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The Other Times of Caroline Tangent
If you could travel back in time to see any concert, who would you go to see?
Caroline Tangent’s husband, Jon has invented a time machine so they can visit iconic gigs in history: Woodstock, David Bowie, Edith Piaf in 1930’s Paris – an inexhaustible bucket-list. But they can’t tell anyone they’re doing so.
As their trips to the past continue, they begin to realise how it could change a devastating moment from their own past. But for Caroline, it’s clear they don’t want the same outcome.
Until, on one trip, one of them does something unthinkable which will change both their lives forever.
For fans of Matt Haig, Claire North and Audrey Niffenegger.
Caroline Tangent’s husband, Jon has invented a time machine so they can visit iconic gigs in history: Woodstock, David Bowie, Edith Piaf in 1930’s Paris – an inexhaustible bucket-list. But they can’t tell anyone they’re doing so.
As their trips to the past continue, they begin to realise how it could change a devastating moment from their own past. But for Caroline, it’s clear they don’t want the same outcome.
Until, on one trip, one of them does something unthinkable which will change both their lives forever.
For fans of Matt Haig, Claire North and Audrey Niffenegger.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 17, 2021
About the author
Ivan D. Wainewright
1 book14 followersI am Ivan Wainewright. I live in Kent (England) with my partner, Sarah and our slightly neurotic rescue Staffie, Remi. Before moving to Kent, I lived in North London, Leeds and Singapore.
In 2022, I won the Selfies Book Awards at the London Book Fair for the Best Independently Published adult fiction, for my novel, "The Other Times of Caroline Tangent".
When not writing, I can be found watching (and occasionally) playing football, running, listening to music from Chumbawamba to Led Zeppelin, arguing over politics and trying to cook. I have been an independent IT consultant for many years, working solely with charities and not-for-profit organisations.
In 2022, I won the Selfies Book Awards at the London Book Fair for the Best Independently Published adult fiction, for my novel, "The Other Times of Caroline Tangent".
When not writing, I can be found watching (and occasionally) playing football, running, listening to music from Chumbawamba to Led Zeppelin, arguing over politics and trying to cook. I have been an independent IT consultant for many years, working solely with charities and not-for-profit organisations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
October 2, 2021
Up to the unexpected twist I was just thinking it was okay and being underwhelmed by most of their gig choices (I would be a regular at the Roxy in 1977 but I know time travel won't be invented before I die as a fat baldy beardy block with a Scottish accent would have been mentioned in at least a few of the punk books I have read). After the twist this book suddenly became a cracker. I have a fondness for well written tales that involve time travel and this is one of the well written category.
May 11, 2021
This book was full of intrigue and music and time travel. Caroline and John use their time machine to go back in time to go and see some of the epic gigs in history as well as seeing some of their personal favourites but could it also be used to fix a mistake in their past or will something go wrong?
The characters of Jon and Caroline were very well written and I liked how complex they were and how they both changed over the course of the book. Caroline was my favourite character and I loved following her journey as her and Jon's marriage falls apart and she has to rely on herself to get herself out of some pretty tricky situations. Jon was, for me at least, such an incredibly unlikeable character and I am glad that he got his comeuppance by the end of the book (that bit was very satisfying). The other characters, such as Bee and Andrew made the book very well rounded because they brought out the best and the worst in both Jon and Caroline and I really liked that.
The plot was very interesting and exciting. I loved the time travel aspect of the book, the idea of time travel always intrigues me and I think that it is so interesting how the book handled it and how it was used in the book. Caroline and Jon visited so many cool gigs throughout history and I was incredibly jealous of the fact that they met the Beatles because that is super cool. I also really enjoyed the twist that happened in the middle of the book and how it progressed from thereon. The twist had me shook and, as I just said how the story progressed from there was wonderful. Caroline went through so much in this book and I am glad that she got the ending that she did!
The wiring was great, it was easy to engage with and kept me reading as the story progressed. As you know by now I loved the twist and I certainly did not see it or how the rest of the story because that came completely out of the blue but I loved it so much. I loved how much music was involved in this book and it made me very happy to see such a wide range of artists included in this book.
I was kindly gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review as part of a blog tour.
The characters of Jon and Caroline were very well written and I liked how complex they were and how they both changed over the course of the book. Caroline was my favourite character and I loved following her journey as her and Jon's marriage falls apart and she has to rely on herself to get herself out of some pretty tricky situations. Jon was, for me at least, such an incredibly unlikeable character and I am glad that he got his comeuppance by the end of the book (that bit was very satisfying). The other characters, such as Bee and Andrew made the book very well rounded because they brought out the best and the worst in both Jon and Caroline and I really liked that.
The plot was very interesting and exciting. I loved the time travel aspect of the book, the idea of time travel always intrigues me and I think that it is so interesting how the book handled it and how it was used in the book. Caroline and Jon visited so many cool gigs throughout history and I was incredibly jealous of the fact that they met the Beatles because that is super cool. I also really enjoyed the twist that happened in the middle of the book and how it progressed from thereon. The twist had me shook and, as I just said how the story progressed from there was wonderful. Caroline went through so much in this book and I am glad that she got the ending that she did!
The wiring was great, it was easy to engage with and kept me reading as the story progressed. As you know by now I loved the twist and I certainly did not see it or how the rest of the story because that came completely out of the blue but I loved it so much. I loved how much music was involved in this book and it made me very happy to see such a wide range of artists included in this book.
I was kindly gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review as part of a blog tour.
April 23, 2021
I really enjoyed Ivan Wainewright’s previous novel, The Kosher Delhi, and still remember exactly when I feverishly read it one rainy weekend, unable to put it down. I read The Other Times of Caroline Tangent in the exact same way: in several sittings, reluctant to be prized away from it. Wainewright has this wonderful talent of pulling you in and not letting you go, surrounding you with music, with settings that he builds in your mind, and with characters who are completely realistic, and relatable. He writes a real story, provides enough detail without bogging the reader down, makes you dream, and leaves you wanting more (in a good way).
Caroline Tangent and her husband Jon live a comfortable life together in London, sharing a love for music and dinner parties with their close friends. Caroline is a talented artist and Jon a professor who also has a knack for creating machines and futuristic inventions. He uses this talent to create a time machine that the couple uses to travel back in time to see some of the most iconic and epic music concerts and festivals (think Piaf, the Beatles, Woodstock etc).
They manage to keep their hobby a secret from even their closest friends and are careful to only use it to observe, never to change the course of history. But past traumas resurface and when the couple disagree about their next steps, their entire life together turns upside down because of one awful decision.
