A Second Chance

Name: A Second Chance
Author: Jodi Taylor

The third book in the bestselling British madcap time-travelling series, served with a dash of wit that seems to be everyone’s cup of tea.

Behind the seemingly innocuous facade of St. Mary’s Institute of Historical Research, a different kind of academic work is taking place. Just don’t call it “time travel” — these historians “investigate major historical events in contemporary time.” And they aren’t your harmless eccentrics either; a more accurate description, as they ricochet around history, might be unintentional disaster-magnets.

The Chronicles of St. Mary’s tells the chaotic adventures of Madeleine Maxwell and her compatriots — Director Bairstow, Leon “Chief” Farrell, Mr. Markham, and many more — as they travel through time, saving St. Mary’s (too often by the very seat of their pants) and thwarting time-travelling terrorists, all the while leaving plenty of time for tea.

In A Second Chance, it seems nothing can go right for Max and her fellow historians. The team confronts a mirror-stealing Isaac Newton and later witnesses how the ancient and bizarre cheese-rolling ceremony in Gloucester can result in CBC: Concussion By Cheese.

Finally, Max makes her long-awaited jump to Bronze Age Troy, only for it to end in personal catastrophe. And just when it seems things couldn’t get any worse, it’s back to the Cretaceous Period to confront an old enemy who has nothing to lose.

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Published: February 2014

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The Chronicles of St. Mary's

The series

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The Chronicles of St. Mary's by Jody Taylor is a thrilling and imaginative series that seamlessly blends time travel, historical fiction, and humor into a captivating adventure. What sets this series apart is its unique setting—St. Mary’s Institute of Historical Research, where historians don’t just study history, they experience it firsthand. This delightful combination of science fiction, historical intrigue, and witty banter has earned the series a devoted following, with fans praising its clever plot twists, unforgettable characters, and fast-paced storytelling.

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At the center of the story is Maximilian (Max), an intelligent, resourceful, and somewhat reckless historian at St. Mary's. As part of an eccentric team of time travelers, Max is tasked with traveling to various historical events to gather firsthand accounts and data, all while avoiding the chaos and dangers that come with meddling in time. The central conflict of the series revolves around the tension between following the rules of time travel and the unpredictable consequences of their actions in the past. With every mission, Max and her colleagues face thrilling challenges, unexpected enemies, and history-altering risks that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

The charm of The Chronicles of St. Mary's lies in Taylor’s ability to mix historical accuracy with comedic moments and impossible scenarios. Each book delves into a different historical period, from ancient civilizations to World War II, while keeping readers invested in the team’s personal dynamics and growing relationships. The characters are vibrant and multidimensional, particularly Max, whose quick wit and daring attitude make her both endearing and relatable. Whether she’s facing off with historical figures or trying to navigate office politics in a time-traveling institution, Max’s adventures never fail to entertain.

What makes this series truly stand out is its blend of genres. Readers who enjoy time-travel adventures, historical fiction, and character-driven stories will find a rich and fulfilling experience in The Chronicles of St. Mary's. Taylor’s sharp writing and world-building create a world that feels both magical and grounded in historical reality. The humor and heart of the series shine through, making it an engaging read for those looking for a lighthearted yet thought-provoking escape.

Acclaimed for its bestselling status and strong fan reception, The Chronicles of St. Mary's offers a perfect balance of wit, adventure, and suspense. With each new installment, the stakes grow higher, and the relationships between the quirky, lovable characters deepen, ensuring that readers are continually hooked. This series is a must-read for fans of historical fantasy, time-travel fiction, and epic adventures.