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Future's Dark Past
Kristen knew she was dying on a dead planet. Little did she realize when she accepted a top-secret program to escape Earth, the future’s fate rested on her traveling to the distant, dark past.
The catastrophic Purge War at the end of the twenty-first century destroys planet Earth, jeopardizing the future for the remnants of humanity. Horrific repercussions roll across the ages until, generations later, a scientific group called the Time Forward Project harnesses a deep-space wormhole in which they can travel through time. They find the portal unstable and shrinking, but they have little choice but to take desperate, drastic measures and journey back to prevent the war.
Kristen Winters is an angry, determined young woman who is fed up with the miserable circumstances that life doles out. In a bold move, she escapes and undergoes the horrific genetic modification required to become a warrior-like time agent. As the protégé of the tough, cantankerous Richard Kants, her potential threatens to overtake his prowess. Kants has his own motives for changing the past, and he orchestrates his own scheme on the side to improve the odds. Their uneasy partnership dissipates when he is assassinated by a rival group from the future called the Keplers, who thwart their missions at every turn.
With his death, Kristen mysteriously finds herself newly partnered with a bewildered man from the early twenty-first century. Hunter Coburn is a hot shot AI scientist who works for the FBI. He has pending wedding plans, a high-paying job he loves, and is a geek with an I-Want-It-All attitude, but suddenly must make sense of the glimpses of the future he sees in freakish jumps.
Together, Hunter and Kristen risk everything to fight through the destructive forces in the past, present, and future. In doing so, they must discover and rise to their own destinies through the vivid, fast-paced, nearly incomprehensible challenges they face. If they fail, all is lost.
A provocative, imaginative, and endlessly compelling work of science fiction, Future's Dark Past signals the arrival of a distinctive new voice and a story that will simultaneously haunt and electrify you.
The catastrophic Purge War at the end of the twenty-first century destroys planet Earth, jeopardizing the future for the remnants of humanity. Horrific repercussions roll across the ages until, generations later, a scientific group called the Time Forward Project harnesses a deep-space wormhole in which they can travel through time. They find the portal unstable and shrinking, but they have little choice but to take desperate, drastic measures and journey back to prevent the war.
Kristen Winters is an angry, determined young woman who is fed up with the miserable circumstances that life doles out. In a bold move, she escapes and undergoes the horrific genetic modification required to become a warrior-like time agent. As the protégé of the tough, cantankerous Richard Kants, her potential threatens to overtake his prowess. Kants has his own motives for changing the past, and he orchestrates his own scheme on the side to improve the odds. Their uneasy partnership dissipates when he is assassinated by a rival group from the future called the Keplers, who thwart their missions at every turn.
With his death, Kristen mysteriously finds herself newly partnered with a bewildered man from the early twenty-first century. Hunter Coburn is a hot shot AI scientist who works for the FBI. He has pending wedding plans, a high-paying job he loves, and is a geek with an I-Want-It-All attitude, but suddenly must make sense of the glimpses of the future he sees in freakish jumps.
Together, Hunter and Kristen risk everything to fight through the destructive forces in the past, present, and future. In doing so, they must discover and rise to their own destinies through the vivid, fast-paced, nearly incomprehensible challenges they face. If they fail, all is lost.
A provocative, imaginative, and endlessly compelling work of science fiction, Future's Dark Past signals the arrival of a distinctive new voice and a story that will simultaneously haunt and electrify you.
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 14, 2023
20 people are currently reading
292 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Yarrow
2 books19 followersJohn Yarrow is the big picture guy in the JL Yarrow writing duo. It started back in college days when he lived in a garage apartment, owned no television, was too broke for date night, and had only a little beer money won playing foosball. Bored, he dug into a copy of Conan the Barbarian. It tripped his creative trigger, and he started writing. John built worlds in destinations unknown, full of space battles and quirky characters. His humor, angst, and imagination spilled onto the page between classes and a full-time job.
Flash forward through a long, happy marriage and raising their family. Throughout the years, John’s career in Information Technology and his involvement in writer’s groups, conferences, and competitions honed his writing hobby into a craft. His imagination still works overtime. John loves to spin a good tale, and he does a mighty fine job of it. He’s known for cracking countless ‘dad’ jokes, never forgets a good line in a movie, and is likely to be found traveling with his bride, playing with the grandkids, fly fishing, four wheeling, or loudly watching football.
Leanne Yarrow has a career background in teaching and program development for seniors and caregivers. Add that to her ‘job’ of keeping the family connections up and running makes for an astute multi-tasker. A bundle of boundless energy, she has a laser focus on detail for whatever task is at hand. Those years of playing the devil’s advocate with her husband’s writing morphed into more years of workshops, conferences, learning, and practice. The JL Yarrow collaborative partnership formed as her contributions to the storyline grew.
When she’s not working with John, Leanne loves to get out in the fresh air to hike or horseback ride, and of late, trying her hand at cross-country skiing. She’s crazy about travel, time with friends and family, especially with the grandies, and is an avid books, arts, and music appreciator. A good early-morning cuppa coffee and John’s amazing steak dinners are favs. She’s always up for learning more, doing for others, and trying to understand the psychology of it all.
