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Path to Old Talbot
Thirteen-year-old Charity can escape her unpleasant reality by stepping through the parlor closet of her mother’s new home, a mansion built in the 1800’s.
In her hometown of Talbot, New York, in the year 1880, she doesn’t have to worry about her depressed father skipping his medications or her mother flirting with her coworker. Instead, she gets to know the hatter’s son, who shows her a lifestyle of manners and pride. Few have ever accepted Charity’s old-fashioned ways…until now.
However, old Talbot can’t banish the present. Charity can stay in the mansion, with access to the hatter’s son in the past, and the prospect of a steady family unit with her mother and the new man in her mother’s life, or she can go back to her father, who has been given the option to straighten out his life and join them in their new home. Instead, his world unravels, and he spirals into violence and self-harm.
Torn between two worlds, Charity knows that if she doesn’t help him, she may lose him forever if he follows through on his threats of self-destruction.
In her hometown of Talbot, New York, in the year 1880, she doesn’t have to worry about her depressed father skipping his medications or her mother flirting with her coworker. Instead, she gets to know the hatter’s son, who shows her a lifestyle of manners and pride. Few have ever accepted Charity’s old-fashioned ways…until now.
However, old Talbot can’t banish the present. Charity can stay in the mansion, with access to the hatter’s son in the past, and the prospect of a steady family unit with her mother and the new man in her mother’s life, or she can go back to her father, who has been given the option to straighten out his life and join them in their new home. Instead, his world unravels, and he spirals into violence and self-harm.
Torn between two worlds, Charity knows that if she doesn’t help him, she may lose him forever if he follows through on his threats of self-destruction.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 22, 2017
21 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
April 17, 2017
When thirteen year old Charity moved with her mother Isadora to her dream house in Talbot, they were leaving her father Max behind at their old home. Tensions in the household were high so a separation seemed necessary. Charity was excited to be in the old mansion which had been built in the 1800s – the old furniture and knickknacks had been left there by the previous owner, so their historical significance was important to both Isadora and Charity, with their continued interest in the past.
But the discovery of a portal through a door in the parlour had Charity and her mother fascinated – more so when they found they were still in Talbot; but it was the 1880s. Being able to return to the current day, and back to old Talbot whenever they wanted meant Charity made friends with the young people of the day. She and her mother had gowns which fitted the time made, and blended in well. Horse and cart, steam trains and more – they intrigued Charity and her interest in the historical intensified.
But what would happen when Charity discovered something that had happened in the past? Could she change history? And what would happen with Charity’s father? Would he get well enough to return to his family?
Path to Old Talbot by Jordan Elizabeth is an entertaining time travel/fantasy novel which I thoroughly enjoyed. Charity is a great character and her adaption into the 1800s was well done. I’ve always enjoyed this author’s fantasy novels, and this one was no exception. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review.
But the discovery of a portal through a door in the parlour had Charity and her mother fascinated – more so when they found they were still in Talbot; but it was the 1880s. Being able to return to the current day, and back to old Talbot whenever they wanted meant Charity made friends with the young people of the day. She and her mother had gowns which fitted the time made, and blended in well. Horse and cart, steam trains and more – they intrigued Charity and her interest in the historical intensified.
But what would happen when Charity discovered something that had happened in the past? Could she change history? And what would happen with Charity’s father? Would he get well enough to return to his family?
Path to Old Talbot by Jordan Elizabeth is an entertaining time travel/fantasy novel which I thoroughly enjoyed. Charity is a great character and her adaption into the 1800s was well done. I’ve always enjoyed this author’s fantasy novels, and this one was no exception. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review.
May 3, 2017
At thirteen, an age of chaotic emotions and insecurity about life, Charity learns firsthand, the powers of love, loss, mental illness and the magic of finding a place where your problems can be left behind. In a time when things are simple, more honest, less polished and more forgiving, Charity will learn to give of herself, deal with her own problems and discover friends she will always cherish. For Charity and her mother, that new life began the day they opened the door on their new home, a well-aged, but forgotten place that still holds the secrets of a far distant past when the house was young and Old Talbot was a growing community in the end of the nineteenth century. The magic began with the opening of an old parlor door that transcended time and welcomed new visitors to the past.
With the adult worries of the twenty-first century behind them, Charity and her mother find the charm of simpler and more sincere times and an escape from their own harsh realities. Torn between two worlds, Charity continues to reach out to the father she is losing to his madness and depression, the father who loves her, loves her mother, but cannot seem to dig himself out of the hell of his own making. For Charity, both eras are defining times in her life, as the past and the present provide the strength she needs for whatever may lie ahead.
Jordan Elizabeth’s THE PATH TO OLD TALBOT is more than a fantasy escape for a young teen with no control over the events playing out in her life. Jordan Elizabeth does a remarkable job of giving insight into depression as a true illness, not a crutch and does so through the understanding and “wisdom” of a child in distress, a child coming to grips with the knowledge that no matter how much she is loved or she loves in return, sometimes ones torment in their mind becomes all-encompassing and it is no one else’s fault. Feel the wonder of stepping back in time, the magic of living history and the people who were truly part of that history.
