Caroline B. Cooney's novel Both Sides of Time is a delightful modern take on the classic Victorian novel. She gives her protagonist, Annie, a passion for the genre, then throws her into a series of events reminiscent of a Bronte sister's novel. During an uneventful summer Annie convinces her boyfriend to go with her to say goodbye to the Stratton Mansion which they're demolishing. While walking the halls, she is mysteriously transported back in time to 1895 where she meets the family who used to live there. She quickly falls in love with the son, Hiram Stratton Jr., and is caught up in a love triangle and even stumbles upon a devious extortion-murder scheme.
Packed with drama from cover to cover, this book is an entertaining read. Each of the characters is redeemable and lovable, forcing the reader to focus on the total pictures instead of the moment. This creates a sort of holistic read, which one can manage in a day or two.
What makes this story unique is the somewhat vague role of fate. What is the mysterious force which drags Annie through time? Is it her destiny to fall in love with Stratton? Apparently that's not the case, but she does help save Harriett from almost certain death. The fact that she's been brought to 1895 by some higher power leads Annie to behave intentionally. She's looking for a reason or a purpose to it all. Although the ending of the book is uncertain, it can be assumed that wherever Annie winds up she is still trying to answer those question and consequently living to her fullest potential.
