🥹
This book was an amazing debut. It left me with such a whirlwind of emotions that I can still feel its impact long after turning the last page. The way the author wove together a slow-burn romance with a time-travel plot was done so well that I just couldn’t put it down.
The story follows Mariella Adams, who fears she may have inherited her late mother’s mental illness. But everything changes when she discovers her mother’s journal which was written after her death, thus, forcing Mariella to question everything she thought she knew. Her entire world unravels even further when she crosses paths with two mysterious strangers, each hiding secrets of their own, who need her help to undo choices that ripple through both their past and her future.
Reading book made me experience so many emotions. The romance between the MCs was tender and sweet, while the emotional depth of the story had me on the verge of tears more than once. The time-travel element kept the tension sharp, and every twist and turn made me fall in love with the story even more.
And that cliffhanger? Absolutely brutal, in the best way. I’m counting down the days until we get the next installment because the anticipation is real.
This book was an amazing debut. It left me with such a whirlwind of emotions that I can still feel its impact long after turning the last page. The way the author wove together a slow-burn romance with a time-travel plot was done so well that I just couldn’t put it down.
The story follows Mariella Adams, who fears she may have inherited her late mother’s mental illness. But everything changes when she discovers her mother’s journal which was written after her death, thus, forcing Mariella to question everything she thought she knew. Her entire world unravels even further when she crosses paths with two mysterious strangers, each hiding secrets of their own, who need her help to undo choices that ripple through both their past and her future.
Reading book made me experience so many emotions. The romance between the MCs was tender and sweet, while the emotional depth of the story had me on the verge of tears more than once. The time-travel element kept the tension sharp, and every twist and turn made me fall in love with the story even more.
And that cliffhanger? Absolutely brutal, in the best way. I’m counting down the days until we get the next installment because the anticipation is real.
December 11, 2025
*3.5 stars*
*Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Australia for providing a digital copy to review*
Romance and time travel is such an interesting combo, and when it’s done well, it is just absolutely amazing. Unfortunately, this didn’t hit the mark for me.
I really struggled with the beginning of this book. It wasn’t really clear where the story was going, and I was confused about the relationships between the characters. There are two POVs, Mariella & Rose. Mariella made sense; however, I’m not sure why Rose had a POV and not Parker. Especially as it’s a romance, it would have been nice to see his perspective on everything.
Out of the two of them, Rose annoyed me the least. At least she was doing something. Mariella felt so passive, and she was so wrapped up in Parker to the point where it got annoying. The two of them together did give me the ick at one point.
Once the plot became clearer, I really liked the time-travel aspect. It felt unique, and I enjoyed learning all the ins and outs of it. The revelations were good, and it ended on a good cliffhanger.
*Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Australia for providing a digital copy to review*
Romance and time travel is such an interesting combo, and when it’s done well, it is just absolutely amazing. Unfortunately, this didn’t hit the mark for me.
I really struggled with the beginning of this book. It wasn’t really clear where the story was going, and I was confused about the relationships between the characters. There are two POVs, Mariella & Rose. Mariella made sense; however, I’m not sure why Rose had a POV and not Parker. Especially as it’s a romance, it would have been nice to see his perspective on everything.
Out of the two of them, Rose annoyed me the least. At least she was doing something. Mariella felt so passive, and she was so wrapped up in Parker to the point where it got annoying. The two of them together did give me the ick at one point.
Once the plot became clearer, I really liked the time-travel aspect. It felt unique, and I enjoyed learning all the ins and outs of it. The revelations were good, and it ended on a good cliffhanger.
Read
August 11, 2025I’d like to travel back to the past and not pick up this book.
November 27, 2025
I was kindly gifted an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve just closed the book and my mind is whirring with questions and now anticipation for both its release and the second instalment!
It has some truly memorable characters and memories. This story unfolds in such an unexpected way and I felt hooked from the beginning. It had me feeling all of the emotions and I found myself unable to put the book down! It gave me some X-Men, Gen V vibes, with lots of heart wrenching moments and timeless love - which I loved.
I’ve just closed the book and my mind is whirring with questions and now anticipation for both its release and the second instalment!
It has some truly memorable characters and memories. This story unfolds in such an unexpected way and I felt hooked from the beginning. It had me feeling all of the emotions and I found myself unable to put the book down! It gave me some X-Men, Gen V vibes, with lots of heart wrenching moments and timeless love - which I loved.
