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Second Chance #1
The Fountain
Portland, Oregon. In May 2022, the Carpenters are a sad lot. Bill, 81, has just buried his beloved wife. Paul, 75, has terminal lung cancer. Annie, 72, is a paraplegic with broken dreams. Childless and directionless, the siblings face an uncertain future in their childhood home.
Then Bill, a retired folklore professor, learns from a dying man that the legendary Fountain of Youth, his obsession for decades, may be more than a myth. He races to Mexico to find the truth.
Within weeks, the Carpenters, with nothing to lose, enter a mysterious cave and exit in July 1905 as healthy young adults. They begin new lives in Oakland, California, only vaguely aware of a devastating earthquake that will rock the San Francisco Bay Area on April 18, 1906.
In THE FOUNTAIN, the first book in the Second Chance trilogy, three siblings find opportunity, romance, and heartbreak as they make the most of a new lease on life.
Then Bill, a retired folklore professor, learns from a dying man that the legendary Fountain of Youth, his obsession for decades, may be more than a myth. He races to Mexico to find the truth.
Within weeks, the Carpenters, with nothing to lose, enter a mysterious cave and exit in July 1905 as healthy young adults. They begin new lives in Oakland, California, only vaguely aware of a devastating earthquake that will rock the San Francisco Bay Area on April 18, 1906.
In THE FOUNTAIN, the first book in the Second Chance trilogy, three siblings find opportunity, romance, and heartbreak as they make the most of a new lease on life.
393 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2022
249 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
About the author
John A. Heldt
35 books232 followersJohn A. Heldt is the author of twenty-six bestselling time-travel novels. The former reference librarian and award-winning sportswriter has loved getting subjects and verbs to agree since writing book reports in grade school. A graduate of the University of Oregon and the University of Iowa, Heldt is an avid fisherman, sports fan, coin collector, and reader of thrillers and historical fiction. When not sending contemporary characters to the not-so-distant past, he weighs in on literature and life at johnheldt.blogspot.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 5, 2022
In a Nutshell: Good plot. Unsuitable title. Average writing. Will suit historical fiction readers more than sci-fi or time-travel readers.
Story Synopsis:
Where the book worked for me:
✔ The plot was quite interesting. As a historical fiction lover, I enjoyed seeing the parts set in the 1900s. The details of a natural disaster were especially well portrayed.
✔ The bond between the siblings was a treat to read. Each had a distinct personality, and it came out well.
✔ The initial part of the book, with the discovery of the existence of the fountain and the siblings’ decision to change their future through it, was my favourite. I enjoyed how the book focussed on their planning towards the time jump rather than just showing them as taking a plunge without mentioning the nitty-gritties of what happens to the stuff left behind.
✔ There are some really likeable scenes in the 1905 timeline such as (without going into spoilers) Bill’s role in her new job or Annie’s attempt to fit in her school and her attitude towards women’s rights.
✔ Despite the hefty 567 pages, it is possible to zoom through the book within a couple of days.
✔ The ending is somewhat bittersweet, a welcome change from the sugary positivity of the rest of the book.
Where the book could have worked better for me:
⚠ As a time travel story, the book is just decent. The initial few chapters are set in modern time but the rest are all in 1905. The titular fountain is of relevance only till they reach the past. It has no mention in the book later. If you are looking primarily for a time travel story, this doesn’t offer much in that respect beyond the first few chapters.
⚠ The situation in 1905 seems picture perfect. All goody-goody characters, no major conflicts, quick and easy solutions to all problems. Except for the natural disaster, the rest is too good to be true. I would have preferred some complicated characters than such unidimensional ones.
⚠ The book requires A LOT OF editing. There are too many short sentences, many stilted conversations, and plenty of line/phrase repetitions within the same para. There seems to be a distinct writing pattern whereby a thought is split between two sentences. For example, "The other girls laughed. They laughed like kindred spirits..." or "He had tried to keep the promise. He had tried hard." This starts off as an interesting way of adding emphasis but gets boring after a while. There are also too many conversation scenes with nothing except back-and-forth staccato dialogues. If all these issues were fixed, the book would easily lose at least a hundred pages. A couple of modern words such as ‘chocaholic’ have also slipped into the historical time setting.
⚠ In contrast to the above, there are barely any descriptions of the place or lifestyle of 1905. It is almost as if the siblings shifted houses rather than shifted a century to the past. While they do research a lot about what life might have been like in the past, their process of adjustment doesn’t get any mention. Some mention of their emotions over the missing amenities from their erstwhile modern lifestyle would have added value. They barely even mention their ‘other’ life.
All in all, I like the idea of the story. Luckily, I was able to realign to the historical fiction setting soon, so the lack of time travel elements didn’t bother me as much. However, it is the lack of editing that brings the book down. Giving it a couple of rounds of strict proofing and trimming off the superfluities will make this indie novel much more enjoyable. Also, if possible, a change in title, because ‘The Fountain’ is a huge misnomer. A different cover image also would help as the current one also stresses on the fountain.
2.5 stars.
My thanks to author John A. Heldt for a complimentary copy of “The Fountain”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Facebook | Twitter
Story Synopsis:
2022, Oregon. 81-year-old Bill Carpenter has just buried his beloved wife of 57 years. His 75-year-old brother Paul has terminal cancer, and his 72-year-old sister Annie, a paraplegic, is broken-hearted at having done nothing she dreamed of in life. In other words, the three Carpenter siblings have nothing to look forward to. Until one day, when Bill, who used to be a folklore and mythology professor, learns that a legendary ‘Fountain of Youth’ actually exists and a dip in it causes not just rejuvenation but a fresh start in another era. The only issue is that the era isn’t in your control. But as the Carpenters have nothing to lose anyway, they decide to take a chance on the fountain and to their surprise, land up in 1905 Oakland as healthy young adults. What will this new life hold for them?
The story comes to us in the limited third person pov of various characters, including the three siblings.
Where the book worked for me:
✔ The plot was quite interesting. As a historical fiction lover, I enjoyed seeing the parts set in the 1900s. The details of a natural disaster were especially well portrayed.
✔ The bond between the siblings was a treat to read. Each had a distinct personality, and it came out well.
✔ The initial part of the book, with the discovery of the existence of the fountain and the siblings’ decision to change their future through it, was my favourite. I enjoyed how the book focussed on their planning towards the time jump rather than just showing them as taking a plunge without mentioning the nitty-gritties of what happens to the stuff left behind.
✔ There are some really likeable scenes in the 1905 timeline such as (without going into spoilers) Bill’s role in her new job or Annie’s attempt to fit in her school and her attitude towards women’s rights.
✔ Despite the hefty 567 pages, it is possible to zoom through the book within a couple of days.
✔ The ending is somewhat bittersweet, a welcome change from the sugary positivity of the rest of the book.
Where the book could have worked better for me:
⚠ As a time travel story, the book is just decent. The initial few chapters are set in modern time but the rest are all in 1905. The titular fountain is of relevance only till they reach the past. It has no mention in the book later. If you are looking primarily for a time travel story, this doesn’t offer much in that respect beyond the first few chapters.
⚠ The situation in 1905 seems picture perfect. All goody-goody characters, no major conflicts, quick and easy solutions to all problems. Except for the natural disaster, the rest is too good to be true. I would have preferred some complicated characters than such unidimensional ones.
⚠ The book requires A LOT OF editing. There are too many short sentences, many stilted conversations, and plenty of line/phrase repetitions within the same para. There seems to be a distinct writing pattern whereby a thought is split between two sentences. For example, "The other girls laughed. They laughed like kindred spirits..." or "He had tried to keep the promise. He had tried hard." This starts off as an interesting way of adding emphasis but gets boring after a while. There are also too many conversation scenes with nothing except back-and-forth staccato dialogues. If all these issues were fixed, the book would easily lose at least a hundred pages. A couple of modern words such as ‘chocaholic’ have also slipped into the historical time setting.
⚠ In contrast to the above, there are barely any descriptions of the place or lifestyle of 1905. It is almost as if the siblings shifted houses rather than shifted a century to the past. While they do research a lot about what life might have been like in the past, their process of adjustment doesn’t get any mention. Some mention of their emotions over the missing amenities from their erstwhile modern lifestyle would have added value. They barely even mention their ‘other’ life.
All in all, I like the idea of the story. Luckily, I was able to realign to the historical fiction setting soon, so the lack of time travel elements didn’t bother me as much. However, it is the lack of editing that brings the book down. Giving it a couple of rounds of strict proofing and trimming off the superfluities will make this indie novel much more enjoyable. Also, if possible, a change in title, because ‘The Fountain’ is a huge misnomer. A different cover image also would help as the current one also stresses on the fountain.
2.5 stars.
My thanks to author John A. Heldt for a complimentary copy of “The Fountain”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Facebook | Twitter
September 6, 2022
Imagine, if you will, the ability to live your life for a second time. Would you take that risk knowing you might end up back to a time when the world looked vastly different from our technology riddled world of today?
The Carpenters did just that, they took a leap of faith. They ended up in a world vastly different from the one they left behind. Imagine if you will, returning to your 20 something year old self, Bill Carpenter was given that chance when he emerged from the mysterious fountain in 1905. Paul Carpenter emerged as his 17-year-old self, cancer free and young again! Alice Carpenter emerged as a 14-year-old version of herself and with both legs in full tact. BUT all three emerged knowing what they knew as elderly individuals in their younger bodies. How many times have you said to yourself, “if only I could re do X-Y-Z knowing what I know today?”
