Hope for the Best

Name: Hope for the Best
Author: Jodi Taylor

The tenth book in the bestselling Chronicles of St Mary's series which follows a group of tea-soaked disaster magnets as they hurtle their way around History. If you love Jasper Fforde or Ben Aaronovitch, you won't be able to resist Jodi Taylor.

You can't change History. History doesn't like it. There are always consequences.

Max is no stranger to taking matters into her own hands. Especially when she's had A Brilliant Idea. Yes, it will mean breaking a few rules, but - as Max always says - they're not her rules.

Seconded to the Time Police to join in the hunt for the renegade Clive Ronan, Max is a long way from St Mary's. But life in the future does have its plus points - although not for long.

A problem with the Time Map reveals chaos in the 16th century and the wrong Tudor queen on the throne. History has gone rogue, there's a St Mary's team right in the firing line and Max must step up.

You know what they say. Hope for the best. But plan for the worst.

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Published: April 2019

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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.