There are twists in this novel that you may see coming, and turns that you don’t, and characters who are just lovely and others who are awful, but nothing is 100% one thing or 100% another. And while there is time travel, this isn’t all science fictiony at all, but more a wonderful story of humans as they interact with each other, and how as humans our actions always have consequences. I really loved Caroline as a character, her strength and willingness to stand up for herself and others, but also for her inability to see her husband for who he really was, because we have all done that in our lives, refused to see someone for who they really are because we love them.
I always have a huge soft spot for novels based in both London and NYC, two cities that have also been home for me, and will always be home for me. The mention of Greeley Park as a meeting point made me feel nostalgic: I used to walk through there every single day for years!
If I had the chance to go back in time for music who would I go and see? Tim Buckley, definitely, Tracy Chapman at any time, preferably in a small, intimate setting, The Cure during the Faith tour, The Sisters of Mercy in the 80’s, Bowie on the Serious Moonlight tour, George Michael anytime ever, AIC in Seattle in the early days, Nirvana during the Nevermind tour, The Clash in the late 70’s, Martha and the Vandellas, Edith Piaf, Etta James… And I think I could go on forever, seriously! This book should come with the option of adding to an existing playlist!!
All in all I really enjoyed The Other Times of Caroline Tangent and want more! I particularly loved the whole NYC part, and feel like the author did a great job creating a story that is true to life. If you have ever found yourself stranded in a city, NYC is the one place where you will be able to find a way for yourself (as I know from personal experience).
Thanks to the author for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review. I thoroughly loved this book!
Caroline Tangent and her husband Jon live a comfortable life together in London, sharing a love for music and dinner parties with their close friends. Caroline is a talented artist and Jon a professor who also has a knack for creating machines and futuristic inventions. He uses this talent to create a time machine that the couple uses to travel back in time to see some of the most iconic and epic music concerts and festivals (think Piaf, the Beatles, Woodstock etc).
They manage to keep their hobby a secret from even their closest friends and are careful to only use it to observe, never to change the course of history. But past traumas resurface and when the couple disagree about their next steps, their entire life together turns upside down because of one awful decision.
There are twists in this novel that you may see coming, and turns that you don’t, and characters who are just lovely and others who are awful, but nothing is 100% one thing or 100% another. And while there is time travel, this isn’t all science fictiony at all, but more a wonderful story of humans as they interact with each other, and how as humans our actions always have consequences. I really loved Caroline as a character, her strength and willingness to stand up for herself and others, but also for her inability to see her husband for who he really was, because we have all done that in our lives, refused to see someone for who they really are because we love them.
I always have a huge soft spot for novels based in both London and NYC, two cities that have also been home for me, and will always be home for me. The mention of Greeley Park as a meeting point made me feel nostalgic: I used to walk through there every single day for years!
If I had the chance to go back in time for music who would I go and see? Tim Buckley, definitely, Tracy Chapman at any time, preferably in a small, intimate setting, The Cure during the Faith tour, The Sisters of Mercy in the 80’s, Bowie on the Serious Moonlight tour, George Michael anytime ever, AIC in Seattle in the early days, Nirvana during the Nevermind tour, The Clash in the late 70’s, Martha and the Vandellas, Edith Piaf, Etta James… And I think I could go on forever, seriously! This book should come with the option of adding to an existing playlist!!
All in all I really enjoyed The Other Times of Caroline Tangent and want more! I particularly loved the whole NYC part, and feel like the author did a great job creating a story that is true to life. If you have ever found yourself stranded in a city, NYC is the one place where you will be able to find a way for yourself (as I know from personal experience).
Thanks to the author for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review. I thoroughly loved this book!
July 21, 2021
I picked up this book when it was featured in an ebook sale that I received. It sounded interesting and it didn’t disappoint. The first half of the book was sort of “what happens if someone laid a sci-fi filter on Nick Hornby’s High Fidelity”. I had hoped that there would be more concerts and stories of historic events. That said I could see how that would get tired quickly in a fiction novel.
The book shifts gears half way through and it was at that point that I was engaged and compelled by the story. I wanted to know what happens next. It felt like when I read Harry Potter for the first time. When I read for hours on end and it felt like minutes.
I liked that after pages of wondering what the other half of the story would be, it was tied up nicely at the end. The entire idea requires a few leaps of faith to believe, but they were worth taking. I kept thinking, “What’s going to happen next”?
The book certainly made me think about what concerts I’d see, what I’d try to change and how I would use my knowledge if I could travel back in time. It’s worth your time if you want to challenge the theatre of your mind and imagine what life would be like if we weren’t constrained by time.
The book shifts gears half way through and it was at that point that I was engaged and compelled by the story. I wanted to know what happens next. It felt like when I read Harry Potter for the first time. When I read for hours on end and it felt like minutes.
I liked that after pages of wondering what the other half of the story would be, it was tied up nicely at the end. The entire idea requires a few leaps of faith to believe, but they were worth taking. I kept thinking, “What’s going to happen next”?
The book certainly made me think about what concerts I’d see, what I’d try to change and how I would use my knowledge if I could travel back in time. It’s worth your time if you want to challenge the theatre of your mind and imagine what life would be like if we weren’t constrained by time.
May 19, 2021
I am so glad I read this book, originally it sounded like an odd premise but it truly is wonderful.
Caroline and Jon are a happily married couple, Caroline is an accomplished artist and Jon is a lecturer that enjoys inventing things. They have a shared love of live music, so when Jon successfully builds a time machine, they can attend all the concerts they have dreamt of. Jimi Hendrix, Edith Piaf and Woodstock just to name a few, but as they are realising their dreams, one of them wants to correct a tragedy in their life.
This is where their happy marriage seems to be in trouble and we get to see one of them in a whole new light.
This is such a good book and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Caroline and Jon are a happily married couple, Caroline is an accomplished artist and Jon is a lecturer that enjoys inventing things. They have a shared love of live music, so when Jon successfully builds a time machine, they can attend all the concerts they have dreamt of. Jimi Hendrix, Edith Piaf and Woodstock just to name a few, but as they are realising their dreams, one of them wants to correct a tragedy in their life.
This is where their happy marriage seems to be in trouble and we get to see one of them in a whole new light.
This is such a good book and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
May 14, 2022
A really interesting read, love a bit of time travel
May 28, 2021
Bloody brilliant!
A great premise, involving and engaging storyline, and a killer of an ending – this one delivers on all fronts. I raced through it in a day.