Enchanting, yet thoughtful, Jordan Elizabeth will hold a reader of any age captive with both her fantasy tale and her insightful way of explaining the devastation of depression that shatters the age old mold of a child’s unearned guilt and insecurity. Highly recommended for all ages with characters that are so believable, one can almost reach out and touch them.
I received this copy from Jordan Elizabeth in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: CHBB Publishing (March 22, 2017)
Publication Date: March 22, 2017
Genre: YA | Time Travel | Mental Illness
Print Length: 202 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
With the adult worries of the twenty-first century behind them, Charity and her mother find the charm of simpler and more sincere times and an escape from their own harsh realities. Torn between two worlds, Charity continues to reach out to the father she is losing to his madness and depression, the father who loves her, loves her mother, but cannot seem to dig himself out of the hell of his own making. For Charity, both eras are defining times in her life, as the past and the present provide the strength she needs for whatever may lie ahead.
Jordan Elizabeth’s THE PATH TO OLD TALBOT is more than a fantasy escape for a young teen with no control over the events playing out in her life. Jordan Elizabeth does a remarkable job of giving insight into depression as a true illness, not a crutch and does so through the understanding and “wisdom” of a child in distress, a child coming to grips with the knowledge that no matter how much she is loved or she loves in return, sometimes ones torment in their mind becomes all-encompassing and it is no one else’s fault. Feel the wonder of stepping back in time, the magic of living history and the people who were truly part of that history.
Enchanting, yet thoughtful, Jordan Elizabeth will hold a reader of any age captive with both her fantasy tale and her insightful way of explaining the devastation of depression that shatters the age old mold of a child’s unearned guilt and insecurity. Highly recommended for all ages with characters that are so believable, one can almost reach out and touch them.
I received this copy from Jordan Elizabeth in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: CHBB Publishing (March 22, 2017)
Publication Date: March 22, 2017
Genre: YA | Time Travel | Mental Illness
Print Length: 202 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
March 27, 2017
I love Jordan Elizabeth Mierek's books and this one is no different. She amazes me with how she can transport me to another place and bring her characters to life.
In the one Charity moves away with her mother Isadora, from her father, who is mentally ill but refuses to take his medication. They find a way to Old Talbot through a door in their new house and from there, things become magical.
In the one Charity moves away with her mother Isadora, from her father, who is mentally ill but refuses to take his medication. They find a way to Old Talbot through a door in their new house and from there, things become magical.
February 18, 2017
Dad is having another of his usual meltdowns, crying and screaming. Charity and Mom are moving, without him, to an unbelievable place--a place that really can't exist, but does. This new home brings magic to Jordan Elizabeth's readers, a true adventure that both young adults and even more adult readers can revel in. The novel is a 10, an A++, an escape for both characters and readers, a definite yes. –G. Miki Hayden, author of The Heroine’s Journey
April 5, 2018
Reviewed For Readers' Favorite by Grant Leishman
For thirteen-year-old Charity, her life, it seems, is defined by her father’s illness, a man who suffers from clinical depression. Charity’s mother, Isadora and Charity, both love her father deeply, but they also understand they cannot make the changes in his life that he needs to make. In desperation, the pair move out from the family home and into an old mansion, that has seen better days. In Path to Old Talbot, by Jordan Elizabeth we find a coming-of-age story with hidden depths. Charity and Isadora discover, to their excitement and fear, within an old cupboard in the house, a portal to the past. The door opens up to their town of Talbot, but in the late 1800’s. Fascinated by their discovery and finding it an escape from the problems of her father, Charity embraces the old Talbot and quickly makes herself at home in the era, making a number of friends. When she realises that she may have the potential to alter the past and save her friends from a terrible fate, the problems begin.
Written from the perspective of thirteen-year-old Charity, Path to Old Talbot is a sweet, heart-warming tale, with serious undertones. Author Jordan Elizabeth has used the character of Charity’s father to demonstrate the debilitating effects of clinical depression, not just on the sufferer, but also on his or her family. The relationships within this story are what lifts it above your average coming-of-age novel. Charity has a natural impetuosity and a desire to help those she meets in the past, but she is also wise beyond her years, when it comes to the issue of mental illness and particularly depression. Written in a young teenagers vernacular, the tale is easy to read and full of little twists and turns, that I enjoyed, especially when the author attempted to address that age-old issue of the time-travel paradox. If Charity made changes in the past, how would that affect the future? This was a most enjoyable read and a young adult book I can highly recommend.
For thirteen-year-old Charity, her life, it seems, is defined by her father’s illness, a man who suffers from clinical depression. Charity’s mother, Isadora and Charity, both love her father deeply, but they also understand they cannot make the changes in his life that he needs to make. In desperation, the pair move out from the family home and into an old mansion, that has seen better days. In Path to Old Talbot, by Jordan Elizabeth we find a coming-of-age story with hidden depths. Charity and Isadora discover, to their excitement and fear, within an old cupboard in the house, a portal to the past. The door opens up to their town of Talbot, but in the late 1800’s. Fascinated by their discovery and finding it an escape from the problems of her father, Charity embraces the old Talbot and quickly makes herself at home in the era, making a number of friends. When she realises that she may have the potential to alter the past and save her friends from a terrible fate, the problems begin.