This book takes the reader on a journey of life, love, loss and the vast unknown that is time travel and the associated risks. I immersed myself in this journey with the Carpenters knowing that it would lead me down a path one could never fathom walking. As per usual John hits it out of the park interweaving the modern-day elderly versions of his characters with their younger spry selves while keeping the story moving. We live life with the Carpenters and the people they meet and fall in love with (Bill and Paul), however, like anything with risk there is ultimately loss and sacrifice. I won’t say who or what, but its something one will find out when they too jump feet first into The Fountain. I have loved all of John’s books and this wild ride was no exception, to say I am anxiously awaiting with bated breath for the next installment would be a VAST understatement!
The Carpenters did just that, they took a leap of faith. They ended up in a world vastly different from the one they left behind. Imagine if you will, returning to your 20 something year old self, Bill Carpenter was given that chance when he emerged from the mysterious fountain in 1905. Paul Carpenter emerged as his 17-year-old self, cancer free and young again! Alice Carpenter emerged as a 14-year-old version of herself and with both legs in full tact. BUT all three emerged knowing what they knew as elderly individuals in their younger bodies. How many times have you said to yourself, “if only I could re do X-Y-Z knowing what I know today?”
This book takes the reader on a journey of life, love, loss and the vast unknown that is time travel and the associated risks. I immersed myself in this journey with the Carpenters knowing that it would lead me down a path one could never fathom walking. As per usual John hits it out of the park interweaving the modern-day elderly versions of his characters with their younger spry selves while keeping the story moving. We live life with the Carpenters and the people they meet and fall in love with (Bill and Paul), however, like anything with risk there is ultimately loss and sacrifice. I won’t say who or what, but its something one will find out when they too jump feet first into The Fountain. I have loved all of John’s books and this wild ride was no exception, to say I am anxiously awaiting with bated breath for the next installment would be a VAST understatement!
August 25, 2022
4.5stars-THE FOUNTAIN is the first instalment in John A Heldt’s adult, SECOND CHANCE time travel romance series focusing on the Carpenter siblings: William, Paul and Annie.
Told from several third person perspectives THE FOUNTAIN focuses on the search for the Fountain of Youth. In May of 2022, 81 year old William Carpenter is a retired professor of folklore, and learns the mythology about the Fountain of Youth may be the reality he and his siblings are looking for. Having just buried his wife, William believes he has nothing more to lose, and convinces his siblings Paul 75, who has terminal cancer, and Annie 72 a paraplegic, to test the proverbial magic waters in La Paz, Mexico but the myth comes with the caveat of time travel, a caveat wherein the siblings have no idea where in the world or when they will land. Arriving in 1905, William now 23, Paul 17, and Annie 14 will find love and experience loss when history repeats itself with the 1906 earthquake in San Francisco.
John A Heldt weaves a little bit of fact with fiction in each of his time travel series, and The Fountain is no different. We are introduced to author Jack London, US General Frederick Funston, as well as a look at the early Suffragettes, and the losses and devastation of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. The premise is interesting and intriguing; the romances are sweet; the characters are charismatic and passionate.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from several third person perspectives THE FOUNTAIN focuses on the search for the Fountain of Youth. In May of 2022, 81 year old William Carpenter is a retired professor of folklore, and learns the mythology about the Fountain of Youth may be the reality he and his siblings are looking for. Having just buried his wife, William believes he has nothing more to lose, and convinces his siblings Paul 75, who has terminal cancer, and Annie 72 a paraplegic, to test the proverbial magic waters in La Paz, Mexico but the myth comes with the caveat of time travel, a caveat wherein the siblings have no idea where in the world or when they will land. Arriving in 1905, William now 23, Paul 17, and Annie 14 will find love and experience loss when history repeats itself with the 1906 earthquake in San Francisco.
John A Heldt weaves a little bit of fact with fiction in each of his time travel series, and The Fountain is no different. We are introduced to author Jack London, US General Frederick Funston, as well as a look at the early Suffragettes, and the losses and devastation of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. The premise is interesting and intriguing; the romances are sweet; the characters are charismatic and passionate.
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 29, 2023
Does the Fountain of Youth exist? If it does, would you utilize its powers to turn back time? What if it threw you back or forward in time? Do you still think you would want to test its powers?
While this book has a little bit of time travel in it, it is more historical. I always enjoy this author's books, and it is obvious the research that is put into the people and events of the eras he is portraying.
The story is told from several different perspectives - the three siblings and Cassie, the love interest of one of the siblings. Since this is a trilogy, I am assuming that books two and three will focus on Annie and Paul, the other two siblings. This one focuses a lot on Bill, his guardianship of his two siblings, finding employment in a world that is 100+ years before his time, and finding love. There isn't really a lot of conflict, but not everything is easy, and they do face challenges in this world. It is hard not to use terminology that we would use today without having to go into detail explaining what it means.
While the book focuses on Bill, we learn much about Annie and Paul. I really like Annie and her whip-smart intelligence and attitude. Paul realizes what might have gone wrong in his life in the past and seeks to make changes.
I am looking forward to reading the next two books in this trilogy.
We give this book 5 paws up.
While this book has a little bit of time travel in it, it is more historical. I always enjoy this author's books, and it is obvious the research that is put into the people and events of the eras he is portraying.
The story is told from several different perspectives - the three siblings and Cassie, the love interest of one of the siblings. Since this is a trilogy, I am assuming that books two and three will focus on Annie and Paul, the other two siblings. This one focuses a lot on Bill, his guardianship of his two siblings, finding employment in a world that is 100+ years before his time, and finding love. There isn't really a lot of conflict, but not everything is easy, and they do face challenges in this world. It is hard not to use terminology that we would use today without having to go into detail explaining what it means.
While the book focuses on Bill, we learn much about Annie and Paul. I really like Annie and her whip-smart intelligence and attitude. Paul realizes what might have gone wrong in his life in the past and seeks to make changes.
I am looking forward to reading the next two books in this trilogy.
We give this book 5 paws up.
August 26, 2022
As longtime fan of John A. Heldt's work, The Fountain continues his knack for writing fun, family-focused, and thrilling time-travel fiction. His newest novel brings a new twist to the time-travel story: a fountain of youth that not only allows people to travel back in time but also makes them younger! Senior citizen siblings Bill, Paul, and Annie are all close, but the woman who kept them together all these years, Alice (Bill's wife), has recently and unexpectedly died. To make matters worse, Paul is dying of lung cancer. Bill is a widower, and Annie has been confined to a wheelchair since she was fourteen. All three live with regrets as they near the end of their lives, so imagine the chance to do it all over again!
We travel with the siblings from 2022 to 1905, a time when life may have been simpler in some ways but has gone backwards in others, especially for Annie as a young woman. They are young again and have their whole lives ahead of them, but what will come next? Budding romance, new friendships and opportunities, and finding their ways in this new life and time are all filled with promise and hope, but as 1906 looms, the siblings have good reason to worry. The tragic earthquake that rocked San Francisco, just across the bay from Oakland where they're living, is no longer a historical event but a cataclysm in current times.
Heldt writes with honesty, heart, and great insight into the historic period. As always, he has researched thoroughly, but more than the setting, it's his characters who you fall for. You will laugh with them, cry with them, and want what's best for them.
And you'll certainly want to read book two in the series when it releases!
We travel with the siblings from 2022 to 1905, a time when life may have been simpler in some ways but has gone backwards in others, especially for Annie as a young woman. They are young again and have their whole lives ahead of them, but what will come next? Budding romance, new friendships and opportunities, and finding their ways in this new life and time are all filled with promise and hope, but as 1906 looms, the siblings have good reason to worry. The tragic earthquake that rocked San Francisco, just across the bay from Oakland where they're living, is no longer a historical event but a cataclysm in current times.
Heldt writes with honesty, heart, and great insight into the historic period. As always, he has researched thoroughly, but more than the setting, it's his characters who you fall for. You will laugh with them, cry with them, and want what's best for them.
And you'll certainly want to read book two in the series when it releases!
March 9, 2023
Another goodie
I love Mr. Heldt's books. He does excellent research. If he ever needs a genealogist I hope I get to help. Probably not but it's clearly obvious he gets excellent advice along with researching for himself.
I can't wait for the next one.
If, like me, you're more on the conservative side, you can easily enjoy this book. It has no graphic sexual details, even though you know something happened. It contains no foul language. Yet it's still very interesting. He proves you dont need those things to write a great story. If you love historical fiction, you'll love all his works. The only down to this one, and it was minor, was to think they were elderly before going back in time. So the two younger siblings dating high schoolers was a bit odd, but it didn't hurt the story. Enjoy
I love Mr. Heldt's books. He does excellent research. If he ever needs a genealogist I hope I get to help. Probably not but it's clearly obvious he gets excellent advice along with researching for himself.
I can't wait for the next one.
If, like me, you're more on the conservative side, you can easily enjoy this book. It has no graphic sexual details, even though you know something happened. It contains no foul language. Yet it's still very interesting. He proves you dont need those things to write a great story. If you love historical fiction, you'll love all his works. The only down to this one, and it was minor, was to think they were elderly before going back in time. So the two younger siblings dating high schoolers was a bit odd, but it didn't hurt the story. Enjoy
September 5, 2022
The first book in the new series doesn't disappoint. John works his magic on another family, with a new twist this time. The characters are real and believable, they drag you into the story almost immediately. The book is a fast read and leaves you wanting more. Now I just wait for the next installment.
September 2, 2022
My Thoughts
The legendary Fountain of Youth, myth or reality, Bill and his family find out the truth firsthand and in doing so change 3 lives that are winding down to 3 lives given a new lease in ways they only dreamed of before.
The book started off on a somber note with 81-year-old Bill, 72-year-old sister Annie and 75-year-old brother Paul standing in front of grave where Alice Bills wife of 57 years was just buried May 27, 2022 in Willamette National Cemetery Happy Valley, Oregon.
The trio are facing Paul’s imminent death as well because toll from his terminal lung cancer is slowly proving to be more intense every day.