I can only imagine the joy of going to see iconic gigs, but Mr Wainewright captures the feeling incredibly well. (Almost like he was there! 😉) And, as someone who dreams for a time machine or teleporter every day of my life… *sigh*
Caroline Tangent is the kind of person I’d be friends with – I can tell. She’s a bit of a problem solver, has a couple of very close friends, and a moody-bugger of a husband. But that moody-bugger also happens to be a genius with a passion for music… Yep, I’ve been there too (the musical passion, not the genius). She’s an artist, and just realising commercial success…
Jon, meanwhile, is the quintessential moody-bugger-genius who builds a time machine in the basement of their Crouch End house. Jon loves his record collection, his cat, and Caroline (and, yes, it seems to be in that order). He goes cold to hot in a flash, holds grudges, and generally rules the roost. He’s a little scary, in all truth. Incredibly strong willed and bordering on violent. He’s definitely not an ideal.
The creation of the time machine is a chance to live pre-married life again – when they were gigging regularly, celebrating and revelling in live music, before adulthood, jobs, kids, and life settle things. And they go to some brilliant gigs! (There’s a list in the back of all the gigs they attend as time travellers.)
But it’s also a chance, for Jon at least, to rebuild his life the way he wants – damn anyone who doesn’t agree. Which, inevitably, leads to totally unjustifiable actions…
Mr Wainewright has produced something wonderful here. The characterisations are excellent. Caroline, Jon, their friends and children, are all whole people; all with foibles and dramas, idiosyncrasies and eccentricities. They are proper people, indeed. The story hums along with it’s own innate soundtrack.
I wish, though, we saw Roger more, saw more of that relationship – that bit seemed truncated. Honestly, though, that’s my only issue with this.
I picked up The Other Times of Caroline Tangent because I love music and live music. What I got was so much more.
Thanks Mr Wainewright. Please, keep writing!
A great premise, involving and engaging storyline, and a killer of an ending – this one delivers on all fronts. I raced through it in a day.
I can only imagine the joy of going to see iconic gigs, but Mr Wainewright captures the feeling incredibly well. (Almost like he was there! 😉) And, as someone who dreams for a time machine or teleporter every day of my life… *sigh*
Caroline Tangent is the kind of person I’d be friends with – I can tell. She’s a bit of a problem solver, has a couple of very close friends, and a moody-bugger of a husband. But that moody-bugger also happens to be a genius with a passion for music… Yep, I’ve been there too (the musical passion, not the genius). She’s an artist, and just realising commercial success…
Jon, meanwhile, is the quintessential moody-bugger-genius who builds a time machine in the basement of their Crouch End house. Jon loves his record collection, his cat, and Caroline (and, yes, it seems to be in that order). He goes cold to hot in a flash, holds grudges, and generally rules the roost. He’s a little scary, in all truth. Incredibly strong willed and bordering on violent. He’s definitely not an ideal.
The creation of the time machine is a chance to live pre-married life again – when they were gigging regularly, celebrating and revelling in live music, before adulthood, jobs, kids, and life settle things. And they go to some brilliant gigs! (There’s a list in the back of all the gigs they attend as time travellers.)
But it’s also a chance, for Jon at least, to rebuild his life the way he wants – damn anyone who doesn’t agree. Which, inevitably, leads to totally unjustifiable actions…
Mr Wainewright has produced something wonderful here. The characterisations are excellent. Caroline, Jon, their friends and children, are all whole people; all with foibles and dramas, idiosyncrasies and eccentricities. They are proper people, indeed. The story hums along with it’s own innate soundtrack.
I wish, though, we saw Roger more, saw more of that relationship – that bit seemed truncated. Honestly, though, that’s my only issue with this.
I picked up The Other Times of Caroline Tangent because I love music and live music. What I got was so much more.
Thanks Mr Wainewright. Please, keep writing!
June 1, 2021
TW-Miscarriage
When Jon invents at time machine Caroline and him can visit iconic events that had gone before them. Starting in Paris in 1935 with Edith Piaf they can’t tell anyone about it.
Caroline is an artist and Jon a Maths academic and quite early on it is clear that they have not had an easy time of life. Caroline had a miscarriage and found out that she can not carry children. I found this side of the story difficult to read especially how Jon reacts to adoption and the miscarriage.
Jon has always enjoyed inventing things but this time it has worked. Caroline can not trust anyone with the secret, but eventually tells her sister Veronica who has Huntington’s disease.
They soon realise that they have to be so careful on the trips because the tiniest change could have a massive knock on effect to the future.
One of their favourites trips in the book is the one to Liverpool to see the Beatles, as it’s one of my favourite cities where one of my children live.
When they decide to travel again to 1974 something bad happens and Caroline sees the dark side of Jon again. I really didn’t like Jon, he is selfish and unkind and manipulative. Caroline tiptoes around him as she knows that he can erupt. He turns everything around on to Caroline and this made me angry. I can’t remember reading a character that I disliked, as much as him. Caroline, however is lovely and I really wished that better things would come to her.
They visit gigs from the past and have a good time. He warns her that returning to a place where they have visited before could be risky. Then they decide to travel to 1998 to see The Stereophonics and they see their younger selves there. Then the next trip Jon takes it a step too far.
What happens next is fast paced and tense, and clever. I am not giving anymore away in case I give some spoilers. It is also sad and emotional in places and evoked some really strong feelings in me. If you like time travel, music and a good story you will enjoy this book.
When Jon invents at time machine Caroline and him can visit iconic events that had gone before them. Starting in Paris in 1935 with Edith Piaf they can’t tell anyone about it.
Caroline is an artist and Jon a Maths academic and quite early on it is clear that they have not had an easy time of life. Caroline had a miscarriage and found out that she can not carry children. I found this side of the story difficult to read especially how Jon reacts to adoption and the miscarriage.
Jon has always enjoyed inventing things but this time it has worked. Caroline can not trust anyone with the secret, but eventually tells her sister Veronica who has Huntington’s disease.
They soon realise that they have to be so careful on the trips because the tiniest change could have a massive knock on effect to the future.
One of their favourites trips in the book is the one to Liverpool to see the Beatles, as it’s one of my favourite cities where one of my children live.
When they decide to travel again to 1974 something bad happens and Caroline sees the dark side of Jon again. I really didn’t like Jon, he is selfish and unkind and manipulative. Caroline tiptoes around him as she knows that he can erupt. He turns everything around on to Caroline and this made me angry. I can’t remember reading a character that I disliked, as much as him. Caroline, however is lovely and I really wished that better things would come to her.
They visit gigs from the past and have a good time. He warns her that returning to a place where they have visited before could be risky. Then they decide to travel to 1998 to see The Stereophonics and they see their younger selves there. Then the next trip Jon takes it a step too far.
What happens next is fast paced and tense, and clever. I am not giving anymore away in case I give some spoilers. It is also sad and emotional in places and evoked some really strong feelings in me. If you like time travel, music and a good story you will enjoy this book.