Written from the perspective of thirteen-year-old Charity, Path to Old Talbot is a sweet, heart-warming tale, with serious undertones. Author Jordan Elizabeth has used the character of Charity’s father to demonstrate the debilitating effects of clinical depression, not just on the sufferer, but also on his or her family. The relationships within this story are what lifts it above your average coming-of-age novel. Charity has a natural impetuosity and a desire to help those she meets in the past, but she is also wise beyond her years, when it comes to the issue of mental illness and particularly depression. Written in a young teenagers vernacular, the tale is easy to read and full of little twists and turns, that I enjoyed, especially when the author attempted to address that age-old issue of the time-travel paradox. If Charity made changes in the past, how would that affect the future? This was a most enjoyable read and a young adult book I can highly recommend.
May 7, 2019
I only read a sampler containing the first few chapters. A family is breaking apart - again - as the father refuses to take his meds and the mother and daughter go off to a new home. This device explains why they arrive in a strange house with no immediate family or friends, and why going through a dimension door could be an attractive prospect.
The back door leads to a world with a horse and buggy travelling the roads, so the pair think the people here may be Amish, but I gather this is actually a step back in time.
I would be interested in reading more of this tale. The writing is pleasant, descriptive and unhurried.
This is an unbiased review.
The back door leads to a world with a horse and buggy travelling the roads, so the pair think the people here may be Amish, but I gather this is actually a step back in time.
I would be interested in reading more of this tale. The writing is pleasant, descriptive and unhurried.
This is an unbiased review.
April 14, 2017
Charity's father has had depression ever since she can remember. And he is making it harder than ever for them to stay together as a family.
When she and her mother Isadora move to another house- Isadora's dream mansion- they find a closet that can actually transport you to the past.
A closet that is secretly a time portal in a mysterious old mansion was a brilliant idea! It made for an exciting adventure. And I love that author can make history seem like such an exciting, amazing thing, and how it's always been an essential part of her stories. And the writing style was nice too, with a balance of the characters' thoughts, emotions and vivid descriptions.
Although I understood that - I didn't get why
I noticed they never wondered how the closet got there / why it was there until just before it was revealed. I didn't mind the question being answered late, but they never even acknowledged the mystery.
The book addresses depression which is quite a heavy subject and I was surprised at how nicely and detailed it was portrayed and how awful long-term depression can be. It was sad to see Max suffer .
I loved the experiences Charity and her mother had in Old Talbot: exploring the historical sites, helping people and making friends. I quite enjoyed the adventure.
*Thanks to the author for providing a digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 24, 2018
This one was nearly out of my wheelhouse, since this book isn't really young adult, more like teenager. I'd say 13 to 18 year olds would enjoy this book the most.
I'd never read anything by this author and the copy made its way onto my Kindle from somewhere, but please no one ask what site it came from. That happens sometimes when too many books show up at the same time.
The story revolves around Charity and her mother, Isadora and how their lives have been impacted by the mental health problems suffered by Charity's father. It is well written but obviously less appealing to me as an adult than it would be for its demographic.
The theme of mental health and depression along with the issues that occur when someone in your household is struggling with this disease resounds very strongly in my mind, but because it is geared to teenagers, the subject of mental health isn't examined except through Charity's viewpoint. If you are or have a teenager who likes to read, by all means, pick this book up and give it a try!
I'd never read anything by this author and the copy made its way onto my Kindle from somewhere, but please no one ask what site it came from. That happens sometimes when too many books show up at the same time.
The story revolves around Charity and her mother, Isadora and how their lives have been impacted by the mental health problems suffered by Charity's father. It is well written but obviously less appealing to me as an adult than it would be for its demographic.
The theme of mental health and depression along with the issues that occur when someone in your household is struggling with this disease resounds very strongly in my mind, but because it is geared to teenagers, the subject of mental health isn't examined except through Charity's viewpoint. If you are or have a teenager who likes to read, by all means, pick this book up and give it a try!
July 11, 2017
I registered a book at BookCrossing.com!
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/14629417
Let me first state that I received a free eBook edition of this book direct from the author in return for an honest review.
I'm more than a bit older than the target market of young adults, but I do have some personal experience with depression, both as a sufferer and as someone with friends who also have depressive incidents. The description of the father's illness, its progression, and the way it affects those around him is very realistic and within the confines of the story powerful.
I'm also someone who is a big fan of science fiction, but even I found the time travel in the latter chapters confusing. This was for me the only major negative in the story. Perhaps a second reading of these chapters might help sort this out, but I don't want to do this at this time.
Recommended.
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/14629417
Let me first state that I received a free eBook edition of this book direct from the author in return for an honest review.
I'm more than a bit older than the target market of young adults, but I do have some personal experience with depression, both as a sufferer and as someone with friends who also have depressive incidents. The description of the father's illness, its progression, and the way it affects those around him is very realistic and within the confines of the story powerful.
I'm also someone who is a big fan of science fiction, but even I found the time travel in the latter chapters confusing. This was for me the only major negative in the story. Perhaps a second reading of these chapters might help sort this out, but I don't want to do this at this time.
Recommended.