December 3, 2025
Not me reading this and rewatching the Back to the Future movies at the same time 🤭😂
────୨ৎ────
Firstly, I want to thank Elise for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC 🥹✨️
This is honestly such an amazing debut 👏. Fast-paced, engaging, and a perfect blend of sci-fi and romance. I was hooked from the very first chapter. I had so many questions, just like our main character Mariella here 🤭
The story follows Mariella, a university psychology student dealing with grief and constantly worried she isn’t “normal” because of the strange electrical energy buzzing beneath her skin. Terrified that she’s inherited her late mother’s mental illness. But when she discovers her mother’s lost journals with an entry dated after her death, she becomes desperate for answers.
The plot is incredibly easy to follow, and I loved the constant mystery and trying to guess what was really going on.
Mariella soon crosses paths with Parker and Rose, who claim to be time travelers from the future. They need Mariella’s help, and she needs answers about her mother. So she agrees to helps them.
I didn’t immediately connect with Mariella and Rose at the beginning, but Parker was charming right from the start. I felt like Mariella is a bit naive, but she has such a genuinely helpful nature. Rose irritated me throughout the book, but trust me..we do get answers for her behavior later on. Also, Mariella’s friend Anna? The absolute sweetest. I adored her sm.
Mariella and Parker are constantly drawn to each other, even though he’s supposed to keep his distance. The yearning and tension were impeccable🤌. And the more time they spend together, the more Mariella learns about Parker.
I had such an amazing time reading this book. I’m so proud of Elise for this debut, What I enjoyed most was discovering things alongside Mariella.
But gosh… The ending took me by surprise. I NEED ANSWERS.. I NEED BOOK TWO 🤯
Read if you like -
🕐 Time Travel
✨️ Magical Realism
💗 Forbidden Romance
🐌 Slow Burn
👀 Multiple POV
🥷 Hidden Identities
Thank you to Elise, Simon & Schuster Australia, and NetGalley for the eARC.
────୨ৎ────
Firstly, I want to thank Elise for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC 🥹✨️
This is honestly such an amazing debut 👏. Fast-paced, engaging, and a perfect blend of sci-fi and romance. I was hooked from the very first chapter. I had so many questions, just like our main character Mariella here 🤭
The story follows Mariella, a university psychology student dealing with grief and constantly worried she isn’t “normal” because of the strange electrical energy buzzing beneath her skin. Terrified that she’s inherited her late mother’s mental illness. But when she discovers her mother’s lost journals with an entry dated after her death, she becomes desperate for answers.
The plot is incredibly easy to follow, and I loved the constant mystery and trying to guess what was really going on.
Mariella soon crosses paths with Parker and Rose, who claim to be time travelers from the future. They need Mariella’s help, and she needs answers about her mother. So she agrees to helps them.
I didn’t immediately connect with Mariella and Rose at the beginning, but Parker was charming right from the start. I felt like Mariella is a bit naive, but she has such a genuinely helpful nature. Rose irritated me throughout the book, but trust me..we do get answers for her behavior later on. Also, Mariella’s friend Anna? The absolute sweetest. I adored her sm.
Mariella and Parker are constantly drawn to each other, even though he’s supposed to keep his distance. The yearning and tension were impeccable🤌. And the more time they spend together, the more Mariella learns about Parker.
I had such an amazing time reading this book. I’m so proud of Elise for this debut, What I enjoyed most was discovering things alongside Mariella.
But gosh… The ending took me by surprise. I NEED ANSWERS.. I NEED BOOK TWO 🤯
Read if you like -
🕐 Time Travel
✨️ Magical Realism
💗 Forbidden Romance
🐌 Slow Burn
👀 Multiple POV
🥷 Hidden Identities
Thank you to Elise, Simon & Schuster Australia, and NetGalley for the eARC.
November 25, 2025
I’ll be honest — the stunning cover was the first thing that caught my eye. Then I saw it was a time-travel romance, and I knew I had to dive in. And wow… it was so worth the wait. 💖
Mariella has always felt different, and after the losing her mother unexpectedly, she’s left with vivid dreams — or are they memories? — that haunt her every night. One face in particular feels impossibly familiar.
Things only get stranger when that familiar face turns out to be Parker, who along with his friend Rose, claim to be time travelers. They’ve come to the past to solve a mystery while desperately (and not always successfully) trying not to interfere with the timeline. The emotional electricity between characters, the secrets, and the dire mysteries wrapped around their lives pulled me straight in.
“ I would let him take me anywhere. Past, present or future. I would give hours of my life to have seconds in his”
📖 My Thoughts:
* I’m so delighted to have discovered debut author Elise Helliwell. I’m always searching for new voices with unique, creative ideas — the kind that pull you in with captivating characters and equally compelling plots.