The couple’s current Time Forward Trilogy project is in full swing, with their first novel, Future’s Dark Past, garnering awards, and positive reviews from around the globe. Their follow up book, Future Unfolds, arrives February 4th, 2025, and the final book of the series, Future Impact will be released in February 2026
Flash forward through a long, happy marriage and raising their family. Throughout the years, John’s career in Information Technology and his involvement in writer’s groups, conferences, and competitions honed his writing hobby into a craft. His imagination still works overtime. John loves to spin a good tale, and he does a mighty fine job of it. He’s known for cracking countless ‘dad’ jokes, never forgets a good line in a movie, and is likely to be found traveling with his bride, playing with the grandkids, fly fishing, four wheeling, or loudly watching football.
Leanne Yarrow has a career background in teaching and program development for seniors and caregivers. Add that to her ‘job’ of keeping the family connections up and running makes for an astute multi-tasker. A bundle of boundless energy, she has a laser focus on detail for whatever task is at hand. Those years of playing the devil’s advocate with her husband’s writing morphed into more years of workshops, conferences, learning, and practice. The JL Yarrow collaborative partnership formed as her contributions to the storyline grew.
When she’s not working with John, Leanne loves to get out in the fresh air to hike or horseback ride, and of late, trying her hand at cross-country skiing. She’s crazy about travel, time with friends and family, especially with the grandies, and is an avid books, arts, and music appreciator. A good early-morning cuppa coffee and John’s amazing steak dinners are favs. She’s always up for learning more, doing for others, and trying to understand the psychology of it all.
The couple’s current Time Forward Trilogy project is in full swing, with their first novel, Future’s Dark Past, garnering awards, and positive reviews from around the globe. Their follow up book, Future Unfolds, arrives February 4th, 2025, and the final book of the series, Future Impact will be released in February 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
March 16, 2025
If you like a fast paced action packed sci-fi book, this is the book for you! We're talking time travel that jumps back and forth between the past, present time, and the future in a post apocalyptic world.
This book was so well written. Normally with time travel books I can get a bit confused about what is going on with all the time changes, but this was so well done. It was so easy to follow along and understand what was happening in the story and different timelines.
This is one of those books that I just didn't want to put down. I was super interested in the story and on the edge of my seat excited to find out what would happen next. The characters and the emotions in this book felt so real. I was completely invested into what was happening with them. And the science-fictiony stuff that happens in the story seems so realistic and like stuff that could actually happen in real life. But also at the same time, really imaginative and exciting.
I absolutely loved reading this book, and I'm super excited for the next book to release soon! I'll definitely be reading it!
I received a gifted copy of this book from the author. I am voluntarily giving my honest review.
This book was so well written. Normally with time travel books I can get a bit confused about what is going on with all the time changes, but this was so well done. It was so easy to follow along and understand what was happening in the story and different timelines.
This is one of those books that I just didn't want to put down. I was super interested in the story and on the edge of my seat excited to find out what would happen next. The characters and the emotions in this book felt so real. I was completely invested into what was happening with them. And the science-fictiony stuff that happens in the story seems so realistic and like stuff that could actually happen in real life. But also at the same time, really imaginative and exciting.
I absolutely loved reading this book, and I'm super excited for the next book to release soon! I'll definitely be reading it!
I received a gifted copy of this book from the author. I am voluntarily giving my honest review.
January 24, 2023
This novel is extremely original in its genre - which is one of the best things ,in my opinion, that someone can say about sci fi. It doesn't lean on the fantastical or magic - it's science and possibility and rooted in reality, which makes it feel both scary and plausible at the same time. I'm excited for the next installments, as the finish truly does leave the reader wanting more. In my opinion, that's the sign of an excellent book!
July 3, 2025
This book was so much fun while also kind of dark!
We follow a group called the Time Forward Project, which sends agents back in time to stop the Purge War from happening. This war ended up destroying Earth. Kristen is one of the agents who is sent back in time with her partner - they are thwarted by a group called the Keplers, who end up killing her partner. Even though her partner is dead, we still get to experience his pov in the story as he travels throughout time with his own agenda. She ends up with a new partner who is unfamiliar with time jumps and also the Time Forward Project.
I loved the multiple POVs. They allowed me, as the reader, to truly connect with each character. Also, the story's masterful weaving of so many different time periods together was impressive. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a fast-paced sci-fi thriller. It's so damn good!
We follow a group called the Time Forward Project, which sends agents back in time to stop the Purge War from happening. This war ended up destroying Earth. Kristen is one of the agents who is sent back in time with her partner - they are thwarted by a group called the Keplers, who end up killing her partner. Even though her partner is dead, we still get to experience his pov in the story as he travels throughout time with his own agenda. She ends up with a new partner who is unfamiliar with time jumps and also the Time Forward Project.
I loved the multiple POVs. They allowed me, as the reader, to truly connect with each character. Also, the story's masterful weaving of so many different time periods together was impressive. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a fast-paced sci-fi thriller. It's so damn good!
May 31, 2024
This book was so exciting and fast paced. I normally am not a fan of time travel novels because I lose track of where everything is with all the jumps but this was different. Hunter is caught up in events set in motion and seems to be the key in saving planet earth. This science fiction novel is so good that I am going to jump into book two pretty quickly. Everything is not resolved and some of the key players are in peril. Dang, this was a fun book.
December 18, 2024
If this book doesn't get made into a movie it will be an injustice!
It's been a long time since I've read anything in 1 sitting that has completely enthralled me for hours!
The vivid details of every character. Of every word spoken by every character makes JL Yarrow a hit! I wish I could give this book 100 Stars!
Read it don't doubt me it's a marvelous science fiction, futuristic, amazing book! Read it! Read it! Read it!