May 23, 2017
Thanks to the author for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. I liked the premise of this book, but it seemed lacking in details and character development. For instance, we only see Max at his absolute worst. It would have been nice to see him, or memories of him, in happier times. Otherwise, why are Isadora and Charity trying so hard to hold on? Also, it seems like Isadora and Charity have a close relationship, but when Charity learns about something in her mom's life that is a big deal, Isadora NEVER discusses it with her or asks do you need to talk about this. It's just oops, oh well, la di da. Would like to have seen more time spent and interaction with the characters in Old Talbot.
May 28, 2017
The Path to Old Talbot, by Jordan Elizabeth appears on the surface to be a novel about a doorway leading to another time, and it is that. But it is also a story about how a young girl and her mother cope with her father’s mental illness. It’s a tough issue. It is a well written and engaging story, perfect for today’s YA readers, who may be dealing with similar issues in their own lives, (mental illness, not time travel).
Read my full review on my blog: https://kayelynnebooth.wordpress.com/...
Read my full review on my blog: https://kayelynnebooth.wordpress.com/...
April 3, 2019
A book that kept me turning pages I had to know what was going to happen. Charity who is thirteen finds she can travel from her present time back to Old Talbot where she meets Joshua a boy a year older than her. Soon her Mom joins her on the trips. So much is going on in the present time with her Father who is a violent, depressed man. I found this to be a book I enjoyed from the first to the last page. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2019
She is living in an old house where she finds a door to the past. She is happier in the past and away from all.her problems. Soon she will need to make a.decision about where to stay. What will she do? Will she stay in the past? Will stay with her father and help.him get better? See where she will.choice to be
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2017
This was a really good story.. The characters were in depth.. there was good and bad in this.. the emotions were all over the place.. it had a lot of twists and turns.. overall it was very well written and i really enjoyed it.
May 13, 2017
I did receive a copy in exchange for an honest review. The beginning started a bit slow and I worried I would not enjoy the story, but as I got to know the characters I found myself thoroughly enjoying the ride. It is unique and it was a joy to watch the characters develop well.
June 8, 2018
“Path to Old Talbot” is nothing short of a rollercoaster of emotion and adventure.
Read full review in the 2018 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2018 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 3, 2019
*** Jordan, please don’t take me off your mailing list, I really enjoyed all of your other stories!***
I hate leaving bad reviews for writers that I like. But, this story, in my opinion, was not up to par when compared to Jordan’s previous stories. I was left with an overall feeling that this story belonged to someone who was new/immature at writing. I’ve read several of Jordan’s stories over the years and maybe it was because the Charity was a kid, but I was left with the impression of someone immature (not in a bad way, just different) having written this story. It didn't come across as your (Jordan's) usual writing. There were too many things that didn’t add up for me and questions that I was left with. On that note, again I hate leaving bad reviews for overall great writers, but this one just didn’t do it for me.
Max had no redeeming qualities about him. I still can’t figure out how he and Isadora even ended up together. I was actually glad when he was gone because he never acted like an adult or like he really cared about his family. He was always whining and complaining and basically acted like a child.
Isadora wasn’t really that much better. She had such a minor role in this story that it would have been fine without her. Charity could have been living with her grandparents in the Donovan House.
Questions/Comments:
I couldn’t figure out why the narrator/Charity referred to Charity’s mother as Isadora the majority of the time? Or Charity’s father as Max. For example, “She bounded up the porch steps two at a time to follow Isadora back into the hallway.”
Something I didn’t understand: When you move into a new house, what’s the first thing people usually do as soon as they walk in? Do a walkthrough of the house, right? Wrong. It’s to clean it, before even seeing which bedroom you’ll have.
What made Isadora think they were in an Amish community after going into the “new” backyard? Was it just because of the buggy?
Charity seems pretty smart for a thirteen-year-old, at least at certain times. She knows that a woman can be shunned for exposing too much skin in the 1800s (Old Talbot), but not what a corset is?
Why when Charity goes to her father’s therapist appt with him does she comment about how her parents aren’t legally separated? Like that’s the first thing she says when the doc asks her how she’s feeling with living apart from him. It just seemed strange.
“At least she didn’t have allergies. All the floral odors would’ve driven her crazy.” Seems a strange thing to say since she doesn’t have allergies.
What’s with Isadora and Charity wanting to shake peoples’ hands? In my 30+ years, I’ve rarely had to shake hands with anyone. Females don’t tend to that as often as men. Yet, there’s the occasion when they’re at Cole Hall and Charity is about to shake the waitresses hand.
What was Justin’s deal? It’s like he was always at Charity and Isadora’s beck and call. I can see how his and Isadora’s relationship negatively affected Max. Having your wife’s male friend constantly coming over to your house to do things that either he/Max or Isadora could do (like gardening) wasn’t right in my opinion. Especially after finding out that Justin had helped Isadora buy her dream house. If she had really wanted Max to come back…yeah, I don’t think she really did. It was more like she was dragging him along/telling him what he wanted to hear. Because if he’d come back that would have been even more awkward with her lover/Justin partially owning the house.
The fact that she tells Max she doesn’t want a divorce after having slept with Justin...? Yeah.
“The door opened and Katharine stepped inside, leading Jane by the arm, both dressed in white blouses with long blue skirts, as though they were twins.” Huh? They are twins.
