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Adnan Nazir

Reviewed on Apr 10, 2023

Loved it! 😍

A beautifully written book on the complexities of time, love, and a story about self-discovery and the choices we make in life.

Synopsis

Have you ever wondered …

If I had met this person as who I am now, instead of who I was then, would it have changed anything?

Two people. Ten years. One winding love story.

Time, for Jolie, is the worst. It moves too slowly when she needs it to speed up; too fast when she wishes she could just bring everything to a halt. But for her and Jace, timing is everything. And they can’t seem to get it right.

Time, for Jace, is simple. The plan is obvious and the outcome is inevitable: earn a degree, get a job, make a life. All in due time. But for him and Jolie, timing is complicated. And they have a habit of falling out of sync.

As they navigate the tides of their relationship amid the uncertainties of life after graduation, Jolie and Jace enter a decade-long cycle of passion, heartbreak, bad timing, and, ultimately, self-discovery. All in pursuit of an answer to the inescapable question: Will time, for once, ever be on their side?

Time for Once is an adult coming-of-age story about love, acceptance, and the mistakes we all make in the messy but crucial process of growth.

"Time for Once" by Jes Smyth is a thought-provoking and beautifully written novel that explores the complexities of time, love, and self-discovery. This captivating book takes readers on a journey through the lives of two protagonists, connected across time and space, as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that arise when faced with the ability to manipulate time.

The novel follows the lives of Charlotte and Julian, two individuals from different eras who find themselves able to travel through time. Charlotte is a modern-day woman who is struggling with the monotony of her daily routine and her unfulfilled desires, while Julian is a man from the Victorian era, seeking meaning in his structured and predictable life. As they each discover their ability to travel through time, they embark on a journey to understand the limits and consequences of this power, and how it can reshape their lives.

One of the strengths of "Time for Once" is the rich and vivid prose that Jes Smyth employs to bring the story to life. The writing is lyrical, evocative, and filled with sensory details that transport readers to different time periods and settings. From the bustling streets of modern-day London to the elegant ballrooms of Victorian England, the author's descriptive language creates a vivid sense of time and place, immersing readers in the story's world.

The characters in "Time for Once" are well-drawn and relatable, each grappling with their own desires, fears, and vulnerabilities. Charlotte and Julian are multi-dimensional, flawed, and compelling protagonists who evolve and grow as the story unfolds. Their interactions are authentic and emotionally resonant, as they navigate the complexities of their newfound abilities and the impact it has on their lives and relationships.

At its core, "Time for Once" is a story about self-discovery and the choices we make in life. It explores themes of fate, free will, and the consequences of altering the course of time. The novel raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of existence, the meaning of life, and the significance of the choices we make. It challenges readers to reflect on their own lives and the choices they have made or will make in the future.

Another standout feature of the novel is its intricate and well-crafted plot. The story is skillfully woven, with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers engaged and eager to uncover what happens next. The pacing is well-balanced, blending moments of quiet introspection with suspenseful and action-packed sequences. The concept of time travel is portrayed in a unique and original way, adding a fresh perspective to a familiar trope.

"Time for Once" is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that will captivate readers with its rich prose, compelling characters, and engaging plot. Jes Smyth has crafted a story that is both introspective and adventurous, exploring the mysteries of time and the complexities of human existence. It is a book that will leave readers pondering the nature of time and the choices we make long after the final page is turned. Highly recommended for fans of literary fiction, science fiction, and anyone who appreciates a thought-provoking and beautifully written tale.

Reviewed by
Adnan Nazir

Greetings! I am a skilled writer and wordsmith, proficient in crafting stories, essays, articles, and more. With a passion for language and an extensive vocabulary, I am able to communicate ideas, emotions, and information in a captivating and engaging manner.

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