Jumping forward in the story our siblings literally take the plunge into the past, July 27, 1905 to be exact.
It is in this time period where our now young versions of themselves time travelers get a chance to erase their regrets and perhaps live the lives that in the Carpenter trios hearts they always wished for, and did not achieve.
One of my favored reading scenarios is Time Travel and in the Carpenters tale having them start out as elderly citizens then change into younger healthy versions of themselves was a nice change of pace for me.
Author John A. Heldt has married historical events, romance and time travel splendidly in over 20 + novels and for me those stories remain to be captivating.
The Fountain was no exception and am anxious for the Carpenters stories to continue.
[Digital copy from Author]
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January 14, 2025I don't rate books I don't finish. There was nothing wrong with the writing or story but it was so slow. There was so much fluff. I couldn't care anymore.
August 23, 2022
If you have a fountain of youth, but you won't know where you will end up in, would you take that risk? These 3 siblings think it is worth the risk!
I received the book for a fair review from the author.
William "Bill" Carpenter, his sister Annie and his brother Paul join into the La Fuente, a special pool of water in a secret location. While they end up young again, they also ended up in 1905. Bill returned to the tender age of 23, Paul 17, while young sweet Annie turns 14.
This is the story about their journey in a new world of 1905. First, they have to make their way from La Paz, Mexico to Portland, Oregon. Bill, Annie and Paul have to fit in without giving secrets of youth away.
After being given a do-over in life, the 3 Carpenter Siblings are making sure that they do not squander this chance. It is about finding love again, and finding things that were missed in their previous lives. Perhaps a timely reminder about not wasting any that we have now.
This new series from John Heldt still has the time traveling gig, added with a sense of adventure and plenty of light-hearted humor. And, would our siblings find love this time around?
I received the book for a fair review from the author.
William "Bill" Carpenter, his sister Annie and his brother Paul join into the La Fuente, a special pool of water in a secret location. While they end up young again, they also ended up in 1905. Bill returned to the tender age of 23, Paul 17, while young sweet Annie turns 14.
This is the story about their journey in a new world of 1905. First, they have to make their way from La Paz, Mexico to Portland, Oregon. Bill, Annie and Paul have to fit in without giving secrets of youth away.
After being given a do-over in life, the 3 Carpenter Siblings are making sure that they do not squander this chance. It is about finding love again, and finding things that were missed in their previous lives. Perhaps a timely reminder about not wasting any that we have now.
This new series from John Heldt still has the time traveling gig, added with a sense of adventure and plenty of light-hearted humor. And, would our siblings find love this time around?
August 21, 2022
Based in Oregon the Carpenters are a sad family - it is 2022 and Bill who is 81 has just buried his beloved wife, Paul who is 75 has terminal lung cancer and Annie who is 72 has been a paraplegic for many years. The retired professor Bill learns from a dying man that the legendary Fountain of Youth is more than a myth and so he travels to Mexico to find out the truth. Within weeks the family have concluded that they have nothing to lose and so sell up and travel to a mysterious cave where they exit in 1905 as healthy young adults. They begin new lives in Oakland California only vaguely aware of the earthquake that will hit San Francisco Bay area on April 18th 1906.
I really enjoyed this story where the characters were clearly described and felt as if I could really experience what they were like and all the events they were living through. I loved the historical detail of the earthquake and the way it was woven into the story so that it was integral to the characters and events afterwards. It was easy to read, feel and understand. I can't wait to find out what happens to the family next as they continue with their new lives in the past.
I really enjoyed this story where the characters were clearly described and felt as if I could really experience what they were like and all the events they were living through. I loved the historical detail of the earthquake and the way it was woven into the story so that it was integral to the characters and events afterwards. It was easy to read, feel and understand. I can't wait to find out what happens to the family next as they continue with their new lives in the past.
December 19, 2022
One Sentence Summary: When three elderly siblings decide to jump into a magical Fountain of Youth, they’re given a second chance at youth and love, but it’s marred by looming disaster as they arrive shortly before the 1906 quake in San Francisco.
Overall
The Fountain is a sweet story of family, love, and second chances. It follows elderly siblings Bill, Paul, and Annie as they decide to take a chance with what appears to be a very real Fountain of Youth. With nothing to lose and everything to gain, they jump into the pool and end up in 1905 with young bodies and excellent health. While a good bit of this book felt like smooth sailing, I loved reading about Bill, Paul, and Annie as they make new lives with a future disaster looming over them. But it was nice that the coming quake wasn’t a huge focus for the entire book. Instead, it was more about the romances and relationships they each develop. It was very sweet to see them take this second chance and really try to do things with their lives. Sadly, I didn’t get a firm sense of the time period, but the characters themselves are well worth reading about. The love between these siblings is lovely, and I loved that they got a chance to live again.
Extended Thoughts
The Fountain is the first in the Second Chance series, which follows three siblings who take a plunge into a Fountain of Youth and emerge in 1905 with a second chance at youth. It starts with these three elderly siblings saying goodbye to the eldest’s late wife. Bill is a retired folklore and mythology professor, and doesn’t quite know how to move on after Alice’s death. Paul has recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer, and his imminent death weighs heavily on the siblings. Annie has been wheelchair-bound since an accident in her teens, which made having a typical life, complete with her own family, impossible for her. When one of Bill’s former students pays them a visit, it reopens something from Bill’s career: a potential Fountain of Youth. With nothing left to lose, Bill travels to learn the truth, and finds the location of this mythical fountain.
Despite some hesitations, the chance to re-live life is appealing to Bill, Paul, and Annie, so they ready themselves and take a leap of faith. Emerging in the summer of 1905, they eventually make their way to San Francisco, where Bill starts a new job at a school and his younger siblings enroll as students. It’s quite a change for them, but they each meet the times and challenges, and even find opportunities for a bit of romance. But, with vague knowledge of a coming quake, a shadow looms over them and their new found happiness.
I’m not really one for historical fiction, but do have an interest in the 1906 quake. The Fountain, though, is less historical fiction and more a fictional saga of three siblings who have the chance to live again on their hands. Bill, Paul, and Annie really brought the story to life, their relationship established early on as one full of love helping to carry them through the months following their arrival in 1905. They were delightful in both timelines, though I do wish their closeness had tied them together a little more after they had stepped back in time. But it was fun to follow them, even if parts of The Fountain started to feel more like historical romance. I was a little disappointed I didn’t get a strong sense of the historical time period, but also glad it wasn’t exactly a focus as history isn’t my strong point. Overall, I found The Fountain to be a very sweet story of family, love, and second chances, and these three siblings were wonderful to read about.
The Fountain‘s strength rests on the characters. The story is all about them and what they do with these opportunities that come knocking, as well as the knowledge of a looming disaster. Bill, Paul, and Annie were so different from each other, their lives colored by different life experiences, but I adored how close they are. It’s easy to feel the warmth and love they hold for each other, and I loved how they had that to rely on each other even as they stepped back into history and their lives took different paths.
Bill, as the oldest, really took on a lot of responsibility, but never seemed to mind shouldering it. I loved seeing his love and care for his family, though I was a little disappointed at how quickly he managed to find love again after losing his wife so early on in the story. I would have loved some grief from him, maybe some guilt as he moved on, but his romance with Cassie was really very sweet. She’s a teacher at the school and his job is to evaluate all the teachers, so it was fun to watch them butt heads as they dealt with each other. Their romance felt like it took up the bulk of the book, though, oddly, I felt Bill’s chapters decreased once the siblings stepped back in time. But it was that romance that really helped make the end of the book that much more excruciating as San Francisco and Oakland deal with the effects of the 1906 quake.
Compared to his siblings, Paul’s life felt the most adventurous, but also the most broken. One thing that was mentioned frequently was how frequently Paul had been married and divorced, so I think it really colored the approach he took to his second chance at youth. Previously, he’d been the one with the most to lose, having been diagnosed with terminal cancer, so it was a ton of fun to see him have the chance to let loose a bit and enjoy life again. I loved reading about him and the girls he attracted. But, remembering his past, it was very sweet to see him grow up again. I loved how he took his second chance seriously and saw it as a chance to do things differently, but his story also made me wonder if it really is possible to do things differently.
I adored Annie. She felt like she might have been a bit of a spit fire as an elderly woman, so it was a lot of fun to see her as a teenage girl. She’d lost out on so much in her first life, so it was fantastic to see her get to be a regular girl for the first time. I really loved how feminist she is, and how Cassie encouraged her so much. Annie is a sharp young woman, but still a teen girl, especially when it comes to Cassie’s younger brother. Their friendship was adorable, and I can’t imagine how difficult it must have been for an actual elderly woman to deal with love again in the body of a teenager. Sometimes it felt frustrating to read her chapters, but she really embraced the times and her youth.
As much as the siblings thrived in 1905-1906, I did want to see them struggle to assimilate a bit. Everything seemed to go so smoothly for them. There were times when it even felt like they’d forgotten their future knowledge, though it was easier to deal with when remembering they had been elderly and probably not so reliant on the technology of today. Still, I felt their frustration at having to rely on old sources to figure some things out and wanted to just tell them to Google something before remembering there was no such thing. Their minor slips were fun, but not quite as frequent as I had hoped as I imagine I would have made plenty. Still, I loved how well they took to their second youths, how it seemed to bring them all back to life.
The one thing I feel on the fence about is my feelings regarding the historical time period. This isn’t strictly an historical fiction novel, but I suppose I was expecting to feel like I was taken back in time to the early 1900s. While I did feel that way in a sense, I would have also loved to get more of a reaction from the characters about how different it was back then compared to now. I also had a difficult time picturing what San Francisco and Oakland looked like and just generally didn’t get a strong sense of the early 1900s. On the other hand, I loved that there weren’t as many historical details that would get me bogged down in wondering about the accuracy so I could just enjoy this story about three siblings getting a second chance.