* I loved the slow, electric burn between Mariella and Parker, and the whole premise behind his return to Mariella’s past timeline.
* The suspense surrounding Mariella as she uncovers the truth about her past and future was gripping and surprising, with just enough unknowns to make me want to see what comes next
* I also can’t wait to learn more about Neurovida — its past, its purpose, and its role in everything yet to unfold.
* The shifting timelines (it is a time-travel story, after all!) and multiple POV’s added to the reading experience.
* A beautiful blend of sci-fi and romantasy, this is the kind of debut that reminds you how refreshing it is to step into a whole new world for the first time.
Thank you Elise, simonschusterau and NetGally for opportunity to read this debut as an arc.
Mariella has always felt different, and after the losing her mother unexpectedly, she’s left with vivid dreams — or are they memories? — that haunt her every night. One face in particular feels impossibly familiar.
Things only get stranger when that familiar face turns out to be Parker, who along with his friend Rose, claim to be time travelers. They’ve come to the past to solve a mystery while desperately (and not always successfully) trying not to interfere with the timeline. The emotional electricity between characters, the secrets, and the dire mysteries wrapped around their lives pulled me straight in.
“ I would let him take me anywhere. Past, present or future. I would give hours of my life to have seconds in his”
📖 My Thoughts:
* I’m so delighted to have discovered debut author Elise Helliwell. I’m always searching for new voices with unique, creative ideas — the kind that pull you in with captivating characters and equally compelling plots.
* I loved the slow, electric burn between Mariella and Parker, and the whole premise behind his return to Mariella’s past timeline.
* The suspense surrounding Mariella as she uncovers the truth about her past and future was gripping and surprising, with just enough unknowns to make me want to see what comes next
* I also can’t wait to learn more about Neurovida — its past, its purpose, and its role in everything yet to unfold.
* The shifting timelines (it is a time-travel story, after all!) and multiple POV’s added to the reading experience.
* A beautiful blend of sci-fi and romantasy, this is the kind of debut that reminds you how refreshing it is to step into a whole new world for the first time.
Thank you Elise, simonschusterau and NetGally for opportunity to read this debut as an arc.
December 6, 2025
This one really caught me by surprise. I went in knowing very little, other than it being recommended for fans of *The Seven Year Slip* (which I loved), and I’m so glad I picked it up.
We follow Mari, a girl with a carefully thought-out plan for her life—yet strange things keep happening, leaving her fearful she might be destined to repeat her mother’s past. Alongside her story, we meet Rose and Parker, who have come from the future, and as their paths intertwine, Mari begins to understand why she’s always felt slightly out of sync with her life.
I did find the beginning a little slow, as the author takes time to unravel the mystery of who Rose and Parker are and where Mari truly stands. That said, the lingering questions worked well in maintaining intrigue. At times it felt a bit scattered—but that may also be down to some very late-night reading 😅
This is a true slow-burn romance, and while the romantic elements are subtle, the story itself is a lovely, engaging read. The characters were entertaining, and I’d love to see more of their relationships explored. The mystery was woven in beautifully, and that ending… I absolutely need book two as soon as possible.
thanks Netgalley for the arc!
We follow Mari, a girl with a carefully thought-out plan for her life—yet strange things keep happening, leaving her fearful she might be destined to repeat her mother’s past. Alongside her story, we meet Rose and Parker, who have come from the future, and as their paths intertwine, Mari begins to understand why she’s always felt slightly out of sync with her life.
I did find the beginning a little slow, as the author takes time to unravel the mystery of who Rose and Parker are and where Mari truly stands. That said, the lingering questions worked well in maintaining intrigue. At times it felt a bit scattered—but that may also be down to some very late-night reading 😅
This is a true slow-burn romance, and while the romantic elements are subtle, the story itself is a lovely, engaging read. The characters were entertaining, and I’d love to see more of their relationships explored. The mystery was woven in beautifully, and that ending… I absolutely need book two as soon as possible.
thanks Netgalley for the arc!
December 9, 2025
how does one explain the feeling of picking up a new book and getting all nostalgic about it?! ✨ i LOVE nostalgia cause it makes me feel all fuzzy and giggly inside while still feeling bittersweet and maybe a little heartbroken? :’) within the space of a second by me back to my angsty teen days and i’m soooo here for it! i highly recommend it if you’re in the market for something sweet, angsty, and nostalgic!! 🥰
August 7, 2025
Within the Space of a Second was a fast-paced, addicting read about a college student Mariella, who finds herself in the strange world and mysteries of time travel. The novel had the pacing and fun of a mystery, thriller, romance all in one. I especially love how Helliwell detailed the out-of-time relationship between Mariella and Parker, and it was absolutely fascinating to piece together their timeline and history from Mariella’s POV and first impressions.