September 18, 2021
Wow! I bought this because the author is obviously a music fan (like me) and the premise looked really interesting. When I saw the Kindle price, though, I figured it probably wasn’t great. I was wrong. Oh, man, this book kept me up most of the night. It’s been a while since I got so invested in a novel - and what a relief to forget about the news for a while. Instead, I ended up at the Cavern Club with Lennon and McCartney or Madison Square Garden with the Boss. Caroline and Jon weren’t the only ones traveling through time - this book became a time machine for me, too. Great job by the author.
Super-minor quibbles: 1) American characters don’t always sound American, and 2) could someone really be as horrible as Jon? What a jerk! But that helped me rally behind Caroline. Otherwise, the author really knows his stuff, and I was able to get totally lost in the story and Caroline’s struggles.
Note to Author: check with your editor. I thought Nancy was from Ohio, but one passage says she’s going home to her family in Virginia. Was that intentional? Took me out of the story for a second. And don’t sell yourself short: raise that Kindle price!
Please check out this book, if you have a chance, especially if you love music.
Super-minor quibbles: 1) American characters don’t always sound American, and 2) could someone really be as horrible as Jon? What a jerk! But that helped me rally behind Caroline. Otherwise, the author really knows his stuff, and I was able to get totally lost in the story and Caroline’s struggles.
Note to Author: check with your editor. I thought Nancy was from Ohio, but one passage says she’s going home to her family in Virginia. Was that intentional? Took me out of the story for a second. And don’t sell yourself short: raise that Kindle price!
Please check out this book, if you have a chance, especially if you love music.
September 27, 2021
Time, Time, Time....see what's become of me
Fun and time travel to famous musical concerts frame a story of lost and found love and friendship for Caroline Tangent. Easy to read and perfect for a book club discussion.
Fun and time travel to famous musical concerts frame a story of lost and found love and friendship for Caroline Tangent. Easy to read and perfect for a book club discussion.
August 8, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, wasn't sure what to expect, I loved the idea of going to see bands & festivals, I'm lucky to have seen a lot but still have a huge list I wish I could go back & see.
It developed into a really good story, I did see something coming, but was still surprised by other things, Some good characters to both love & hate
It developed into a really good story, I did see something coming, but was still surprised by other things, Some good characters to both love & hate
September 1, 2021
Really great book!! I couldn't put it down. What a story!
July 4, 2021
A list of music concerts that a fan would have loved to attend. Early Beatles, Jimmy Hendrix and others. Memorable festivals - Knebworth, Glastonbury, significant moments in music history. For those committed to following popular music in the second half of the twentieth century and into the twenty-first could come up with an impressive list of concerts that would have been beyond exciting to experience at first hand. Jon and Caroline come up with such a list, but instead of just wishing, Jon has invented a time machine that enables them to temporarily leave suburban life for the site of musical events that made history. It is an incredible idea, and makes this almost seem like a fantasy novel, but in fact it is a contemporary novel that feels completely reasonable. Firstly, Caroline in particular is seen in the context of friends and life as an artist which seems everyday. She has memories with Jon of events which changed their lives and are especially realistic. Secondly, there is much about the care they must take not to allow anyone to know what they are doing , even those who are similarly obsessed with music. Thirdly, there is what they call the butterfly effect, of the risk of a seemingly small action they commit while in the past has a massive effect on the future to come.
Despite the fantastic idea at the centre of this novel, it really emerges as a novel of people in relationships in 2021 rather than science fiction. It also shows a deep understanding and affection for the great popular music events of the past which made me wonder which concerts I would love to witness. The research into the simple logistics of attending a concert in a different time and place is impressive, including the problems of obtaining the physical money needed as well as the problems of finding a place to appear and disappear near enough to the venue in the correct clothing. This is such a well thought out and researched book which flows beautifully around the people and events that I really enjoyed. I was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this unusual book.
The book opens with a glimpse into Caroline and Jon in Paris, October 1935.They are revelling in the music, the musicians that they have only heard of but now can see and hear, and the wine that would have been so expensive except that they are paying 1930s prices with resources from 2021. They are fully in the place and time, and yet know they can return into their own lives when they wish, only having been away from where they are expected to be for a matter of moments. The reader encounters a group of close friends that surround Caroline and Jon, each with their own lives and concerns. Caroline is especially close to Bee, while Andrew is another music fan, but can get quite aggressive with Jon’s enthusiasm for vinyl records. They have a history of partnership but also some difficult confrontations. The next few months are significant ones for Caroline and Jon; they have decisions to make not only limited to which concert to secretly attend.
This is a really good read which has real suspense as well as posing some fascinating questions to readers. It is a well written and extremely cleverly plotted novel which I read avidly in order to discover what would happen next. It combines a real sense of atmosphere for the various times and places involved, as well as characters who maintain their roles throughout the narrative. The elements of time travel, music events and people’s lives and choices come together to make an irresistible read which is unusual and fascinating.
Despite the fantastic idea at the centre of this novel, it really emerges as a novel of people in relationships in 2021 rather than science fiction. It also shows a deep understanding and affection for the great popular music events of the past which made me wonder which concerts I would love to witness. The research into the simple logistics of attending a concert in a different time and place is impressive, including the problems of obtaining the physical money needed as well as the problems of finding a place to appear and disappear near enough to the venue in the correct clothing. This is such a well thought out and researched book which flows beautifully around the people and events that I really enjoyed. I was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this unusual book.
The book opens with a glimpse into Caroline and Jon in Paris, October 1935.They are revelling in the music, the musicians that they have only heard of but now can see and hear, and the wine that would have been so expensive except that they are paying 1930s prices with resources from 2021. They are fully in the place and time, and yet know they can return into their own lives when they wish, only having been away from where they are expected to be for a matter of moments. The reader encounters a group of close friends that surround Caroline and Jon, each with their own lives and concerns. Caroline is especially close to Bee, while Andrew is another music fan, but can get quite aggressive with Jon’s enthusiasm for vinyl records. They have a history of partnership but also some difficult confrontations. The next few months are significant ones for Caroline and Jon; they have decisions to make not only limited to which concert to secretly attend.
This is a really good read which has real suspense as well as posing some fascinating questions to readers. It is a well written and extremely cleverly plotted novel which I read avidly in order to discover what would happen next. It combines a real sense of atmosphere for the various times and places involved, as well as characters who maintain their roles throughout the narrative. The elements of time travel, music events and people’s lives and choices come together to make an irresistible read which is unusual and fascinating.
May 20, 2021
W O W
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is the cleverest, most ingenious, imaginative and mind blowing book I have ever encountered. I read many amazing books that leave me changed and this is yet another book, that I urge every one of you to read, to also be left changed. Wainewright pulls you in with charismatic memories of romance, music and innocence, but the story gives you such a very different feel, of abandonment, poverty and fear. 𝘐'𝘷𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘢 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵.
