A Victorian Visitor

by Stephenia H. McGee

He never asked for a blind date—especially not one from 1864.

If Connor Payne had known his grandfather was up to a matchmaking scheme on their weekend trip to a quirky B&B, he would have stayed home on the farm. But it turns out his accommodations come not with a blind date, but a trip to 1864—with a war on the doorstep and no idea how to get home. Rescuing a stubborn beauty and her grandfather from the burning of Atlanta was not on his weekend agenda. Now getting her to safety might mean dragging her through time… and into a future neither of them understands.

Amanda Lashley never imagined the ticking clocks in her grandfather’s shop could signal the end of everything she’s ever known. But when two strangers arrive out of nowhere and insist they must leave immediately, she makes a choice that catapults her into a world of strange customs, dazzling inventions, and impossible surprises. Now stuck in a future she never asked for, Amanda must find her footing, her courage—and maybe even her heart.

Each book is stand alone. Read in any order!

♥ The Back Inn Time series books are fun, faith-filled stories of what it might be like to suddenly experience life in a different time. These clean historical romances are packed with humor and adventure. Perfect for fans of dual timeline or time slip stories and Christian historical romance, these books answer the question every historical fiction fan wonders—what would it be like if I went back to that time? If you enjoy the wholesomeness of Amish, Western, or frontier fiction and adore romantic comedies, then a visit to a seaside Victorian inn where you can “step back inn time and leave your troubles behind!” is for you.

Don't miss the other books in the Back Inn Time Series!
A Wagon Train Weekend
Falling for the Fifties
A Colonial Courtship
A Castle for Christmas
A Gilded Age Getaway
A Taste of the Twenties

Genres: Time Travel, Christian, Contemporary, Historical Fiction, Romance, Historical, Dual Timeline

267 pages, Paperback

First published September 16, 2025

About the author

Stephenia H. McGee is a multi-published author of stories of faith, hope, and healing set in the Deep South. She lives in Mississippi, where she is a mom of two rambunctious boys, writer, dreamer, and husband spoiler. Her novel The Cedar Key was a 2021 Faith, Hope, and Love Readers’ Choice award winner. A member of the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution), she loves all things books and history. Stephenia also loves connecting with readers and can often be found having fun with her Faithful Readers Team on Facebook. For more on books and upcoming events and to connect with Stephenia, visit her at www.StepheniaMcGee.com.

Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

“Amanda didn’t know what would come next. But maybe, just maybe, God wasn’t finished writing the story.”

I adore the Back Inn Time series by Stephenia H. McGee, and I do believe that A Victorian Visitor just took the spot as my fave installment. We’ve seen in this series what happens when someone from the modern day goes back in time – but I thought it was lots of fun to imagine what it would be like for someone to come from 1864 to 2025. Amanda and her grandfather Nicholas’ introductions to modern conveniences, societal norms, and technology were just perfect, and I loved how the author captured their mix of bewilderment and curiosity through their reactions. Amanda’s initial thoughts on modern female undergarments and Nicholas’ delight in wearing shorts are two examples that had me giggling, but there were several others as well. (It won’t take you any time at all to fall in love with Amanda and Nicholas either, nor with Connor and his Pop. The author writes them so warmly and with such vibrant personalities.)

Speaking of giggling… Pop cracked me up. I really enjoyed his interactions with his grandson Connor, Nicholas, and Mrs. Easley. (I will never tire of spending time with Mrs. Easley, y’all!) Watching Pop’s giddy delight over going back in time again – and taking Connor with him (and maybe even finding him a bride) – endeared him instantly to me. Though, if I were in Connor’s shoes, I might be a tad less amused by Pop’s machinations lol. Connor himself stole my heart as a genuinely good guy, even in the middle of some pretty unexpected situations. His walk with God is sincere, his behavior honorable, and it was a pleasure to watch him fall in love. It was also hilarious to watch him navigate Pop’s initial conversation with Mrs. Easley and the whole time travel/matchmaking thing. Befuddled Connor is quite swoony, whether it’s because feelings have taken him by surprise or his grandfather’s secrets have.

Bottom Line: A Victorian Visitor is pure delight – funny, heartwarming, and faith-filled. Stephenia H. McGee blends humor, romance, and spiritual depth in a way that makes every page a joy to read, while her lively cast of characters feels like old friends you’re delighted to spend time with again. (Also, now I need a book for Pop and I’m still pulling for a Mrs. Easley origin novel.) I love the creativity and warmth this series delivers, and I really love how this latest book involved my whole heart. The charm of the time-travel premise, the witty moments that will leave you grinning, and the tender reminders of God’s hand in every chapter of your own story make this an immersive and entertaining must-read!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love time travel adventures, you’ll love this charming, faith-filled romance from Stephenia H. McGee! A Victorian Visitor is the seventh book in the Back Inn Time series where a quaint B&B mysteriously allows visitors to travel back in time. This time though, there’s a twist. Amanda Lashley & her grandfather Nicholas are brought forward in time from 1864 Atlanta to present day 2025 by modern farmer Connor Payne & his meddling, matchmaking grandfather.

