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57 pages 1 hour read

Timeline

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1999

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Book Brief

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Michael Crichton

Timeline

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1999
Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

France • Middle Ages

Publication Year

1999

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

620L

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Super Short Summary

In Timeline by Michael Crichton, a group of Yale graduate history students travel back to 1357 to rescue their professor trapped in medieval France. They navigate a perilous world filled with knights and castles, racing against time to save him and return home. The novel integrates real quantum mechanics and historical research while challenging stereotypes about the so-called "Dark Ages". Contains graphic violence and references to death by suicide.

Adventurous

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Informative

Exciting

Reviews & Readership

4.1

220,746 ratings

67%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Critics praise Timeline by Michael Crichton for its gripping narrative and detailed historical settings, making the time-travel adventure compelling. However, some reviewers mention that character development is lacking, and the scientific explanations are occasionally convoluted. Overall, it is a thrilling read with some minor flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Timeline?

Fans of Timeline by Michael Crichton are typically readers who enjoy science fiction blended with historical intrigue, much like those who appreciate The Time Machine by H.G. Wells and Jurassic Park by Crichton himself. They relish fast-paced narratives that weave technology and adventure with richly detailed historical settings.

4.1

220,746 ratings

67%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Professor Edward Johnston

A Regius Professor of History at Yale University who leads the archaeological dig in the Dordogne. Known for his sardonic manner and medieval expertise, he becomes central to the story when he becomes stranded in 1357.

A brilliant but troubled CEO of ITC, the company that developed advanced time-travel technology. He is depicted as the antagonist with a disregard for human life and a stereotypical evil genius demeanor.

A strong, handsome assistant professor of history at Yale and second-in-command at the Dordogne dig. Passionate about experimental history, he is skilled in medieval languages and practices.

A young history graduate student with a background in architecture and climbing, whose skills are invaluable during the archaeological dig and the adventures in the 14th century.

A 24-year-old history graduate student specializing in medieval mills whose close relationship with Professor Johnston is notable. He grows into a braver and stronger character over the course of the story.

A cautious graduate student and project technologist at the Dordogne dig with a deep knowledge of physics. He is wary of the new technology and skeptical about its safety.

Senior ITC executives; Gordon has a military background and a knack for making Doniger's visions reality, while Kramer is a lawyer with a closer relationship to Doniger. Both play roles in handling the company's ethical challenges.

An English knight known for his bad temper who controls Castelgard and La Roque in 1357, accompanied by his knights. Notably aggressive and paranoid in the ongoing conflict with Arnaut de Cervole.

A mercenary known as "The Archpriest," challenging Sir Oliver's control with the help of his supporters. Involved in the conflict and strategic maneuvers during the time period depicted.

Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

France • Middle Ages

Publication Year

1999

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

620L

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