Initially on picking this up, the first mention of a time travelling machine had me wanting to put it back now. Too cheesy, futuristic, unbelievable. How wrong was I. It was so believable that I am questioning my very existence.
A beautifully flowing writing style, never comfortable to be put down, always asking you to read one more page. Despite the multiple times, dates, years it was so easy to understand, invest in the story, easy to forget what you're reading isn't real. Or is it real? I honestly have no idea.
The final question on the very final page, separate to the story, has left my mind blown. Irreparable. The butterfly effect 🦋
What would happen if we changed one thing in our past, turned the other way, stayed in bed that little bit longer. Would we be who we are today. That's what Jon & Caroline find out, in the most remarkably memorable way.
I absolutely cannot wait to hear more from this author, but I honestly don't know how he will ever top this.
Thank you @annecater14 & @ivanwainewright_author for my copy!
#bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #photosofbooks #bookreccos #booksbooksbooks #girlswhoread #tbr #currentlyreading #whatimreading #prproduct #gifted #theothertimesofcarolinetangent #fictionlover #5starreview #review #bookreview #5stars #ivanwainewright #randomttours #booktour #bookrecommendations #bookclub #bookgroup #ukbookworm #bookcommunity
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is the cleverest, most ingenious, imaginative and mind blowing book I have ever encountered. I read many amazing books that leave me changed and this is yet another book, that I urge every one of you to read, to also be left changed. Wainewright pulls you in with charismatic memories of romance, music and innocence, but the story gives you such a very different feel, of abandonment, poverty and fear. 𝘐'𝘷𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘢 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵.
Initially on picking this up, the first mention of a time travelling machine had me wanting to put it back now. Too cheesy, futuristic, unbelievable. How wrong was I. It was so believable that I am questioning my very existence.
A beautifully flowing writing style, never comfortable to be put down, always asking you to read one more page. Despite the multiple times, dates, years it was so easy to understand, invest in the story, easy to forget what you're reading isn't real. Or is it real? I honestly have no idea.
The final question on the very final page, separate to the story, has left my mind blown. Irreparable. The butterfly effect 🦋
What would happen if we changed one thing in our past, turned the other way, stayed in bed that little bit longer. Would we be who we are today. That's what Jon & Caroline find out, in the most remarkably memorable way.
I absolutely cannot wait to hear more from this author, but I honestly don't know how he will ever top this.
Thank you @annecater14 & @ivanwainewright_author for my copy!
#bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #photosofbooks #bookreccos #booksbooksbooks #girlswhoread #tbr #currentlyreading #whatimreading #prproduct #gifted #theothertimesofcarolinetangent #fictionlover #5starreview #review #bookreview #5stars #ivanwainewright #randomttours #booktour #bookrecommendations #bookclub #bookgroup #ukbookworm #bookcommunity
May 6, 2021
The Other Times of Caroline Tangent - Ivan D. Wainewright
𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕧𝕖𝕝 𝕓𝕒𝕔𝕜 𝕚𝕟 𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕪 𝕔𝕠𝕟𝕔𝕖𝕣𝕥, 𝕨𝕙𝕠 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕘𝕠 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕖𝕖?
I must admit that this premise had me hooked, who would I go to see, I’d love to see The Beatles, George Michael, Duran Duran, A-ha....yes I am an eighties child but also maybe Ella Fitzgerald, Bing Crosby and even Elvis. There is such a list once you start thinking.
‘𝕀 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕜 𝕚𝕥’𝕤 𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖 𝕨𝕖 𝕘𝕠 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕒 𝕓𝕚𝕘𝕘𝕚𝕖. 𝕀 𝕔𝕙𝕠𝕠𝕤𝕖 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝔹𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕝𝕖𝕤.’
I really enjoyed this book, I mean, I couldn’t stand the male characters, John and Andrew both selfish men, and hideously competitive. Jon is almost monstrous in his treatment of Caroline, just abominably selfish in blaming her and her body for being unable to have a child, it really did not endear me to him at all.
He is controlling and overarchingly vindictive but as we discover, that is the point!
It was fairly obvious that Jon would want to change something, you can see it coming, BUT what he actually does in the end was a real shock.
‘𝕋𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕁𝕠𝕟 𝕞𝕖𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕓𝕪 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕓𝕦𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕗𝕝𝕪 𝕖𝕗𝕗𝕖𝕔𝕥. 𝕆𝕟𝕝𝕪 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕𝕟’𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕒 𝕓𝕦𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕗𝕝𝕪, 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕖 𝕒 𝕓𝕝𝕠𝕠𝕕𝕪 𝕘𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕥 𝕓𝕚𝕘 𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕠𝕕𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕪𝕝.’
And this was the cleverness of the writing, I had a real prickling sensation reading this, needling me. I was really made to feel things about these people, pushing my buttons but keeping that secret hidden until, Wham! It unexpectedly hits you in you face. Well played!! Frankly what a bastard!! From where I thought this was going it totally changed and the focus was Caroline and I loved this. She is strong and kick ass and I loved her as a creation.
Yes, this is a great time travelling adventure but it also is about friendship and trust. About drawing on your inner strength, embracing life and opportunities and recovery.
✩✩✩✩
[AD-PR PRODUCT]
Thanks to Ivan D Wainewright, Anne Cater and Random T Tours for my copy of this book
𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕧𝕖𝕝 𝕓𝕒𝕔𝕜 𝕚𝕟 𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕪 𝕔𝕠𝕟𝕔𝕖𝕣𝕥, 𝕨𝕙𝕠 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕘𝕠 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕖𝕖?
I must admit that this premise had me hooked, who would I go to see, I’d love to see The Beatles, George Michael, Duran Duran, A-ha....yes I am an eighties child but also maybe Ella Fitzgerald, Bing Crosby and even Elvis. There is such a list once you start thinking.
‘𝕀 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕜 𝕚𝕥’𝕤 𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖 𝕨𝕖 𝕘𝕠 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕒 𝕓𝕚𝕘𝕘𝕚𝕖. 𝕀 𝕔𝕙𝕠𝕠𝕤𝕖 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝔹𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕝𝕖𝕤.’
I really enjoyed this book, I mean, I couldn’t stand the male characters, John and Andrew both selfish men, and hideously competitive. Jon is almost monstrous in his treatment of Caroline, just abominably selfish in blaming her and her body for being unable to have a child, it really did not endear me to him at all.
He is controlling and overarchingly vindictive but as we discover, that is the point!
It was fairly obvious that Jon would want to change something, you can see it coming, BUT what he actually does in the end was a real shock.
