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Carson Chronicles #2
The Memory Tree
Days after barely escaping 1889 with their lives, the Carsons, siblings from the present day, resume their search for their missing parents in 1918. While Adam and his pregnant wife, Bridget, settle in Minnesota, unaware of a wildfire that will kill hundreds, Greg seeks clues in his great-grandparents' Mexico, where he finds love, danger, and enemies. At the same time, Natalie, the ambitious journalist, follows a trail to World War I France, and teen twins Cody and Caitlin rekindle a friendship with an old Pennsylvania friend haunted by her past. In THE MEMORY TREE, the sweeping sequel to RIVER RISING, several time travelers find answers and meaning as they continue the adventure of a lifetime in the age of doughboys, silent movies, and Model T's.
427 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2018
275 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
About the author
John A. Heldt
33 books229 followersJohn A. Heldt is the author of twenty-five bestselling time travel novels. The former reference librarian and award-winning sportswriter has loved getting subjects and verbs to agree since writing book reports in grade school. A graduate of the University of Oregon and the University of Iowa, Heldt is an avid fisherman, sports fan, coin collector, and reader of thrillers and historical fiction. When not sending contemporary characters to the not-so-distant past, he weighs in on literature and life at johnheldt.blogspot.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
May 12, 2018
John A. Heldt is back and we are whisked away, back in time with the Carson family as both children and parents play “tag” through one of history’s most tumultuous, yet fascinating eras. As their time traveling parents witness familial history being made, the five Carson children will return to the past, face death, danger, loss, love and a special reunion of the heart. THE MEMORY TREE is filled with the tenacity and resilience of a family of time travelers, the love of siblings, romantic love and as the title suggests, memories that can be haunting or heartwarming.
The children will separate in hopes of finding a clue to where they will find their parents, or even in what era as they juggle the delicate balance of the mists at the correct equinox to bring them home.
The horrors and the humanity of World War I will be felt as Natalie Carson follows her journalistic dreams to France, her path crossing with men who will pay the ultimate price for peace with their bodies and their lives. This part of the story is especially noteworthy in the portrayal of young men who felt driven to fight, leaving their loved ones behind. There is such an innocence in the voices of earnest young men doing “the right thing.” That there would be a further connection to the Carsons was both heartwarming and heart breaking in equal measures as these characters come to life like flowers blossoming.
Will Adam, Greg, Natalie and the twins, Cody and Caitlin finally catch up with their parents or will Fate have other plans for them? How far would you go to find the ones you love? What dangers would you face in a simpler, yet untamed time? Will the “breadcrumbs” they leave be found and understood or will friends and family from the past play a role in reuniting the Carsons?
John A. Heldt gives us fantasy to believe in! Strong familial ties, matters of the heart, survival at all costs and the magic of time travel, allows readers to step back in time with the Carsons! Peppered with humorous moments, vivid scenes that made me feel I was there and an incredible reunion that was bittersweet, but so well done, Mr. Heldt has raised his own bar once again!
Are you looking to experience the fantasy of time travel as if you are there? Want to feel history come to life while not being "supernatural?" Fall into the world of John A. Heldt's writing and imagine it!
I received a complimentary copy from John A. Heldt!
Series: Carson Chronicles - Book 2
Publication Date: April 30, 2018
Publisher: John A. Heldt
Genre: Time Travel Fantasy | Family Saga
Print Length: 659 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
The children will separate in hopes of finding a clue to where they will find their parents, or even in what era as they juggle the delicate balance of the mists at the correct equinox to bring them home.
The horrors and the humanity of World War I will be felt as Natalie Carson follows her journalistic dreams to France, her path crossing with men who will pay the ultimate price for peace with their bodies and their lives. This part of the story is especially noteworthy in the portrayal of young men who felt driven to fight, leaving their loved ones behind. There is such an innocence in the voices of earnest young men doing “the right thing.” That there would be a further connection to the Carsons was both heartwarming and heart breaking in equal measures as these characters come to life like flowers blossoming.
Will Adam, Greg, Natalie and the twins, Cody and Caitlin finally catch up with their parents or will Fate have other plans for them? How far would you go to find the ones you love? What dangers would you face in a simpler, yet untamed time? Will the “breadcrumbs” they leave be found and understood or will friends and family from the past play a role in reuniting the Carsons?
John A. Heldt gives us fantasy to believe in! Strong familial ties, matters of the heart, survival at all costs and the magic of time travel, allows readers to step back in time with the Carsons! Peppered with humorous moments, vivid scenes that made me feel I was there and an incredible reunion that was bittersweet, but so well done, Mr. Heldt has raised his own bar once again!
Are you looking to experience the fantasy of time travel as if you are there? Want to feel history come to life while not being "supernatural?" Fall into the world of John A. Heldt's writing and imagine it!
I received a complimentary copy from John A. Heldt!
Series: Carson Chronicles - Book 2
Publication Date: April 30, 2018
Publisher: John A. Heldt
Genre: Time Travel Fantasy | Family Saga
Print Length: 659 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
May 8, 2018
Author John A Heldt provided me with an e-copy of The Memory Tree, the second book in the Carson Chronicles.
I have had the pleasure of reading all of Mr. Heldt's books to this point. I have given five stars to each book so far on the sites that require them. That is 70 stars (I wonder where he keeps them all). The Memory Tree continues his run of fantastic books. I have been witness to his growth as an author, he continues to raise the bar for himself with each new book. Always an excellent writer/story teller, it has been fun to see his work evolve.
The Memory Tree continues the story of the Carson children playing time-traveler tag with their parents. This book, as is the first in the series, has a more adult feel to it. Some sexuality (not at all graphic, although in one case, almost. There, my spoiler), some violence, mildly graphic. Mostly though it is a good family oriented time traveling adventure. The story-line(s) cover multiple countries as the family spreads out in their attempt to finally reunite with their parents.
We have historic events weaved throughout some you will know (you may have heard of WWI), some a little less well known, at least they were to me. We also have romance, loss, heartbreak balanced with humor, adventure, terror and uplifting humanity.
Our author does not shy away from the stereotypical difficulties presented in most time travel stories, he in fact embraces them and weaves them into at times, heartbreaking moments or heart warming ones. This story so complex it keeps the reader hooked. I don't know if it is purposeful or not, but Mr. Heldt uses a short chapter format, usually 4 or 5 pages at most. What this does is allow the many story-lines to flow without the reader losing track of where the story is going. It also keeps, me at least, reading further into the night than I should. It's just too easy to tell myself, "One more chapter" until five or six later when I say "One more", you get the idea.
Author Heldt (remember, John A. Heldt, leave out the A and you'll get the wrong author) has developed a family of characters that the reader comes to really care about. I unashamedly will admit to becoming teary eyed several times, he makes their situations so moving.
I could go on and on about the virtues of The Memory Tree by John A. Heldt, but suffice to say, this is an awesome book and I highly recommend you check it out. Enjoy!
I have had the pleasure of reading all of Mr. Heldt's books to this point. I have given five stars to each book so far on the sites that require them. That is 70 stars (I wonder where he keeps them all). The Memory Tree continues his run of fantastic books. I have been witness to his growth as an author, he continues to raise the bar for himself with each new book. Always an excellent writer/story teller, it has been fun to see his work evolve.
The Memory Tree continues the story of the Carson children playing time-traveler tag with their parents. This book, as is the first in the series, has a more adult feel to it. Some sexuality (not at all graphic, although in one case, almost. There, my spoiler), some violence, mildly graphic. Mostly though it is a good family oriented time traveling adventure. The story-line(s) cover multiple countries as the family spreads out in their attempt to finally reunite with their parents.
We have historic events weaved throughout some you will know (you may have heard of WWI), some a little less well known, at least they were to me. We also have romance, loss, heartbreak balanced with humor, adventure, terror and uplifting humanity.
Our author does not shy away from the stereotypical difficulties presented in most time travel stories, he in fact embraces them and weaves them into at times, heartbreaking moments or heart warming ones. This story so complex it keeps the reader hooked. I don't know if it is purposeful or not, but Mr. Heldt uses a short chapter format, usually 4 or 5 pages at most. What this does is allow the many story-lines to flow without the reader losing track of where the story is going. It also keeps, me at least, reading further into the night than I should. It's just too easy to tell myself, "One more chapter" until five or six later when I say "One more", you get the idea.