It's been a long time since I've read anything in 1 sitting that has completely enthralled me for hours!
The vivid details of every character. Of every word spoken by every character makes JL Yarrow a hit! I wish I could give this book 100 Stars!
Read it don't doubt me it's a marvelous science fiction, futuristic, amazing book! Read it! Read it! Read it!
September 22, 2024
This magnificent, epic, fast-paced sci-fi thriller blew me away. This debut novel was everything. The world building was fantastic, the characters were fantastic, and the storyline, plot, and subplots were exceptional. Definitely 7 stars for me.
April 22, 2025
“‘You two are either going to kill each other or be the best team ever. I can’t decide which.’”
It’s always a gamble when you read books from authors you’ve never heard of that are up and coming. The gamble on this book paid off!
I was pleasantly surprised by this time-travel science fiction novel and am looking forward to continuing the series— especially because this one leaves you on a cliffhanger!
I wouldn’t say the general time-travel plot of this book was incredibly unique— Earth destroys itself in a nuclear war (classic)— The Purge War— and in the year 2355 the earth is less and less inhabitable so they use time travel to try to go back and stop the nuclear war from happening.
The method of time travel, however, has some of its own flair. Or maybe it’s been done and I just haven’t read enough sci-fi time travel books to know about it. But they discovered an Anomoly— a wormhole— that they’ve ‘harnessed’ to send agents back in time on missions.
Agents have to undergo a genetic ‘rebirth’ that transforms them into a kind of superhuman with greater strength, physicality, and a stronger body structure to endure the effects of jumping into the The Worm. The agents that jump are linked via transponders. They can’t pinpoint an exact moment and place in time to jump to. Their accuracy is getting people to the right continent within a year or two of the right time so their missions have to be flexible and adaptable to wherever they end up. They also can’t really control when they ‘go back.’
There are a few main characters in the book.
Hope Bannister, aptly named, is living in the year 2355 and has fashioned this Time Forward force in an attempt to stop The Purge War from happening because if they can’t, the Keplers (the bad guys) plan to exterminate the natives of another planet in order to provide enough room to transport people from Earth to the habitable planet. Using The Worm is their last hope.
Then we have Kristen. She is also living in the year 2355 and not in a good place. Earth has a series of ‘bubbles’ that people live in. Her parents tried to take them from the Dallas bubble to the Kansas City bubble by using seeds to trade for a new life. Their plan went awry leaving them dead and Kristen captured. When she finally escapes she finds herself in a position to either be enslaved to another man or volunteer herself for Hope’s team. With no knowledge of what she’s about to embark on, her only choice is to leave Earth and hope for the best.
Kants ends up being Kristen’s jump partner. He was the last superhuman on Earth when The Purge War began back in 2098. Since then he has sought to change history and get back the wife he lost.
Hunter Coburn and his brilliant mind is the key to it all— somehow. He ends up getting linked to Kristen in her jumps. Wherever she jumps to, he ends up landing with her. When she jumps back to the future, he returns to his timeline which is 2025. Through one of Kants’ missions Hunter was recruited to the FBI and is developing sentient AI systems.
Which brings us to our last main character— Comperi. This is the first sentient AI created by Hunter. It helps Hunter in this book a little bit, but I have a feeling its purpose is going to expand and become more important in subsequent books.
As with all time travel novels, some of the effects of their time traveling on the future is often hard to grasp or follow or when they go back in time to tell someone they need to do such and such at a future time to help someone, it’s the whole chicken or egg scenario, but with this book I was generally able to understand what they were trying to do and what what would happen if they failed or succeeded.
The Keplers add a good element of unpredictability and mystery to this novel. Somehow they know wherever Kristen or Kants is jumping to and they have their own agents there already trying to thwart Kristen and Kants’ mission. We aren’t given enough information about that yet— why are they trying to keep the Time Forward Project from preventing The Purge War? how do they know ahead of time of where they’ll be? Are they actually bad guys or are they good guys trying to prevent worse things from happening that the Time Forward team aren’t aware of?
Hopefully we get some more pieces to the puzzle in the next book.
Other things that I hope are going to be fleshed out in the next book— what happened to Chen-Yi and why is she obsessed with Hunter? Will Hunter ever have his happily ever after with Rachel and his future daughter? What’s the deal with Kants? Is something going to get altered in time where he is back on the team in real time? Are we going to find out more about Kristen’s background— is there more to her parents’ death and the seeds or is that purely just the catalyst for getting Kristen to space? How is Comperi going to save the world?
As I said before, this book ends on a cliffhanger. Let’s just say that their missions aren’t as successful as they were hoping so we have to keep going into book two to see where they go next.
As to the writing style, it was better than what I was expecting and had good pacing to it. I don’t know if it had a unique or show-stopping quality to it, but it was easy to read and get lost in the story. There weren’t distracting things about the writing that jarred me away or annoyed me.
Recommendation
If you’re looking for a dystopian or space-y sci-fi book, I’m not sure this one will scratch that itch for you. The future is somewhat dystopian and in space but a majority of the book takes place on Earth before 2100. And the future parts are generally relegated to the space station.
But if you just want to enjoy a good time travel novel with elements of AI and space, then I think you’ll enjoy this book. Or if you are looking for a book with some whales in it— this is probably it.
I enjoyed the adventure and felt invested in the fate of the world. I’m looking forward to see what book two holds!