I never got the impression that Isadora, Charity and Max were ever a family. The ladies want Max to join them in the house and do things with him, yet when he calls to get Charity to go for ice cream, she can’t? Really? Because she’s making bracelets?
How long have Isadora and Max been married? He has an old Wii at his parents’ house, which I would assume was from when he was younger, before he got married. Yet, the Wii has only been out since 2006.
Charity makes bracelets for Jane and Katharine. Why does Katherine put her bracelet under her skirt?
Why were “the cats” only Max’s? Not like family pets?
Mrs. Rudka’s ring is lost by the river. Charity shows up at the Rudka house later on with the ring from the store (Mrs. Rudka’s rings from the past). One problem here, the ring has been resized. So how could she think everything was fine if the ring is now smaller than it had been the last time Mrs. Rudka had worn it?
So, the future Joshua was an older man. Did that mean that he was living in the Donovan House decades after he left his time period?
I hate leaving bad reviews for writers that I like. But, this story, in my opinion, was not up to par when compared to Jordan’s previous stories. I was left with an overall feeling that this story belonged to someone who was new/immature at writing. I’ve read several of Jordan’s stories over the years and maybe it was because the Charity was a kid, but I was left with the impression of someone immature (not in a bad way, just different) having written this story. It didn't come across as your (Jordan's) usual writing. There were too many things that didn’t add up for me and questions that I was left with. On that note, again I hate leaving bad reviews for overall great writers, but this one just didn’t do it for me.
Max had no redeeming qualities about him. I still can’t figure out how he and Isadora even ended up together. I was actually glad when he was gone because he never acted like an adult or like he really cared about his family. He was always whining and complaining and basically acted like a child.
Isadora wasn’t really that much better. She had such a minor role in this story that it would have been fine without her. Charity could have been living with her grandparents in the Donovan House.
Questions/Comments:
I couldn’t figure out why the narrator/Charity referred to Charity’s mother as Isadora the majority of the time? Or Charity’s father as Max. For example, “She bounded up the porch steps two at a time to follow Isadora back into the hallway.”
Something I didn’t understand: When you move into a new house, what’s the first thing people usually do as soon as they walk in? Do a walkthrough of the house, right? Wrong. It’s to clean it, before even seeing which bedroom you’ll have.
What made Isadora think they were in an Amish community after going into the “new” backyard? Was it just because of the buggy?
Charity seems pretty smart for a thirteen-year-old, at least at certain times. She knows that a woman can be shunned for exposing too much skin in the 1800s (Old Talbot), but not what a corset is?
Why when Charity goes to her father’s therapist appt with him does she comment about how her parents aren’t legally separated? Like that’s the first thing she says when the doc asks her how she’s feeling with living apart from him. It just seemed strange.
“At least she didn’t have allergies. All the floral odors would’ve driven her crazy.” Seems a strange thing to say since she doesn’t have allergies.
What’s with Isadora and Charity wanting to shake peoples’ hands? In my 30+ years, I’ve rarely had to shake hands with anyone. Females don’t tend to that as often as men. Yet, there’s the occasion when they’re at Cole Hall and Charity is about to shake the waitresses hand.
What was Justin’s deal? It’s like he was always at Charity and Isadora’s beck and call. I can see how his and Isadora’s relationship negatively affected Max. Having your wife’s male friend constantly coming over to your house to do things that either he/Max or Isadora could do (like gardening) wasn’t right in my opinion. Especially after finding out that Justin had helped Isadora buy her dream house. If she had really wanted Max to come back…yeah, I don’t think she really did. It was more like she was dragging him along/telling him what he wanted to hear. Because if he’d come back that would have been even more awkward with her lover/Justin partially owning the house.
The fact that she tells Max she doesn’t want a divorce after having slept with Justin...? Yeah.
“The door opened and Katharine stepped inside, leading Jane by the arm, both dressed in white blouses with long blue skirts, as though they were twins.” Huh? They are twins.
I never got the impression that Isadora, Charity and Max were ever a family. The ladies want Max to join them in the house and do things with him, yet when he calls to get Charity to go for ice cream, she can’t? Really? Because she’s making bracelets?
How long have Isadora and Max been married? He has an old Wii at his parents’ house, which I would assume was from when he was younger, before he got married. Yet, the Wii has only been out since 2006.
Charity makes bracelets for Jane and Katharine. Why does Katherine put her bracelet under her skirt?
Why were “the cats” only Max’s? Not like family pets?
Mrs. Rudka’s ring is lost by the river. Charity shows up at the Rudka house later on with the ring from the store (Mrs. Rudka’s rings from the past). One problem here, the ring has been resized. So how could she think everything was fine if the ring is now smaller than it had been the last time Mrs. Rudka had worn it?
So, the future Joshua was an older man. Did that mean that he was living in the Donovan House decades after he left his time period?
October 28, 2018
**Warning: this text may contain spoilers** I received a copy of this book in return for a honest review.
I wanted so much to love this book, as I have loved most of the other books by this author, but sadly I found it to be difficult to really get absorbed in. The idea of having a portal into the past excited me but a few details felt odd.