Author Heldt (remember, John A. Heldt, leave out the A and you'll get the wrong author) has developed a family of characters that the reader comes to really care about. I unashamedly will admit to becoming teary eyed several times, he makes their situations so moving.
I could go on and on about the virtues of The Memory Tree by John A. Heldt, but suffice to say, this is an awesome book and I highly recommend you check it out. Enjoy!
May 13, 2018
Book Info
Kindle Edition, 694 pages
Published April 30th 2018
ASIN B07CSJ4TMV
Edition Language English
setting Duluth, Minnesota, 1918 (United States)
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, 1918 (United States)
Tijuana, 1918 (Mexico) and more
Other Editions None found
Buy book from
Amazon
Days after barely escaping 1889 with their lives, the Carsons, siblings from the present day, resume their search for their missing parents in 1918.
While Adam and his pregnant wife, Bridget, settle in Minnesota, unaware of a wildfire that will kill hundreds, Greg seeks clues in his great-grandparents' Mexico, where he finds love, danger, and enemies.
At the same time, Natalie, the ambitious journalist, follows a trail to World War I France, and teen twins Cody and Caitlin rekindle a friendship with an old Pennsylvania friend haunted by her past.
In THE MEMORY TREE, the sweeping sequel to RIVER RISING, several time travelers find answers and meaning as they continue the adventure of a lifetime in the age of doughboys, silent movies, and Model T's.
Once again readers revisit the 5 Carson siblings as these intrepid travelers from the 21st century travel through the past, not only searching for their missing-for-a-year parents but also meet distant relatives and secure new friends along the way. Hoping against hope that their calculations are correct the brothers and sisters find themselves going their separate ways.
In an attempt to cover more ground but also to get a chance to spread their wings the siblings pick several locations their parents may travel to and make plans to reconnect before the deadline that will hopefully re-establish contact with all the family members at a pre-dertmined location.
Every book that I have read written by John A. Heldt has been filled with grand Adventures, hard decisions, charismatic/memorable characters, well researched and described location settings and some major historical events that really added to the allure of each story.
As the authors writing has matured so have the works he pens. A fact that keeps me coming back each time have a chance to read a new book and with each new chapter my enjoyment for the richness of his characters as well as their surroundings grows.
As expected this second offering in his latest series continued in the same vein with all my favorite aspects and some surprising new ones as well. This story also requires some tissues kept handy for when the tense moments are over and the action resumes it's normal course for the characters.
The short chapters that allowed us to experience the story as it unfolded is easily followed, each character has a chance to express what transpires through a different POV as scenes unfold. The book may be long in page count but it flowed fast for me so the ending came quicker than expected. The ending which in some ways left readers on tenterhooks and in other ways was a perfect point to stop before continuing with the next book.
I always love that pivotal moment where the author lets the reader know why a book has it's name. The moment that it is revealed in this story was emotionally poignant to me and also a lovely way for the characters to connect at an even deeper level.
Thank you John A. Heldt for allowing me the chance to experience a story where the characters once again feel like old friends or family that have just shared their adventures with me over a drink together.
Kindle Edition, 694 pages
Published April 30th 2018
ASIN B07CSJ4TMV
Edition Language English
setting Duluth, Minnesota, 1918 (United States)
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, 1918 (United States)
Tijuana, 1918 (Mexico) and more
Other Editions None found
[Digital copy from Author]
Buy book from
Amazon
BOOK BLURB
Days after barely escaping 1889 with their lives, the Carsons, siblings from the present day, resume their search for their missing parents in 1918.
While Adam and his pregnant wife, Bridget, settle in Minnesota, unaware of a wildfire that will kill hundreds, Greg seeks clues in his great-grandparents' Mexico, where he finds love, danger, and enemies.
At the same time, Natalie, the ambitious journalist, follows a trail to World War I France, and teen twins Cody and Caitlin rekindle a friendship with an old Pennsylvania friend haunted by her past.
In THE MEMORY TREE, the sweeping sequel to RIVER RISING, several time travelers find answers and meaning as they continue the adventure of a lifetime in the age of doughboys, silent movies, and Model T's.
My Thoughts
Once again readers revisit the 5 Carson siblings as these intrepid travelers from the 21st century travel through the past, not only searching for their missing-for-a-year parents but also meet distant relatives and secure new friends along the way. Hoping against hope that their calculations are correct the brothers and sisters find themselves going their separate ways.
In an attempt to cover more ground but also to get a chance to spread their wings the siblings pick several locations their parents may travel to and make plans to reconnect before the deadline that will hopefully re-establish contact with all the family members at a pre-dertmined location.
Every book that I have read written by John A. Heldt has been filled with grand Adventures, hard decisions, charismatic/memorable characters, well researched and described location settings and some major historical events that really added to the allure of each story.
As the authors writing has matured so have the works he pens. A fact that keeps me coming back each time have a chance to read a new book and with each new chapter my enjoyment for the richness of his characters as well as their surroundings grows.
As expected this second offering in his latest series continued in the same vein with all my favorite aspects and some surprising new ones as well. This story also requires some tissues kept handy for when the tense moments are over and the action resumes it's normal course for the characters.
The short chapters that allowed us to experience the story as it unfolded is easily followed, each character has a chance to express what transpires through a different POV as scenes unfold. The book may be long in page count but it flowed fast for me so the ending came quicker than expected. The ending which in some ways left readers on tenterhooks and in other ways was a perfect point to stop before continuing with the next book.
I always love that pivotal moment where the author lets the reader know why a book has it's name. The moment that it is revealed in this story was emotionally poignant to me and also a lovely way for the characters to connect at an even deeper level.
Thank you John A. Heldt for allowing me the chance to experience a story where the characters once again feel like old friends or family that have just shared their adventures with me over a drink together.
[Digital copy from Author]
February 7, 2019
The Memory Tree by John A. Heldt is a compelling sequel to
River Rising
, book one in the Carson Chronicles series. Just like the first part of this series, and the others I've read by the author, this book was equally interesting, entertaining and emotional. It had a lot to offer in terms of the rich American history, WWI and the culture of the years long gone. This book was especially good because it had a twist which I was not expecting and the element of surprise really caught me off-guard as I've come to understand where things are generally moving in author Heldt's books because of having read many of them and being familiar with his style of writing. So the twist was a pleasant surprise for me.
The characterization was good and I was able to see the development of all the characters from the last book experiencing new worlds and living in times new to them. The writing was good and complimented the story well. And I'm really looking forward to reading the next part of this series.
You can also read this review on www.thereadingbud.com
I'd recommend this book to all historical fiction lovers and to everyone who loves reading stories on relationships and families. It is an honest-to-god feel-good story that will definitely warm your heart.
The characterization was good and I was able to see the development of all the characters from the last book experiencing new worlds and living in times new to them. The writing was good and complimented the story well. And I'm really looking forward to reading the next part of this series.
You can also read this review on www.thereadingbud.com
I'd recommend this book to all historical fiction lovers and to everyone who loves reading stories on relationships and families. It is an honest-to-god feel-good story that will definitely warm your heart.
July 27, 2018
I've been reading John Heldt's books for a long time. I keep coming back to them because I love the way he incorporates historical events, big and small into his books. It's time travel through history and I love that. He does such a good job of researching events and bringing them to life for me. There is a feeling of continuity throughout all his books as far as the time travel aspect goes. I like that too.
This is the second book in this Carson Chronicles series so it picked up right where the last book left off. In this book, the Carson children are still on the hunt for their parents. They decide to split up so each sibling takes a different journey in different parts of the country, hoping that someone will be where there parents are. Each chapter comes from a different point of view as we follow the siblings and parents on their adventures. Normally I like this but this time, because there were so many of them, the book got REALLY long (over 650 pages!!). Forward progression was slow and I felt like it was taking forever to get anywhere. I struggled a bit. I think I would have preferred following maybe one or two siblings per book.