Connor Payne isn’t looking to settle down, but his scheming grandfather has other plans. When they visit a quirky B&B, Connor finds himself suddenly thrust back in time to Civil War era Atlanta. Pop has been to this time period before & knows just where they need to go. Realizing that Atlanta’s about to burn, Pop leads Connor to a clockmaker’s shop where his friend Nicholas & granddaughter Amanda reside. Convincing Amanda to go with them is harder than Connor anticipates, but she finally agrees to go, & they rush to the train station where they’ll hopefully be whisked back to 2025.

Amanda Lashley’s shocked when two strangers arrive at her grandfather’s clockmaking shop & insist they must leave immediately. Nicholas seems to know Pop & between all of them convince her to leave. Suddenly, Amanda finds herself thrust into a world where dishes are washed by machines, hot water arrives effortlessly, & horseless carriages travel at frighteningly fast speeds. As she adapts to this new world, she finds herself falling in love with the man who rescued her.

This book is so much fun! I loved seeing modern technology through Amanda’s & Nicholas’ eyes. Nicholas is a hoot who readily embraces fast food & shorts while Amanda’s shocked by the scandalous attire women wear. I enjoyed seeing her awe & suprise. Connor’s a swoon worthy suitor who easily sympathizes with Amanda & takes joy in introducing the modern world to her. I loved their whirlwind romance. Pop’s an adorably hilarious matchmaker. I also enjoyed the eccentric inn owner, Mrs. Easley.

The author explores all the issues a visitor from the past might face with a touch of faith, & I enjoyed every moment! Highly recommend! Looking forward to read the other books in the time travel series. I received an advanced copy from the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
I couldn’t put this book down.

From the very first page, A Victorian Visitor swept me into a world where time bends and hearts collide. Stephenia H. McGee has masterfully blended historical fiction, romance, and a touch of the supernatural in a way that feels both fresh and utterly compelling.

The premise alone is fascinating: a woman from the Victorian era suddenly finds herself in the modern day, and what unfolds is part love story, part mystery, and part journey of self-discovery. McGee’s writing shines with vivid descriptions, authentic emotion, and characters you quickly grow to care about—especially the heroine, whose grace and strength in an unfamiliar world are both touching and inspiring.

The romantic tension is perfectly paced, never overdone, and the story carries a beautiful underlying message about faith, identity, and the ways we connect across time and circumstance. The historical details are rich but never heavy, and the time-travel element is handled with just the right mix of realism and wonder.

I loved everything about this book—the characters, the setting, the pacing, the emotional depth. It stayed with me long after I turned the last page, and I already want to reread it just to spend more time in its world.

If you're a fan of clean historical romance with a unique twist, A Victorian Visitor will absolutely steal your heart.

[Tanya Puig · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was privileged to receive an advanced reader copy of A Victorian Visitor, and I’m so glad I did. Stephenia H. McGee has once again crafted a story that’s both heartwarming and full of whimsy, with just the right touch of historical charm and time-travel intrigue.

The unexpected journey from a matchmaking weekend to Civil War-era Atlanta had me turning pages late into the night. I really enjoyed reading about how Ms. Lashley navigated a world so different from her own.

McGee’s writing is rich with historical detail and emotional depth, and I appreciated how naturally she wove in themes of faith and love. The humor throughout the book added a lovely balance to the more serious moments, and the supporting characters—especially the meddling grandfathers and the mysterious Mrs. Easley—brought so much warmth and personality to the story.

I have read all of the Back Inn Time series and this story was just as good as the rest. The story does stand on its own even though there are some references to previous books. If you enjoy sweet, uplifting romances with a historical twist and a dash of time travel, this book is a must-read.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been such a fun series. I recommend reading them all! And although the author says you can read in any order, I recommend saving A Victorian Visitor for last. I think a few things would be confusing if you didn’t read at least one or two of the others first.

How would you feel if you were transported to 1864? How would you feel in 1864 if someone told you there were from 2025? You can imagine the confusion and the disbelief. And the thought that the other may have lost their minds. It really was pretty humorous.

Now imagine you're from 1864 and were transported to 2025. I enjoyed how McGee brought explanations to Amanda and her grandfather when they had no clue what was going on. Cell phones. Refrigerators. Everything was different and bewildering. And the author made us feel that right along with the characters.