The Fountain is a very sweet story with a heart wrenching end, though it’s open for the story to keep going in another book. The narrative style was a little difficult to read through and bogged me down more than once as adjacent sentences tended to be repetitive, making the story telling feel very passive and slow, but I still enjoyed this novel. The characters were exceptionally well-crafted, including the minor characters. They all had distinctive personalities and it was fun to watch them all come together. I adored the sprinkles of feminism and loved seeing what the men had to deal with from the women. There was a lot of fun on these pages, so I loved that there was always this shadow over them. The ending was fantastically done, though I cannot comment on any accuracy. I really felt for the characters, and found myself leaving the story holding them close to my heart and wishing for the best.
Thank you to the author for a review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
Overall
The Fountain is a sweet story of family, love, and second chances. It follows elderly siblings Bill, Paul, and Annie as they decide to take a chance with what appears to be a very real Fountain of Youth. With nothing to lose and everything to gain, they jump into the pool and end up in 1905 with young bodies and excellent health. While a good bit of this book felt like smooth sailing, I loved reading about Bill, Paul, and Annie as they make new lives with a future disaster looming over them. But it was nice that the coming quake wasn’t a huge focus for the entire book. Instead, it was more about the romances and relationships they each develop. It was very sweet to see them take this second chance and really try to do things with their lives. Sadly, I didn’t get a firm sense of the time period, but the characters themselves are well worth reading about. The love between these siblings is lovely, and I loved that they got a chance to live again.
Extended Thoughts
The Fountain is the first in the Second Chance series, which follows three siblings who take a plunge into a Fountain of Youth and emerge in 1905 with a second chance at youth. It starts with these three elderly siblings saying goodbye to the eldest’s late wife. Bill is a retired folklore and mythology professor, and doesn’t quite know how to move on after Alice’s death. Paul has recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer, and his imminent death weighs heavily on the siblings. Annie has been wheelchair-bound since an accident in her teens, which made having a typical life, complete with her own family, impossible for her. When one of Bill’s former students pays them a visit, it reopens something from Bill’s career: a potential Fountain of Youth. With nothing left to lose, Bill travels to learn the truth, and finds the location of this mythical fountain.
Despite some hesitations, the chance to re-live life is appealing to Bill, Paul, and Annie, so they ready themselves and take a leap of faith. Emerging in the summer of 1905, they eventually make their way to San Francisco, where Bill starts a new job at a school and his younger siblings enroll as students. It’s quite a change for them, but they each meet the times and challenges, and even find opportunities for a bit of romance. But, with vague knowledge of a coming quake, a shadow looms over them and their new found happiness.
I’m not really one for historical fiction, but do have an interest in the 1906 quake. The Fountain, though, is less historical fiction and more a fictional saga of three siblings who have the chance to live again on their hands. Bill, Paul, and Annie really brought the story to life, their relationship established early on as one full of love helping to carry them through the months following their arrival in 1905. They were delightful in both timelines, though I do wish their closeness had tied them together a little more after they had stepped back in time. But it was fun to follow them, even if parts of The Fountain started to feel more like historical romance. I was a little disappointed I didn’t get a strong sense of the historical time period, but also glad it wasn’t exactly a focus as history isn’t my strong point. Overall, I found The Fountain to be a very sweet story of family, love, and second chances, and these three siblings were wonderful to read about.
The Fountain‘s strength rests on the characters. The story is all about them and what they do with these opportunities that come knocking, as well as the knowledge of a looming disaster. Bill, Paul, and Annie were so different from each other, their lives colored by different life experiences, but I adored how close they are. It’s easy to feel the warmth and love they hold for each other, and I loved how they had that to rely on each other even as they stepped back into history and their lives took different paths.
Bill, as the oldest, really took on a lot of responsibility, but never seemed to mind shouldering it. I loved seeing his love and care for his family, though I was a little disappointed at how quickly he managed to find love again after losing his wife so early on in the story. I would have loved some grief from him, maybe some guilt as he moved on, but his romance with Cassie was really very sweet. She’s a teacher at the school and his job is to evaluate all the teachers, so it was fun to watch them butt heads as they dealt with each other. Their romance felt like it took up the bulk of the book, though, oddly, I felt Bill’s chapters decreased once the siblings stepped back in time. But it was that romance that really helped make the end of the book that much more excruciating as San Francisco and Oakland deal with the effects of the 1906 quake.
Compared to his siblings, Paul’s life felt the most adventurous, but also the most broken. One thing that was mentioned frequently was how frequently Paul had been married and divorced, so I think it really colored the approach he took to his second chance at youth. Previously, he’d been the one with the most to lose, having been diagnosed with terminal cancer, so it was a ton of fun to see him have the chance to let loose a bit and enjoy life again. I loved reading about him and the girls he attracted. But, remembering his past, it was very sweet to see him grow up again. I loved how he took his second chance seriously and saw it as a chance to do things differently, but his story also made me wonder if it really is possible to do things differently.
I adored Annie. She felt like she might have been a bit of a spit fire as an elderly woman, so it was a lot of fun to see her as a teenage girl. She’d lost out on so much in her first life, so it was fantastic to see her get to be a regular girl for the first time. I really loved how feminist she is, and how Cassie encouraged her so much. Annie is a sharp young woman, but still a teen girl, especially when it comes to Cassie’s younger brother. Their friendship was adorable, and I can’t imagine how difficult it must have been for an actual elderly woman to deal with love again in the body of a teenager. Sometimes it felt frustrating to read her chapters, but she really embraced the times and her youth.
As much as the siblings thrived in 1905-1906, I did want to see them struggle to assimilate a bit. Everything seemed to go so smoothly for them. There were times when it even felt like they’d forgotten their future knowledge, though it was easier to deal with when remembering they had been elderly and probably not so reliant on the technology of today. Still, I felt their frustration at having to rely on old sources to figure some things out and wanted to just tell them to Google something before remembering there was no such thing. Their minor slips were fun, but not quite as frequent as I had hoped as I imagine I would have made plenty. Still, I loved how well they took to their second youths, how it seemed to bring them all back to life.
The one thing I feel on the fence about is my feelings regarding the historical time period. This isn’t strictly an historical fiction novel, but I suppose I was expecting to feel like I was taken back in time to the early 1900s. While I did feel that way in a sense, I would have also loved to get more of a reaction from the characters about how different it was back then compared to now. I also had a difficult time picturing what San Francisco and Oakland looked like and just generally didn’t get a strong sense of the early 1900s. On the other hand, I loved that there weren’t as many historical details that would get me bogged down in wondering about the accuracy so I could just enjoy this story about three siblings getting a second chance.
The Fountain is a very sweet story with a heart wrenching end, though it’s open for the story to keep going in another book. The narrative style was a little difficult to read through and bogged me down more than once as adjacent sentences tended to be repetitive, making the story telling feel very passive and slow, but I still enjoyed this novel. The characters were exceptionally well-crafted, including the minor characters. They all had distinctive personalities and it was fun to watch them all come together. I adored the sprinkles of feminism and loved seeing what the men had to deal with from the women. There was a lot of fun on these pages, so I loved that there was always this shadow over them. The ending was fantastically done, though I cannot comment on any accuracy. I really felt for the characters, and found myself leaving the story holding them close to my heart and wishing for the best.
Thank you to the author for a review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 22, 2022
I'm a big fan of time travel novels and this one was a lot of fun. It was nice being immersed into a time period that most haven't done before, and the historical aspect made it even more enjoyable. I found the characters relatable and it was a pleasure following their stories. Very excited to see where this series goes!
August 16, 2022
I have every series this author has written and once again, he does not disappoint. I felt like I was in the story and not only learned historical happenings but felt like I was witnessing the events as they unfolded. I can’t wait for the second book to come out. The hardest part was coming to the end of the book. 😄Don’t miss out read this book today.
September 4, 2022
Three siblings decide to take a jump into the Fountain of Youth hoping to save one of them from death, another from a life in a wheelchair and the third--well he just lost his wife. Bill, the oldest, was skeptical but did his homework and decided that maybe the myth was real after all. They took the plunge! They ended up much younger and healthier in California of 1905. Everything is working out beautifully until they realize that the San Francisco earthquake that demolished that city was going to happen in 1906. They tried to figure out exactly when--
This story will tug at your heartstrings in parts and gladden your heart in others. There is a lot that goes on and there is an open ended ending which the author promises will be resolved in books in this series to come!! I really want to know what happens to these travelers in time and can hardly wait for book #2.
I love all of this author's series--he combines history with storytelling seamlessly. If you have never read any of his books I highly suggest you start!!
This story will tug at your heartstrings in parts and gladden your heart in others. There is a lot that goes on and there is an open ended ending which the author promises will be resolved in books in this series to come!! I really want to know what happens to these travelers in time and can hardly wait for book #2.
I love all of this author's series--he combines history with storytelling seamlessly. If you have never read any of his books I highly suggest you start!!
August 30, 2023
A tale of time travel, history, danger, romance, and family relationships.
While this is a time travel book, as with all John A. Heldt’s books, it is so much more.
John skilfully combines a good story with well researched history. I have all of his books and he has never failed to entertain with his family based time travel stories.
The Fountain is the first book of his new Second Chance series and after being introduced to the Carpenters, I look forward to the next in the series.
The three main characters are ageing siblings Bill, Paul and Annie. Bill (81) has just been widowed, Paul (75) is dying from lung cancer and Annie (72) is confined to a wheelchair.
All are childless and wonder what there is left in life. When Bill, a retired folklore and mythology professor, hears about a fountain of youth in La Paz, Mexico that could not only give them a second chance it would also mean travelling back in time to a simpler lifestyle. They don’t hesitate in making their decision. They sell their house and possessions and convert the proceeds into gold.