I wasn't a fan of some of Greg's decisions, well, one in particular. He pulled a real jerk move and it sort of tainted my view of him.
While this wasn't my favorite book, I still appreciate all the things I mentioned above. I have come to know this Carson family quite well and I'm looking forward to what may be coming next because this book leaves off in place where so many things could go right or wrong!
Content: swearing, sexual relations behind closed doors with no details but you know it happens, some war violence mentioned with no details, death, peril.
I picked this book up on Kindle Unlimited
This is the second book in this Carson Chronicles series so it picked up right where the last book left off. In this book, the Carson children are still on the hunt for their parents. They decide to split up so each sibling takes a different journey in different parts of the country, hoping that someone will be where there parents are. Each chapter comes from a different point of view as we follow the siblings and parents on their adventures. Normally I like this but this time, because there were so many of them, the book got REALLY long (over 650 pages!!). Forward progression was slow and I felt like it was taking forever to get anywhere. I struggled a bit. I think I would have preferred following maybe one or two siblings per book.
I wasn't a fan of some of Greg's decisions, well, one in particular. He pulled a real jerk move and it sort of tainted my view of him.
While this wasn't my favorite book, I still appreciate all the things I mentioned above. I have come to know this Carson family quite well and I'm looking forward to what may be coming next because this book leaves off in place where so many things could go right or wrong!
Content: swearing, sexual relations behind closed doors with no details but you know it happens, some war violence mentioned with no details, death, peril.
I picked this book up on Kindle Unlimited
August 4, 2018
Not sure what I think of this one. The jury's still out! Overall, it made me want to read the next one. There were a couple problems (Greg, you're a playboy, sorta & some historical inaccuracies). But overall, it was a good story! Review to come.
May 12, 2018
The Memory Tree - Bk 2 Carson Chronicles - Written by John A Heldt
Finding their parents is the goal but where and when is the question?
Days after barely escaping 1889 with their lives, the Carson’s, siblings from the present day, resume their search for their missing parents in 1918. While Adam and his pregnant wife, Bridget, settle in Minnesota, unaware of a wildfire that will kill hundreds, Greg seeks clues in his great-grandparents' Mexico, where he finds love, danger, and enemies. At the same time, Natalie, the ambitious journalist, follows a trail to World War I France, and teen twins Cody and Caitlin rekindle a friendship with an old Pennsylvania friend haunted by her past. In THE MEMORY TREE, the sweeping sequel to RIVER RISING, several time travelers find answers and meaning as they continue the adventure of a lifetime in the age of doughboys, silent movies, and Model T's.
What did I like? I am so glad that many months ago this author asked me to review one of his books since then I have read every one of them and have watched and enjoyed the road that he has traveled with his writing. It has been a very enjoyable ride for me that continues with this, the second book in the Carson Chronicles. I love the writing style where he has so many characters that have events happening to them that in turn pulls the whole story together.
What will you like? A very moving and at times emotional, with lots of action, history, definite humor, tons of adventure and life learning events. The method that author uses to tell his story is one that keeps you glued to the pages and reading far into the night because you just can’t put it down. The many descriptions and details are so that you can feel that you are standing next to the character as they are living the moment. I highly recommend this read to all but do read the first book of the Carson to bring you up to date with all that is happening. Then if you really want to enjoy the time traveling feeling check out his other books. You will enjoy them also. I received this from the author as a member of the launch group for an honest review with no other compensation.
Finding their parents is the goal but where and when is the question?
Days after barely escaping 1889 with their lives, the Carson’s, siblings from the present day, resume their search for their missing parents in 1918. While Adam and his pregnant wife, Bridget, settle in Minnesota, unaware of a wildfire that will kill hundreds, Greg seeks clues in his great-grandparents' Mexico, where he finds love, danger, and enemies. At the same time, Natalie, the ambitious journalist, follows a trail to World War I France, and teen twins Cody and Caitlin rekindle a friendship with an old Pennsylvania friend haunted by her past. In THE MEMORY TREE, the sweeping sequel to RIVER RISING, several time travelers find answers and meaning as they continue the adventure of a lifetime in the age of doughboys, silent movies, and Model T's.
What did I like? I am so glad that many months ago this author asked me to review one of his books since then I have read every one of them and have watched and enjoyed the road that he has traveled with his writing. It has been a very enjoyable ride for me that continues with this, the second book in the Carson Chronicles. I love the writing style where he has so many characters that have events happening to them that in turn pulls the whole story together.
What will you like? A very moving and at times emotional, with lots of action, history, definite humor, tons of adventure and life learning events. The method that author uses to tell his story is one that keeps you glued to the pages and reading far into the night because you just can’t put it down. The many descriptions and details are so that you can feel that you are standing next to the character as they are living the moment. I highly recommend this read to all but do read the first book of the Carson to bring you up to date with all that is happening. Then if you really want to enjoy the time traveling feeling check out his other books. You will enjoy them also. I received this from the author as a member of the launch group for an honest review with no other compensation.
June 22, 2018
In River Rising, Book 1 of the Carson Chronicles, you meet Adam, Greg, Natalie, Cody, and Caitlin. They are a group of siblings from the future that go on a search, in the past in 1889, for their time traveling parents. Now they're back on the hunt in 1918, and all have trials and adventures waiting for them.
Adam and his pregnant wife settle down. Greg and Natalie both go on their adventures. Greg is off to Mexico, Natalie to France. Cody and Caitlin meet up with a past friend. In this story, the siblings all split up. Adam and his expecting wife face wildfire danger. Cody and Caitlin meet up with Emma, a classmate, and lover, from 1889. Greg gets himself into some trouble while in Mexico. The trouble results in him changing his life in a dramatic way. Natalie goes to war and comes home a new person. All the while their parents are traveling all over and chasing their kids.
This book was amazing. It was a great addition to this series. The ending was yet again, another cliffhanger and I can not wait to read the next book. I have read all of this authors books, and each book is better than the last. This book, like the others, was filled with family, love, danger, friendships, and history. You get to look further at old characters and meet and fall in love with new ones. The Carson clan is terrific. It was another great book by one of my favorite authors. Reviewing these is always hard. Not because they are bad, but because they are just so awesome that I can't decide what to say! So I'll leave it at that!
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Adam and his pregnant wife settle down. Greg and Natalie both go on their adventures. Greg is off to Mexico, Natalie to France. Cody and Caitlin meet up with a past friend. In this story, the siblings all split up. Adam and his expecting wife face wildfire danger. Cody and Caitlin meet up with Emma, a classmate, and lover, from 1889. Greg gets himself into some trouble while in Mexico. The trouble results in him changing his life in a dramatic way. Natalie goes to war and comes home a new person. All the while their parents are traveling all over and chasing their kids.
This book was amazing. It was a great addition to this series. The ending was yet again, another cliffhanger and I can not wait to read the next book. I have read all of this authors books, and each book is better than the last. This book, like the others, was filled with family, love, danger, friendships, and history. You get to look further at old characters and meet and fall in love with new ones. The Carson clan is terrific. It was another great book by one of my favorite authors. Reviewing these is always hard. Not because they are bad, but because they are just so awesome that I can't decide what to say! So I'll leave it at that!
http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com
https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
May 14, 2018
Waiting for the next installment.
The suspense was almost too much at times and the ending even worse! Having read most if not all John's other books I can hardly wait.
The suspense was almost too much at times and the ending even worse! Having read most if not all John's other books I can hardly wait.
August 4, 2018
The five Carson siblings plus their new sister-in-law, Bridget have just stepped through a time portal from 1889 into 1918. They are still playing a game of Marco-Polo through time trying to find their parents, Tim and Caroline who have taken a detour on their time-travel adventure. This time they are hoping to catch their parents as they visit their ancestors. Adam and his new and pregnant wife Bridget settle in a cabin in the backwoods of Minnesota, neighbors to two women set to marry into their family. Greg agrees to travel into the potential dangers of Mexico, hoping to find his parents near where his great-grandparents live. Instead, Greg finds a woman that may finally be his match. Natalie takes a reporting job on the front lines of the War in France meeting the son and husband of a friend from 1889 as well as some ancestors. Meanwhile, Cody and Caitlin track down a friend from 1889 that is very surprised by the fact they the twins are still 18 years old. With all of their trekking through time, the Carson family seems even more scattered, but they are closer to finding their parents than they think.
