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Time Sailors #2
Braving Fiery Waters
Her husband died in a fire. Now she’s heading straight into one.
Marina Stone planned an ideal family vacation, perfect for reconnecting with her two teenagers after their father's death. But those plans go drastically away when she time sails to the White Cloud in the year 1849. Now she must face her greatest fears and complete a mystery mission before she can return to her life and children. But what if they no longer truly need her or want her?
A family vacation to South Haven, Michigan, was the last thing Aiden wanted for his summer. Having just been dumped by his girlfriend and ticket to his future, he’d rather numb his mind with adventure. But when he connects with Nevaeh, a girl whose beauty is only matched by her faith, he might find there’s no place he’d rather be. When his sister runs away, he must work with Nevaeh to help guide her home.
In this second book in the Time Sailors series, new friends join the old in a faith-filled time travel novel you won’t soon forget.
Marina Stone planned an ideal family vacation, perfect for reconnecting with her two teenagers after their father's death. But those plans go drastically away when she time sails to the White Cloud in the year 1849. Now she must face her greatest fears and complete a mystery mission before she can return to her life and children. But what if they no longer truly need her or want her?
A family vacation to South Haven, Michigan, was the last thing Aiden wanted for his summer. Having just been dumped by his girlfriend and ticket to his future, he’d rather numb his mind with adventure. But when he connects with Nevaeh, a girl whose beauty is only matched by her faith, he might find there’s no place he’d rather be. When his sister runs away, he must work with Nevaeh to help guide her home.
In this second book in the Time Sailors series, new friends join the old in a faith-filled time travel novel you won’t soon forget.
345 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 21, 2026
9 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Hanks
53 books170 followersSarah Hanks is a multi-award-winning author of split-time Christian fiction. Her background in teaching and children’s ministry prepared her for exercising her creativity as a writer, now her full -time job. She and her husband have ten children, a couple of whom seem to have inherited their mother’s love for playing with words and crafting stories. Though Sarah dreams of a cabin by the beach, the family lives jammed together in beautiful chaos near St. Louis, Missouri. She buys earplugs in bulk.
You can follow her on Facebook or Instagram @authorsarahhanks. Check out the freebie page of her website at www.sarah-hanks.com.
You can follow her on Facebook or Instagram @authorsarahhanks. Check out the freebie page of her website at www.sarah-hanks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 6, 2025
I learned so much fascinating history with this one. This series is so much fun to write. I hope you enjoy Marina's story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was once again drawn into the time-sailing adventures. This time it featured a mom, Marina, and her two teenagers. I was engaged from the very beginning and needed to know what was going to happen. I liked the tie in with Claire from the first book in the series too. This one deals with some emotional topics, grief being a primary one. I really liked the faith content and how it helped the growth of the characters, dealing with grief both in the past and the present storylines.
December 5, 2025
Prepare to sail away into a tale of loss, faith, motherhood, and discovering God's purpose for our lives. Braving Fiery Waters is a fresh and creative time travel story featuring a modern-day widowed mother of teens and the 1849 Great Fire of St. Louis. You'll find yourself challenged to replace voices in your life speaking lies with the truth and learn with Marina and Claire that loving the people God places in front of you is the greatest mission of all. Relatable and twist-filled, Braving Fiery Waters is Christian fiction with solid faith and comes with a resounding recommendation from me.
January 23, 2026
Braving Fiery Waters by Sarah Hanks is the second book in the Time Sailors series. It can be read as a standalone, though I do plan on going back and reading book 1.
This was a fun read about time sailing, where there is a mailbox, and if you open the mailbox, there is a task for you to complete. You find yourself in the past, with the only way to communicate with the present is through the mailbox. Mariana is the widow and mother of two teenagers. She lost her husband recently and is having a hard time grieving the loss. Mariana is the one who finds herself in St. Louis during the great fire. She does not know what her purpose is, though she goes to work trying to help others. In the meantime, her teens, Aiden and Brinley, are left in the present day with Claire. Each character is going through something different. Learning to grieve, learning to lean into God and trust Him. I appreciate the historical aspect and learning about 1849, a part of history I did not know about.
Sarah Hanks did a great job of intertwining faith throughout the story.
Quote:
"How had her relationship with her teens disintegrated? Had it happened all at once or gradually?"