To reach the fountain they must travel to Mexico and enter an almost unknown cave. They enter the fountain and emerge in 1905. But things are different – Bill is now a young man of 23, Paul a cancer free teenager of 17 and Annie a 14 year old with a healthy body.
They must then find a way to get from Mexico to Oakland, California. Once in California they settle in and make friends. Bill finds a job and the two younger ones enrol in school but there is still one thing worrying them – the 1906 San Francisco earthquake especially when none of them can remember exactly when it will occur.
The Carpenters fitted in well to their new age. They had a few slip ups, particularly with jargon or slang terms, but it was fun to see them wriggle out of it.
The Fountain is much more than a time travel book. Heldt combines time travel with family relationships, history, romance, and heartbreak.
As always, he manages to combine all these genres without graphic sex or foul language. His history is well researched giving the reader a definite sense of time and place.
Aged 74 myself, I was able to relate to Bill, Paul and Annie and their wish to go back in time to a younger version of themselves. The difference is I have a son and grandchildren, they have no one but each other.
They are marvellous characters, quiet achievers, and caring souls.
We have a clear impression of Heldt’s main characters from the start and it was interesting to see that influenced who they were in 1905. Nothing was lost in the relationship between them or their attitudes to others and their distinct personalities remained unchanged.
Widower Bill has just buried his beloved wife after 54 years of marriage and is somewhat lost. While she is not strictly a character in the book she was much loved by his siblings and a strong influence on their lives.
Paul’s background is a bit clearer. He is a disgraced soldier, has been married three times and now coming to terms with living with terminal cancer. I felt he had the most to gain from a second chance and was a delightful, caring young man in 1905.
Annie is used to her life confined to a wheelchair but is still frustrated with the limitations especially not having children. The opportunity to be free of it and relive a young life appeals greatly and she embraces life in 1905 with enthusiasm.
My favourite character though was Cassie, a teacher at the school where Bill has a job to assess the teaching staff and where Annie and Paul attend school. She’s smart, feisty and beautiful but she and Bill don’t hit it off in the beginning.
The other characters include Cassie’s family and another student, Pauline Wagner.
But in a John A. Heldt book you never know who you will meet and in this case, we meet Jack London, author of Call of the Wild and White Fang as well as US General Frederick Funston.
Every character has been well cast. They are believable and likeable. In fact, they are the key to the story.
The story is told from several points of view – the three siblings and Cassie. This does not confuse the reader as each chapter is titled with the name of the character.
As with all his books, Heldt’s blending of history and an imaginative story is creative with a gradual build up in tension. It all comes together in a relaxing and absorbing read.
As part of a series The Fountain is a complete story but Heldt leaves you wanting more. I am looking forward to reading the next in the series Annie’s Apple.
My thanks to the author for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
My rating 5*
While this is a time travel book, as with all John A. Heldt’s books, it is so much more.
John skilfully combines a good story with well researched history. I have all of his books and he has never failed to entertain with his family based time travel stories.
The Fountain is the first book of his new Second Chance series and after being introduced to the Carpenters, I look forward to the next in the series.
The three main characters are ageing siblings Bill, Paul and Annie. Bill (81) has just been widowed, Paul (75) is dying from lung cancer and Annie (72) is confined to a wheelchair.
All are childless and wonder what there is left in life. When Bill, a retired folklore and mythology professor, hears about a fountain of youth in La Paz, Mexico that could not only give them a second chance it would also mean travelling back in time to a simpler lifestyle. They don’t hesitate in making their decision. They sell their house and possessions and convert the proceeds into gold.
To reach the fountain they must travel to Mexico and enter an almost unknown cave. They enter the fountain and emerge in 1905. But things are different – Bill is now a young man of 23, Paul a cancer free teenager of 17 and Annie a 14 year old with a healthy body.
They must then find a way to get from Mexico to Oakland, California. Once in California they settle in and make friends. Bill finds a job and the two younger ones enrol in school but there is still one thing worrying them – the 1906 San Francisco earthquake especially when none of them can remember exactly when it will occur.
The Carpenters fitted in well to their new age. They had a few slip ups, particularly with jargon or slang terms, but it was fun to see them wriggle out of it.
The Fountain is much more than a time travel book. Heldt combines time travel with family relationships, history, romance, and heartbreak.
As always, he manages to combine all these genres without graphic sex or foul language. His history is well researched giving the reader a definite sense of time and place.
Aged 74 myself, I was able to relate to Bill, Paul and Annie and their wish to go back in time to a younger version of themselves. The difference is I have a son and grandchildren, they have no one but each other.
They are marvellous characters, quiet achievers, and caring souls.
We have a clear impression of Heldt’s main characters from the start and it was interesting to see that influenced who they were in 1905. Nothing was lost in the relationship between them or their attitudes to others and their distinct personalities remained unchanged.
Widower Bill has just buried his beloved wife after 54 years of marriage and is somewhat lost. While she is not strictly a character in the book she was much loved by his siblings and a strong influence on their lives.
Paul’s background is a bit clearer. He is a disgraced soldier, has been married three times and now coming to terms with living with terminal cancer. I felt he had the most to gain from a second chance and was a delightful, caring young man in 1905.
Annie is used to her life confined to a wheelchair but is still frustrated with the limitations especially not having children. The opportunity to be free of it and relive a young life appeals greatly and she embraces life in 1905 with enthusiasm.
My favourite character though was Cassie, a teacher at the school where Bill has a job to assess the teaching staff and where Annie and Paul attend school. She’s smart, feisty and beautiful but she and Bill don’t hit it off in the beginning.
The other characters include Cassie’s family and another student, Pauline Wagner.
But in a John A. Heldt book you never know who you will meet and in this case, we meet Jack London, author of Call of the Wild and White Fang as well as US General Frederick Funston.
Every character has been well cast. They are believable and likeable. In fact, they are the key to the story.
The story is told from several points of view – the three siblings and Cassie. This does not confuse the reader as each chapter is titled with the name of the character.
As with all his books, Heldt’s blending of history and an imaginative story is creative with a gradual build up in tension. It all comes together in a relaxing and absorbing read.
As part of a series The Fountain is a complete story but Heldt leaves you wanting more. I am looking forward to reading the next in the series Annie’s Apple.
My thanks to the author for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
My rating 5*
October 13, 2022
Elderly siblings, Bill, Paul, and Annie Carpenter only have each other and their problems left; Bill has just lost his wife, Paul has terminal cancer, and Annie is confined to a wheelchair.
However, when a decades-old myth regarding the existence of a Fountain of Youth that Bill, a folklore professor, dismissed years ago begins to hold credibility, the three decide to start their lives anew…
Transported to San Francisco in 1905, Bill, Paul, and Annie soon settle in, making friends, lovers, and a future even though they know a devastating earthquake will hit the city sometime in 1906…
The Fountain opens Heldt’s new time-traveling trilogy. Having read his Time Box Series, not only was I looking forward to this fresh journey but also interested to compare and contrast it with Time Box.
All of the Heldt hallmarks are here. His writing has that sublime, understated, almost logical quality that seems effortless yet works very hard to draw multiple, often competing strands of narrative together.
It’s reassuringly excellent and, consequently difficult to put down, but there are enough disparities in plotting and character that make The Fountain intriguing, individual, and quite different from the previous time-traveling novels.
Heldt takes time to build up the characters of the siblings before they jump back in time. Their close, easy dynamic is established early on and each is convincingly portrayed. The reader is given the subtle context of their lives which carries both poignancy and positivity once they are in 1905.
Bill still has a child’s curiosity but is weighed by the twin burdens of responsibility and grief. Paul is lost but resigned to his fate, and Annie is probably the saddest albeit the more stoic one of all three.
As the narrative gains momentum to the siblings taking the plunge, it’s riveting and Heldt
measures the tempo just right to avoid frustration, building excitement and apprehension with a well-judged but tense pace.
Once the three jump and land in the early 1900s as a twenty-three-year-old, a seventeen-year-old, and a fourteen-year-old, it makes for compulsive reading as the siblings quickly forge ahead due to luck, circumstance, and charm while navigating tricky questions and the odd slip-up.
The difficulty of placing elderly minds into young bodies could have proved awkward but Heldt manages to retain the personalities that the reader is already accustomed to while still imbuing youthful exuberance and novelty. It reads with utmost plausibility.
The story is gloriously entertaining and, in parts, has a light-hearted feel although the chapters leading up to the earthquake and its aftermath are full of panicky fear and creeping suspense.
Heldt is adept at steering the reader through difficult but necessary plot twists. The narrative moves between genres and fairly weighty themes with ease and gentle escapism when actually, the premise of the novel raises some profound questions and some of the events towards the end are heart-breaking.
The other main members of the cast; the Lee family (Cassie and Andy, in particular), and Pauline Wagner are authentic, investable, and thoughtfully developed. As the plot with all its various surfaces, sub-texts, and angles gathers pace it capably and intriguingly lays the foundations for the next two books whilst ensuring The Fountain is a fully rounded, thoroughly engrossing novel in its own right.
As usual, Heldt’s research is impressive. Aside from the meticulous period detail, the level of insight and knowledge of San Francisco in the early 1900s and the earthquake that strikes is fascinating yet seamlessly woven into the Carpenter’s narrative.
Another great book, written with customary verve, enthusiasm, and accomplishment. Bill Carpenter is described in Chapter 16 as “good at spinning yarns”. It’s a phrase that could equally be applied to John A. Heldt. Highly recommended.
However, when a decades-old myth regarding the existence of a Fountain of Youth that Bill, a folklore professor, dismissed years ago begins to hold credibility, the three decide to start their lives anew…
Transported to San Francisco in 1905, Bill, Paul, and Annie soon settle in, making friends, lovers, and a future even though they know a devastating earthquake will hit the city sometime in 1906…
The Fountain opens Heldt’s new time-traveling trilogy. Having read his Time Box Series, not only was I looking forward to this fresh journey but also interested to compare and contrast it with Time Box.