An exciting, risk filled, time travel adventure filled with romance, intrigue and history, The Memory Tree picks up right where River Rising, the first book of the Carson Chronicles leaves off. I would definitely recommend reading these books in order since so much happens in River Rising. I was so happy to begin reading about the Carson clan once again in a new time period. I have enjoyed the device used for time travel in the books, a portal that opens only at solstices and equinoxes that will transport you to different times depending on when you walk through. I was able to learn more about the portals in this book along with more information about who uses them. In The Memory Tree, we also delve into the Carson family history by meeting many of the Carson ancestors. I am very anxious to see the results of the future Carson's family presence in the time of the ancestors. This time, it seems to have altered some important events in their family tree. With having the Carson family spread out, I was also able to witness many events that happened in 1918. As World War I came to an end, Natalie witnessed firsthand accounts of injured soldiers returning from the front in France and senseless killings even after the War ended. Adam and Bridget survived a forest fire that ravaged Cloquet, Minnesota. Greg witnessed Tijuana before it was a tourist town and when money was above the law. Most interestingly, Cody and Caitlin were able to reconnect with a friend from 1889 and see the effects of the War on a family that has been left behind. With moments that range from heartbreaking to heartwarming and exciting to mysterious, The Memory Tree is another expertly crafted tale within the Carson Chronicles. I can't wait to continue their adventures into the 1940's.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
An exciting, risk filled, time travel adventure filled with romance, intrigue and history, The Memory Tree picks up right where River Rising, the first book of the Carson Chronicles leaves off. I would definitely recommend reading these books in order since so much happens in River Rising. I was so happy to begin reading about the Carson clan once again in a new time period. I have enjoyed the device used for time travel in the books, a portal that opens only at solstices and equinoxes that will transport you to different times depending on when you walk through. I was able to learn more about the portals in this book along with more information about who uses them. In The Memory Tree, we also delve into the Carson family history by meeting many of the Carson ancestors. I am very anxious to see the results of the future Carson's family presence in the time of the ancestors. This time, it seems to have altered some important events in their family tree. With having the Carson family spread out, I was also able to witness many events that happened in 1918. As World War I came to an end, Natalie witnessed firsthand accounts of injured soldiers returning from the front in France and senseless killings even after the War ended. Adam and Bridget survived a forest fire that ravaged Cloquet, Minnesota. Greg witnessed Tijuana before it was a tourist town and when money was above the law. Most interestingly, Cody and Caitlin were able to reconnect with a friend from 1889 and see the effects of the War on a family that has been left behind. With moments that range from heartbreaking to heartwarming and exciting to mysterious, The Memory Tree is another expertly crafted tale within the Carson Chronicles. I can't wait to continue their adventures into the 1940's.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
June 10, 2019
The Memory Tree by John A. Heldt is the second book in The Carson Chronicles series. The book follows the Carson siblings on their continuing adventure of a lifetime as they struggle to find their lost time traveling parents. Book two picks up where book one ended and, as you can imagine, nothing seems to go right for the siblings.
Shortly after arriving in 1918 the siblings decide they can cover more ground by splitting up. Adam and Bridgett, now expecting their first child, have taken up a temporary residence in Minnesota not far from Duluth. This becomes home base with Adam as the head of the time traveling group. From here he will help guide the search for their parents, Tim and Caroline Carson.
The twins, Caitlin and Cody, decide to visit an old friend from 1889 and so they travel to Pennsylvania. The plan is to visit a family war hero, while in Pennsylvania, in the hopes that their parents have done the same. In the meantime, Natalie takes a journalist position at the Minneapolis Post. She will travel as far as war torn Europe to cover her human interest stories. Greg heads off by himself following yet another trail of ancestral clues to Mexico to meet another family member.
In attempting to cover all the bases, in this time traveling game of tag, will the Carson sibling ever caught a break? It seems they encounter even more problems than they did in 1889. Despite the setbacks and hard ships they will endure, the siblings remain upbeat and optimistic. Their parents have left them a big clue and maybe, just maybe this is the time period they are able to reunite.
As I have come to expect from Mr. Heldt, the characters are what make this developing story. Told from various POVs , each sibling and their parents have their own observations and contributions to the tale. The passion which Heldt portrays the characters makes them memorable and you can’t help rooting for them even when you know things are not going to work in their favor.
In addition, the events of the time and descriptions of an era, now one hundreds in our past, are deftly woven in and around the unfolding story. Heldt brings you into this magically time in our history and then sends you on this grand adventure with the characters you have grown to know and love. Overall this is a wonderful story that I hope you enjoy as much as I did.
I highly recommend this book for people who love historical stories, with a touch of fantasy, that are grounded in facts. In several ways this series reminds me of Outlander. The historical interwoven with the fictional families, relationships and romance makes for a delightful read.
While I used my Kindle Unlimited account to down load this e-book, the author did request that I read and review it. Regards of how I acquire a book, all opinions are my own. For more of my reviews, and author interviews, please see my blog at www.thespineview.com.
Shortly after arriving in 1918 the siblings decide they can cover more ground by splitting up. Adam and Bridgett, now expecting their first child, have taken up a temporary residence in Minnesota not far from Duluth. This becomes home base with Adam as the head of the time traveling group. From here he will help guide the search for their parents, Tim and Caroline Carson.
The twins, Caitlin and Cody, decide to visit an old friend from 1889 and so they travel to Pennsylvania. The plan is to visit a family war hero, while in Pennsylvania, in the hopes that their parents have done the same. In the meantime, Natalie takes a journalist position at the Minneapolis Post. She will travel as far as war torn Europe to cover her human interest stories. Greg heads off by himself following yet another trail of ancestral clues to Mexico to meet another family member.
In attempting to cover all the bases, in this time traveling game of tag, will the Carson sibling ever caught a break? It seems they encounter even more problems than they did in 1889. Despite the setbacks and hard ships they will endure, the siblings remain upbeat and optimistic. Their parents have left them a big clue and maybe, just maybe this is the time period they are able to reunite.
As I have come to expect from Mr. Heldt, the characters are what make this developing story. Told from various POVs , each sibling and their parents have their own observations and contributions to the tale. The passion which Heldt portrays the characters makes them memorable and you can’t help rooting for them even when you know things are not going to work in their favor.
In addition, the events of the time and descriptions of an era, now one hundreds in our past, are deftly woven in and around the unfolding story. Heldt brings you into this magically time in our history and then sends you on this grand adventure with the characters you have grown to know and love. Overall this is a wonderful story that I hope you enjoy as much as I did.
I highly recommend this book for people who love historical stories, with a touch of fantasy, that are grounded in facts. In several ways this series reminds me of Outlander. The historical interwoven with the fictional families, relationships and romance makes for a delightful read.
While I used my Kindle Unlimited account to down load this e-book, the author did request that I read and review it. Regards of how I acquire a book, all opinions are my own. For more of my reviews, and author interviews, please see my blog at www.thespineview.com.
November 15, 2018
This is an engaging story with good historical detail. My rating 4.25.
The five Carson siblings have now time traveled from 1889 (River Rising: The Carson Chronicles Book 1) to 1918. They are still trying to find their missing parents and they are using locations from their family history hoping that their parents may be there too.
Adam and Bridget settle in Minnesota awaiting the birth of their child. There they make friends with neighbors who are relatives in the Carson past.
Gregg goes to Mexico seeking to meet with their great-grandparents from that branch of the family. Unfortunately, he fails to figure out how he will legally cross the border without proper papers and with a criminal past, even if it is from twenty-nine years before. His behavior isn’t exactly honorable. First he makes friends with a pretty redhead librarian in El Paso. After he manages to sneak into Mexico he meets another strong, independent redhead who really captures his interest. His attempts to help her puts him in hot water with the law once again, making for a difficult exit strategy.