There were so many moving elements in WTSOAS weaving in and out of timelines that it was often difficult to keep up; I found myself flipping back and forth between pages to refresh myself on people and events, what people knew and don’t know.
Overall, Helliwell did a good job writing a complicated time travel narrative, connecting plot points, creating anticipation, and unlocking mysteries. But I found that there were more than a few points that felt disconnected and confusing even by the end of the book. Rose’s backstory, motivation, and POV also felt confusing and frustrating to read, but I’m hoping to learn more in the sequel.
I’m sincerely looking forward to book number two for more answers and intrigue! I want to see the continuation of Mariella’s growth into Flame, and more of her achronological relationships.
Thank you so much Elise Helliwell and NetGalley for this e-ARC!
There were so many moving elements in WTSOAS weaving in and out of timelines that it was often difficult to keep up; I found myself flipping back and forth between pages to refresh myself on people and events, what people knew and don’t know.
Overall, Helliwell did a good job writing a complicated time travel narrative, connecting plot points, creating anticipation, and unlocking mysteries. But I found that there were more than a few points that felt disconnected and confusing even by the end of the book. Rose’s backstory, motivation, and POV also felt confusing and frustrating to read, but I’m hoping to learn more in the sequel.
I’m sincerely looking forward to book number two for more answers and intrigue! I want to see the continuation of Mariella’s growth into Flame, and more of her achronological relationships.
Thank you so much Elise Helliwell and NetGalley for this e-ARC!
December 17, 2025
Mesmerising. Mysterious. Magical.
I really enjoyed the pacing, setting and romantic tension in this time travel tale. The characters are thoughtfully written, and I really enjoyed my time with Mariella, Rose and Parker. Given this is a time travel story, it is told through multiple timelines and I enjoyed how this worked to slowly unravel the mystery of Neurovida and Mariella's experiences.
This is a fantastic debut novel and I am very excited for the next story in The Mark of the Time Traveller series!
4.5 stars (rounded up)
I really enjoyed the pacing, setting and romantic tension in this time travel tale. The characters are thoughtfully written, and I really enjoyed my time with Mariella, Rose and Parker. Given this is a time travel story, it is told through multiple timelines and I enjoyed how this worked to slowly unravel the mystery of Neurovida and Mariella's experiences.
This is a fantastic debut novel and I am very excited for the next story in The Mark of the Time Traveller series!
4.5 stars (rounded up)
July 31, 2025
Firstly, I would like to thank Elise Helliwell and Simon & Schuster Australia for kindly gifting me this absolutely stunning Advance Reader Copy of Within The Space Of A Second 💖🌸🩷
I have been known on occasion to judge a book by its cover, and I am so incredibly happy that this story is just as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside.
It magically combines the elements of science fiction, a world rich in mystical intrigue, and a contemporary romance surrounding a forbidden love.
When I wasn't actively reading this book, it was constantly on my mind. To me, that is the sign of something truly special.
This is Elise's debut novel, and I can say with absolute certainty that I'll be first in line for book two—and anything else she writes in the future 🎀
I have been known on occasion to judge a book by its cover, and I am so incredibly happy that this story is just as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside.
It magically combines the elements of science fiction, a world rich in mystical intrigue, and a contemporary romance surrounding a forbidden love.
When I wasn't actively reading this book, it was constantly on my mind. To me, that is the sign of something truly special.
This is Elise's debut novel, and I can say with absolute certainty that I'll be first in line for book two—and anything else she writes in the future 🎀
August 22, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up!
I inhaled this entire story in a matter of hours. I naively started this book in the evening, stayed up entirely too late binge-reading it, and finished when I woke up. The need to know what would happen next was all consuming, and the plot was so compelling that I could not stop reading even if my sleep depended on it (which ironically, it did).
Magical realism is one of my favorite genres, and the romantic suspense component made this exactly what I needed. The story largely centers around Mariella, a college student with distressing vivid dreams and psychological symptoms that mirror her late mother’s diagnosis before her untimely death. We soon meet Parker and Rose, time travelers from the future who attended a specialized academy with future Mariella. As Mariella comes to term with their shared abilities, she starts to unravel things from her past that have bigger implications for the future as well.