All of the Heldt hallmarks are here. His writing has that sublime, understated, almost logical quality that seems effortless yet works very hard to draw multiple, often competing strands of narrative together.
It’s reassuringly excellent and, consequently difficult to put down, but there are enough disparities in plotting and character that make The Fountain intriguing, individual, and quite different from the previous time-traveling novels.
Heldt takes time to build up the characters of the siblings before they jump back in time. Their close, easy dynamic is established early on and each is convincingly portrayed. The reader is given the subtle context of their lives which carries both poignancy and positivity once they are in 1905.
Bill still has a child’s curiosity but is weighed by the twin burdens of responsibility and grief. Paul is lost but resigned to his fate, and Annie is probably the saddest albeit the more stoic one of all three.
As the narrative gains momentum to the siblings taking the plunge, it’s riveting and Heldt
measures the tempo just right to avoid frustration, building excitement and apprehension with a well-judged but tense pace.
Once the three jump and land in the early 1900s as a twenty-three-year-old, a seventeen-year-old, and a fourteen-year-old, it makes for compulsive reading as the siblings quickly forge ahead due to luck, circumstance, and charm while navigating tricky questions and the odd slip-up.
The difficulty of placing elderly minds into young bodies could have proved awkward but Heldt manages to retain the personalities that the reader is already accustomed to while still imbuing youthful exuberance and novelty. It reads with utmost plausibility.
The story is gloriously entertaining and, in parts, has a light-hearted feel although the chapters leading up to the earthquake and its aftermath are full of panicky fear and creeping suspense.
Heldt is adept at steering the reader through difficult but necessary plot twists. The narrative moves between genres and fairly weighty themes with ease and gentle escapism when actually, the premise of the novel raises some profound questions and some of the events towards the end are heart-breaking.
The other main members of the cast; the Lee family (Cassie and Andy, in particular), and Pauline Wagner are authentic, investable, and thoughtfully developed. As the plot with all its various surfaces, sub-texts, and angles gathers pace it capably and intriguingly lays the foundations for the next two books whilst ensuring The Fountain is a fully rounded, thoroughly engrossing novel in its own right.
As usual, Heldt’s research is impressive. Aside from the meticulous period detail, the level of insight and knowledge of San Francisco in the early 1900s and the earthquake that strikes is fascinating yet seamlessly woven into the Carpenter’s narrative.
Another great book, written with customary verve, enthusiasm, and accomplishment. Bill Carpenter is described in Chapter 16 as “good at spinning yarns”. It’s a phrase that could equally be applied to John A. Heldt. Highly recommended.
February 22, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Fountain by John A. Heldt features a new time-traveling family. Except this time, the family is only three siblings, and they are all older.
Will Bill, Paul, and Annie find a better outcome in the past than in the future?
Bill
Bill, the oldest of the Carpenter trio, is tired of burying deceased loved ones and is trying to keep Paul from dying. The only thing Bill is certain that he needs to do is to listen to a so-called time traveler to see if what he is saying is true. William finds out that he is and convinces his dying middle brother and a younger sister, who hasn't walked since the eighth grade, to take a leap of faith with him into the unknown.
I loved that Bill was ready to take the chance of doing the impossible with his two siblings and even more to go into the unknown. Another thing that I loved was seeing the early 1900s through these three characters' eyes and seeing how easy it was for them to fall in love with certain people. Of course, like most of Mr. Heldt's family series that revolves around siblings, the first book focuses on the oldest sibling's romance front and center.
Paul
Paul, the middle one, is dying of lung cancer and is saddened that he won't be put into a military graveyard because he is a disgraced soldier. He is the one that loved the idea that Bill offered them and was even happier to be back in a younger body again. Once they got settled into their new year of 1905, Paul was back in his element and was glad to have this second chance at life.
Paul got that in spades as he found a wonderful girl at his new high school in Oakland, California, even though an earthquake would happen sometime in 1906. None of the Carpenter siblings remember when it would happen, though. I felt a lot of different emotions when a chapter or subplot focused on Paul. Firstly his cancer was a grim discovery at the novel's beginning that went away, so it wasn't that big of a deal. Until he found other things to worry about. I have to say that I felt extremely sad for Paul.
Annie
Annie, the youngest, was stuck in a wheelchair in her first life, and now she is free of the wheelchair in her second life. I have to say that seeing Annie come to life through the pages of this novel was fantastic. The little spitfire is quite hilarious. I have to admit I was quite worried about how Mr. Heldt would do a 72-year-old back in a young woman's body, and I have to say that he did it well. Annie started her first year at their Oakland high school and is loving her second go-through of being at high school even more so because she might have caught the eye of a certain boy even if he is too old for her.
Of the three Carpenter siblings, I have to say that Annie is my favorite.
Five Stars
The Fountain by John A. Heldt starts a trilogy for his newest family. I have to say that the Carpenter siblings are quite a trio of siblings. The banter between them was perfect, and I loved everything about it. Mr. Heldt has quite a way of bringing a historical tragedy to life in his novels, and this one is another beautifully written one to add to the list. It made me feel like I was with them, experiencing all the tragedies. I can't wait to see what the second novel will bring us.
I am giving five stars to The Fountain by John A. Heldt. I recommend not only this one but all of John Heldt's series. They are all great and give each person that reads them a great way to live history through the characters.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Fountain by John A. Heldt.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
The Fountain by John A. Heldt features a new time-traveling family. Except this time, the family is only three siblings, and they are all older.
Will Bill, Paul, and Annie find a better outcome in the past than in the future?
Bill
Bill, the oldest of the Carpenter trio, is tired of burying deceased loved ones and is trying to keep Paul from dying. The only thing Bill is certain that he needs to do is to listen to a so-called time traveler to see if what he is saying is true. William finds out that he is and convinces his dying middle brother and a younger sister, who hasn't walked since the eighth grade, to take a leap of faith with him into the unknown.
I loved that Bill was ready to take the chance of doing the impossible with his two siblings and even more to go into the unknown. Another thing that I loved was seeing the early 1900s through these three characters' eyes and seeing how easy it was for them to fall in love with certain people. Of course, like most of Mr. Heldt's family series that revolves around siblings, the first book focuses on the oldest sibling's romance front and center.
Paul
Paul, the middle one, is dying of lung cancer and is saddened that he won't be put into a military graveyard because he is a disgraced soldier. He is the one that loved the idea that Bill offered them and was even happier to be back in a younger body again. Once they got settled into their new year of 1905, Paul was back in his element and was glad to have this second chance at life.
Paul got that in spades as he found a wonderful girl at his new high school in Oakland, California, even though an earthquake would happen sometime in 1906. None of the Carpenter siblings remember when it would happen, though. I felt a lot of different emotions when a chapter or subplot focused on Paul. Firstly his cancer was a grim discovery at the novel's beginning that went away, so it wasn't that big of a deal. Until he found other things to worry about. I have to say that I felt extremely sad for Paul.
Annie
Annie, the youngest, was stuck in a wheelchair in her first life, and now she is free of the wheelchair in her second life. I have to say that seeing Annie come to life through the pages of this novel was fantastic. The little spitfire is quite hilarious. I have to admit I was quite worried about how Mr. Heldt would do a 72-year-old back in a young woman's body, and I have to say that he did it well. Annie started her first year at their Oakland high school and is loving her second go-through of being at high school even more so because she might have caught the eye of a certain boy even if he is too old for her.
Of the three Carpenter siblings, I have to say that Annie is my favorite.
Five Stars
The Fountain by John A. Heldt starts a trilogy for his newest family. I have to say that the Carpenter siblings are quite a trio of siblings. The banter between them was perfect, and I loved everything about it. Mr. Heldt has quite a way of bringing a historical tragedy to life in his novels, and this one is another beautifully written one to add to the list. It made me feel like I was with them, experiencing all the tragedies. I can't wait to see what the second novel will bring us.
I am giving five stars to The Fountain by John A. Heldt. I recommend not only this one but all of John Heldt's series. They are all great and give each person that reads them a great way to live history through the characters.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Fountain by John A. Heldt.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
August 17, 2022
John Heldt – Second Chance Bk 1 – The Fountain – Reviewed 8/16/22 – Read 8/14-15/22
Is a second chance at life the correct answer for the Carpenters?
Bill is stymied, could there be a fountain of youth? Is time travel possible? Bill agreed to investigate and determine if it was true. Now he seriously thinks about the possibilities for his siblings. Annie has used a wheelchair since she was a young girl. And then there was Paul, slowly dying from lung cancer. Paul had made his peace and was trying to go out on his own terms, but it was heartbreaking for Bill to know what was coming and how soon it would affect all their lives. Bill was also tired; he was 71 and had just buried the woman he had loved for the last 54 years. He also had made his peace and just wanted to spend his last few years in a familiar place; that was why he bought the house where they had all grown up. Afterward, he convinced Paul and Annie to come home so they could be together. Now though, they had lots to talk about and consider if it was the right thing for them, a second chance at life.
What did I like? I have read every book John has written, and each one has amazed me. Not only does he write the most beautiful love stories filled with action and so many twists and turns, but every book has featured something that has happened in history. Now, as you know, history can undoubtedly be dull if you sit and read it. Still, when you add a love story, giving it an individualized touch filled with difficulties, twists, turns, what ifs, and so on, the history comes alive and becomes so interesting to read. I think I have learned more about history at this point in my life than I ever did sitting in a classroom. John’s way of bringing these events to life is intriguing. In this book, we learn about the events of the devastating San Francisco earthquake in April of 1906. Of course, I knew about it, but did I understand the destruction, the lives lost, and the effect it had on the survivors? No, I did not, but now I have!