‘𝕋𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕁𝕠𝕟 𝕞𝕖𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕓𝕪 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕓𝕦𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕗𝕝𝕪 𝕖𝕗𝕗𝕖𝕔𝕥. 𝕆𝕟𝕝𝕪 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕𝕟’𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕒 𝕓𝕦𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕗𝕝𝕪, 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕖 𝕒 𝕓𝕝𝕠𝕠𝕕𝕪 𝕘𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕥 𝕓𝕚𝕘 𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕠𝕕𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕪𝕝.’
And this was the cleverness of the writing, I had a real prickling sensation reading this, needling me. I was really made to feel things about these people, pushing my buttons but keeping that secret hidden until, Wham! It unexpectedly hits you in you face. Well played!! Frankly what a bastard!! From where I thought this was going it totally changed and the focus was Caroline and I loved this. She is strong and kick ass and I loved her as a creation.
Yes, this is a great time travelling adventure but it also is about friendship and trust. About drawing on your inner strength, embracing life and opportunities and recovery.
✩✩✩✩
[AD-PR PRODUCT]
Thanks to Ivan D Wainewright, Anne Cater and Random T Tours for my copy of this book
August 23, 2022
I love time travel stories set in an otherwise realistic world (as opposed to sci-fi time lords etc) and I really loved the premise of this book with Caroline and Jon traveling back in time to go to music gigs. There were a couple of wee things that niggled with me though. Although there were clues to Jon's character that set up the scene where he left Caroline behind I do wonder how she managed to stay married to him for twenty years and be still so in love with him when he was such an utter gobsh*te. Also when Caroline was first left in New York and the girl came running towards her wearing a Smiths t-shirt 6 years before the band was formed I wondered why Caroline didn't cop on to that given that she was so knowledgeable about music and even mentioned later in the book about 1984 being the year various bands started including the Smiths - I wish she would've even alluded at that point to the fact that she was so worried about being left behind that it hasn't occurred to her to query the date of Suzi's t-shirt. It would've just tied that up a bit better.
Nancy was from Dayton, Ohio but when she was going home to her family for Christmas it mentioned her going to Virginia then later back to it being Dayton, Ohio - just in case the author wants to amend that for future editions.
The only other thing and I really hope someone can explain this to me - I genuinely couldn't work out how Caroline had spent twenty years in the past but it was thirty years for Jon back in their own reality - how does that work, wouldn't a year be a year regardless of the point in history they were living?
The only reason I am mentioning these things is because I enjoyed the concept so much and want other readers to enjoy it as much as I did.
Nancy was from Dayton, Ohio but when she was going home to her family for Christmas it mentioned her going to Virginia then later back to it being Dayton, Ohio - just in case the author wants to amend that for future editions.
The only other thing and I really hope someone can explain this to me - I genuinely couldn't work out how Caroline had spent twenty years in the past but it was thirty years for Jon back in their own reality - how does that work, wouldn't a year be a year regardless of the point in history they were living?
The only reason I am mentioning these things is because I enjoyed the concept so much and want other readers to enjoy it as much as I did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2021
This is a terrific novel, wonderfully plotted, paced and realised, with plenty to entertain lovers of music and fans of lighter fiction.
When music loving Caroline Tangent's husband, Jon, invents a time machine, the pair are suddenly able to visit and relive any number of historic gigs, from the Beatles, to Springsteen to Simon and Garfunkel and Edith Piaf. It's a fantastical and hugely enjoyable premise and, for music lovers, you're left, whilst reading, with the question as to who you would travel back to see.
However, where Wainewright is especially clever is that he doesn't pitch this novel solely as a music-lovers book. Music is the hook but not the main element to this novel; that is past and personal events between Caroline and Jon, which are drawn into focus once the true power of the time machine is realised. Just what it can mean for them and historic events in their own lives. As a result 'Other Times' is a novel with a huge amount to offer many readers.
The characters are realistic and well-presented, and the events which unfurl likewise, which helps the reader forgive some of the improbabilities of the the time machine concept.
What also is great is the way in which, half way through, the novel takes an unexpected and dramatic turn, creating an addictive and enticing final half to the book.
A hugely enjoyable second novel from a very accomplished writer, this is a wonderful holiday read which deserves a wide audience.
When music loving Caroline Tangent's husband, Jon, invents a time machine, the pair are suddenly able to visit and relive any number of historic gigs, from the Beatles, to Springsteen to Simon and Garfunkel and Edith Piaf. It's a fantastical and hugely enjoyable premise and, for music lovers, you're left, whilst reading, with the question as to who you would travel back to see.
However, where Wainewright is especially clever is that he doesn't pitch this novel solely as a music-lovers book. Music is the hook but not the main element to this novel; that is past and personal events between Caroline and Jon, which are drawn into focus once the true power of the time machine is realised. Just what it can mean for them and historic events in their own lives. As a result 'Other Times' is a novel with a huge amount to offer many readers.
The characters are realistic and well-presented, and the events which unfurl likewise, which helps the reader forgive some of the improbabilities of the the time machine concept.
What also is great is the way in which, half way through, the novel takes an unexpected and dramatic turn, creating an addictive and enticing final half to the book.
A hugely enjoyable second novel from a very accomplished writer, this is a wonderful holiday read which deserves a wide audience.