This story is full of hidden identities, slow burn/ forbidden romance, and mystery. I loved getting to see the events unfolding from different points of view, because everyone possesses varying levels of information and ulterior motives. As the ending approached, I truly didn’t know what to expect. But it’s safe to say that I am now desperate for the next book, because I NEED to know what happens next!
Within the Space of a Second releases on November 25, 2025, and is a must read!
Thank you Simon & Schuster Australia (via Netgalley widget) for gifting me with an eARC, all thoughts expressed are my own.
I inhaled this entire story in a matter of hours. I naively started this book in the evening, stayed up entirely too late binge-reading it, and finished when I woke up. The need to know what would happen next was all consuming, and the plot was so compelling that I could not stop reading even if my sleep depended on it (which ironically, it did).
Magical realism is one of my favorite genres, and the romantic suspense component made this exactly what I needed. The story largely centers around Mariella, a college student with distressing vivid dreams and psychological symptoms that mirror her late mother’s diagnosis before her untimely death. We soon meet Parker and Rose, time travelers from the future who attended a specialized academy with future Mariella. As Mariella comes to term with their shared abilities, she starts to unravel things from her past that have bigger implications for the future as well.
This story is full of hidden identities, slow burn/ forbidden romance, and mystery. I loved getting to see the events unfolding from different points of view, because everyone possesses varying levels of information and ulterior motives. As the ending approached, I truly didn’t know what to expect. But it’s safe to say that I am now desperate for the next book, because I NEED to know what happens next!
Within the Space of a Second releases on November 25, 2025, and is a must read!
Thank you Simon & Schuster Australia (via Netgalley widget) for gifting me with an eARC, all thoughts expressed are my own.
November 20, 2025
Before I even knew I’d be able to read this book early, the vision board alone had me hooked. I knew I needed it in my hands immediately. Thanks to NetGalley, I had the pleasure of receiving an early copy.
Now that I’ve read it, I’m ecstatic to say this story is brimming with suspense, action, and longing. There’s something thrilling about the way it unfolds. We follow Mariella, a college student struggling to cope with losing her mother so young. Burdened with unanswered questions, she begins digging into the truth behind her mother’s death,only to find herself pulled onto a completely unexpected path.
The suspense had me searching for answers and forming my own theories, never quite sure who I could trust. Each twist tightened the pull between the characters, drawing me deeper into their world. The time jumps were seamless and added an incredible sense of intensity without spoiling a single moment.
This time-travel romance felt like falling in love across lifetimes. I devoured it. I am already longing for more.
Now that I’ve read it, I’m ecstatic to say this story is brimming with suspense, action, and longing. There’s something thrilling about the way it unfolds. We follow Mariella, a college student struggling to cope with losing her mother so young. Burdened with unanswered questions, she begins digging into the truth behind her mother’s death,only to find herself pulled onto a completely unexpected path.
The suspense had me searching for answers and forming my own theories, never quite sure who I could trust. Each twist tightened the pull between the characters, drawing me deeper into their world. The time jumps were seamless and added an incredible sense of intensity without spoiling a single moment.
This time-travel romance felt like falling in love across lifetimes. I devoured it. I am already longing for more.
August 16, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Time travel romance
Plot: MMC travels back in time to change his future
Spice: 🌶️
Publication date: COMING THIS FALL - Nov 2025
Summary: FMC is a freshman psychology major at Harvard. She has a terrific best friend but otherwise keeps to herself in fear that her troubled past of her mother’s suicide + mental health issues will plague her present. Her life is altered when MMC travels from an equally troubled future. MMC tries to preserve her present as much as possible but that’s easier said than done when you’re face to face with the love of your life again.
Opinion: I devoured this book in one day! I absolutely love time travel books! The complexity of the story, the moving parts that all fall together - it’s one of my favorite themes in fiction, WHEN IT’S WELL WRITTEN!
The time travel concepts were interesting: you can’t change the past, you can take 1 person with when you travel, if you stay in the past too long you lose yourself, the electricity felt when traveling, the types of traveling, the limitations, the special skills, etc.
The romance was slow burn. I liked the MCs together. He’s a green flag, no witty banter or morally grey traits. There’s 3 major POVs: FMC, MMC, and his friend, Rose, also a time traveler. Her POV wasn’t really needed and added an extra layer to the story that wasn’t fully explained.
I had a lot of theories of how this story was going to end up while reading this. Unfortunately, the ending felt extremely abrupt with a cliffhanger that left too much of the story untold. 300+ pages and we didn’t get many of the big questions answers. That was one of my main reasons for not loving (5⭐️) this book, in addition to the questionable mindset / actions of the characters that didn’t make much sense.