Natalie lands a dream job first in Chicago and then as a war correspondent. She travels to France to interview soldiers on the front lines where she makes coincidental friends with family related friends.
The 18-year-old twins, Cody and Caitlin, travel to Pennsylvania where Cody hopes to meet his 1889 crush, Emma, even though she is now married with grown children. He hopes that the visit will allow him to convince his heart to move on. They just have to figure out how to tell her that they are time travelers who haven’t aged at all over the past 29 years.
Again, Mr. Hedlt creates engaging, warm characters and interesting situations where he shares wonderful historical detail. There is excitement and danger in the Minnesota wildfire, complications below the border and war weary soldiers in France. I loved the concept of the Memory Tree in Pennsylvania.
This story is a bit longer than my usual reading, but it kept me engaged all the way through. As I neared the end I was a little disconcerted to realize that would be another crisis ending leaving the journey to continue in the next volume. I really wasn’t thrilled with this scenario, especially as it meant that obvious steps of connecting with their parents were missed or ignored by the children. (For example, once they realized that their parents had sent them a message, why didn’t they try to communicate in the same manner?) Still, the story moves at a good pace with entertaining action and history. I am curious to see what happens to the characters in their next time travel jump. I recommend this to readers who enjoy well developed characters, historical detail and time travel complications.
Source: Review copy provided by Author; no review guaranteed.
The five Carson siblings have now time traveled from 1889 (River Rising: The Carson Chronicles Book 1) to 1918. They are still trying to find their missing parents and they are using locations from their family history hoping that their parents may be there too.
Adam and Bridget settle in Minnesota awaiting the birth of their child. There they make friends with neighbors who are relatives in the Carson past.
Gregg goes to Mexico seeking to meet with their great-grandparents from that branch of the family. Unfortunately, he fails to figure out how he will legally cross the border without proper papers and with a criminal past, even if it is from twenty-nine years before. His behavior isn’t exactly honorable. First he makes friends with a pretty redhead librarian in El Paso. After he manages to sneak into Mexico he meets another strong, independent redhead who really captures his interest. His attempts to help her puts him in hot water with the law once again, making for a difficult exit strategy.
Natalie lands a dream job first in Chicago and then as a war correspondent. She travels to France to interview soldiers on the front lines where she makes coincidental friends with family related friends.
The 18-year-old twins, Cody and Caitlin, travel to Pennsylvania where Cody hopes to meet his 1889 crush, Emma, even though she is now married with grown children. He hopes that the visit will allow him to convince his heart to move on. They just have to figure out how to tell her that they are time travelers who haven’t aged at all over the past 29 years.
Again, Mr. Hedlt creates engaging, warm characters and interesting situations where he shares wonderful historical detail. There is excitement and danger in the Minnesota wildfire, complications below the border and war weary soldiers in France. I loved the concept of the Memory Tree in Pennsylvania.
This story is a bit longer than my usual reading, but it kept me engaged all the way through. As I neared the end I was a little disconcerted to realize that would be another crisis ending leaving the journey to continue in the next volume. I really wasn’t thrilled with this scenario, especially as it meant that obvious steps of connecting with their parents were missed or ignored by the children. (For example, once they realized that their parents had sent them a message, why didn’t they try to communicate in the same manner?) Still, the story moves at a good pace with entertaining action and history. I am curious to see what happens to the characters in their next time travel jump. I recommend this to readers who enjoy well developed characters, historical detail and time travel complications.
Source: Review copy provided by Author; no review guaranteed.
June 22, 2018
Read this review and more on my blog at [Roxie Writes].
‘The Memory Tree’ by John A. Heldt
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Finished on June 22, 2018
GIVEN A FREE COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
FREE on Kindle Unlimited | $4.99 on Kindle
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
Still looking for their time-traveling parents, the Carson siblings begin their search in 1918. Adam and his pregnant wife, Bridget, settle in Minnesota while the twins head back to Pennsylvania, Greg travels out west and down to Mexico, and Natalie finds her stride in France writing about the war.
Disaster seems to follow the family, though, as a catastrophic wildfire heads straight for the newlyweds and soon-to-be parents, and Greg finds himself in more trouble with the law.
In THE MEMORY TREE, the sweeping sequel to RIVER RISING, several time travelers find answers and meaning as they continue the adventure of a lifetime in the age of doughboys, silent movies, and Model T's.
MY REVIEW:
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In this second installment of The Carson Chronicles, we find our beloved siblings searching for their parents in another tumultuous time period. World War I has taken the lives of many, and the Spanish Flu has taken its fair share.
But the Carsons won’t give up the fight until they are reunited -- a family whole, again.
I enjoyed this book as much, or more, than the first one. I’ve come to really love these characters and feel as though they are real, flesh and blood, people. It’s become impossible not to root for them and hope they not only find their parents but that they are one day able to resume their lives.
One of the things I love the most about the characters Heldt has created is that despite their circumstances and their worries, they continue to live their lives as best they can. There’s barely any self-pity, and they take the opportunities provided through time travel to enrich not only their lives but the lives of others. Many folks in their positions would be so paralyzed by panic and desperation, they’d do not even a fraction of the things the Carsons do. They’re a great example for a life well lived, I think.
Patricia was a delightful addition to the cast. I might just think that because I’m a Texan, too, making me a little biased, but she seems to balance things out in just the right way. And it was so lovely to be reunited with Emma and to see how twenty-plus years changed her relationship with the twins but did not diminish it.
I am assuming there is going to be a third installment of this series, and I am excited to read it. Heldt has truly created a gem of a series, here.
‘The Memory Tree’ by John A. Heldt
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Finished on June 22, 2018
GIVEN A FREE COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
FREE on Kindle Unlimited | $4.99 on Kindle
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
Still looking for their time-traveling parents, the Carson siblings begin their search in 1918. Adam and his pregnant wife, Bridget, settle in Minnesota while the twins head back to Pennsylvania, Greg travels out west and down to Mexico, and Natalie finds her stride in France writing about the war.
Disaster seems to follow the family, though, as a catastrophic wildfire heads straight for the newlyweds and soon-to-be parents, and Greg finds himself in more trouble with the law.
In THE MEMORY TREE, the sweeping sequel to RIVER RISING, several time travelers find answers and meaning as they continue the adventure of a lifetime in the age of doughboys, silent movies, and Model T's.
MY REVIEW:
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In this second installment of The Carson Chronicles, we find our beloved siblings searching for their parents in another tumultuous time period. World War I has taken the lives of many, and the Spanish Flu has taken its fair share.
But the Carsons won’t give up the fight until they are reunited -- a family whole, again.
I enjoyed this book as much, or more, than the first one. I’ve come to really love these characters and feel as though they are real, flesh and blood, people. It’s become impossible not to root for them and hope they not only find their parents but that they are one day able to resume their lives.
One of the things I love the most about the characters Heldt has created is that despite their circumstances and their worries, they continue to live their lives as best they can. There’s barely any self-pity, and they take the opportunities provided through time travel to enrich not only their lives but the lives of others. Many folks in their positions would be so paralyzed by panic and desperation, they’d do not even a fraction of the things the Carsons do. They’re a great example for a life well lived, I think.
Patricia was a delightful addition to the cast. I might just think that because I’m a Texan, too, making me a little biased, but she seems to balance things out in just the right way. And it was so lovely to be reunited with Emma and to see how twenty-plus years changed her relationship with the twins but did not diminish it.
I am assuming there is going to be a third installment of this series, and I am excited to read it. Heldt has truly created a gem of a series, here.
October 22, 2018
The memory Tree by John Heldt
Time traveling books are always a treat to read. The best part about time traveling books is you get pretty much an all-you-can-eat buffet of book genres. You get a little bit of romance, action, suspense, and the best part of all is the historical fiction. And when the book written right, the other elements like the story arc and the character development is even more enhanced.