July 16, 2021
“The Other Times of Caroline Tangent” by Ivan D. Wainewright. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Genre: Time Travel. Location: London, England and Northeast USA. Time: It’s a time travel book🤷♀️ 1935-2050 -
-
Caroline Tangent and her husband Jon live a fairly ordinary life in London-until he invents a time machine in their basement. Realizing the time machine could be weaponized, they ethically decide to keep it secret, and only use it to visit cool band gigs in the past.-
-
Imagine: Seeing The Beatles at the Cavern Club just after Ringo joined, Jimmy Hendrix when he was still known as Jimmy James, Amy Winehouse before she was discovered, Simon and Garfunkel’s free concert in Central Park, Edith Piaf in 1935 Paris before the Nazis invaded, singing along with Country Joe and the Fish at Woodstock, hearing David Bowie announce the death of Ziggy Stardust!-
-
But Caroline’s husband is not so ethical after all. In fact, he has no ethics. He wants something in the past changed. Caroline refuses to support him, and everything starts falling apart. Telling you more would reveal spoilers🤷♀️-
-
What a surprising and wonderful book this was. The author’s character development made me charmed and impressed by Caroline, and revolted by Jon. I wish I could say more to encourage you to read this, but the spoilers would destroy the plot for you. I will just say-I’m definitely going to read more books by this author! It’s 5 🎶musical stars from me! 🌵📚👩🏼🦳”
-
Caroline Tangent and her husband Jon live a fairly ordinary life in London-until he invents a time machine in their basement. Realizing the time machine could be weaponized, they ethically decide to keep it secret, and only use it to visit cool band gigs in the past.-
-
Imagine: Seeing The Beatles at the Cavern Club just after Ringo joined, Jimmy Hendrix when he was still known as Jimmy James, Amy Winehouse before she was discovered, Simon and Garfunkel’s free concert in Central Park, Edith Piaf in 1935 Paris before the Nazis invaded, singing along with Country Joe and the Fish at Woodstock, hearing David Bowie announce the death of Ziggy Stardust!-
-
But Caroline’s husband is not so ethical after all. In fact, he has no ethics. He wants something in the past changed. Caroline refuses to support him, and everything starts falling apart. Telling you more would reveal spoilers🤷♀️-
-
What a surprising and wonderful book this was. The author’s character development made me charmed and impressed by Caroline, and revolted by Jon. I wish I could say more to encourage you to read this, but the spoilers would destroy the plot for you. I will just say-I’m definitely going to read more books by this author! It’s 5 🎶musical stars from me! 🌵📚👩🏼🦳”
May 15, 2021
This book is so much more than five stars. I absolutely loved it and read it in a day. I seriously could not put it down. While there have been other books written about time travel, this one seemed something different. Firstly, the authors research into historical musical events was impeccable. I also found the characters research and detail about how they solved the issue of currency and clothes to be worn, a valuable element of the story. This is something I have wondered about when reading about time travel but hasn’t always been explained fully. The account of the trips to the music gigs was a great story in itself, which I found really interesting, however the second part of the book was like a whole new story that really drew me in. I loved Caroline but the other characters in this book were a real mix of love and hate for me. I thought Jon was a vile character from early on, and I didn’t think much of Andrew either. However, Bee, Nancy and Suzi were such lovely characters, along with Roger. My heart was with Caroline every step of the way and while I was rooting for her situation to be resolved (trying not to give spoilers), I was really happy with where she ended up and where we left her at the end.
This was a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2021
I was granted complimentary access to The Other Times of Caroline Tangent as part of my participation in a blog tour for this title with Storytellers on Tour. Thank you to all involved in affording me this opportunity! My thoughts are my own and my review is honest.
What would two people whose lives revolve around music do with a time machine? Attend the great concerts of history, of course! But what if they could correct some wrongs along the way?
This is not an author I've read before, but after reading this book I'll definitely be keeping my eyes open for other titles! The writing is beautiful and the characters are so interesting. The plot does have its twists and turns, which do make for a very interesting story, but I think these are characters I could hang out with even if there wasn't much happening.
If you're into time travel novels or just stories about flawed humans loving and hating each other in beautifully complicated ways, this books needs to be on your TBR!
I would also like to give my compliments to the cover artist for this bright and eye-batching bit of optical illusion work that fits so well with the story. Gorgeous! You nailed it.
What would two people whose lives revolve around music do with a time machine? Attend the great concerts of history, of course! But what if they could correct some wrongs along the way?
This is not an author I've read before, but after reading this book I'll definitely be keeping my eyes open for other titles! The writing is beautiful and the characters are so interesting. The plot does have its twists and turns, which do make for a very interesting story, but I think these are characters I could hang out with even if there wasn't much happening.
If you're into time travel novels or just stories about flawed humans loving and hating each other in beautifully complicated ways, this books needs to be on your TBR!
I would also like to give my compliments to the cover artist for this bright and eye-batching bit of optical illusion work that fits so well with the story. Gorgeous! You nailed it.
March 22, 2023
If you could travel back in time to see any concert, who would you go to see?
2021. North London. The home of Caroline and Jon Tangent. But it’s no ordinary suburban life.
Jon has invented a Time Machine so they can visit iconic concerts in history: Woodstock ‘69, David Bowie as Ziggy Stardust, Edith Piaf in 1930s Paris. An inexhaustible bucket list. But they can’t tell anyone they’re doing so.
As their trips to the past continue, they begin to realise how it could change a devastating moment from their own past. But for Caroline, it’s clear they don’t want the same outcome.
——————————————���——-
I saw this advertised on Facebook oddly. I ordered it straight away as it unusually covers two of my favourite subjects.
I then was cautious to read it, suspecting it was going to be a big fat let-down, it’s independently published and I anticipated a poor read.
Not the case. Not the case at all. It’s a simple read with likeable characters and some not so likeable and it positively zips along.
It’s not a book about time travel or about gigs, they’re just part of it. It’s a book about people and the good and bad they can do to/for one another.
I loved it. Highly recommend 5/5. Buy it if you can so this super author gets a publishing deal
May 18, 2021
Having thoroughly enjoyed the author's first book, The Kosher Delhi, with its authentic narrative and compelling characterisation, I have been looking forward to a second helping. And I was not disappointed.
Wainwright has a way of engaging his reader with personal insight expressed through a dramatic concept. In this novel he celebrates popular music through time travel. But, perhaps surprisingly from a technology expert, it is not about high science. Instead, we are treated to a very human story of love and betrayal, trial and redemption.
The theme pays due respect to the classic paradox of the genre, deftly blending jeopardy and imperative. Like the great tales that go before it, The Other Times of Caroline Tangent is a thrilling and dynamic adventure through time and space.
Read this book and you will surely agonise in sympathy as well as gasp with surprise. It’s a page-turner as well as a tear-jerker. If you have any interest in music, history, science or philosophy this is worth a read. And if you’re up for any permutation of these, then it's a must. Enjoy.
Wainwright has a way of engaging his reader with personal insight expressed through a dramatic concept. In this novel he celebrates popular music through time travel. But, perhaps surprisingly from a technology expert, it is not about high science. Instead, we are treated to a very human story of love and betrayal, trial and redemption.
The theme pays due respect to the classic paradox of the genre, deftly blending jeopardy and imperative. Like the great tales that go before it, The Other Times of Caroline Tangent is a thrilling and dynamic adventure through time and space.
Read this book and you will surely agonise in sympathy as well as gasp with surprise. It’s a page-turner as well as a tear-jerker. If you have any interest in music, history, science or philosophy this is worth a read. And if you’re up for any permutation of these, then it's a must. Enjoy.
May 21, 2021
Caroline and Jon Tangent are huge music fans and so when Jon creates a time machine, they decide to go back in time and listen to all their favourite artists, from the Beatles to Amy Winehouse, to Jimi Hendrix. Until one day, one of them does something reckless.
I’ve just finished this book, and I’ll try and do my best to put all my feelings down.
I was invested in the story from the very first chapters, reading about all those amazing artists, especially during their early stage of their career it was an incredible journey, and to get even deeper into the settings I was playing their songs while reading about their concert so I felt right there with Jon and Caroline.