Lastly, I absolutely loved this title and cover but IMO it didn’t fit the book well 🫤
Takeaway: a cute time travel romance with a cliffhanger ending prepping for book 2.
Overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Time travel romance
Plot: MMC travels back in time to change his future
Spice: 🌶️
Publication date: COMING THIS FALL - Nov 2025
Summary: FMC is a freshman psychology major at Harvard. She has a terrific best friend but otherwise keeps to herself in fear that her troubled past of her mother’s suicide + mental health issues will plague her present. Her life is altered when MMC travels from an equally troubled future. MMC tries to preserve her present as much as possible but that’s easier said than done when you’re face to face with the love of your life again.
Opinion: I devoured this book in one day! I absolutely love time travel books! The complexity of the story, the moving parts that all fall together - it’s one of my favorite themes in fiction, WHEN IT’S WELL WRITTEN!
The time travel concepts were interesting: you can’t change the past, you can take 1 person with when you travel, if you stay in the past too long you lose yourself, the electricity felt when traveling, the types of traveling, the limitations, the special skills, etc.
The romance was slow burn. I liked the MCs together. He’s a green flag, no witty banter or morally grey traits. There’s 3 major POVs: FMC, MMC, and his friend, Rose, also a time traveler. Her POV wasn’t really needed and added an extra layer to the story that wasn’t fully explained.
I had a lot of theories of how this story was going to end up while reading this. Unfortunately, the ending felt extremely abrupt with a cliffhanger that left too much of the story untold. 300+ pages and we didn’t get many of the big questions answers. That was one of my main reasons for not loving (5⭐️) this book, in addition to the questionable mindset / actions of the characters that didn’t make much sense.
Lastly, I absolutely loved this title and cover but IMO it didn’t fit the book well 🫤
Takeaway: a cute time travel romance with a cliffhanger ending prepping for book 2.
November 21, 2025
THIS. WAS. INCREDIBLE.
Guys. GUYS. READ THIS BOOK RIGHT NOW. If you like magical realism, READ THIS BOOK. Forbidden relationships? THIS BOOK. Time travel? Do I even need to say it????????
This is Elise’s debut novel and to say I’m impressed is an UNDERSTATEMENT. I LOVED THIS BOOK and I will use as many capital letters as it takes to get my thoughts across!!!!!!
This story was truly a rollercoaster from start to finish. Between the mystery surrounding Mariella’s mum, the time travel plot line, the secrets and the forbidden relationship… it kept me guessing at every turn. I had soooo many questions the whole time but almost every single one of my theories was wrong… it was unpredictable in the best way.
Also honourable mention here for Anna, I loved watching her and Mariella’s friendship grow throughout the book and I hope we’ll get to see more of her!!! I don’t know why but I feel like she and Rose would really get along???🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️
Without spoiling anything… I NEED TO KNOW MOREEEEE about almost every aspect of the story???? Mariella’s Mum… Parker’s past… the rest of the alphas… Neuro-vida in general??? I could go on and on. I am both so excited and also devastated that this wasn’t a standalone😅 I’m so so so glad that I’ve got multiple books still to read in this series, but I think it mightttt just kill me having to wait for them all to release!!!
I cannot recommend this book enough!!
Guys. GUYS. READ THIS BOOK RIGHT NOW. If you like magical realism, READ THIS BOOK. Forbidden relationships? THIS BOOK. Time travel? Do I even need to say it????????
This is Elise’s debut novel and to say I’m impressed is an UNDERSTATEMENT. I LOVED THIS BOOK and I will use as many capital letters as it takes to get my thoughts across!!!!!!
This story was truly a rollercoaster from start to finish. Between the mystery surrounding Mariella’s mum, the time travel plot line, the secrets and the forbidden relationship… it kept me guessing at every turn. I had soooo many questions the whole time but almost every single one of my theories was wrong… it was unpredictable in the best way.
Also honourable mention here for Anna, I loved watching her and Mariella’s friendship grow throughout the book and I hope we’ll get to see more of her!!! I don’t know why but I feel like she and Rose would really get along???🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️
Without spoiling anything… I NEED TO KNOW MOREEEEE about almost every aspect of the story???? Mariella’s Mum… Parker’s past… the rest of the alphas… Neuro-vida in general??? I could go on and on. I am both so excited and also devastated that this wasn’t a standalone😅 I’m so so so glad that I’ve got multiple books still to read in this series, but I think it mightttt just kill me having to wait for them all to release!!!
I cannot recommend this book enough!!
