I didn’t know what to expect when I decided to read “One Last Stop,” but it definitely wasn’t a time travel romance. Having read “Red, White, and Royal Blue” and “The Pairing” by Casey McQuiston, I didn’t think they dabbled in science fiction, but they did a wonderful job mixing it with contemporary romance. The book starts with August just trying to get her life together as she looks for a place to live in New York while returning to school. We quickly learn that her upbringing has given her certain quirks and perspectives, making her a minimalist with her belongings and the number of people she surrounds herself with. Her tried and true structure is quickly challenged by her roommates Myla, Niko, and Wes. Add in her next-door neighbor Isaiah, and she didn’t stand a chance. Determined to be her family, whether she likes it or not, August begins to come out of her shell more and more. The evolution of her character is what makes the story so heartfelt and warm.

The way Casey introduces Jane into the story is casual at best. You don’t realize something is off until you start paying closer attention to the sightings of an attractive Asian woman on the train. As the story progresses, you suddenly realize the sci-fi element: Jane is trapped on the train and is from the past. Her appearance and interests are not retro-chic; they are her reality. At times, the story dragged, and I wasn’t sure where Casey was going until she adds the element of everyone trying to save the diner and, in turn, discovering a way to help Jane. Once that became the focus of the story, I couldn’t put the book down.

I also enjoyed the love story within a love story between Wes and Isaiah. Wes struggled so much to believe he was enough, and Isaiah was incredibly patient. I am so happy it paid off! While I didn’t love this one as much as “Red, White, and Royal Blue,” I appreciated the creative element of the story, and for that reason, I would recommend others check it out.