Also- if you’re interested, HERE are some more time travel books I’ve also reviewed if you’d like to go on a time travel binge.
[Content Advisory: a handful of s-words, some innuendo but no sexual content]
**Received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
Book Review Blog | Facebook | Pinterest | StoryGraph
It’s always a gamble when you read books from authors you’ve never heard of that are up and coming. The gamble on this book paid off!
I was pleasantly surprised by this time-travel science fiction novel and am looking forward to continuing the series— especially because this one leaves you on a cliffhanger!
I wouldn’t say the general time-travel plot of this book was incredibly unique— Earth destroys itself in a nuclear war (classic)— The Purge War— and in the year 2355 the earth is less and less inhabitable so they use time travel to try to go back and stop the nuclear war from happening.
The method of time travel, however, has some of its own flair. Or maybe it’s been done and I just haven’t read enough sci-fi time travel books to know about it. But they discovered an Anomoly— a wormhole— that they’ve ‘harnessed’ to send agents back in time on missions.
Agents have to undergo a genetic ‘rebirth’ that transforms them into a kind of superhuman with greater strength, physicality, and a stronger body structure to endure the effects of jumping into the The Worm. The agents that jump are linked via transponders. They can’t pinpoint an exact moment and place in time to jump to. Their accuracy is getting people to the right continent within a year or two of the right time so their missions have to be flexible and adaptable to wherever they end up. They also can’t really control when they ‘go back.’
There are a few main characters in the book.
Hope Bannister, aptly named, is living in the year 2355 and has fashioned this Time Forward force in an attempt to stop The Purge War from happening because if they can’t, the Keplers (the bad guys) plan to exterminate the natives of another planet in order to provide enough room to transport people from Earth to the habitable planet. Using The Worm is their last hope.
Then we have Kristen. She is also living in the year 2355 and not in a good place. Earth has a series of ‘bubbles’ that people live in. Her parents tried to take them from the Dallas bubble to the Kansas City bubble by using seeds to trade for a new life. Their plan went awry leaving them dead and Kristen captured. When she finally escapes she finds herself in a position to either be enslaved to another man or volunteer herself for Hope’s team. With no knowledge of what she’s about to embark on, her only choice is to leave Earth and hope for the best.
Kants ends up being Kristen’s jump partner. He was the last superhuman on Earth when The Purge War began back in 2098. Since then he has sought to change history and get back the wife he lost.
Hunter Coburn and his brilliant mind is the key to it all— somehow. He ends up getting linked to Kristen in her jumps. Wherever she jumps to, he ends up landing with her. When she jumps back to the future, he returns to his timeline which is 2025. Through one of Kants’ missions Hunter was recruited to the FBI and is developing sentient AI systems.
Which brings us to our last main character— Comperi. This is the first sentient AI created by Hunter. It helps Hunter in this book a little bit, but I have a feeling its purpose is going to expand and become more important in subsequent books.
As with all time travel novels, some of the effects of their time traveling on the future is often hard to grasp or follow or when they go back in time to tell someone they need to do such and such at a future time to help someone, it’s the whole chicken or egg scenario, but with this book I was generally able to understand what they were trying to do and what what would happen if they failed or succeeded.
The Keplers add a good element of unpredictability and mystery to this novel. Somehow they know wherever Kristen or Kants is jumping to and they have their own agents there already trying to thwart Kristen and Kants’ mission. We aren’t given enough information about that yet— why are they trying to keep the Time Forward Project from preventing The Purge War? how do they know ahead of time of where they’ll be? Are they actually bad guys or are they good guys trying to prevent worse things from happening that the Time Forward team aren’t aware of?
Hopefully we get some more pieces to the puzzle in the next book.
Other things that I hope are going to be fleshed out in the next book— what happened to Chen-Yi and why is she obsessed with Hunter? Will Hunter ever have his happily ever after with Rachel and his future daughter? What’s the deal with Kants? Is something going to get altered in time where he is back on the team in real time? Are we going to find out more about Kristen’s background— is there more to her parents’ death and the seeds or is that purely just the catalyst for getting Kristen to space? How is Comperi going to save the world?
As I said before, this book ends on a cliffhanger. Let’s just say that their missions aren’t as successful as they were hoping so we have to keep going into book two to see where they go next.
As to the writing style, it was better than what I was expecting and had good pacing to it. I don’t know if it had a unique or show-stopping quality to it, but it was easy to read and get lost in the story. There weren’t distracting things about the writing that jarred me away or annoyed me.
Recommendation
If you’re looking for a dystopian or space-y sci-fi book, I’m not sure this one will scratch that itch for you. The future is somewhat dystopian and in space but a majority of the book takes place on Earth before 2100. And the future parts are generally relegated to the space station.
But if you just want to enjoy a good time travel novel with elements of AI and space, then I think you’ll enjoy this book. Or if you are looking for a book with some whales in it— this is probably it.
I enjoyed the adventure and felt invested in the fate of the world. I’m looking forward to see what book two holds!
Also- if you’re interested, HERE are some more time travel books I’ve also reviewed if you’d like to go on a time travel binge.
[Content Advisory: a handful of s-words, some innuendo but no sexual content]
**Received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
Book Review Blog | Facebook | Pinterest | StoryGraph
January 28, 2025
Future’s Dark Past is a wild ride through time, packed with high stakes, fierce characters, and nonstop twists. Kristen and Hunter are an unlikely duo you can’t help but root for as they race to save humanity. The world-building is sharp, the action relentless, and I’m officially hooked. Book two can’t come fast enough!
