Back from the The Patriots, Noah and Jake Maclean is back. They are still living in 1777 in The Winding Road by John A. Heldt. We are back in Roxborough, Pennsylvannia with Noah with his mare Buttercup. Despite Abby Ward’s reservations, Noah enlisted in the Civil War. His younger brother Jake, still to young to join, stayed behind in Gulph Mills with the Ward family.
A Recap
The Stone Shed series features Noah Maclean and his younger brother Jake. They had inherited a stone shed that enables time travel. John Heldt uses time travel to let readers explore history and themes of love, duty, and self-discovery. Noah’s journey from a 2024 college graduate to a respected member of the Continental Army is not just a physical relocation but a transformation of character. Nothing turns you into a man like war and love.
From the muddy roads of 18th-century Pennsylvania to the dire conditions of the Continental Army encampments, it is hard not to feel part of the revolutionary American Civil War. The supporting characters, like the colorful Grizzly Jim and dashing Dan Nye, add to the charm. Captain Jasper Jennings played the role of leader and mentor.
Love and War
John Heldt loves his characters and does a good job fleshing them out as usual. Noah’s inner conflicts, his love for Abigail Ward, his desire to protect his family, and his responsibility to history; are carefully laid out as he marches on . Abby herself is a standout: intelligent, bold, and fiercely loyal. Their relationship, forged across centuries, feels authentic and tender, making their moments together all the more poignant.
Not to mention Jake’s efforts to help, and uncle Douglas’ attempts to make sure Noah and Jake are safe. The brothers have to make decisions that can cause ripples through time.
Review
I have always enjoyed John Heldt’s time travel books, because they are immersive, and romantic It is like going on an adventure and learning as I go. The Winding Road keeps the momentum going by charging straight into the fray, consequences be damned like the young men they are. The pacing fits as the company marches on.
Moreover, Heldt doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of war, loss, and moral ambiguity. Noah and Jake believe that love and courage can transcend even the greatest odds. Sometimes we fight for the ones we love, because it’s the only way.
Verdict
The Winding Road reminds me of the winding paths we take to find our place in the world. You do have to read The Patriots to get the story straight, the book is a smooth read. It is for those who wants to experience history through the lenses of modern people.
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