Then when you feel like you had enough of the concerts and music history, halfway through the story something happen that will make you jump from your seat, and I have to admit I did wish I could kill or badly injure one of the character, but well I’m glad he/she was just a fictional person 🙈
The story is quite fast paced, well written and super compelling. Definitely a read that will stay with me for a while!
I’ve just finished this book, and I’ll try and do my best to put all my feelings down.
I was invested in the story from the very first chapters, reading about all those amazing artists, especially during their early stage of their career it was an incredible journey, and to get even deeper into the settings I was playing their songs while reading about their concert so I felt right there with Jon and Caroline.
Then when you feel like you had enough of the concerts and music history, halfway through the story something happen that will make you jump from your seat, and I have to admit I did wish I could kill or badly injure one of the character, but well I’m glad he/she was just a fictional person 🙈
The story is quite fast paced, well written and super compelling. Definitely a read that will stay with me for a while!
May 28, 2021
This is a really fun and nostalgic read. If you are a big music fan and love live gigs then this is a wonderful trip down memory lane to dream about all the past concerts that have come and gone over the past decades, and how amazing it would be to travel in time and see live performances of the most iconic musicians. I would personally love that and experience a different decade!
As well as this being an ode to music/iconic musicians, there is also an engaging storyline and development in Jon and Caroline’s relationship which unfolds gradually page by page. I won’t reveal too much about how I feel about the characters as it may be a bit of a spoiler but the storyline shifted in a way I wasn’t expecting. Maybe it was a deliberate ploy by Wainewright to get me all caught up in the music and excitement of the gigs that it completely caught me by surprise! It did mean staying up late to keep on reading but it was worth it! 😆
A fun and compelling story where the memories of the music world integrate with the nostalgia and poignancy of a relationship that harbours pain, hurt and anger but also love and hidden dreams.
As well as this being an ode to music/iconic musicians, there is also an engaging storyline and development in Jon and Caroline’s relationship which unfolds gradually page by page. I won’t reveal too much about how I feel about the characters as it may be a bit of a spoiler but the storyline shifted in a way I wasn’t expecting. Maybe it was a deliberate ploy by Wainewright to get me all caught up in the music and excitement of the gigs that it completely caught me by surprise! It did mean staying up late to keep on reading but it was worth it! 😆
A fun and compelling story where the memories of the music world integrate with the nostalgia and poignancy of a relationship that harbours pain, hurt and anger but also love and hidden dreams.
February 2, 2022
Wow, I can't remember when I last read a book I simply couldn't put down.
It started off reasonably well, Caroline and her husband Jon travel back in time to various memorable concerts as far back as the 1930s. The description is good, I felt I was there with them, wouldn't we all like to be able to do that? I was thinking maybe a 3 or 4 star read at that point.
But it's around half way through the book when the twist happens and it all goes pear shaped. Sure, there are clues before that had me guessing that all might not be quite as straightforward as it appeared, that something might not go quite to plan? But it's at that point that the story gets really awesome. All the time I was thinking what the hell would I do in those circumstances, I'll just read another chapter to see what happens, and then another chapter..
I did like the ending although I would have changed certain aspects of it, however I'm sure other readers will find it quite satisfying.
It started off reasonably well, Caroline and her husband Jon travel back in time to various memorable concerts as far back as the 1930s. The description is good, I felt I was there with them, wouldn't we all like to be able to do that? I was thinking maybe a 3 or 4 star read at that point.
But it's around half way through the book when the twist happens and it all goes pear shaped. Sure, there are clues before that had me guessing that all might not be quite as straightforward as it appeared, that something might not go quite to plan? But it's at that point that the story gets really awesome. All the time I was thinking what the hell would I do in those circumstances, I'll just read another chapter to see what happens, and then another chapter..
I did like the ending although I would have changed certain aspects of it, however I'm sure other readers will find it quite satisfying.
August 9, 2021
Loved it!
A genuinely great read which captured me from beginning to end. While the concept of time travel is nothing new, the author managed to portray this in a very practical way, which at times really had me believing he’d done some travelling himself! I enjoyed the ethical conundrums faced by a time traveller not wanting to mess with the space-time continuum ... what things to change and what’s best to leave untouched for fear of a worse outcome. It’s left me reflecting and looking forward to the next instalment.
A genuinely great read which captured me from beginning to end. While the concept of time travel is nothing new, the author managed to portray this in a very practical way, which at times really had me believing he’d done some travelling himself! I enjoyed the ethical conundrums faced by a time traveller not wanting to mess with the space-time continuum ... what things to change and what’s best to leave untouched for fear of a worse outcome. It’s left me reflecting and looking forward to the next instalment.
April 11, 2022
A story featuring a lot of travel back in time to attend famous musical gigs. The narrator Caroline Tangent is an artist living in year 2021, whose music obsessed husband Jon invents a time machine. Caroline's mostly happy life is disrupted when something goes wrong on one of their trips, and that's when I started to really like the story. Caroline knuckled down and worked through all the challenges facing her, descriptions of which made the story more interesting than the happy-happy beginning. Jon was annoying even in the beginning, but turned out to be a really selfish unpleasant turd.
April 14, 2022
I loved this book! I bought it because the premise was so interesting. Time traveling to see some of the greatest musical acts of all time? Sign me up! The characters were well written and the plot was great. I finished the book in two days because I couldn’t put it down. The only bad part was that I didn’t want the book to end. I’m a little sad I don’t get to read more about Caroline and her life.
August 12, 2022
Time Travel and Gigs
This book kept popping up on my recommendations, so I decided to give it a go. Glad I did. Loved the descriptions of the concerts and could almost feel the atmosphere. Then the story changed and became darker. I did see that coming but the second part of the book actually got me thinking. I enjoyed the switch in time and the tone of the narrative from Caroline's view. This story doesn't get bogged down in explaining time travel. But it does show some consequences. I'm now happy with the band's I've seen and learned not to hanker for the ones I missed.
This book kept popping up on my recommendations, so I decided to give it a go. Glad I did. Loved the descriptions of the concerts and could almost feel the atmosphere. Then the story changed and became darker. I did see that coming but the second part of the book actually got me thinking. I enjoyed the switch in time and the tone of the narrative from Caroline's view. This story doesn't get bogged down in explaining time travel. But it does show some consequences. I'm now happy with the band's I've seen and learned not to hanker for the ones I missed.
November 15, 2021
Fantastic!
I absolutely loved this story. Unlike any time travel tale I have so far read. I find many other time travel stories too sanitised or romanticised. It kept me up several nights running, not being able to stop reading. Ivan's writing style is great. I look forward to more from him.
I absolutely loved this story. Unlike any time travel tale I have so far read. I find many other time travel stories too sanitised or romanticised. It kept me up several nights running, not being able to stop reading. Ivan's writing style is great. I look forward to more from him.
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