How to Stop Time: A Novel

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Midnight Library, "a quirky romcom dusted with philosophical observations....A delightfully witty...poignant novel." (The Washington Post)

Soon to be a TV series starring Benedict Cumberbatch

How many lifetimes does it take to learn how to live?

Don't miss Matt Haig's new novel The Life Impossible, coming September 2024

Tom Hazard has a dangerous secret. He may look like an ordinary 41-year-old history teacher, but he's been alive for centuries. From Elizabethan England to Jazz-Age Paris, from New York to the South Seas, Tom has seen it all. As long as he keeps changing his identity he can keep one step ahead of his past - and stay alive. The only thing he must not do is fall in love . . .

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352 pages

Average rating: 6.81

325 RATINGS

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16 REVIEWS

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Community Reviews

Nimahehe
Oct 08, 2024
“How to Stop Time” is a well-written story that explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. The protagonist’s journey through different centuries is captivating, prompting readers to reflect on their lives. The descriptions bring each era to life, making it easy to visualize the scenes. While the pacing can be uneven and some characters feel a bit flat, the themes of immortality and human connection are impactful. This book skillfully blends humor and deep emotions, reminding us to cherish every moment, making it a memorable read despite its flaws.
Wendy Larsen-Bond
Sep 20, 2024
10/10 stars
Fabulous story! A unique plot about a man who ages very slowly and has experienced centuries of historical events because he was there, in person. He is not the only one with this genetic condition, however, it must not be made known to others. Definitely a MUST READ!!!
LMahoney
Mar 31, 2024
6/10 stars
This book started so slow. It took a lot for me to keep reading and not DNF. Picked up a little toward the last third but I never really connected with any character.
megew8
Feb 28, 2024
4/10 stars
I feel like the idea here could have had so much potential but this just wasn’t it for me. The first half was excruciatingly boring. It picked up slightly, and I mean SLIGHTLY, around the half-way point. There was no character arc, and no character development until around 95% completion. Even that was very little. Disappointing considering I’ve had this on my TBR for a few years because of the very misleading synopsis.
Sally St Clair
Feb 03, 2024
8/10 stars
Cleverly written fantasy, and thought provoking, similar to the author's Midnight Library novel I read first. Enjoyed both.

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