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Wrong Place Wrong Time Book Summary

A Novel

by Gillian McAllister

Wrong Place Wrong Time

A Novel

Gillian McAllister

TL;DR

Wrong Place Wrong Time is a gripping thriller that explores the themes of time travel, parental love, and the ripple effects of our choices. When Jen witnesses her teenage son commit a violent act, she’s thrust into a time-loop, reliving the day before the crime repeatedly. With each loop, she journeys further into the past, uncovering secrets and desperately trying to prevent the tragedy.


Table of contents

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Author & Writing Background

Gillian McAllister is a British author known for her clever and suspenseful novels that often incorporate elements of time travel or the supernatural. Her writing is characterized by its fast pace, relatable characters, and thought-provoking exploration of moral dilemmas. McAllister has written several bestselling novels, including ‘Everything but the Truth’ and ‘How to Disappear’.

Key Takeaways

Time Loop Mystery

The story revolves around a unique time loop mechanic, where Jen relives the day before her son’s crime, gradually going further back in time with each loop.

Maternal Love and Sacrifice

Jen’s unwavering love for her son drives her actions as she desperately tries to understand and prevent his violent act, even if it means unraveling their family’s past.

Exploration of Past Choices

As Jen travels further back in time, she uncovers hidden truths about her family, friends, and even herself, leading her to question the nature of fate and free will.

Ripple Effects of Actions

The novel highlights how seemingly insignificant choices can have far-reaching consequences, creating a butterfly effect that shapes the present and future.

Psychological Suspense

The story delves into the psychological complexities of the characters, exploring themes of guilt, grief, and the struggle to accept responsibility for one’s actions.

Family Secrets

Jen’s journey into the past reveals long-buried family secrets that have shaped the lives of multiple generations, forcing her to confront uncomfortable truths.

Race Against Time

With each time loop, Jen faces the challenge of piecing together the puzzle of her son’s motivations and finding a way to alter the course of events before it’s too late.

Moral Dilemmas

The novel presents complex moral dilemmas, forcing Jen and the reader to consider the lengths one might go to protect their loved ones and the potential consequences of altering the past.

FAQ about Wrong Place Wrong Time

Is ‘Wrong Place Wrong Time’ part of a series?

No, ‘Wrong Place Wrong Time’ is a standalone novel.

Does the book have a happy ending?

The ending of the book is bittersweet and thought-provoking, leaving the reader to ponder the implications of Jen’s actions and the nature of time.

Is the book appropriate for young adults?

Due to the mature themes and violence depicted in the novel, it is recommended for adult readers.

Wrong Place Wrong Time Quotes

  • ”The worst part is, you never know which moment will be the one that changes everything."
  • "We are all just a series of choices, aren’t we? And each choice leads us down a different path."
  • "Sometimes the only way to fix the future is to understand the past.”