Firstly, the transition from discovery to excitement and acceptance of the portal felt like the was no time for the "What the???" A child's sense of wonder might make it easier but the mother seemed to have no trouble absorbing the fact that something entirely impossible had occurred.
Moving on from that the relationship with the father astounded me. The determination to continue trying to save the family seemed terribly unhealthy. This I believe is due to the reader never getting any history of there ever being anything but abuse due to the mental ill health of the father. I really missed the connection with the good memories that would keep them hanging on and fighting for the family being together. Justin also seemed prepared to accept that the woman he obviously loved would turn her back on him if her husband chose to come live with them. Oh and are there really therapists out there like the one in this story? If so they should be stripped of their licence to practise. Having the information in this story coming from real experiences truly saddens me. There is room here to expand the story and fill in some of the emotional background. It all felt a bit rushed with pieces missing that I would have enjoyed spending the time more deeply absorbed in reading.
All that said I still enjoyed aspects of this story and wish I could have made a deeper connection with all the characters. Some of the characters from the past were beautifully written.
I wanted so much to love this book, as I have loved most of the other books by this author, but sadly I found it to be difficult to really get absorbed in. The idea of having a portal into the past excited me but a few details felt odd.
Firstly, the transition from discovery to excitement and acceptance of the portal felt like the was no time for the "What the???" A child's sense of wonder might make it easier but the mother seemed to have no trouble absorbing the fact that something entirely impossible had occurred.
Moving on from that the relationship with the father astounded me. The determination to continue trying to save the family seemed terribly unhealthy. This I believe is due to the reader never getting any history of there ever being anything but abuse due to the mental ill health of the father. I really missed the connection with the good memories that would keep them hanging on and fighting for the family being together. Justin also seemed prepared to accept that the woman he obviously loved would turn her back on him if her husband chose to come live with them. Oh and are there really therapists out there like the one in this story? If so they should be stripped of their licence to practise. Having the information in this story coming from real experiences truly saddens me. There is room here to expand the story and fill in some of the emotional background. It all felt a bit rushed with pieces missing that I would have enjoyed spending the time more deeply absorbed in reading.
All that said I still enjoyed aspects of this story and wish I could have made a deeper connection with all the characters. Some of the characters from the past were beautifully written.
March 31, 2017
I love books about time travel and this one was definitely no exception. A wonderful story, addressing mental illness and family dynamics with a splash of romance and a nice portion of history. Awesome read and I highly recommend it to young adults as well as older adults. I'd love to see a sequel!!!
Merged review:
I love books about time travel and this one was definitely no exception. A wonderful story, addressing mental illness and family dynamics with a splash of romance and a nice portion of history. Awesome read and I highly recommend it to young adults as well as older adults. I'd love to see a sequel!!!
Merged review:
I love books about time travel and this one was definitely no exception. A wonderful story, addressing mental illness and family dynamics with a splash of romance and a nice portion of history. Awesome read and I highly recommend it to young adults as well as older adults. I'd love to see a sequel!!!
February 7, 2017
Path to Old Talbot is a sweeping tale of adventure and escape weaved between heartbreak and starting anew. Charity's story hits you right in the heart. I loved Path to Old Talbot, and the way the author weaved the past with the present. Mierek made the past really come alive, which isn't always easy to do. This book made me cry a lot-- another thing that's not easy to do! 5 stars!
March 29, 2017
I absolutely loved this book. Jordan has become one of my favorite authors. I had a hard time putting it down. I think this is one of my favorite books
March 29, 2017
In “Path to Old Talbot” Jordon Elizabeth Mierek introduces thirteen-year-old Charity Snow who’s overwhelmed by the moody depression of a mentally ill father so moves with her mother to an old mansion in their town. With the family relationship broken because of her father’s reluctance to turn his life around and to take his medication regularly, and with their finances tight with the move to the new house, Charity and her mother are surprised and excited when they find a mysterious doorway into the past, to old Talbot, New York in the 1880’s.
Finding escape from the heartbreak of a suicidal father while adapting to her mother’s developing relationship with a University colleague, Charity finds sense of comfort and security in her new friendships in the staid society of Old Talbot. Researching the past through historical documents she learns of the death of one of her friends and tries to avert it with medicine from the present only to quickly discover the past can not be altered. But when Joshua Rudka, the hatter’s son through a mishap becomes ill and she learns of his pending death Charity makes a decision that will not only alter the past but change his future.
The story is stirring and heart-wrenching when Charity and her mother move away from her father’s verbal abuse and chronic depression to an old mansion once owned by the Donovan family in the 18oo’s, hoping that her father will fight to change his ways so he can reunite with his family. Yet tragedy and trouble follow Charity and her mother who must find the courage and strength not to succumb to the rantings and coercion of a mentally sick man while making a new life in the old mansion frequented by Isadora’s patient and understanding colleague. Although their escape into the past is challenging, adapting to the clothing style of the period, decorum and traditions, Charity finds a sense of completeness she hasn’t felt in the future, making new friends and easily blending in.
Mystery and adventure quickly build with a doorway to the past, and Charity’s discovery of Joshua’s mother’s ring in a thrift shop in the present. With twists including the truth behind the magical portal and the theft of a ring thought long buried the tension escalates especially when her friend Joshua faces death at the hands of a robber.