What will you like? The storyline will capture your heart; the earthquake and after-effects will shake you to the core, but most of all, you will have one incredible read. If you have not read any of John’s books, I highly recommend that you do; each book will take you to another interesting historical event and give you exciting and enjoyable storylines. John has written more than twenty books, which are incredible. Be sure to pick up your copies and prepare for history to come alive but include a box of tissues when you sit down. I must a cried a mountain of tears for the difficulties of his characters but loved every minute of them. “The Fountain,” book one in the new Second Chance series by John Heldt, is available now!
• Publication Date: 8/14/2022
• File Size: 2117 KB
• Print Length: 567 pages
• Genre: Time Travel Fiction, Time Travel Romance, Historical Fiction
Is a second chance at life the correct answer for the Carpenters?
Bill is stymied, could there be a fountain of youth? Is time travel possible? Bill agreed to investigate and determine if it was true. Now he seriously thinks about the possibilities for his siblings. Annie has used a wheelchair since she was a young girl. And then there was Paul, slowly dying from lung cancer. Paul had made his peace and was trying to go out on his own terms, but it was heartbreaking for Bill to know what was coming and how soon it would affect all their lives. Bill was also tired; he was 71 and had just buried the woman he had loved for the last 54 years. He also had made his peace and just wanted to spend his last few years in a familiar place; that was why he bought the house where they had all grown up. Afterward, he convinced Paul and Annie to come home so they could be together. Now though, they had lots to talk about and consider if it was the right thing for them, a second chance at life.
What did I like? I have read every book John has written, and each one has amazed me. Not only does he write the most beautiful love stories filled with action and so many twists and turns, but every book has featured something that has happened in history. Now, as you know, history can undoubtedly be dull if you sit and read it. Still, when you add a love story, giving it an individualized touch filled with difficulties, twists, turns, what ifs, and so on, the history comes alive and becomes so interesting to read. I think I have learned more about history at this point in my life than I ever did sitting in a classroom. John’s way of bringing these events to life is intriguing. In this book, we learn about the events of the devastating San Francisco earthquake in April of 1906. Of course, I knew about it, but did I understand the destruction, the lives lost, and the effect it had on the survivors? No, I did not, but now I have!
What will you like? The storyline will capture your heart; the earthquake and after-effects will shake you to the core, but most of all, you will have one incredible read. If you have not read any of John’s books, I highly recommend that you do; each book will take you to another interesting historical event and give you exciting and enjoyable storylines. John has written more than twenty books, which are incredible. Be sure to pick up your copies and prepare for history to come alive but include a box of tissues when you sit down. I must a cried a mountain of tears for the difficulties of his characters but loved every minute of them. “The Fountain,” book one in the new Second Chance series by John Heldt, is available now!
• Publication Date: 8/14/2022
• File Size: 2117 KB
• Print Length: 567 pages
• Genre: Time Travel Fiction, Time Travel Romance, Historical Fiction
August 17, 2022
I had the great pleasure of reading John A. Heldt's newest offering The Fountain in its mobi iteration.
As one of those many readers who have enjoyed all, now 21, of his works, I was excited to check out the newest book. As always, Mr. Heldt's work does not disappoint. The Fountain does take a different tack from previous works.
Here we find our main characters, the Carpenter siblings, travelling back in time to 1905. The difference is that they do so via a fountain of youth. I found this an intriguing idea. They are able to live a new life as young adults without losing the accumulated knowledge of their advanced chronological ages. Taking a line from Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome :"Think of the possibilities."
One of Mr. Heldt,s gifts as a writer is to endear the reader to his characters quickly with seemingly minimal effort. I was immediately engaged, I was invested in these three siblings. The second chance they are given is such a thought provoking theme. I could put myself in their places easily and consider (fantasize actually) what I would do. Though I usually lose myself in Mr. Heldt's work, The Fountain took me deeper than usual. I was immersed in this story.
I have commented on other books by Mr. Heldt, how often there is some part of the story that relates directly to my personal experience. Most of the time it is physical locations where I have lived and have some personal connection which makes the story more personal to me. This time however, the connection is more personal, I truly identify with one of the characters. I won't share which one here, this is supposed to be about the book after all. But I am somewhat mystified as to how Mr.Heldt's work so often ties to my personal life.
I said I was immersed in this story and an example is when Cassie tells her beau Bill "I made You look" she actually made me look too. I bet she made a lot of people look.
Set around the historic San Francisco Earthquake, The Fountain begins another compelling story arc I can't wait to continue. Enjoy!
As one of those many readers who have enjoyed all, now 21, of his works, I was excited to check out the newest book. As always, Mr. Heldt's work does not disappoint. The Fountain does take a different tack from previous works.
Here we find our main characters, the Carpenter siblings, travelling back in time to 1905. The difference is that they do so via a fountain of youth. I found this an intriguing idea. They are able to live a new life as young adults without losing the accumulated knowledge of their advanced chronological ages. Taking a line from Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome :"Think of the possibilities."
One of Mr. Heldt,s gifts as a writer is to endear the reader to his characters quickly with seemingly minimal effort. I was immediately engaged, I was invested in these three siblings. The second chance they are given is such a thought provoking theme. I could put myself in their places easily and consider (fantasize actually) what I would do. Though I usually lose myself in Mr. Heldt's work, The Fountain took me deeper than usual. I was immersed in this story.
I have commented on other books by Mr. Heldt, how often there is some part of the story that relates directly to my personal experience. Most of the time it is physical locations where I have lived and have some personal connection which makes the story more personal to me. This time however, the connection is more personal, I truly identify with one of the characters. I won't share which one here, this is supposed to be about the book after all. But I am somewhat mystified as to how Mr.Heldt's work so often ties to my personal life.
I said I was immersed in this story and an example is when Cassie tells her beau Bill "I made You look" she actually made me look too. I bet she made a lot of people look.
Set around the historic San Francisco Earthquake, The Fountain begins another compelling story arc I can't wait to continue. Enjoy!
July 19, 2023
If you love books with a time travel theme, you don’t want to miss this one.
It all starts when we meet Bill, Paul, and Annie, all siblings over the age of 70. Bill (81) just recently buried his wife, Paul (75) is facing terminal cancer, and Annie (72), a paraplegic, is hoping to make the best of things. As they discuss the end of Paul’s life, they realize there isn’t much time remaining together. All childless and single, they wonder what could have been?
Then Bill gets an interesting call. About a fountain. One that could change everything. He learns about the Fountain of Youth from a man who went through it more than once. And he’s able to share proof. Will Bill take the plunge himself? Will his siblings go with him?
Well, obviously, the answer is yes, otherwise, we wouldn’t have a novel, would we? They landed in 1905, and everything is different. Like many time travel-themed books, this one does such a wonderful job of looping in problems one would accept from going to another era. For example, there’s an upcoming historical earthquake (the 1906 San Francisco earthquake). Do they tell their friends and colleagues? How can they plan? What do they remember that they learned about the event?
This is such a rewarding book. The author did a fantastic job of capturing the time and the era. He didn’t lean too much into the logistics of time travel. It was such a smooth process. At times, I thought the pace was a bit meandering but it felt right for the story. The character development was so strong, I felt so connected to the siblings, and hope to see more from this author in this series.
It all starts when we meet Bill, Paul, and Annie, all siblings over the age of 70. Bill (81) just recently buried his wife, Paul (75) is facing terminal cancer, and Annie (72), a paraplegic, is hoping to make the best of things. As they discuss the end of Paul’s life, they realize there isn’t much time remaining together. All childless and single, they wonder what could have been?
Then Bill gets an interesting call. About a fountain. One that could change everything. He learns about the Fountain of Youth from a man who went through it more than once. And he’s able to share proof. Will Bill take the plunge himself? Will his siblings go with him?
Well, obviously, the answer is yes, otherwise, we wouldn’t have a novel, would we? They landed in 1905, and everything is different. Like many time travel-themed books, this one does such a wonderful job of looping in problems one would accept from going to another era. For example, there’s an upcoming historical earthquake (the 1906 San Francisco earthquake). Do they tell their friends and colleagues? How can they plan? What do they remember that they learned about the event?
This is such a rewarding book. The author did a fantastic job of capturing the time and the era. He didn’t lean too much into the logistics of time travel. It was such a smooth process. At times, I thought the pace was a bit meandering but it felt right for the story. The character development was so strong, I felt so connected to the siblings, and hope to see more from this author in this series.
September 3, 2022
Looking for a sweet, gently flowing tale filled with caring family, secrets, danger and even some soft romance? THE FOUNTAIN by John A. Heldt is the kind of read that is easy to fall into, quietly telling a tale of time travel that brings history to life as well as the humanity that was part of that history.
Three siblings, all advanced in their years, all nearing the end of their lives, and all wishing for a second chance at getting things right and finding happiness and fulfillment. Will they find what they are looking for in the fountain that could take them back in time to their youth or will they find themselves helpless against disasters and broken hearts?
Once again, John A. Heldt has studied hard to make his story as realistic as possible. Feel the essence of the turn of the century in a place filled with a sense of community, where women are just beginning to spread their wings as individuals and a natural disaster is about to turn everyone’s world upside down. Will love survive or will three time travelers face more pain as they find themselves helpless to convince those they care about that an earthquake is imminent?
I love how Mr.Heldt draws readers in without over-the-top scenes. It is so relaxing to sit back with one of his books and imagine what it could be like to walk the streets of his tales, to know what will happen and be powerless to change history, but then again, should any of us even try? Easy to read, easy to believe in the possibilities!
Three siblings, all advanced in their years, all nearing the end of their lives, and all wishing for a second chance at getting things right and finding happiness and fulfillment. Will they find what they are looking for in the fountain that could take them back in time to their youth or will they find themselves helpless against disasters and broken hearts?
