In J.M. Frey's Time and Tide, Sam, a bisexual woman from the 21st century, survives a plane crash only to find herself inexplicably transported to 1805. Rescued by a British warship, she navigates the unfamiliar world of Regency England with the help of a dashing sea captain. Betrayed and left with few options, she finds refuge with the captain's sisters, one of whom is the renowned (but yet-to-be-famous) author Margaret Goodenough. As Sam and Margaret grow closer, a forbidden romance blossoms, threatening to disrupt both their lives and possibly alter the course of literary history. This historical fiction with a time-travel twist promises a captivating blend of romance, survival, and the challenges of navigating a vastly different era.
Review Time and Tide
Oh my goodness, "Time and Tide" by J.M. Frey completely swept me away! I devoured this book in a whirlwind of emotions, and I'm still reeling a little from the experience. It's a historical fiction time-travel romance with a deliciously modern twist, and it absolutely delivers on all fronts.
The premise alone is captivating: a bisexual woman from the 21st century, thrown into the constraints of Regency England after a plane crash. Sam, our protagonist, is fiercely independent and wonderfully flawed, and her journey is both hilarious and heartbreaking. Frey does an amazing job capturing the disorientation and sheer terror of finding yourself centuries out of time, completely stripped of your familiar comforts and societal understanding. The initial shock, the struggle to adapt – it all felt so real and visceral.
What truly elevates "Time and Tide" beyond a typical time-travel romance, though, is its nuanced exploration of identity. Sam's journey isn't just about surviving in a new era; it's about reconciling her modern self with the limitations and expectations of 19th-century society. Her bisexuality becomes a central part of her story, not a mere plot point, and the tension between her true self and the necessity to conceal it in a homophobic era is genuinely gripping. The author doesn't shy away from the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, historically and even today, making the story feel both timely and timeless.
The romance itself is beautifully developed. Sam's connection with Margaret, the aspiring author, is slow-burn perfection. Their relationship feels natural and believable, built on shared experiences and a mutual understanding that transcends time. It's a romance that celebrates the complexities of love and connection, highlighting the power of human empathy and understanding even across vast cultural divides.
Beyond the romance, the historical setting itself feels richly realized. Frey meticulously crafts the atmosphere of Regency England, bringing its societal norms, language, and even the physical environment to life. It’s immersive and detailed without ever feeling overwhelming; the historical elements always serve the story, rather than dictating it.
While the plot occasionally veers into the realm of coincidence – a hallmark of many time-travel stories – the overall narrative flow is engaging and surprisingly logical. The pacing is well-maintained, with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing until the very end. The conclusion, while satisfying, also leaves you pondering the lingering echoes of Sam's journey and the ripple effects of her actions.
In short, "Time and Tide" is a delightful and thought-provoking read. It’s a captivating blend of romance, history, and self-discovery that will leave you wanting more. If you enjoy historical fiction with a touch of fantasy, a strong female lead, and a nuanced exploration of LGBTQ+ themes, then this book is an absolute must-read. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Information
- Dimensions: 5.31 x 0.9 x 8.25 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 408
- Publication date: 2024
- Publisher: W by Wattpad Books