Gwyneth and Gideon travel back to the present after their run in with Paul and Lucy in 1912. Gwen continues to try and figure out the secrets of time travel, the chronograph, and ‘completing the circle.’ Gideon tries to figure out if Gwen will betray him/the Guardians in the future.

That cliffhanger at the end of the first book, Ruby Red, really got me, and I was completely invested in this book right from the start. I love how it literally picked up right where Ruby Red ended and there was no jump in the timeline. I love the mystery of time travel and how, even throughout this book, we still really don’t know what the point of the Guardians is. It’s fun reading from Gwen’s perspective a few days after learning she can travel through time and being as confused and frustrated as she is (in a good way). I love yelling at the other characters in my head to ‘just stop lying’ and ‘tell us what’s actually going on.’

I also really love reading the moments where Gwen and Gideon travel through time. It’s fun to see them in a historical setting, especially with Gideon knowing a lot about history and Gwen not. It’s a weird take on historical fiction (but not), and I’m very intrigued by it. But also annoyed by the amount of alcohol Gwen thinks it’s okay to consume. It makes complete sense: when in fear of your life, get more drunk.

I wasn’t so sure about Xemerius in the beginning, but he really grew on me and the story wouldn’t be the same without him. I also loved Gwen and Gideon. It’s ridiculous that they’re even thinking about love after only knowing each other for a few days, yet I can’t help but ignore that fact. It’s all somewhat superficial. But at the same time, compared to other relationships in their lives, is it really? I also really appreciate how we got Gideon’s detailed family tree. I needed it. And I’m glad that the author acknowledged the fact that I needed it. No need to make things weird over here.

Obviously, I’m slightly frustrated with the cliffhanger I was left on at the end. I can’t wait to read the next book.