Once again, John A. Heldt has studied hard to make his story as realistic as possible. Feel the essence of the turn of the century in a place filled with a sense of community, where women are just beginning to spread their wings as individuals and a natural disaster is about to turn everyone’s world upside down. Will love survive or will three time travelers face more pain as they find themselves helpless to convince those they care about that an earthquake is imminent?
I love how Mr.Heldt draws readers in without over-the-top scenes. It is so relaxing to sit back with one of his books and imagine what it could be like to walk the streets of his tales, to know what will happen and be powerless to change history, but then again, should any of us even try? Easy to read, easy to believe in the possibilities!
January 4, 2023
Very impressive story telling!
John Heldt writes a time travelling tale with The Fountain. John Heldt is one of my favorite time traveling authors. When he writes, you can tell he has the knowledge of the era that his characters are traveling to. So, no matter what series he writes, it's all about time travel, family and generations, and the part that leaves the reader guessing. This book is part of the Second Chance series, and this is volume one. The readers meet the Carpenters, all suffering, from grief, disease or just being old. Bill, Paul and Annie, are siblings, and they don't know what to do next. All they have is each other, and they're at the edge of the end of their lives. It's a wonderful family saga, which has these siblings, searching for the fountain of youth. All of a sudden, during their journey, they're young again, and in 1905, but they have no idea what they are in for, even when they are trying to revinvent their lives. I really like Bill, who seems to be the champion of the family, wanting for them all to get that one second chance. Heldt writes the stories well, and brings their time travelling journey to life. This is one of those books that grabs you from the start and pulls you in. Compelling! A timeless tale. Some of the pages, you end up reading slower than others, so not to miss anything. The Fountain is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
John Heldt writes a time travelling tale with The Fountain. John Heldt is one of my favorite time traveling authors. When he writes, you can tell he has the knowledge of the era that his characters are traveling to. So, no matter what series he writes, it's all about time travel, family and generations, and the part that leaves the reader guessing. This book is part of the Second Chance series, and this is volume one. The readers meet the Carpenters, all suffering, from grief, disease or just being old. Bill, Paul and Annie, are siblings, and they don't know what to do next. All they have is each other, and they're at the edge of the end of their lives. It's a wonderful family saga, which has these siblings, searching for the fountain of youth. All of a sudden, during their journey, they're young again, and in 1905, but they have no idea what they are in for, even when they are trying to revinvent their lives. I really like Bill, who seems to be the champion of the family, wanting for them all to get that one second chance. Heldt writes the stories well, and brings their time travelling journey to life. This is one of those books that grabs you from the start and pulls you in. Compelling! A timeless tale. Some of the pages, you end up reading slower than others, so not to miss anything. The Fountain is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
October 24, 2022
I believe that all of us have dreamed of the fountain of youth at one time or another. But what if it were more than just a story? What if the fountain was capable of throwing you through time? That’s what Bill, Annie, and Paul aim to find out. And it just so happens, tossed through time, they settle in Oakland, California, in 1905, the year before the devastating San Francisco earthquake. As the siblings learn to navigate their lives in much younger bodies, they make friends with those around them. Some friendships are more serious than others. But they aren’t sure exactly when the quake will hit, and they can’t save everyone.
The thing I’ve come to learn as an avid reader of Heldt’s work is that his books are always well-researched. His characters are multi-dimensional; they relate well to those around them. I liked Annie’s spunkiness and how she knew what she wanted and went after it. I look forward to more from her in future books. This was such a fun storyline, and I’m pleased that enough of the storyline ties up that readers aren’t left in the lurch. With time travel, a bit of mystery, and romance, this book has a bit for everyone, and I highly recommend it.
The thing I’ve come to learn as an avid reader of Heldt’s work is that his books are always well-researched. His characters are multi-dimensional; they relate well to those around them. I liked Annie’s spunkiness and how she knew what she wanted and went after it. I look forward to more from her in future books. This was such a fun storyline, and I’m pleased that enough of the storyline ties up that readers aren’t left in the lurch. With time travel, a bit of mystery, and romance, this book has a bit for everyone, and I highly recommend it.
April 7, 2023
“The Fountain” introduces the Carpenter siblings: Bill, Paul, and Annie. The youngest of the trio is in their early 70’s and have encountered their fair share of hardships along the way. Annie’s paraplegic from a childhood accident and Paul has recently been diagnosed with lung cancer. Bill’s beloved wife, Alice, was the glue keeping them all together. With her recent passing and without having any children or other family of their own, the trio flounders with discontent about their future.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The siblings each have their own personalities, motivations, and back stories. I can’t really say I had a favorite between Paul, Bill, and Annie. I enjoyed each of them and their evolutions equally. When it came to complementary and ancillary characters, I especially liked Cassie and her strong-willed, intelligent approach to life in a time that was not exactly supportive of such traits in women. It feels natural to divide this story into three parts: before the fountain, after the disaster and the in-between. Find the full blog post at heatherlbarksdale.com
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The siblings each have their own personalities, motivations, and back stories. I can’t really say I had a favorite between Paul, Bill, and Annie. I enjoyed each of them and their evolutions equally. When it came to complementary and ancillary characters, I especially liked Cassie and her strong-willed, intelligent approach to life in a time that was not exactly supportive of such traits in women. It feels natural to divide this story into three parts: before the fountain, after the disaster and the in-between. Find the full blog post at heatherlbarksdale.com
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
October 29, 2022
In THE FOUNTAIN, the first book in the Second Chance series, three siblings find opportunity, romance, and heartbreak as they make the most of a new lease on life. With well-researched real-life situations, the story is fast-paced and fascinating. The author skillfully interweaves family history, friendship, and love throughout the entire book. . The supporting characters are well-developed and all seamlessly contribute to the story as the plot lines merge It is a refreshing approach to time travel that keeps readers interested and wanting to read more—exceptional storytelling combined with excellent character development and humour. The transitions and details will hold your attention. The simplicity and in-depth information in this book will have you turning the pages over and over again. Each chapter is written from the perspective of Bill, Paul, Annie, Cassie, and Andy.
Definitely a masterpiece!
Definitely a masterpiece!
October 4, 2023
Three siblings move back to Oregon after a series of setbacks. Each one wanted to make things better for the other two. Bill, the oldest, was investigating reports of people finding a way to turn back the clock on their lives. It kept Bill busy but so far they were all unfounded. Paul and Annie, Bill's siblings, just wanted him to settle into being a widower. Would Bill ever find anything?
A knockout is the word I'd use for this book. The story will touch your heart. Mr. Heldt really lets his characters to shine through. You will recognize these characters in your own family. It's the first time I can agree whole heartedly with the author. Get this and make Mr. Heldt an auto buy.
I found no issues.
I gave this one 5cheers out of 5.
A knockout is the word I'd use for this book. The story will touch your heart. Mr. Heldt really lets his characters to shine through. You will recognize these characters in your own family. It's the first time I can agree whole heartedly with the author. Get this and make Mr. Heldt an auto buy.
I found no issues.
I gave this one 5cheers out of 5.
November 20, 2022
Lovely story
I love John Heldt's books. They always have sweet stories and are excellent time travel books. I got sick of all time travel books that took the protagonist back to the knight in shining armor, therefore, Mr. Heldt's stories were a welcome change as they only went from 40-150 years past. His other books had adventure and family drama and I gave them 5 stars. The reason I gave 4 stars was because it felt like it was written for a young adult or older teen. Good story but way too simplistic. I do, however, appreciate the fact there is no cursing or graphic sex in any of his stories.
I love John Heldt's books. They always have sweet stories and are excellent time travel books. I got sick of all time travel books that took the protagonist back to the knight in shining armor, therefore, Mr. Heldt's stories were a welcome change as they only went from 40-150 years past. His other books had adventure and family drama and I gave them 5 stars. The reason I gave 4 stars was because it felt like it was written for a young adult or older teen. Good story but way too simplistic. I do, however, appreciate the fact there is no cursing or graphic sex in any of his stories.
October 27, 2024
Enjoyed it, but...!
Although this was a well written story, I have to admit that I found the personal romantic interactions a bit "yuck." The difference between someone going back in time - at the age they are , and someone swapping their old body for a young body and then becoming romantically involved with a very young person is different, and it doesn't sit well with me. If a very old man went under the cosmetic surgeon's knife, and had his whole body scraped, filled, lifted and modified to result in 'the appearance' of youth, he would still be an old man. So I've deducted a star because of the "yuck" factor - because it did put me off.
Although this was a well written story, I have to admit that I found the personal romantic interactions a bit "yuck." The difference between someone going back in time - at the age they are , and someone swapping their old body for a young body and then becoming romantically involved with a very young person is different, and it doesn't sit well with me. If a very old man went under the cosmetic surgeon's knife, and had his whole body scraped, filled, lifted and modified to result in 'the appearance' of youth, he would still be an old man. So I've deducted a star because of the "yuck" factor - because it did put me off.
September 21, 2022
A simple, dialogue driven book
As I turned each page, I found myself wanting for some sort of conflict over and again. But instead I was met with repetitive dialogue page after page after page.
Don't let the finding of the fountain during the first few chapters trick you into thinking this will be an exciting book. Don't allow the time travel to the past trick you into thinking you'll experience any of the historic environment.
As a time travel book, it lacks adventure and setting details to an excruciating level.
As I turned each page, I found myself wanting for some sort of conflict over and again. But instead I was met with repetitive dialogue page after page after page.
Don't let the finding of the fountain during the first few chapters trick you into thinking this will be an exciting book. Don't allow the time travel to the past trick you into thinking you'll experience any of the historic environment.
As a time travel book, it lacks adventure and setting details to an excruciating level.
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