Step into the enchanting world of Both Sides of Time, where time travel and romance collide in a whirlwind of ball gowns, heartfelt choices, and century-spanning love! Caroline B. Cooney’s beloved young adult series, the Time Travelers Quartet, whisks readers between the modern day and the elegant 1895, following Annie Sophia Lockwood’s quest for true love and self-discovery. Perfect for fans of historical fiction with a romantic twist, this series blends philosophical depth with page-turning drama, making it a hidden gem for dreamers and romantics alike.
First published in 1995, Both Sides of Time captures the imagination with its unique premise: what happens when a 15-year-old romantic, born in the wrong era, finds herself torn between two centuries and two loves? Cooney’s storytelling, infused with vivid historical details and emotional stakes, has kept fans captivated for decades. Let’s dive into the series’ origins, stories, and lasting charm!
How Both Sides of Time Began
Caroline B. Cooney, a prolific author known for her teen suspense and romance novels like The Face on the Milk Carton, launched the Both Sides of Time series in 1995. Inspired by her love for history and her knack for crafting relatable teen voices, Cooney set out to explore the clash of societal roles across time. The series was born from her fascination with the Victorian era’s opulence and constraints, particularly for women, juxtaposed against the freedoms of the 1990s. Cooney’s visits to schools and her “plotting games” with students helped shape the series’ authentic dialogue and emotional resonance, ensuring it spoke directly to young readers.
The Heart of Both Sides of Time
The Time Travelers Quartet spans four books: Both Sides of Time (1995), Out of Time (1996), Prisoner of Time (1998), and For All Time (2001). In the first book, Annie Lockwood, a hopeless romantic frustrated with her unromantic boyfriend Sean, stumbles through time from 1995 to 1895 while visiting the decaying Stratton Mansion. There, she meets Hiram “Strat” Stratton, a charming heir, and sparks fly—despite his engagement to the sweet but overshadowed Harriet. A murder mystery and societal pressures complicate Annie’s newfound love, forcing her to choose between centuries.
Subsequent books deepen the saga. Out of Time follows Annie’s continued adventures, while Prisoner of Time shifts focus to Strat’s sister, Devonny, who travels to Annie’s time and grapples with modern freedoms and a forbidden romance. For All Time ties up the series with emotional resolutions. The series shines through its themes of love, personal growth, and women’s roles, contrasting the restrictive 1895 society—where women were bound by corsets and obedience—with the relative autonomy of the 1990s. Cooney’s prose, blending Victorian and modern dialogue, adds humor and authenticity, while philosophical undertones about time and choice elevate the romance beyond typical YA fare.
Why Both Sides of Time Resonates
Both Sides of Time remains a beloved series for its ability to transport readers into a world of elegance and emotional turmoil. Fans, particularly those who discovered it in middle school, praise its gripping blend of romance, mystery, and historical insight. Reviews highlight its impact on young readers, sparking dreams of time travel and reflections on gender roles. Though not as widely known as other YA classics, the series’ niche appeal lies in its thoughtful exploration of love’s complexities and societal change, making it a timeless read for those craving depth in their romance. Its cliffhangers and interconnected stories keep readers hooked, with many still hoping for a movie adaptation.
- Publication Years: 1995–2001
- Number of Books: 4
- Genre: Young Adult Time Travel Romance
- Recommended Age: 12–14
Ready to fall through time? Grab Both Sides of Time and immerse yourself in Caroline B. Cooney’s romantic, thought-provoking world of love and history!