Another plus about this book is the numerous likeable characters. There are five children in the Carson family and they have their own personalities. They all have their likeable traits complete with their own remarkable adventures. I thought it was really cool they all made the decision to split up in hopes of finding their parents. Each of their adventures were all equally enjoyable. Adam and Bridget stay behind in Minnesota as home base for all communication. Greg roughing it in Mexico where he meets bar owner Patricia who he ends up marrying. Natalie takes on going overseas to France to interview and write about the soldiers in the war for her job. As for the twins, Caitlin and Cody go to Gettysburg in Pennsylvania where they spend time with Cody’s first and former love Emma. Even the parents, Tim and Caroline had some adventure too in Mexico. That had to be amazing to go back in time to actually witness the birth of Caroline’s grandmother.
As for the women Adam and Greg took on as wives, they made great choices and they fit in with the family very well. Bridget is very kind and caring but despite that she is also very courageous and intelligent. Patricia has the loyalty that can rival a pit bull. She will walk through fire to those who have her loyalty.
One concept I want to get into that I really enjoyed was the memory tree at Emma’s home. Just trying to imagine the beauty of the spruce tree with all the ribbons tied to it is beyond breath-taking. The symbolization of tying a ribbon to a branch in remembrance of loved ones that are lost to them like death, tragedy or war. The ribbons are even replaced often to keep looking new. It really is a beautiful way to honor and remember loved ones.
Despite things from Greg’s adventure in Mexico catching up to them, they do get their happy ending to make it to their portal to go home and hopefully find their parents…or will they? Can’t go wrong with time travel books getting a smorgasbord of genres on top of a fun history lesson. You get crazy adventures with every character that totally enhances the story arc and character development. The only drawback with time travel novels is that they are very long books but they are worth it; you won’t regret it.
Reviewed by Xtina
Time traveling books are always a treat to read. The best part about time traveling books is you get pretty much an all-you-can-eat buffet of book genres. You get a little bit of romance, action, suspense, and the best part of all is the historical fiction. And when the book written right, the other elements like the story arc and the character development is even more enhanced.
Another plus about this book is the numerous likeable characters. There are five children in the Carson family and they have their own personalities. They all have their likeable traits complete with their own remarkable adventures. I thought it was really cool they all made the decision to split up in hopes of finding their parents. Each of their adventures were all equally enjoyable. Adam and Bridget stay behind in Minnesota as home base for all communication. Greg roughing it in Mexico where he meets bar owner Patricia who he ends up marrying. Natalie takes on going overseas to France to interview and write about the soldiers in the war for her job. As for the twins, Caitlin and Cody go to Gettysburg in Pennsylvania where they spend time with Cody’s first and former love Emma. Even the parents, Tim and Caroline had some adventure too in Mexico. That had to be amazing to go back in time to actually witness the birth of Caroline’s grandmother.
As for the women Adam and Greg took on as wives, they made great choices and they fit in with the family very well. Bridget is very kind and caring but despite that she is also very courageous and intelligent. Patricia has the loyalty that can rival a pit bull. She will walk through fire to those who have her loyalty.
One concept I want to get into that I really enjoyed was the memory tree at Emma’s home. Just trying to imagine the beauty of the spruce tree with all the ribbons tied to it is beyond breath-taking. The symbolization of tying a ribbon to a branch in remembrance of loved ones that are lost to them like death, tragedy or war. The ribbons are even replaced often to keep looking new. It really is a beautiful way to honor and remember loved ones.
Despite things from Greg’s adventure in Mexico catching up to them, they do get their happy ending to make it to their portal to go home and hopefully find their parents…or will they? Can’t go wrong with time travel books getting a smorgasbord of genres on top of a fun history lesson. You get crazy adventures with every character that totally enhances the story arc and character development. The only drawback with time travel novels is that they are very long books but they are worth it; you won’t regret it.
Reviewed by Xtina
August 22, 2018
The Memory Tree is the newest installment of the Carson Chronicles. So far there are 2 books in the series. I’ve received a copy from the author in exchange for a review.
Once again, I highly admired another one of John A. Heldt’s books. This one in particular was captivating, between a the well-developed relationships, strong character backgrounds, and thorough explanations, this turned out to be one of my favorites I’ve read so far.
Taking place in the early 1900s, this is a historical feature that not only educates, but also helps to reevaluate the past. I’m always up for any good book that’ll transport me back in time, and this certainly was right up my alley. Though I would say that a majority of what you’ll read focuses more on family relationships and strong bonds, but it still holds a nice balance to preserving the past.
The characters were extremely well built. I enjoyed seeing them learn and grow together, and help each other out from time to time. The Carsons all were very open-minded with each other and their surroundings. They had each others backs for every step of the way, no matter how far apart they were from each other. I liked seeing them this way, even the youngest of the bunch were very mature and rational about their decisions.
The writing was very thorough in explaining the Carsons’ plans. Not a detail was left out, and the ideas were very thought out and practical (while being a little out of the box as well). If I had to describe what I was reading, it’d be very straight forward. I was able to predict some of the characters’ motives, and figure out how they were going to find a solution. Sometimes, there were times when characters would info dump a little about themselves, but it was still entertaining to read. (And who doesn’t mind info dumping now and then, it’s sometimes fun to do.)
It was especially nice to see that the Carson family continuing to grow. We see some new characters, but also a lot of older ones. Either way, there was never a dry moment in the Carson family. Each had a specific role to play, and all of them worked together to achieve their own individual goals. Sometimes they experienced heartbreak and tragedy, but they were able to lean on each other for support.
Overall, this was an amazing new installment, and I’d like to see where the Carson family will take me next.
Once again, I highly admired another one of John A. Heldt’s books. This one in particular was captivating, between a the well-developed relationships, strong character backgrounds, and thorough explanations, this turned out to be one of my favorites I’ve read so far.
Taking place in the early 1900s, this is a historical feature that not only educates, but also helps to reevaluate the past. I’m always up for any good book that’ll transport me back in time, and this certainly was right up my alley. Though I would say that a majority of what you’ll read focuses more on family relationships and strong bonds, but it still holds a nice balance to preserving the past.
The characters were extremely well built. I enjoyed seeing them learn and grow together, and help each other out from time to time. The Carsons all were very open-minded with each other and their surroundings. They had each others backs for every step of the way, no matter how far apart they were from each other. I liked seeing them this way, even the youngest of the bunch were very mature and rational about their decisions.
The writing was very thorough in explaining the Carsons’ plans. Not a detail was left out, and the ideas were very thought out and practical (while being a little out of the box as well). If I had to describe what I was reading, it’d be very straight forward. I was able to predict some of the characters’ motives, and figure out how they were going to find a solution. Sometimes, there were times when characters would info dump a little about themselves, but it was still entertaining to read. (And who doesn’t mind info dumping now and then, it’s sometimes fun to do.)
It was especially nice to see that the Carson family continuing to grow. We see some new characters, but also a lot of older ones. Either way, there was never a dry moment in the Carson family. Each had a specific role to play, and all of them worked together to achieve their own individual goals. Sometimes they experienced heartbreak and tragedy, but they were able to lean on each other for support.
Overall, this was an amazing new installment, and I’d like to see where the Carson family will take me next.
June 12, 2018
When we last saw the Carson family siblings in River Rising they had survived the Johnstown, Pennsylvania flood of 1899 and planned to pass through the Sedona, AZ portal and meet their parents in 1918.
However, the best laid plans sometimes go astray. They’re challenged by an Arizona rancher determined to see Greg Carson hang for murder. By quick thinking, they enter 1918 intact while the rancher and his men travel to an unknown time.
Soon, the Carson’s split up to find family members their parents are likely to contact. By assuming new identities, they manage to get close to prominent relatives in their family tree and in doing so, learn that time travel has dangers far beyond the obvious when events spiral out of control affecting the course of the Carson family’s evolution.
As in John Heldt’s previous books, there is an ever present element of danger and romance as the Carson siblings, one by one, suffer the joy and heartache of being in love with people from the past. The development of the Carson characters continues to increase through the series until the reader feels their confusion and frustration.
As in River Rising, the suspense will keep readers on the edge of their seats and unexpected time-travel twists unfold. It’s unlikely readers would be disappointed with the action, romance or twists found in The Memory Tree. However, it is likely The Memory Tree will touch their hearts.
This book was provided free by the author in hopes of receiving an honest review. The above review represents my honest opinion of the book.