January 21, 2023
Future's Dark Past kept me glued to my seat from beginning to end. Time travel was never my favorite genre to read, but this book changed that. Yarrow's ability to handle myriad twists and turns from future to past and back again is amazing. Kristen is my favorite character - I like strong female leads, and she epitomizes just that. My least favorite is her villainous son. I can't wait for Book 2 to find out what happens next. My only criticism is the cover - it doesn't give the reader any idea of what to expect.
January 23, 2023
A fast paced time-travel thriller. The characters are believable, and well portrayed. The plot centers around saving Earth from the radicle factions threatening a war of annihilation.
Mr. Yarrow's first novel is a true winner. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Mr. Yarrow's first novel is a true winner. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
November 2, 2024
Loved this book!! Amazing plot, relatable characters with a highly entertaining story. I couldn’t put it down.. my favorite sci fi book!! Definitely recommend this book to all!!
January 21, 2023
I am anxious for the release of this book.
It sounds futuristic but relatable.
Waiting for the book release to get my hard copy.
I am an old fashion paper book reader.
Best of luck to this new, upcoming author.
It sounds futuristic but relatable.
Waiting for the book release to get my hard copy.
I am an old fashion paper book reader.
Best of luck to this new, upcoming author.
January 20, 2023
Azinov and Heinlein come to mind when I read " Futures Dark Past" . Great story telling . Looking forward to future books. A great concept that brings the present to the future . Well Done !!!
January 21, 2023
What a gripping read! Couldn’t put the darn thing down!
March 31, 2023
An amazing story that happens to be in the sci-fi genre. J.L. Yarrow is reminiscent of Heinlein in their ability to make characters real in seemingly unreal situations while surrounded by and struggling with current and future technology that should give humanity pause. Future's Dark Past is a "can't put down book" that I'm grateful I picked up!
November 28, 2022
Quite good. Interesting characters and an engaging story that worked for me. Nice build to the end as well.
Thanks very much for the free ARC for review!!
Thanks very much for the free ARC for review!!
August 20, 2023
This book was incredible. It touches on relevant topics like science and AI, while also creating a captivating narrative. I can’t wait for the sequel!
February 9, 2025
In the distant future, the Earth is largely unliveable. There are pockets of humanity still alive, but life is very difficult for the survivors. There is a settlement on Mars, where a number of genetically modified humans are working on finding a way to change history so that the event that led to Earth’s destruction doesn’t happen, and a few people are sometimes recruited from Earth to try joining this program. Unfortunately, very few manage to survive the genetic modification process that will allow them to become time agents. The process to alter the DNA of those who volunteer for the program is unsuccessful more often than not, leaving most who attempt it among the dead. Kristen is one of the lucky few to survive the process. And now, not only must she and the others succeed, they must do so while another group is determined to see them fail.
This was an interesting book involving time travel, historically–based events, and fictional ones. Some parts of the book are set in the future while others are in different parts of the past. There is quite a bit happening in this book., and the reader will be jumped back and forth in time, depending on when in time any given scene is taking place.
I read a review copy of this book and enjoyed it. It covers a number of relevant issues that have been happening in the world today, any one of which has the potential to be a link in a chain of events that could lead to a catastrophic ending, or possibly, a new beginning. But one question remains, even with time travel, can the past be changed? Or has the future already been determined and will remain largely unchangeable in the end no matter which past events are altered? Only time will tell.
This book makes one wonder about the fate of our own world and whether or not we are also doomed to near extinction, or if we as a society can change course enough to save ourselves. If you enjoy post-apocalyptic stories, stories involving time travel and attempts to change historical events, TV shows such as either version of Quantum Leap, Time Tunnel, or any number of other time travel books, TV shows, and movies then you will likely enjoy this book. I’m looking forward to learning what happens in the next book in this series, and whether or not those seeking to change their present by changing the past can succeed or not.
This was an interesting book involving time travel, historically–based events, and fictional ones. Some parts of the book are set in the future while others are in different parts of the past. There is quite a bit happening in this book., and the reader will be jumped back and forth in time, depending on when in time any given scene is taking place.
I read a review copy of this book and enjoyed it. It covers a number of relevant issues that have been happening in the world today, any one of which has the potential to be a link in a chain of events that could lead to a catastrophic ending, or possibly, a new beginning. But one question remains, even with time travel, can the past be changed? Or has the future already been determined and will remain largely unchangeable in the end no matter which past events are altered? Only time will tell.
This book makes one wonder about the fate of our own world and whether or not we are also doomed to near extinction, or if we as a society can change course enough to save ourselves. If you enjoy post-apocalyptic stories, stories involving time travel and attempts to change historical events, TV shows such as either version of Quantum Leap, Time Tunnel, or any number of other time travel books, TV shows, and movies then you will likely enjoy this book. I’m looking forward to learning what happens in the next book in this series, and whether or not those seeking to change their present by changing the past can succeed or not.
August 10, 2024
Title: Future's Dark Past
Author: J. L. Yarrow
Review:
Future's Dark Past by J. L. Yarrow is an engrossing science fiction novel that expertly weaves together the intricacies of time travel with the richness of historical fiction. Yarrow takes readers on a journey that spans different eras, exploring the profound impact that altering the past can have on the future.