We learn a bit of Civil War history. We sense the wonder of all of the characters. And we “watch” a romance blossom. I highly recommend A Victorian Visitor!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a solid addition to the wonderful Back Inn Time series. Once again, Ms. McGee makes time-travel come alive with believability and this time adds a twist on the time-travel concept featured in the previous books. In this book, not only do characters go back in time, but also, other characters join them to come to the present. The characters are diverse, and all are beautifully crafted and easy to form emotional bonds with. Connor and Amanda are an adorable couple, and the grandfathers are a hoot. It was a pleasure to learn more about Mrs. Easley and get a deeper understanding of her calling. A perfect combination of drama, humor, history, romance, and faith makes this a thoroughly enjoyable story. I highly recommend this book and the series. This is seventh book in the series, but I have high hopes for an eighth. Note: Each book in the series is a standalone.
I read an early copy of this book from the author with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[BrendaLee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Back Inn Time book from this author. I have enjoyed each one. This one was a little different because Conner and his grandpa went back in time and brought someone with them to their time.
Trying to leave the war and get back home was really a “trip” literally and the author always makes it interesting, emotional and fun. I really fell in love with the grandpa’s and Conner and Amanda’s story. Amanda and her grandpa trying to wrap their minds around the things they knew nothing about was amazing.
It made me think about our ancestors if they were to come back in this day and time how they would be bewildered about all the new technology and the modern conveniences we have today.
I highly recommend this faith inspiring, fun, historical/modern day book.
I received a complimentary copy but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hard to put down, I finished it in two days. Another outstanding addition to this series. The author draws you right into Atlanta in the days before it burned in November 1864, then brings two people from there into modern day coastal Mississippi.

The author has certainly done her research about where and when the burning of Atlanta began. She put a lot of thought into what would shock a person from 1864 who came to 2025 USA. Is it the horseless carriages, the flying machines, the shower, the oven, the casual clothing, the courting rituals, or something else? You'll have to read it to find out.

Excellent character development, and a suspenseful plot.

Full disclosure: I am part of the Advance Readers Team.

[Betti · Rating 5 out of 5]

A weekend away from the farm sounded like a good idea, at least Pop thinks so. Strange place, this Back Inn Time B&B. Also known as The Depot made Conner wonder what his weekend would be like.

1864 and the war reached Amanda and her Grandfather in Atlanta. Evacuation was their only choice. But into the future??? If she was going to be dropped into the future, she might as well enjoy the handsome man willing to be her guide. What would 2025 bring to a lovely lady from 1864? With all the strange customs, dazzling inventions and endless surprises I have to wonder how I would have reacted.

An ARC was received through By The Vine Press and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story from the Back Inn Time series and this trip of time travel takes our unsuspecting Connor back to Civil War Atlanta just as it’s about to burn to the ground. Amanda and her grandfather are meant to escape the inferno and go to the future with Connor and his meddling grandfather. They will all have to trust God and His plan for their future.

This story made me wonder how I would feel if I were thrown into the future where everything would be foreign to me. She handled it all with grace. Connor isn’t your typical young man either. He is perfect for Amanda as he’s patient and they share a secret of time travel.

This book is well written and has a great story as well as humor. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. It is a standalone with a happy ending.

[Kasey Blue Killmeyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stephenia did it again! She created a world that I wanted to be in. Her characters are wonderful and love watching them grow in understanding. I love that she takes such a real topic as faith and intertwines it with such a fictional thing as time travel in a way that just works. I feel like we get to know more about the sweet and spunky innkeeper and yet we still want to know more. I always feel the same thing at the end of her books... I don't want the story to end. I love that this series each book can stand on its own but when you read them you see pieces of old friends and for me that brings back those memories thru the snapshots. I recommend not walking but running to buy and read this book!

[Kimberly Bowie]

When Connor and his grandfather visit a B&B for the weekend, Connor has no idea he and his grandfather are about to be sent back in time to the Civil War! Although Connor is flabberghasted, his grandfather is as cool as a cucumber. The same as Amanda's grandfather when he meets Connor and his grandfather. However, Amanda is just a befuddled as Connor, and even moreso when she is sent forward in time to Connor's present day. Can they all learn to adapt to the changes or will Amanda and her grandfather seek a way back in time?

While this is Book 7 in the Back Inn Time collection, it is not necessary to read these books in order. I highly recommend this story to anyone who loves a dual time-line Christian fiction story!

[Carmen Tucker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my 2nd Back Inn Time book to read in the series. I'm really enjoying this series. You get a little glimpse of historical periods and the circumstances around it. The characters in this story went back in time during the Civil War and Atlanta as it was burning. Our heroes were sent to rescue a young woman and her grandfather before they got stuck in Atlanta. They were brought to the future, which was the present time to our heroes. Imagine the shock that was to the newcomers! This is a cute opportunity to imagine some of the shocking and funny situations they go through. There also may be a little romance blooming between our hero and the young woman! This is a clean and easy read for fun and enjoyment!

