"When the Day Comes" by Gabrielle Meyer

This book sneaked its way onto my TBR when I heard its premise: A young woman living two lives, crossing time  between 1774 and 1914, with the knowledge that she must choose one path to remain in by her 21st birthday. Being a fan of both historical and speculative fiction, I couldn't pass up the chance to read this.

There's really great history presented in both timelines. Libby in 1774 lives in Williamsburg at the heart of pre-Revolutionary America. Libby in 1914 is at the center of New York society and the Dollar Princess movement.

Much to my dismay, I did not connect with this story, no matter how much I wanted to. The author made one timeline so unlikable that I did not understand why Libby didn't do more to improve her situation there, because she had choices and she had people willing to help her. Libby's inaction led me to dislike her as a character, which I know no author ever intends.

The story really lost me when the off-page marital rape occurred. And it didn't happen just once. Although it wasn't detailed, there was no question about what happened, and it brought the character a great deal of distress, as it did to me as well.

Readers who connect with this character will have a more favorable impression of the novel. If you like the idea of a time-crossing heroine, it might be worth it for you to check this out one.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.