Charity Snow is a young, spirited and honest teen who learns to deal with tragedy not only in the past but the present. Yearning for stability in her family she struggles to help her father while drawing close to the new man in her mother’s life. Skilfully Jordon Mierek draws a strong contrast between Max Snow, the depressed, emotional and mentally ill father who’s constantly belittled by an aggressive father and drunk mother, and Justin her mother’s colleague at the University who’s funny, kind, considerate, and steady. Intelligent, independent and practical Isadora Snow is determined not to subject Charity and herself to a life with a man who doesn’t want to change, moving away from the verbal abuse. Although she draws close to Justin, finding the love and security she yearns for, Isadora tries to save her broken family. Although the plot is thinner than other books by the author it’s the unforgettable and multi-faceted characters that add intensity, depth and drama.
I liked “Path to Old Talbot” which weaves the destructiveness of mental illness into a magical and mysterious adventure into the past. Jordon Elizabeth Mierek is a writer whose work gets better with each new story and I will look for more of her books in future.
Finding escape from the heartbreak of a suicidal father while adapting to her mother’s developing relationship with a University colleague, Charity finds sense of comfort and security in her new friendships in the staid society of Old Talbot. Researching the past through historical documents she learns of the death of one of her friends and tries to avert it with medicine from the present only to quickly discover the past can not be altered. But when Joshua Rudka, the hatter’s son through a mishap becomes ill and she learns of his pending death Charity makes a decision that will not only alter the past but change his future.
The story is stirring and heart-wrenching when Charity and her mother move away from her father’s verbal abuse and chronic depression to an old mansion once owned by the Donovan family in the 18oo’s, hoping that her father will fight to change his ways so he can reunite with his family. Yet tragedy and trouble follow Charity and her mother who must find the courage and strength not to succumb to the rantings and coercion of a mentally sick man while making a new life in the old mansion frequented by Isadora’s patient and understanding colleague. Although their escape into the past is challenging, adapting to the clothing style of the period, decorum and traditions, Charity finds a sense of completeness she hasn’t felt in the future, making new friends and easily blending in.
Mystery and adventure quickly build with a doorway to the past, and Charity’s discovery of Joshua’s mother’s ring in a thrift shop in the present. With twists including the truth behind the magical portal and the theft of a ring thought long buried the tension escalates especially when her friend Joshua faces death at the hands of a robber.
Charity Snow is a young, spirited and honest teen who learns to deal with tragedy not only in the past but the present. Yearning for stability in her family she struggles to help her father while drawing close to the new man in her mother’s life. Skilfully Jordon Mierek draws a strong contrast between Max Snow, the depressed, emotional and mentally ill father who’s constantly belittled by an aggressive father and drunk mother, and Justin her mother’s colleague at the University who’s funny, kind, considerate, and steady. Intelligent, independent and practical Isadora Snow is determined not to subject Charity and herself to a life with a man who doesn’t want to change, moving away from the verbal abuse. Although she draws close to Justin, finding the love and security she yearns for, Isadora tries to save her broken family. Although the plot is thinner than other books by the author it’s the unforgettable and multi-faceted characters that add intensity, depth and drama.
I liked “Path to Old Talbot” which weaves the destructiveness of mental illness into a magical and mysterious adventure into the past. Jordon Elizabeth Mierek is a writer whose work gets better with each new story and I will look for more of her books in future.
April 1, 2017
one of the best things about reading this author is that each book is so different from the last. there can be no comparison at all as thrybseem to delve differently.
what I like most about this book it shows true kindness as well as some of the underlying tones that were was but showed just why the main characters are like they are.
what I like most about this book it shows true kindness as well as some of the underlying tones that were was but showed just why the main characters are like they are.
April 4, 2017
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
As a therapist, I'm always interested in stories that accurately portray depression. Jordan Elizabeth does an excellent job of showing what it's like to live with depressed loved ones. I loved how kind Charity and her mother are, despite how awfully Max treats them. There's a lot of compassion in this book, but also truths about how it's not easy to live with untreated mental illness.
I loved the escapism in the book...the portal to the past is the perfect way for Charity to escape her hard life. I love that Charity doesn't go on her adventures alone! Charity and her mother, Isadora are close and love each other through the tough times---how refreshing!
As a therapist, I'm always interested in stories that accurately portray depression. Jordan Elizabeth does an excellent job of showing what it's like to live with depressed loved ones. I loved how kind Charity and her mother are, despite how awfully Max treats them. There's a lot of compassion in this book, but also truths about how it's not easy to live with untreated mental illness.
I loved the escapism in the book...the portal to the past is the perfect way for Charity to escape her hard life. I love that Charity doesn't go on her adventures alone! Charity and her mother, Isadora are close and love each other through the tough times---how refreshing!
April 4, 2017
4.5 Stars
It's a fascinating story about the past and the present crossing paths. Charity's life is not easy and when she moves to a mansion with her mother the only thing that keeps her going is to know that there is an escape.... escape from the present, from her reality. Whenever she wants she can go to the old Talbot. Unfortunately she can't stay there forever. Every time she must return to her home. At least she had something to look forward to.
