Kaylene Winter’s LTZ world has been a fan-favourite in the romance genre for quite some time. In this review, we’ll be taking a closer look at the fourth and eighth books in the series, Timeless and Timeless Encore. While both books take place in the LTZ world, they can be read as standalone novels, making them an excellent starting point for readers new to the series. These books feature the story of childhood friends turned lovers, Zane and Fiona, as they navigate their relationship through past traumas, toxic relationships, and self-doubt.
Firstly, let me address the elephant in the room: the spice level. These books are rated 3 out of 5 for spice. The intimate scenes were positively written and tasteful, with a focus on consent and respect for each other’s boundaries. As a plus-size woman, Fiona’s own issues with body confidence were addressed in a sensitive manner, and I loved how considerate Zane was throughout the intimate scenes. Kaylene Winter did an amazing job of writing beautiful, endearing, passionate, and sometimes raw intimate scenes.
Now, on to the story. Both books take place in the LTZ world but can be read as standalone without feeling like you’re missing gaps in the story. While reading all eight books may give you a greater understanding of some of the side characters storylines, I was interested in Zane and Fiona’s story as childhood friends-turned-lovers, destined for each other. The chemistry between these two was off the charts, and their journey to their happily ever after was full of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat.
The writing in these books is gritty, raw, and emotional. Both Zane and Fiona have faced trauma and are surrounded by toxic elements that constantly try to pull them apart. Despite this, their sheer determination to hold on to each other is admirable, and their love for one another shines through. While the story touches on some seriously bad habits, such as addiction, toxic parents, and mental health, Kaylene Winter handles each topic in a super healthy way, giving them the resolution they need.
One of the things I loved about these books was how both Zane and Fiona got to fulfil their dreams prior to their commitment to each other. This is not something we often see when two young adults are madly in love and destined to be together. Typically, someone’s dreams are sacrificed, and they end up resenting each other. But in these books, it was handled very maturely and ultimately led to amazing character growth for both Zane and Fiona.
That being said, there were times when I didn’t agree with every decision they made. There were moments when I wanted to grab them by their shoulders and beg them to stop being so silly, to talk, and to seek guidance from loved ones. Instead, they created a bubble just for themselves. While I understand that they were trying to protect the sacredness of their love, I just wish they had more support and better adults from the start.
Overall, Timeless and Timeless Encore are excellent books that will have you feeling all the emotions. While they touch on some heavy topics, they are handled with sensitivity and care. The chemistry between Zane and Fiona is electric, and their journey to happiness is one that will leave you feeling satisfied. If you’re looking for a steamy, coming-of-age, friends-to-lovers, rockstar romance, then this is the series for you. Kaylene Winter’ writing is beautiful, and her ability to write endearing, passionate, and sometimes raw intimate scenes is a testament to her skill as a writer.