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This was a fun read about time sailing, where there is a mailbox, and if you open the mailbox, there is a task for you to complete. You find yourself in the past, with the only way to communicate with the present is through the mailbox. Mariana is the widow and mother of two teenagers. She lost her husband recently and is having a hard time grieving the loss. Mariana is the one who finds herself in St. Louis during the great fire. She does not know what her purpose is, though she goes to work trying to help others. In the meantime, her teens, Aiden and Brinley, are left in the present day with Claire. Each character is going through something different. Learning to grieve, learning to lean into God and trust Him. I appreciate the historical aspect and learning about 1849, a part of history I did not know about.
Sarah Hanks did a great job of intertwining faith throughout the story.
Quote:
"How had her relationship with her teens disintegrated? Had it happened all at once or gradually?"
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
January 23, 2026
This is a very unique book. It begins in the present with some very relatable teenagers, parents-to-be and a mother struggling with grief. We soon discover the meaning of "time-sailing". I won't give away specific details, but each of these characters encounters some new experiences that lead to personal, spiritual and emotional growth. This book will have you excited about specific historical events and what changing them could have meant. It will also remind you of young love, growing love and enduring friendships. There is a book one in this series, but book two can be enjoyed without reading that one, although I would highly suggest you read that, too!
January 24, 2026
All things work together for good
I love the whole concept of 'Time Sailing' but this is more than a book on time travel, it is about dealing with life's problems, both in the past and present. Things like grief not dealt with, over protectiveness, trusting God, not believing the criticisms of family, prayer, and healthy relationships. A very enjoyable read and I look forward to the next book.
I love the whole concept of 'Time Sailing' but this is more than a book on time travel, it is about dealing with life's problems, both in the past and present. Things like grief not dealt with, over protectiveness, trusting God, not believing the criticisms of family, prayer, and healthy relationships. A very enjoyable read and I look forward to the next book.
January 25, 2026
Great story and message
I loved these characters and the world the author created. Not only was the story engaging, but the message was clear and encouraging. If you enjoy Gabrielle Meyer's Timeless series, you should give the Time Sailors series a try! I can't wait to go back and read book 1 and catch up on Stella's story and I'm looking forward to book 3 already!
I loved these characters and the world the author created. Not only was the story engaging, but the message was clear and encouraging. If you enjoy Gabrielle Meyer's Timeless series, you should give the Time Sailors series a try! I can't wait to go back and read book 1 and catch up on Stella's story and I'm looking forward to book 3 already!
January 24, 2026
A wild ride
Time travel (via boat), teenagers being teens, family challenges, self doubt, love, nerves, encouragement, learning to stand up for yourself and so much more.
This book is great for anyone 12 and up who wants to enjoy a dual timeline novel that touches on real life and includes strong faith elements.
I enjoyed this book even more than the first in the series and am excited for the next one that is coming!
Time travel (via boat), teenagers being teens, family challenges, self doubt, love, nerves, encouragement, learning to stand up for yourself and so much more.
This book is great for anyone 12 and up who wants to enjoy a dual timeline novel that touches on real life and includes strong faith elements.
I enjoyed this book even more than the first in the series and am excited for the next one that is coming!
January 23, 2026
This book was such a pleasure to read, it felt like a mini vacation going on an adventure with the characters. And yet it was also packed with history, deep themes of faith through trials, grief and discouragement, and a mother navigating her relationship with her teens. It held my attention all the way through and was the hilight of my day getting to find out what happened next. Very well done!
December 6, 2025
Hanks has morphed the dual timeline into a time traveling saga in this second edition of her Time Sailor series. The best part of this story is how it reminds me of the “Quantum Leap” television series, and how it reflects the purpose of our own lives. Why are we here? What are we here to learn or accomplish? Just when our heroine thinks she has it figured out, easy-peasy, she realizes there is more.
Prepare to enjoy this story of familial relationships and explore 19th century history while you’re at it.
Prepare to enjoy this story of familial relationships and explore 19th century history while you’re at it.
January 22, 2026
So many Godly, encouraging truths along with a fantastic time travel adventure back to the time of the St. Louis fire in the 1800s.
I absolutely loved this second book in Sarah Hanks' Time Sailors series. I loved the premise when I first learned about the series before Braving Strange Waters released a couple of years ago. And I was so excited when I learned that book two was going to be released. Though the person traveling through time was a completely new character, the original three ladies have roles in this book.