Soon she has friends in the old Talbot. People she comes to cherish. Sometimes she wants to help them, they like her. Now she wants to know more about them. She starts asking questions... but will she be able to change the past or will things happen as they're supposed to happen?
I thing that it was a sad story. Charity's father is fighting depression. Her mother has tried as hard as possible to help him but she can't do anything unless he is willing to help himself. They're not really happy living apart but that's the only solution... or so they thought.
It's an interesting read. I especially loved how reality and fantasy are merged in this YA novel. I enjoyed reading it and would recommend to anyone who likes YA fantasy. But be prepared it's not all fun and games. ;)
P.S. I'd like to thank the author for complimentary copy of this book. <3
It's a fascinating story about the past and the present crossing paths. Charity's life is not easy and when she moves to a mansion with her mother the only thing that keeps her going is to know that there is an escape.... escape from the present, from her reality. Whenever she wants she can go to the old Talbot. Unfortunately she can't stay there forever. Every time she must return to her home. At least she had something to look forward to.
Soon she has friends in the old Talbot. People she comes to cherish. Sometimes she wants to help them, they like her. Now she wants to know more about them. She starts asking questions... but will she be able to change the past or will things happen as they're supposed to happen?
I thing that it was a sad story. Charity's father is fighting depression. Her mother has tried as hard as possible to help him but she can't do anything unless he is willing to help himself. They're not really happy living apart but that's the only solution... or so they thought.
It's an interesting read. I especially loved how reality and fantasy are merged in this YA novel. I enjoyed reading it and would recommend to anyone who likes YA fantasy. But be prepared it's not all fun and games. ;)
P.S. I'd like to thank the author for complimentary copy of this book. <3
July 1, 2017
When I first starting reading Jordan Elizabeth's books, I realized I had found another author that was going to quickly become a favorite. Having read several of them now, I find that each one becomes my new favorite and "Path to Old Talbot" is it. Ever since "The Chronicles of Narnia," "A Wrinkle in Time" and "Bedknobs and Broomsticks," I've been a fan of stories where children escape to alternate realities, be it through the back of a closet, a tesseract or on a flying carpet. This book has plenty of adventure and magical realism; however, it also has complex characters, weighty situations and things don't always miraculously work out perfectly for everyone, the same as in real life. Everything about Ms. Elizabeth's books are done well, from the beautiful covers to the transporting stories within. If you haven't discovered the absolute pleasure of reading one of her books yet, this is a good place to start.
April 14, 2017
There are many reasons why I love Jordan Mierek's books BUT the main reason I loved this book in particular is the authors keen perception and insight to mental illness, depression and how it impacts the family. Living with someone who suffers and can't control their emotions is extremely hard. When Charity speaks, she gives a voice to the family member's thoughts and feelings about suffering (often alone) with the afflicted family member. Depression and mental illness not only impacts the person afflicted but the family too, this always seems to be overlooked. I particularity liked when Charity was insulted that her grandparents thought her father was abusive (oh right, verbal abuse is abuse too). It is exciting that the family had a place to escape to from her reality (only if this could happen in the real world).
April 27, 2017
*** 4.5 Cranky Stars ***
13 year old Charity and her mom are packing the car to leave Daddy. Daddy is a manic depressive who is non-compliant with his medication and is enabled by his quack of a therapist. They hope that by leaving he will pull himself together and join them.
At their new house (mom's dream house from her childhood) an old mansion, Charity discovers a doorway into the past, to old Talbot. Her and mom go exploring and realize that it is a doorway to the past, and after mom has some historically correct outfits made for them, the pathway to old Talbot becomes Charity's escape from the heartache of dealing with daddy and the trauma of having to deal with a mentally ill parent.
This was a charming book, well written and look into how mental illness affects not only the sufferer but also the entire family structure. Aimed at teens I would recommend that parents of families of this condition also read this book.
I give it a rating of 4.5 stars
April 30, 2017
*THIS BOOK WAS GIVEN TO ME FOR FREE IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW*
This is the first time I have read a book with a story line such as this. This book is about Charity, a teenager, adjusting to life in a new home after her parents separate. This story line addresses mental illness, a real issue in today's society. I liked the fact that the author shows mental illness from both sides...We see what Charity's father is like dealing with his issues and what it does to Charity and her mother. Charity and her mother move into a new home and soon discovers a closet that takes them back in time. It was very interesting and entertaining to follow the story as Charity interacts with the people of Old Talbot in the past. I also liked how the author allowed Charity to use what she learned in the past in researching Old Talbot town's people and how she used what she learned in the present to affect the past. I really enjoyed this book and I definitely would recommend it!
This is the first time I have read a book with a story line such as this. This book is about Charity, a teenager, adjusting to life in a new home after her parents separate. This story line addresses mental illness, a real issue in today's society. I liked the fact that the author shows mental illness from both sides...We see what Charity's father is like dealing with his issues and what it does to Charity and her mother. Charity and her mother move into a new home and soon discovers a closet that takes them back in time. It was very interesting and entertaining to follow the story as Charity interacts with the people of Old Talbot in the past. I also liked how the author allowed Charity to use what she learned in the past in researching Old Talbot town's people and how she used what she learned in the present to affect the past. I really enjoyed this book and I definitely would recommend it!
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