[Amy Lambert]

A Victorian Visitor, book 7 of the Back Inn Time series, is a five-star book! The plot is different from the first 6 in the series, which gave it an interesting twist from the original books. It is not what I expected when I first started reading. This is excellent to keep readers engaged! There are many lessons to be learned through the book, seeing things in the modern world through fresh eyes. This is teaching me not to take modern day inventions for granted. Things as simple as the light bulb or as common as the dishwasher. Everything about this book had me engaged through to the very end.

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful! If you are looking for a sweet romance complete with time travel, look no further! This is the sweetest, most enjoyable story I've read recently. Highly recommend!

*love the snarky comments & disbelief when Connor and his Pops travel to 1864
*the disbelief and wonder when you find yourself in another time
*learning to trust God when you don't understand
*I love how Connor patiently explains modern conveniences
*the wonder of Amanda and excitement of her Grandpa when they travel to the future.
*her old school descriptions of modern clothing and other modern things are so cute!

Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy, all opinions are my own.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you like books that have:
time travel
Civil War era setting
meddling family
danger
faith-filled characters
mystery
Then this book checks all the boxes!

I have enjoyed reading the story with its twist on time travel. Ms. McGee did a terrific job of describing inventions. I even learned a couple of new things myself! Readers both young and mature can read this book and enjoy the plot and the romance between Connor and Amanda.

Even though this is the 7th book in the Back Inn Time series it can be read as a standalone. Characters from past books are mentioned, but not an integral part of the plot. I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Krista Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best one yet!!

I have read almost every one of The Back Inn Time series but this one is by far my absolute favorite! I read this book in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down!! One of my favorite genres to read is historical fiction so I love that you got to experience that with the time travel to the past but also got to experience time traveling to the future! As always, this book showed faith and lessons about trusting in God in every season and situation. I look forward to any future books!

[Justpraisin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a fun read and I enjoyed it. I’ve read all of the books in this author’s “Back Inn Time” series and they are perfect for reading on a lazy afternoon. This plot line felt a bit more predictable than other books in this series, but it was still an enjoyable light read. This book had more of a spiritual emphasis than her previous books (although all are written from a Christian perspective).

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Victorian Visitor was a great addition to the series! I especially enjoyed how the Back Inn Time inn brought Connor and Amanda together and how history between both their grandfathers linked the past and future together. I also appreciated the importance of Christian values to the characters. Thanks Stephenia for another great book!

[Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite one of the series! I have loved when the past characters have gone back into the past and had to work things out, but this new take of bringing someone forward was amazing! I truly loved Connor and Amanda‘s growth. It was beautiful to see them both relying on the Lord in the situations at hand. I really hope we get to see Pops story now!

[Robin Warren-busigo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Sweet and Gentle Love Story Back Inn Time

This Back in Time series is my Favorite series for Miss McGee. A Victorian Visitor, Book 7. This book does not disappoint. Great characters and the time chosen is during the Civil War/War between the States. I loved the love story between Connor and Amanda.

[Diane Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was a child, I loved the episode of Bewitched where Ben Franklin time traveled and was awed by our new inventions. This novel was extremely fun and entertaining because the people from the past came to the future! What a neat twist to the series! This may be my favorite of McGee’s time travel series.

[Sally Bush-Teixeira · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely story! Caught my interest immediately and was so easy to read and follow. The characters are believable and charming! Civil War era is one of my favorite times in history. This book will not disappoint. I love how each person based their actions on their Christian beliefs. Action, adventure and a special love all thrown in together. Maybe a sequel is in the future??? I received an advanced reader copy with no obligation to write a positive review. I will be buying the book for my library when it becomes available.

[Julie Hartjes · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have loved the Back Inn Time series. I just didn't find this one quite as interesting as some of the others. Still, a sweet story, and a good palate cleanser after reading a heavy historical fiction book. I liked it...just didn't love it.

[Carla Whitaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

intriguing

I love the simplicity of your books as well as how you integrate God into all of your books. They are clean and I have no problem recommending your books and don’t have to give any warnings about things that God doesn’t approve of.

[PaulAdria Holden · Rating 5 out of 5]

So so good!
I loved it!
I wish the Epilogue was a bit different as it gives off an appearance I don’t agree with but the rest of the book was amazing!!

[Diane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my favorite. Much more overtly religious, and gave me a weird vibe. Liked the others better.

[Katmac · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved every one of these books!

[Phyllis (Avid Reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story in this Back Inn Time series. I've enjoyed each one I've read and this one, I thought, was a bit more creative than usual. Fun, easy read.

[Michelle Rutherford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful

I wasn't sure id like it since it was mostly in our time, but it was beautiful. Thank you .