November 6, 2025
For a debut, I am thoroughly impressed! I did enjoy the overall premise, and I would really really like book two… like now 😭.
The writing was elegant at times, but did seem a little choppy here and there. There were quite a few grammatical/spelling errors but don’t know if that’s just from the weird formatted kindle NetGalley copy I got so won’t take it too close to heart. Although, some descriptions may also need to be tightened when describing scenes and some of the time/memory jumps just to make it really clear what time zone we are in. Some things were a little contradictory, particularly when explaining what the main FMC was thinking as compared to what actually happened in a scene, it seemed too inconsistent or way too short a turn around for the main character to change her mind and thoughts on what she wants. A lot of back and forth too, almost an unreliable narrator even though it’s not supposed to be.
However, I genuinely had such a great time reading this as a whole and for a debut I am genuinely impressed with the premise and idea of the plot. It’s one of those plots where you think, ‘damn, i really wish i came up with it’ because it’s so incredibly interesting and I loved the entire time travel aspect. It did also make me go down a two hour rabbit whole of wanting to know more about the technicalities of time travelling and the consequences. It’s so cool and I loved it!
I did wish we learned more about Neurovida and what they actually do there apart from the plain explanation of they ‘time travel there’. But I’m assuming that’s clearly a Book 2 thing so I’m very excited!
Also the vape’s gotta go mannnn 🤣
But overall I did keep reading on for obvious reasons of how interesting the plot was and I got really excited about it lol. Great debut!
The writing was elegant at times, but did seem a little choppy here and there. There were quite a few grammatical/spelling errors but don’t know if that’s just from the weird formatted kindle NetGalley copy I got so won’t take it too close to heart. Although, some descriptions may also need to be tightened when describing scenes and some of the time/memory jumps just to make it really clear what time zone we are in. Some things were a little contradictory, particularly when explaining what the main FMC was thinking as compared to what actually happened in a scene, it seemed too inconsistent or way too short a turn around for the main character to change her mind and thoughts on what she wants. A lot of back and forth too, almost an unreliable narrator even though it’s not supposed to be.
However, I genuinely had such a great time reading this as a whole and for a debut I am genuinely impressed with the premise and idea of the plot. It’s one of those plots where you think, ‘damn, i really wish i came up with it’ because it’s so incredibly interesting and I loved the entire time travel aspect. It did also make me go down a two hour rabbit whole of wanting to know more about the technicalities of time travelling and the consequences. It’s so cool and I loved it!
I did wish we learned more about Neurovida and what they actually do there apart from the plain explanation of they ‘time travel there’. But I’m assuming that’s clearly a Book 2 thing so I’m very excited!
Also the vape’s gotta go mannnn 🤣
But overall I did keep reading on for obvious reasons of how interesting the plot was and I got really excited about it lol. Great debut!
November 24, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
This was such an interesting read, I was expecting romance forward and a bit of magical realism but the sci fi aspects really shone in the best way. It's a beautiful, genre-bending tale of love across time and space, of a love too strong for the rules.
Ella is caught up - in her grief, in herself, in her studies, so meeting Parker shakes her up - and she needs it. Parker tries to hold himself back from Ella, as a traveller from another time, he's not supposed to spend time with people he knows, or risk destroying his memories when he returns to his own time.
The way these two were continuously drawn together was perfect, Parker knows he should stay away from Ella but he can't help himself. You can feel the tension and the yearning as they continue to return to each other, and as Ella learns more about Parker.
The romance was delicious but what shocked me was how much I enjoyed the time travel aspect. It had a technical feel that I wasn't expecting and I really appreciated the rules, the structure, the science behind it, much more than I was expecting to, it was really well thought out.
I was surprised by the inclusion of the second POV and I ended up loving Rose too, it gave us an extra, unique perspective into time travel and the rules, Ella, Parker and their future.
I loved this book and I can't wait to find out what happens next!
This was such an interesting read, I was expecting romance forward and a bit of magical realism but the sci fi aspects really shone in the best way. It's a beautiful, genre-bending tale of love across time and space, of a love too strong for the rules.
Ella is caught up - in her grief, in herself, in her studies, so meeting Parker shakes her up - and she needs it. Parker tries to hold himself back from Ella, as a traveller from another time, he's not supposed to spend time with people he knows, or risk destroying his memories when he returns to his own time.
The way these two were continuously drawn together was perfect, Parker knows he should stay away from Ella but he can't help himself. You can feel the tension and the yearning as they continue to return to each other, and as Ella learns more about Parker.
