Captivated by Time: A Review of For a Lifetime (Timeless, #3)
There’s something magnetic about time travel in literature. When I first stumbled upon the Timeless series by Liz Tolsma, I was instantly taken by the rich historical textures woven into a narrative that dances between two eras. Now, as I immerse myself in For a Lifetime, the third book in the series, I find myself ready to cheer for these twins—Grace and Hope—who embody my own desire for adventure and exploration across time. Their journey has me rooting for them even more this time around.
The dual timelines of 1692 Salem and 1912 New York City create a wonderfully intricate tapestry. Grace and Hope, identical twins, possess the extraordinary ability to “timecross.” Though they long for the vibrancy of the early 20th century, they must navigate the dark realities of Salem, where fear and superstition reign. I was particularly struck by the visceral portrayal of the Salem Witch Trials, which stood in stark contrast to the growing opportunities of the aviation world unfolding in 1912. This deep dive into two drastically different epochs highlights the stark differences in women’s roles, ambitions, and societal expectations—a theme incredibly relevant even today.
Tolsma’s writing shines as she allows each twin to have her voice, brilliantly capturing their distinct personalities. Grace’s journalistic aspirations and Hope’s dreams of becoming an aviatrix come alive with the author’s meticulous attention to detail. I appreciated how she deftly kept the pacing brisk; the story doesn’t get bogged down in exposition. Instead, it plunges right into the action, making the reading experience exhilarating and engaging. There’s a refreshing element of knowing which timeline the sisters prefer, allowing for a different kind of tension; it’s not just about choosing a life but enduring the trials of Salem long enough to escape.
What struck me emotionally was how Tolsma manages to weave in Christian themes without feeling preachy. The twins are tested in their faith—an exploration of belief amid turmoil, captured beautifully throughout their struggles. I found the balance just right; the religious context was embedded organically within their challenges and growth, steering clear of clichés.
However, I’d be remiss not to mention the slight predictability of the storyline. Having followed the series, I felt the ending was somewhat foreseen, yet I was still captivated by how Tolsma skillfully tied up all the arcs, including an exciting guest appearance that left me grinning from ear to ear.
The slow burn in the first half felt appropriate given the intricacies of the twins’ lives, allowing me time to savor every detail. While some secondary characters didn’t get as much page time, the strong focus on Grace and Hope kept the narrative grounded. I also didn’t mind the romantic entanglements; they complemented the core story without overshadowing it.
In closing, if you’re a lover of historical fiction—even if you’re not particularly drawn to the spiritual elements—For a Lifetime is a beautifully crafted read, beckoning to those who appreciate well-researched narratives entwined with adventure and heart. Though it can stand on its own, I wholeheartedly advocate starting from the beginning to fully savor the evolution of this remarkable series. Liz Tolsma has created something truly special here, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store next!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
My sincere gratitude goes to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of this gem. It was a delight to share my thoughts with all of you! If you enjoy rich, time-crossing adventures with strong female leads, this book is definitely for you!
Happy reading! 📚
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