However, the best laid plans sometimes go astray. They’re challenged by an Arizona rancher determined to see Greg Carson hang for murder. By quick thinking, they enter 1918 intact while the rancher and his men travel to an unknown time.
Soon, the Carson’s split up to find family members their parents are likely to contact. By assuming new identities, they manage to get close to prominent relatives in their family tree and in doing so, learn that time travel has dangers far beyond the obvious when events spiral out of control affecting the course of the Carson family’s evolution.
As in John Heldt’s previous books, there is an ever present element of danger and romance as the Carson siblings, one by one, suffer the joy and heartache of being in love with people from the past. The development of the Carson characters continues to increase through the series until the reader feels their confusion and frustration.
As in River Rising, the suspense will keep readers on the edge of their seats and unexpected time-travel twists unfold. It’s unlikely readers would be disappointed with the action, romance or twists found in The Memory Tree. However, it is likely The Memory Tree will touch their hearts.
This book was provided free by the author in hopes of receiving an honest review. The above review represents my honest opinion of the book.
June 4, 2018
The Carson’s have successfully made it to 1918 in this next book in the Carson Chronicles. And yet their journey isn’t over yet, they continue to face danger, confusion and mis-steps all along the way all the while trying tirelessly to locate their parents. A game of cat and mouse that might just lead them to more adventures along the way.
This time the siblings separate, each taking a different path in hopes of finding their parents. The teen twins head to Pennsylvania to try and locate them using an old family connection from the Civil War. While Adam and Bridgett turn to Minnesota in hopes of finding them through another family line, only to come face to face with a historic forest fire that nearly destroys them and the family. All the while Natalie, the middle child, heads off to follow her journalistic dreams in WWI France and meets up with some old family friends, facing tragedy in the meantime. Lastly, there’s Greg who heads down to Mexico track down his Maternal Grandparents and instead he finds love in an unlikely place.
This second book in the series leaves the reader on edge throughout! Always looking for more and more, as a vicious reader will know, just one more chapter, can lead to consuming the whole book in its entirety in one sitting. The author doesn’t shy away from this tendency and keeps the reader wanting more and more. At the end I always tell him he’s terrible because he leaves us hanging so!
This time the siblings separate, each taking a different path in hopes of finding their parents. The teen twins head to Pennsylvania to try and locate them using an old family connection from the Civil War. While Adam and Bridgett turn to Minnesota in hopes of finding them through another family line, only to come face to face with a historic forest fire that nearly destroys them and the family. All the while Natalie, the middle child, heads off to follow her journalistic dreams in WWI France and meets up with some old family friends, facing tragedy in the meantime. Lastly, there’s Greg who heads down to Mexico track down his Maternal Grandparents and instead he finds love in an unlikely place.
This second book in the series leaves the reader on edge throughout! Always looking for more and more, as a vicious reader will know, just one more chapter, can lead to consuming the whole book in its entirety in one sitting. The author doesn’t shy away from this tendency and keeps the reader wanting more and more. At the end I always tell him he’s terrible because he leaves us hanging so!
May 30, 2018
Having read River Rising, Book 1 in the Carson Chronicles Books I was so happy that John Heldt asked if I wanted to read the 2nd in the series. I had been waiting for it for quite a while! Of course I said YES--I happen to love time travel books and John Heldt knows how to write them! I have also read and reviewed others in his Northwest Passage and American Journey Time travel series!!
In this continuing saga from Book 1 the Carson siblings are still looking for their parents--and their parents are still looking for them! They have managed to get to the era just before the end of WWI. Greg is still getting in trouble with the law and the ladies! The twins manage to get in touch with their bestie from Book 1--of course she is a lot older then they are now. Bridget is pregnant----There is a massive forest fire--
So why name this book The Memory Tree? You will like the answer but you will have to read the book to find out!
The way the book ended you know there will be another in this series---now I just have to wait--and so will you!
I received an e-book copy of this book from the author for my enjoyment and possible review.
The Memory Tree
In this continuing saga from Book 1 the Carson siblings are still looking for their parents--and their parents are still looking for them! They have managed to get to the era just before the end of WWI. Greg is still getting in trouble with the law and the ladies! The twins manage to get in touch with their bestie from Book 1--of course she is a lot older then they are now. Bridget is pregnant----There is a massive forest fire--
So why name this book The Memory Tree? You will like the answer but you will have to read the book to find out!
The way the book ended you know there will be another in this series---now I just have to wait--and so will you!
I received an e-book copy of this book from the author for my enjoyment and possible review.
The Memory Tree
June 3, 2018
The Carson family may have barely escaped 1889 but they are now in 1918 and searching for their parents again. WW 1 is in full force and the family have dispersed in order to cover as many areas as they can so Adam and his pregnant wife Bridget are in Minnesota, Greg is in Mexico where he meets someone special and gets into danger again, the twins Cody and Caitlin are visiting an old friend from Pennsylvania and Natalie is being herself and working as a reporter in France talking to American servicemen to tell their stories. The Carson family find a lot of answers and peace in this continuation of the River Rising The question remains - will they find their parents?
Wow - this is another detailed and historically accurate adventure involving the Carson family as they travel through time searching for their parents. Poor Greg always seems to be the one getting himself into trouble even though it is always not his fault and it was nice for him to finally have some happiness which I hope will point to a turn in his fortunes. Everything was well written and described in such a way that I could feel as if I was there experiencing everything with them. As for if they find their parents I couldn't possibly say.
Wow - this is another detailed and historically accurate adventure involving the Carson family as they travel through time searching for their parents. Poor Greg always seems to be the one getting himself into trouble even though it is always not his fault and it was nice for him to finally have some happiness which I hope will point to a turn in his fortunes. Everything was well written and described in such a way that I could feel as if I was there experiencing everything with them. As for if they find their parents I couldn't possibly say.
September 14, 2018
First sentence: Greg Carson battled fear and doubt as four horsemen, armed to the teeth, closed in on his party of six in the middle of the desert.
About the story: Still in search of their parents, the Carson siblings emerge in the year, 1918, from the somewhat disastrous journey in 1988. They split up, finding more danger and adventure as they meet new people, look up long-dead relatives and rekindle old friendships.
My thoughts: He’s done it yet again! John A. Heldt had become one of my favorite authors to read. Although his ways of writing doesn’t change, the stories in the pages doesn’t disappoint. He clearly does his research, and knowing the characters of the present are faced with disasters of the past, I tend to bite my nails because anything can happen.
Along with mystery, Heldt knows how to make me giggle, and raise my eyebrows, and have the urge to tear up. I highly recommend this series.
About the story: Still in search of their parents, the Carson siblings emerge in the year, 1918, from the somewhat disastrous journey in 1988. They split up, finding more danger and adventure as they meet new people, look up long-dead relatives and rekindle old friendships.
My thoughts: He’s done it yet again! John A. Heldt had become one of my favorite authors to read. Although his ways of writing doesn’t change, the stories in the pages doesn’t disappoint. He clearly does his research, and knowing the characters of the present are faced with disasters of the past, I tend to bite my nails because anything can happen.
Along with mystery, Heldt knows how to make me giggle, and raise my eyebrows, and have the urge to tear up. I highly recommend this series.
June 13, 2018
It's June 21, 1889 and the Carson clan are still trying to find their parents. It hasn't been easy for the Carson children. Together they decide where to look and when. Each has their opinion to add to the mix. The only hope they have are the letters their parents left for them. The children's full attention is focused on finding their parents and returning to Arizona.
John A. Heldt does it again! This master story teller will bring you a book you can't help but love. The characters are well defined and three dimensional. Their personalities are different yet the same. The writing is outstanding. I highly recommend this author and this book. You'll never be disappointed.
I didn't find any issues.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this author has an amazing talent. ~Copy of book provided by author and I voluntarily reviewed it.
John A. Heldt does it again! This master story teller will bring you a book you can't help but love. The characters are well defined and three dimensional. Their personalities are different yet the same. The writing is outstanding. I highly recommend this author and this book. You'll never be disappointed.
I didn't find any issues.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this author has an amazing talent. ~Copy of book provided by author and I voluntarily reviewed it.