Marina is a widowed, single mother of two teenagers. Two young people who are full of attitude, you know, teenagers. LOL. Marina wants to make some wonderful new memories with Aiden and Brinley, so she has planned a fun vacation. Unfortuately, plans go awry when she ends up time sailing to the White Cloud in 1849, leaving her teens behind.
We get to also see the story through Aiden's POV. You can see the snarkiness and the attitude, but we also see the grief. The grief from losing their father and not being allowed to mourn. But we also see how much these siblings love each other and try to watch out for each other. But. . .they are teenagers, so that doesn't always work out.
We also see the story through Claire's POV. Claire is one of the main characters from the first book. She and Wendy had stayed in the present while their friend Stella had time traveled. Spoiler for book 1 ahead. . . Claire had ended up marrying Bearett Duncan, a decendant of the Dr. Duncan from the past who helps those who time sail. So, she is able to help Aiden and Brinley. Or at least she tries. You remember I mentioned they are teenagers, right? LOL.
I also wanted to mention Nevaeh as she was such an awsome character. We don't get to see the story through her POV, but she has a huge impact in the spiritual lives of the characters.
So, there is a lot going on in both time frames. Marina needs to figure out what the mission is that she needs to accomplish so she can time sail home. Without changing the history books. And while trying to deal with her grief and wondering if her kids would just be better off without her. Aiden is struggling through a breakup while also trying to deal with the grief from his father passing away. Brinley is also struggling of course, but we only see her from the others' POV. And Claire stuggles with a lot of self doubt and just not being good enough. They are all trying to find their way.
I have to say, I completely connected with Marina's doubt and frustration with trying to deal with her teens. And Claire's feelings of unworthiness. But the truths that were shared throughout the story really helped uplift me. I highlighted so, so many passages where God's truths were shared. The Gospel story is shared along with the plan of Salvation. Prayer is an important part of their lives. I loved seeing each characters' development and growth.
And I absolutely loved the last page of the story and learning what we have to look forward to in book three. Definitely can't wait to read that! And I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
I absolutely loved this second book in Sarah Hanks' Time Sailors series. I loved the premise when I first learned about the series before Braving Strange Waters released a couple of years ago. And I was so excited when I learned that book two was going to be released. Though the person traveling through time was a completely new character, the original three ladies have roles in this book.
Marina is a widowed, single mother of two teenagers. Two young people who are full of attitude, you know, teenagers. LOL. Marina wants to make some wonderful new memories with Aiden and Brinley, so she has planned a fun vacation. Unfortuately, plans go awry when she ends up time sailing to the White Cloud in 1849, leaving her teens behind.
We get to also see the story through Aiden's POV. You can see the snarkiness and the attitude, but we also see the grief. The grief from losing their father and not being allowed to mourn. But we also see how much these siblings love each other and try to watch out for each other. But. . .they are teenagers, so that doesn't always work out.
We also see the story through Claire's POV. Claire is one of the main characters from the first book. She and Wendy had stayed in the present while their friend Stella had time traveled. Spoiler for book 1 ahead. . . Claire had ended up marrying Bearett Duncan, a decendant of the Dr. Duncan from the past who helps those who time sail. So, she is able to help Aiden and Brinley. Or at least she tries. You remember I mentioned they are teenagers, right? LOL.
I also wanted to mention Nevaeh as she was such an awsome character. We don't get to see the story through her POV, but she has a huge impact in the spiritual lives of the characters.
So, there is a lot going on in both time frames. Marina needs to figure out what the mission is that she needs to accomplish so she can time sail home. Without changing the history books. And while trying to deal with her grief and wondering if her kids would just be better off without her. Aiden is struggling through a breakup while also trying to deal with the grief from his father passing away. Brinley is also struggling of course, but we only see her from the others' POV. And Claire stuggles with a lot of self doubt and just not being good enough. They are all trying to find their way.
I have to say, I completely connected with Marina's doubt and frustration with trying to deal with her teens. And Claire's feelings of unworthiness. But the truths that were shared throughout the story really helped uplift me. I highlighted so, so many passages where God's truths were shared. The Gospel story is shared along with the plan of Salvation. Prayer is an important part of their lives. I loved seeing each characters' development and growth.
