I’ve been a lover of time travel for many years, with my favourite movie in this genre being Kate and Leopold. 

While A Time to Love is nothing like Kate and Leopold, it is similar in that the main character, Joanne Dunstan, is transported out of her own time and into one that is totally foreign to her.

After being given an antique necklace by her mysterious neighbour, Jo – as she’s known throughout the story – is transported to 1626 where she encounters the Laird Connor MacKay. 

Laird MacKay is feared by his enemies, but loved by those of his clan.  He is as untrusting of this outspoken stranger who seemed to appear from nowhere, as Jo is of the Laird.

Jo is allowed to stay on in the Laird’s castle, but only if she earns her keep.  It is in the process of this that Jo uncovers the Laird’s secret chamber and dares to enter.  The Laird stumbles upon her in his forbidden chamber, and is immediately mesmerised by the naked stranger he finds there.

There are many twists and turns to this story, some funny, some heartbreaking or shocking, as well as tender and unforgettable scenes.

The story ended with a total surprise, and I still find myself reeling over this wholly unfathomable finish.

It’s been some time since I’ve read a time travel, and initially I found the olde world language difficult to read.  But after just a short time, was well and truly transported into the story.  It wasn’t long before I found myself sitting up until midnight and longer each night, often reluctantly turning off the light well after 1am.

Gail Symmonds is a terrific story-teller, with an imagination to match.  If you enjoy an action-packed tale mixed with time travel and romance, this book will have you burning the midnight oil.