August 26, 2020
Great story
I am not good with words but I will try. You don't need a synopsis because that is already there for you. I will tell you that Mr. Heldt is a wonderful story teller. It is obvious he does his historical research. You will fall in love with this family, if you haven't already. I was so engrossed at the end, I didn't realize it was finished. It is a series and you will definitely want to have the next one ready to pick up. My only negative comment is that the entire family is perfect but isn,t it good to have nice, compassionate, loving, hardworking people to read about, for a change. You will find family love, romantic love, and undying friendship plus a whole lot of adventure. My very favorite time travel series, yet. I need to go and start on the next one - bye!!
I am not good with words but I will try. You don't need a synopsis because that is already there for you. I will tell you that Mr. Heldt is a wonderful story teller. It is obvious he does his historical research. You will fall in love with this family, if you haven't already. I was so engrossed at the end, I didn't realize it was finished. It is a series and you will definitely want to have the next one ready to pick up. My only negative comment is that the entire family is perfect but isn,t it good to have nice, compassionate, loving, hardworking people to read about, for a change. You will find family love, romantic love, and undying friendship plus a whole lot of adventure. My very favorite time travel series, yet. I need to go and start on the next one - bye!!
September 18, 2018
The Memory Tree is the second book in the Carson Chronicles series. Not I read the first book, River Rising, and enjoyed it so I jumped at the chance to read this one. I can't say that I was disappointed.
I do believe that the first time travel book I read was written by John A Heldt. That book was where I found a love for time travel books. I have enjoyed all of his books ever since.
While I enjoy all of his books, I'm not sure that this one is at the top of the list. It's still great, just not my favorite. I may have enjoyed River Rising more than this one, but it was still quite good.
Thank you, John A. Heldt, for sending this book my way! I am a fan!
*Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I do believe that the first time travel book I read was written by John A Heldt. That book was where I found a love for time travel books. I have enjoyed all of his books ever since.
While I enjoy all of his books, I'm not sure that this one is at the top of the list. It's still great, just not my favorite. I may have enjoyed River Rising more than this one, but it was still quite good.
Thank you, John A. Heldt, for sending this book my way! I am a fan!
*Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2019
Something like my twelfth novel by John Heldt!
I will say I did struggle with this one. As we follow the Carson siblings and their parents across the space/time continuum, I had difficulty settling in. I felt the characters seemed interchangeable and their dialogue was on the wooden side, although I did listen to large stretches by Audible and some of that may be the narration. I felt like the characters spent a great deal of time traveling from one end of the United States to the other at a time when it wasn’t very easy to do so, and for the second book in a row, the character of Adam irritated me. When a character asked why Adam had veto power over his sibling’s engagement, I found myself asking the same question.
Plot-wise, there’s a point near the end of the book where the bad guy reveals himself, and part of the plot resolution involves a woman who is present in that scene. There is no reason she would have been invited. Her presence only made things more difficult for the person who brought her, and yet her presence was critical for the story. It didn’t ring true.
Cody’s storyline, which I regretted at the end of the first book, was put to wonderful use here.
I will say I did struggle with this one. As we follow the Carson siblings and their parents across the space/time continuum, I had difficulty settling in. I felt the characters seemed interchangeable and their dialogue was on the wooden side, although I did listen to large stretches by Audible and some of that may be the narration. I felt like the characters spent a great deal of time traveling from one end of the United States to the other at a time when it wasn’t very easy to do so, and for the second book in a row, the character of Adam irritated me. When a character asked why Adam had veto power over his sibling’s engagement, I found myself asking the same question.
Plot-wise, there’s a point near the end of the book where the bad guy reveals himself, and part of the plot resolution involves a woman who is present in that scene. There is no reason she would have been invited. Her presence only made things more difficult for the person who brought her, and yet her presence was critical for the story. It didn’t ring true.
Cody’s storyline, which I regretted at the end of the first book, was put to wonderful use here.
Read
April 15, 2020The Carson family lands in 1918, WWI era. Adam and bridges have a baby. Greg goes seeking parents in Mexico; however the seeking stops when he finds a pretty girl. (Does he really want to find his parents? Finds an awful lot of things to keep him from traveling). He finds Patricia and marries her. Natalie falls in love with Patrick a newspaper edito who gets her a job sending her to France near the front lines as a journalist. Caitlin and Cody go to the home of Cody’s old hs girlfriend Kathleen who is grown, married and has children now. While there she shows them her memory tree which she puts ribbons on to remember people she has lost or wants to remember for whatever reason. That starts Caitlin and Cody remembering people too and they start adding their own ribbons.
May 28, 2018
Following their book the river rising, i was given this book for a fair review. The Carson kids jumped from 1889 to 1917, escaping some dangerous situations. Still keeping with the main reason why they were time- travelling, the siblings stumbled and rallied in a lot of situations.
as usual, John Heldt has done a tremendous amount of research and work, and I love going on a journey with Greg, exploring stories like Natalie, or just plain researching like Cody and Caitlin.
If you think you like this book, you should read from River Rising. If you have read that one, this one will not disappoint you.
as usual, John Heldt has done a tremendous amount of research and work, and I love going on a journey with Greg, exploring stories like Natalie, or just plain researching like Cody and Caitlin.
If you think you like this book, you should read from River Rising. If you have read that one, this one will not disappoint you.
December 9, 2018
Tie A Yellow Ribbon . . .
This volume continues the saga of a time-traveling family. If you read the books out of order there will be, naturally, spoilers in the second for the first, but each can easily be read alone and constitutes a complete story (with link rather than outright cliffhanger to the next). World War I is raging in Europe and the senselessness of trench warfare is certainly highlighted as the Carsons separate and participate in a number of the critical events of 1918. Students of history will enjoy the glimpses into the past; adventure seekers will appreciate the action and chase scenes; and the whole is rounded out by a bit of romance.
This volume continues the saga of a time-traveling family. If you read the books out of order there will be, naturally, spoilers in the second for the first, but each can easily be read alone and constitutes a complete story (with link rather than outright cliffhanger to the next). World War I is raging in Europe and the senselessness of trench warfare is certainly highlighted as the Carsons separate and participate in a number of the critical events of 1918. Students of history will enjoy the glimpses into the past; adventure seekers will appreciate the action and chase scenes; and the whole is rounded out by a bit of romance.
October 7, 2018
Excellent continuation of the first book in the series, River Rising. I definitely recommend this book and this series, it's very well written and beautifully narrated.
The time-travel adventures for the Carson family continues, they're still in search of their parents and find all sorts of love, danger and adventure along the way.
I'm drawn to this series, and will seek out and listen to move of John Heldt's work, very well done :)
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
The time-travel adventures for the Carson family continues, they're still in search of their parents and find all sorts of love, danger and adventure along the way.
I'm drawn to this series, and will seek out and listen to move of John Heldt's work, very well done :)
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
October 9, 2019
Mesmerizing!
I came into the series reading this book.... I'll be sure to read #1 & 3!
Once again John, you have captured 'real' people in different eras facing 'real' life challenges with courage, heart, wisdom and love. They come to life through your words and carry with them the joys and sorrows all human beings face.... Well, maybe not the issues one would encounter if you could time-travel! Loved the ins & outs of the various story threads!
When they finally get home... Will the picture be the same?
I came into the series reading this book.... I'll be sure to read #1 & 3!
Once again John, you have captured 'real' people in different eras facing 'real' life challenges with courage, heart, wisdom and love. They come to life through your words and carry with them the joys and sorrows all human beings face.... Well, maybe not the issues one would encounter if you could time-travel! Loved the ins & outs of the various story threads!
When they finally get home... Will the picture be the same?
January 16, 2020
I had thoroughly enjoyed river rising so had high expectations of the 2nd book, memory tree. Whilst I did enjoy this book I was slightly disappointed as the story started to feel repetitive. Another brother falls in love, another murder, another disaster. The most annoying part was the whole story could have ended very quickly had someone in the family had a bit of common sense. Still, I did enjoy the easy going story. There are no horrid bits in it, no gratuitous violence and it is a pleasant read. I'm off to try book 3.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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