And I absolutely loved the last page of the story and learning what we have to look forward to in book three. Definitely can't wait to read that! And I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
January 31, 2026
Braving Fiery Waters is described as fantasy and time-travel fiction, but anyone who has ever raised teenagers will also consider it as truth! Author Sarah Hanks perfectly captures the many moods of teenagers, including snarky comments and rebellious actions when Marina's teens complain about a family vacation, grieve for their deceased dad, and struggle with fear and concern when they are separated from their mother. Braving Fiery Waters is a realistic depiction of a troubled family but it's also an awesome adventure that alternates between past and present timelines. I loved the plot twists with the St. Louis fire and the cholera epidemic, and admired the creative way that Marina traveled through time. I had never heard of time sailing until now!
There are many light and fun moments in Braving Fiery Waters, but it is also profound in its message of faith. This book kept me fully engaged, and it hints that there will be more time sailing in the future. I recommend this series for both teen and adult readers.
I received a complimentary digital ARC. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my honest thoughts.
There are many light and fun moments in Braving Fiery Waters, but it is also profound in its message of faith. This book kept me fully engaged, and it hints that there will be more time sailing in the future. I recommend this series for both teen and adult readers.
I received a complimentary digital ARC. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my honest thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Since I love time travel I was pleased with this one. I couldn't put it down until it was finished.
So very good!! I finished it at 4am this morning.
5 stars for a job well done! For realistic characters and being fast paced. Loved every minute of it.
I really enjoyed the teenagers Aiden and Brinley too. They're going through changes themselves and some aren't always always easy. They did make me laugh out loud at times though.
I loved the historical setting. The details were most interesting.
Ive often wondered what it would be like to time travel to stand back and see what it was like back then. I wouldn't try to change anything however.
I waited on the edge of my seat to see what would happen with Marina.
Will she change history with the Great St. Louis fire? Y'all just have to pick up this awesome book to find out!
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
So very good!! I finished it at 4am this morning.
5 stars for a job well done! For realistic characters and being fast paced. Loved every minute of it.
I really enjoyed the teenagers Aiden and Brinley too. They're going through changes themselves and some aren't always always easy. They did make me laugh out loud at times though.
I loved the historical setting. The details were most interesting.
Ive often wondered what it would be like to time travel to stand back and see what it was like back then. I wouldn't try to change anything however.
I waited on the edge of my seat to see what would happen with Marina.
Will she change history with the Great St. Louis fire? Y'all just have to pick up this awesome book to find out!
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
January 23, 2026
Wow! I have read several of Sarah’s books including the first Time Sailor book. I say this every time, but this has got to be my favorite (so far)! Braving Fiery Waters kept me turning pages to figure out how all the storylines were going to play out & weave together. In spite of multiple storylines, this book did not feel rushed and I felt like all the details were there to make the characters feel real and the story was seamless. I’ve not been a parent or around teenagers but Sarah’s ability to depict the very character even the teens was great. I also like that a real person in history was represented. I needed to hear the message woven (in a non preachy way) that God has a purpose for insignificant feeling people and is always working even when there seems to be no hope and we don’t understand. Thank you Sarah, I can’t wait for book 3!
January 23, 2026
Enjoyed this one from cover to cover. The historical timeline was fascinating as it gives you a glimpse of the day-to-day realities of St Louis in 1849. Sarah brings these unknown realities to life in a way that made me so grateful to be alive in the 2000's!
I love how she highlights the importance of the little things, the natural longings of your heart make an impact.
I really enjoyed Aiden. The young man, wrestling with his teenager feelings, while also longing to fill the gap left by his father. The sibling relationship between Aiden and Brinley was beautiful, and one I pray my kids will have when they are that age.
Scripture, Biblical truth, struggles of faith are all interwoven so naturally in the story. I love seeing the characters relationship with the Lord grow.
And the ending - well, I hope she finishes book #3 quickly cuz I'm ready to read it!
I love how she highlights the importance of the little things, the natural longings of your heart make an impact.
I really enjoyed Aiden. The young man, wrestling with his teenager feelings, while also longing to fill the gap left by his father. The sibling relationship between Aiden and Brinley was beautiful, and one I pray my kids will have when they are that age.
Scripture, Biblical truth, struggles of faith are all interwoven so naturally in the story. I love seeing the characters relationship with the Lord grow.