The romance was delicious but what shocked me was how much I enjoyed the time travel aspect. It had a technical feel that I wasn't expecting and I really appreciated the rules, the structure, the science behind it, much more than I was expecting to, it was really well thought out.
I was surprised by the inclusion of the second POV and I ended up loving Rose too, it gave us an extra, unique perspective into time travel and the rules, Ella, Parker and their future.
I loved this book and I can't wait to find out what happens next!
November 27, 2025
Within the Space of a Second is a fantasy novel for fans of time travel, medium stakes and yearning.
I loved this book! The multiple POV and unique take on time travelling had me hooked. I wish we got more POVs from Parker though.
The book was well plotted with lots of foreshadowing that were all meaningful for the story. There were no plot holes, because everything was masterfully plotted and eventually came to light. I loved the constant mystery, the will-they-won’t-they romance a the suspense with every chapter on each character’s motives.
In addition to action that is reminiscent to me of Divergent and early 2010s fantasy novels, I also thought this book had a thoughtful depiction of grief and navigating the loss of a parent.
The ending is well set-up for a sequel which I cannot wait to read! I definitely recommend this book.
I loved this book! The multiple POV and unique take on time travelling had me hooked. I wish we got more POVs from Parker though.
The book was well plotted with lots of foreshadowing that were all meaningful for the story. There were no plot holes, because everything was masterfully plotted and eventually came to light. I loved the constant mystery, the will-they-won’t-they romance a the suspense with every chapter on each character’s motives.
In addition to action that is reminiscent to me of Divergent and early 2010s fantasy novels, I also thought this book had a thoughtful depiction of grief and navigating the loss of a parent.
The ending is well set-up for a sequel which I cannot wait to read! I definitely recommend this book.
August 11, 2025
Wow! Within the Space of A Second is Elise Helliwell’s debut novel and she definitely entered the book world with a bang! I normally have a lot of difficulty reading time travel, but not here. In WTSOAS we follow Mariella through her college life and meeting of Parker and Rose. During this, she finds herself falling in love with Parker. The romance was slow burn but thanks to the fast pace of the book it wasn’t too slow for me. I loved the plot and the development of the characters, so reading the next book is a no brainer, which is pretty rare for me. Helliwell was able to craft a really captivating plot that makes you wonder what is next at all times. I recommend this to those who enjoy slow burn, time travel, fantasy, and a sprinkle of spice. Thank you to Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2025
I literally couldn’t put this book down. I agonized about it being over before I was ready, but I couldn’t wait to read chapter after chapter.
Elise Helliwell has written such a beautiful story! I loved every minute of Within the Space of a Second! I couldn’t wait to read her debut, and now that I have, I know I have found a new favorite author.
I really enjoyed getting to know Mariella, Parker, Rose, and Anna. The friendships in this story are top tier, and heart-warming. Set in modern times, this is a lovely romance involving time travel and suspense. Three of my favorite things!
Also, Mariella and Parker are divine to read about! Their attraction to each other is truly endearing, and the spice is beautiful and tender. Perfect for these two, and their pure and authentic dynamic.
I absolutely devoured this book, and I highly recommend it to you! I cannot WAIT for you to read it, and I also can’t wait for book two!!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Australia and Elise Helliwell for the ARC via NetGalley! All opinions are very much my own.
Elise Helliwell has written such a beautiful story! I loved every minute of Within the Space of a Second! I couldn’t wait to read her debut, and now that I have, I know I have found a new favorite author.
I really enjoyed getting to know Mariella, Parker, Rose, and Anna. The friendships in this story are top tier, and heart-warming. Set in modern times, this is a lovely romance involving time travel and suspense. Three of my favorite things!
Also, Mariella and Parker are divine to read about! Their attraction to each other is truly endearing, and the spice is beautiful and tender. Perfect for these two, and their pure and authentic dynamic.
I absolutely devoured this book, and I highly recommend it to you! I cannot WAIT for you to read it, and I also can’t wait for book two!!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Australia and Elise Helliwell for the ARC via NetGalley! All opinions are very much my own.
November 25, 2025
I'm beyond thrilled to have arc read another Australian debut book. Within the Space of a Second is a mesmerizing blend of time-travel, romance, and mystery that had me hooked from page one. As an Aussie reader, I'm beaming with pride knowing one of our own is making waves in the literary world. Elise's writing is captivating, and her characters feel so relatable and real. I'm honored to be a tiny part of her journey and can't wait to see where her writing takes her next. If you're a fan of The Time Traveler's Wife, you'll love this stunning debut. Get ready to be swept up in a story that will leave you breathless and eager for more!
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