Yarrow's world-building is commendable, vividly portraying both the dystopian future and the various historical settings. The contrast between the two timelines adds depth to the story, and the meticulous attention to detail in the historical scenes brings them to life. The characters are well-developed, with the protagonist's internal conflict driving much of the narrative's tension.
One of the standout features of Future's Dark Past is its seamless blending of science fiction with historical elements. Yarrow's ability to navigate between these genres makes the book a unique and refreshing read. The historical accuracy is noteworthy, with each time period feeling authentic and well-researched, which enhances the reader’s immersion in the story.
However, the novel does have moments where the pace slows, particularly during some of the more detailed historical passages. While these sections provide valuable context, they may feel a bit drawn out to readers eager to return to the main action. Additionally, the resolution, while satisfying, may leave some readers wanting a bit more exploration of the long-term consequences of the protagonist's actions.
Overall, Future's Dark Past is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to fans of both science fiction and historical fiction. J. L. Yarrow has crafted a story that is not only entertaining but also challenges readers to think about the ripple effects of their actions across time. It’s a thrilling and intellectually stimulating journey through the ages.
Author: J. L. Yarrow
Review:
Future's Dark Past by J. L. Yarrow is an engrossing science fiction novel that expertly weaves together the intricacies of time travel with the richness of historical fiction. Yarrow takes readers on a journey that spans different eras, exploring the profound impact that altering the past can have on the future.
Yarrow's world-building is commendable, vividly portraying both the dystopian future and the various historical settings. The contrast between the two timelines adds depth to the story, and the meticulous attention to detail in the historical scenes brings them to life. The characters are well-developed, with the protagonist's internal conflict driving much of the narrative's tension.
One of the standout features of Future's Dark Past is its seamless blending of science fiction with historical elements. Yarrow's ability to navigate between these genres makes the book a unique and refreshing read. The historical accuracy is noteworthy, with each time period feeling authentic and well-researched, which enhances the reader’s immersion in the story.
However, the novel does have moments where the pace slows, particularly during some of the more detailed historical passages. While these sections provide valuable context, they may feel a bit drawn out to readers eager to return to the main action. Additionally, the resolution, while satisfying, may leave some readers wanting a bit more exploration of the long-term consequences of the protagonist's actions.
Overall, Future's Dark Past is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to fans of both science fiction and historical fiction. J. L. Yarrow has crafted a story that is not only entertaining but also challenges readers to think about the ripple effects of their actions across time. It’s a thrilling and intellectually stimulating journey through the ages.
March 3, 2025
What if you war not only spanned countries across the globe but time? That is exactly what Future’s Dark Past brings us.
A one of a kind multiple POV Sci-Fi novel that takes you not only on a journey but through time! This is a fast paced thrilling story centered around the need to save Earth from radicals that are threatening its very existence with annihilation. That scary thing is, being based on science, this story always has the potential to become a reality if scientists were able to successfully time travel.
The author provides a story seamlessly blending historical elements of the past with dystopian and futurist elements. Regardless of the time period the story is taking place in, readers are immersed in the story with great details making it flow easily as we are brought plot twist after plot twist.This is not to say that the book is all action, there are some slower moments but I feel that add to the overall story but others may feel as if those sections move too slow.
The characters are in depth and I loved how the author allowed readers to really deeply feel into their inner thoughts and conflicts, making them more relatable and real. There is also some great character growth and development as the story progresses.
I love that this book was so detailed but those who are new to the Sci-Fi genre may find it difficult to keep up with what time period the story is in at the time. Overall, this was a good read and I am looking forward to more installments.
A one of a kind multiple POV Sci-Fi novel that takes you not only on a journey but through time! This is a fast paced thrilling story centered around the need to save Earth from radicals that are threatening its very existence with annihilation. That scary thing is, being based on science, this story always has the potential to become a reality if scientists were able to successfully time travel.
The author provides a story seamlessly blending historical elements of the past with dystopian and futurist elements. Regardless of the time period the story is taking place in, readers are immersed in the story with great details making it flow easily as we are brought plot twist after plot twist.This is not to say that the book is all action, there are some slower moments but I feel that add to the overall story but others may feel as if those sections move too slow.
The characters are in depth and I loved how the author allowed readers to really deeply feel into their inner thoughts and conflicts, making them more relatable and real. There is also some great character growth and development as the story progresses.
I love that this book was so detailed but those who are new to the Sci-Fi genre may find it difficult to keep up with what time period the story is in at the time. Overall, this was a good read and I am looking forward to more installments.
April 24, 2023
Many years in the future, Kristen Winters is rescued from dire circumstances and near starvation by the Time Forward Project, a team of scientists and time travelers desperately trying to prevent the near apocalyptic Purge War that practically destroys humanity at the end of the twentieth century. The risks are immense, and the chances of survival slim, but Kristen undergoes the grueling and often fatal transformation necessary to assist, emerging on the other side as a time warrior. And so begins an ambitious, thrilling, and dynamic tale of survival and sacrifice, told through the lens of several characters in different eras and timelines.
This is science fiction at its best: lots of action, twisty plot lines, smart and descriptive world building. Despite being a debut (and a fantastic debut, at that!) John and Leanne Yarrow are clearly seasoned sci-fi writers. The futuristic and technological elements here were both original, and extremely well portrayed. And the pacing of this novel was perfect–definitely a hard one to put down! Characterizations were spot on. I particularly enjoyed Hunter Coburn; and I’m always a sucker for strong, female underdogs like Kristen. Overall, a riveting journey that I strongly recommend taking–and only to be continued in books two and three!
This is science fiction at its best: lots of action, twisty plot lines, smart and descriptive world building. Despite being a debut (and a fantastic debut, at that!) John and Leanne Yarrow are clearly seasoned sci-fi writers. The futuristic and technological elements here were both original, and extremely well portrayed. And the pacing of this novel was perfect–definitely a hard one to put down! Characterizations were spot on. I particularly enjoyed Hunter Coburn; and I’m always a sucker for strong, female underdogs like Kristen. Overall, a riveting journey that I strongly recommend taking–and only to be continued in books two and three!
December 7, 2024
Did you say time travel? Sci-Fi? Thriller? End of time? Yes, Yes they did!!
I don't like to give spoilers, so I'll give a taste that will make you want to know more. The synopsis is amazing and yet does not do this story justice. I read and listened at the same time. The narration for this is perfect for the story that is being told. I absolutely loved it.
With every page turn and each mission you will sit on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next.
This story takes you through time and space in an action packed fast paced story flicking from several time periods that all intertwine to save the world. Each character is a important as the next, not knowing how they connect or when.
Even with all the time jumps and different character perspectives this story is easy to follow and impossible to put down.
Follow Kristen and Hunter as they navigate from separate time lines merging together to save humanity from themselves.
All the twists and turns of stories like this that you won't see coming.
If you are a lover of sci fi and dystopian, this is a mix of Dr. Who, Star Gate, and even some James Bond! This book is definitely for you. The writing is amazing, the story is engaging, and it is hard to put down. I absolutely loved this story and would recommend this to anyone!
I cannot wait for the next one to release!
I don't like to give spoilers, so I'll give a taste that will make you want to know more. The synopsis is amazing and yet does not do this story justice. I read and listened at the same time. The narration for this is perfect for the story that is being told. I absolutely loved it.
With every page turn and each mission you will sit on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next.
This story takes you through time and space in an action packed fast paced story flicking from several time periods that all intertwine to save the world. Each character is a important as the next, not knowing how they connect or when.
Even with all the time jumps and different character perspectives this story is easy to follow and impossible to put down.
Follow Kristen and Hunter as they navigate from separate time lines merging together to save humanity from themselves.
All the twists and turns of stories like this that you won't see coming.
If you are a lover of sci fi and dystopian, this is a mix of Dr. Who, Star Gate, and even some James Bond! This book is definitely for you. The writing is amazing, the story is engaging, and it is hard to put down. I absolutely loved this story and would recommend this to anyone!
I cannot wait for the next one to release!
June 24, 2024
Format: Ebook and AudioBook
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. And honestly this was fantastic! This is a science fiction/time travel story that surprisingly didn't feel stale. We often get time travel stories that heavily focus on the changing of events in the past in order to affect the future but in this story we focus more on the people and the emotional toll taken on them due to the act of changing of the events. How would you feel if you could stop the JFK assassination? ok.... But how would you feel knowing you had to be the one to kill the killer? Put you in a slightly different head space knowing things are dependent on you. Add to that that the entire future is resting on the decisions or mistakes you make in the past.... and you have an idea of what this book is about.
We focus on 3 main time periods and a few main characters and that is probably my only real beef with the story is that if you are listening totally on audio it is slightly difficult to keep up with what time period you are in and thereby which version of a character is talking, so i do recommend having either a physical or ebook available to follow along. Outside of that I was extremely satisfied with the story and will defiantly be recommending it.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. And honestly this was fantastic! This is a science fiction/time travel story that surprisingly didn't feel stale. We often get time travel stories that heavily focus on the changing of events in the past in order to affect the future but in this story we focus more on the people and the emotional toll taken on them due to the act of changing of the events. How would you feel if you could stop the JFK assassination? ok.... But how would you feel knowing you had to be the one to kill the killer? Put you in a slightly different head space knowing things are dependent on you. Add to that that the entire future is resting on the decisions or mistakes you make in the past.... and you have an idea of what this book is about.
We focus on 3 main time periods and a few main characters and that is probably my only real beef with the story is that if you are listening totally on audio it is slightly difficult to keep up with what time period you are in and thereby which version of a character is talking, so i do recommend having either a physical or ebook available to follow along. Outside of that I was extremely satisfied with the story and will defiantly be recommending it.
July 7, 2024
Future's Dark Past by J L Yarrow is the first instalment of the Time Forward Trilogy and is a masterful blend of dystopian urgency and time-travelling escapades. This book captivated me from the very first page, presenting a haunting vision of a post-apocalyptic Earth and the extraordinary efforts of humanity to salvage its future.
Int his book, author Yarrow's writing is both thrilling and thought-provoking, and the execution of the book's premise is nothing short of exhilarating. The world-building is impeccable, and the scientific complexities of time travel are explained with clarity, making the complex concept accessible without diluting its intellectual depth.
Future's Dark Past is a gripping, intelligent, and emotionally charged story that is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and anyone intrigued by the possibilities and perils of altering the past to secure the future.
Int his book, author Yarrow's writing is both thrilling and thought-provoking, and the execution of the book's premise is nothing short of exhilarating. The world-building is impeccable, and the scientific complexities of time travel are explained with clarity, making the complex concept accessible without diluting its intellectual depth.
Future's Dark Past is a gripping, intelligent, and emotionally charged story that is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and anyone intrigued by the possibilities and perils of altering the past to secure the future.
August 6, 2024
This review is cross-posted across the series.
Readers who love a great sci-fi time travel plot with twists, turns, and breakneck pacing will take instantly to this gripping series. Whether it’s in fantasy or science fiction, time travel plots fascinate me. I love seeing how different authors come up with rules for time travel, and the plot twists and turns can get complicated enough to keep my attention. Yarrow’s series, which has a third book coming out as well, goes on my list of favorite time travel books.
My thanks to J.L. Yarrow for the eARC, for which I willingly give my own, honest opinion.
See the full review on my blog!
Blog / Instagram / Literal / BookBub
Readers who love a great sci-fi time travel plot with twists, turns, and breakneck pacing will take instantly to this gripping series. Whether it’s in fantasy or science fiction, time travel plots fascinate me. I love seeing how different authors come up with rules for time travel, and the plot twists and turns can get complicated enough to keep my attention. Yarrow’s series, which has a third book coming out as well, goes on my list of favorite time travel books.
My thanks to J.L. Yarrow for the eARC, for which I willingly give my own, honest opinion.
See the full review on my blog!
Blog / Instagram / Literal / BookBub
January 25, 2025
A gripping story of time travel, technology and the biggest threat to our planet....MANKIND.
Futures Dark Past is the perfect cross over between Fringe and The 100. If you liked those TV shows then you'll love this book. Yarrows takes the reader on a nail biting journey that left me with a sense of WHAT IF? What if the events played out in the book actually happened? With the technology advancing the way it is, anything is possible.
A stark reminder that mans hunger for power would bring about nothing but destruction. This book was not enlightening but also captivating. It was fast paced, definitely a page turner. Not at all what I usually read so the fact that I enjoyed this masterpiece of science fiction as much as I did says a lot.
Great book, great story line, great plot exceptional writing skills.... whats not to like?
Highly recommended. Looking forward to the next book.
Futures Dark Past is the perfect cross over between Fringe and The 100. If you liked those TV shows then you'll love this book. Yarrows takes the reader on a nail biting journey that left me with a sense of WHAT IF? What if the events played out in the book actually happened? With the technology advancing the way it is, anything is possible.
A stark reminder that mans hunger for power would bring about nothing but destruction. This book was not enlightening but also captivating. It was fast paced, definitely a page turner. Not at all what I usually read so the fact that I enjoyed this masterpiece of science fiction as much as I did says a lot.
Great book, great story line, great plot exceptional writing skills.... whats not to like?
Highly recommended. Looking forward to the next book.
August 6, 2023
Growing up, I enjoyed watching Star Trek & Battlestar Galactica. I saw some online reviews of Future's Dark Past which intrigued me, but I had never sat down to read a science fiction book; until now! Oh my! From the beginning of the book, I truly was hooked. It's been a long time since a storyline has captured my attention like this one. I felt like I was right there. I could see it in my mind. I could see this happening in our future. Lots of characters & time traveling so you must stay focused. Trust me, you will not be disappointed! I love Kristen Winters, Hunter Coburn, AI Comperi, & the scary Chen-Yi, oh my! I absolutely can't wait for the 2nd book. Well done J.L. Yarrow. I definitely want you to sign my copy of your book at your next book signing!
December 18, 2024
This is an epically fast paced sci-fi thriller. It starts off with action and doesn't let off the accelerator for the entirety of the novel.
This is the story of humanity destroying the earth through war, leaving life on earth bleak as individuals struggle to survive. Kristen Winters our protagonist, becomes part of the group living in space that are able to travel through time. The goal to change the future by changing the past.
Kristen's partner has alternative motives up to the point he was killed. She then is linked with a 21st century AI specialist and FBI consultant Hunter Coburn.
There are moments of humor, characters with conflicting agendas, relationships, human emotion, paced inside a thrilling, time travelling, mind bending, action packed thrill ride.
This is the story of humanity destroying the earth through war, leaving life on earth bleak as individuals struggle to survive. Kristen Winters our protagonist, becomes part of the group living in space that are able to travel through time. The goal to change the future by changing the past.
Kristen's partner has alternative motives up to the point he was killed. She then is linked with a 21st century AI specialist and FBI consultant Hunter Coburn.
There are moments of humor, characters with conflicting agendas, relationships, human emotion, paced inside a thrilling, time travelling, mind bending, action packed thrill ride.
August 12, 2023
I am not a science fiction fan usually, but I really enjoyed this book. The pace is engaging. The time travel is entertaining and fun to follow. I like the character development of the protagonists. The book left me ready for the next volume sooner than later. I am more interested in the pros and cons of AI after reading this novel. There are good AI characters and more evil AI characters. I would characterize it as somewhat of a cautionary tale regarding AI. The research behind the scenarios seemed very authentic and is presented with thoughtfulness. This writing team is worthy of following.
October 31, 2024
Absolutely loved this sci-fi thriller. The author kept this so interesting by combining futuristic elements as well as themes that are quite relevant in today's world. The use of AI and the uncertainty it presents as it advances. This story also highlights how our current actions have and will impact the future.
I loved the time travel element. I thought id struggle a little jumping around different timelines however the author did a great job in making the timelines flow seamlessly.
There was so many twists and turns, the world building and characters are great. Im really looking forward to reading the next book
I loved the time travel element. I thought id struggle a little jumping around different timelines however the author did a great job in making the timelines flow seamlessly.
There was so many twists and turns, the world building and characters are great. Im really looking forward to reading the next book
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