And the ending - well, I hope she finishes book #3 quickly cuz I'm ready to read it!
January 30, 2026
Braving Fiery Waters by Sarah Hanks is a fun and engaging Christian fiction read that blends history, time travel, and a touch of romance really well. I loved following both Marina’s and Claire’s storylines, and the way their journeys unfolded kept me fully invested. One of my favorite parts of the book was the relationships formed with the two teenagers—those connections felt genuine and added real depth to the story. The character development across the board was thoughtfully done, making it easy to care about each character’s growth. I also appreciated how the Christian themes were naturally woven into the plot, including a clear presentation of the gospel without feeling forced. This was an enjoyable, meaningful read, and I’m definitely looking forward to book three when it releases.
Special thanks to the author for the advanced reader copy.
Special thanks to the author for the advanced reader copy.
January 22, 2026
Braving Fiery Waters (Time Sailors Series, Book 2) by Sarah Hanks is a heartfelt, faith-filled time travel novel that immediately drew me in.
After tragically losing her husband in a fire, Marina is transported back to 1849, where she must confront her grief, her fears, and the question every parent faces: Am I still needed? Meanwhile, her son Aiden grapples with heartbreak and faith as he searches for his runaway sister.
A beautiful reminder that some journeys through time are really journeys of the heart. 💛✨
#Bookstagram #TimeTravelReads #FaithFiction #ChristianFiction #BookReview #TimeSailorsSeries
After tragically losing her husband in a fire, Marina is transported back to 1849, where she must confront her grief, her fears, and the question every parent faces: Am I still needed? Meanwhile, her son Aiden grapples with heartbreak and faith as he searches for his runaway sister.
A beautiful reminder that some journeys through time are really journeys of the heart. 💛✨
#Bookstagram #TimeTravelReads #FaithFiction #ChristianFiction #BookReview #TimeSailorsSeries
December 6, 2025
Sarah Hanks’ novel, Braving Fiery Waters, is a standout work for fans of time-travel stories. Humor and emotional weight between key characters is well-developed with their captivating interactions, transporting the reader seamlessly between the past and present. The backdrop of the middle 1800s provides plenty of historical and speculative intrigue for readers. Marina and her two teenagers, Aiden and Brinley, navigate their separation through suspenseful plot twists, unhinged relationships, and ultimately reunite on a solid foundation of family values and love. Well done!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another incredible story from author Sarah Hanks. Her attention to historical details is impeccable. I knew nothing about the fire in St. Louis, and was captivated by the story and the nightmare for those caught in the cholera outbreak at the time. And, as always, seeing the way both the characters develop in both the present and past timelines was as riveting as ever. It was also great to see Claire again from the first book, and see the ways she had grown, as well as her current struggles. A great read.
I received an early version of this book. All opinions are my own.
I received an early version of this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Marina argues with her two teens moments before embarking on a sunrise cruise, only to time-sail to 1849. In the meantime, Clair, the Pilates instructor from Braving Strange Waters, hosts the rebellious teens. This slip-time novel explores the parent/child relationship, dealing with grief, and finding love and acceptance in Christ. Hanks adds her own brand of wit and humor along the way. Excellent read.
January 24, 2026
I loved Braving Fiery Waters! Dual timelines has become one of my new favorite genres, and time-sailing through mail boxes on boats is a great way to get to another time period. I enjoyed cheering on Nevaeh and Aiden's relationship and was hoping Brinley was safe in all of her adventures. Finding out what Marina had time-sailed for was good too. I had a feeling what her mission was and I was right. Grab a copy today.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Go time traveling across waters as Marina learns what her job is in life and what God has planned for her. Or stay in the present and watch as teens grow from being rebellious and sullen into what God has planned for them. Such a great read with too many good quotes to post them all
January 29, 2026
I really enjoyed this story. I loved watching the past characters evolve and new ones pop in the scene, and their stories intertwine. This story was a wonderful display of beauty from ashes in multiple ways. I truly enjoyed reading it!
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February 1, 2026What a delightful read! I laughed and cried and felt every emotion in between! The relationships between mother and teens was very relatable and the pull to mother the orphaned children resounded strongly with me. I can’t wait to read the third book in this wonderful series! Well done, Sarah Hanks!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews