Professor Edward Johnson is missing. His last known whereabouts were France, 600 years in the past. “Timeline,” Michael Crichton’s most recent novel, is a heart-pounding thriller.

Michael Crichton has written numerous books including “Jurassic Park,” “The Lost World,” “Sphere,” “Congo” and “Rising Sun.” Crichton has also directed many films such as “Coma” and is the creator of the television series “ER.” He is arguably the best author of our time, and “Timeline” is yet another example of his greatness.

Billionaire Robert Doniger has made a hobby of the past. He believes that in the future, new theme parks will emerge. However, these parks will not be similar to Six Flags or Universal Studios; they will be designed after historical sites, and the most accurate parks will make the most money.

International Technology Corporation (ITC) was founded by Robert Doniger to develop the world’s first quantum computer. The company has kept a low profile, trying to hide its major plan from the public.

Doniger has found a way to travel back in time to gather data that will help in the reconstruction of the Dordogne area. However, to prove that his findings are real, Doniger has to send Professor Edward Johnson back in time for a firsthand look. Professor Johnson and his students have been working on restoring the Dordogne area. There is trouble and Professor Johnson does not return.

Meanwhile, Professor Johnson’s students start to worry. After making a strange discovery, Andre Marek, Chris Hughes, David Stern and Kate Erickson are flown to ITC headquarters in New Mexico. Waiting for them is Robert Doniger.

Doniger has decided to enlist these graduate students as a rescue team. Marek, an expert on medieval culture, is more than willing to go into the past to save Professor Johnson. Stern is not too sure about the technology and chooses to remain behind. The team has only 37 hours to save Professor Johnson, or they too will be trapped in the past.

Even though the students are familiar with the land and buildings, nothing can prepare them for the actual world. They must instantly try to blend into a culture of chivalry and war. Since guns have yet to be invented, their only weapons are knives and swords.

Doniger remains in the present to monitor the situation. He, however, does not care what happens as long as his company is not hurt. Using this philosophy, Doniger doesn’t let the students know everything that’s occurring, even though this information could mean the difference between life and death.

Can these students save their beloved teacher? What happens when an unexpected enemy comes into the picture? The clock is ticking and the problems have just begun.

A major strength of this novel is its authenticity. Crichton displays his thorough knowledge of quantum physics. He also did extensive research in the field of medieval times and castle structure — the book’s bibliography covers nearly five pages.

“Timeline” is filled with amazing action and tense battles. The moment a reader believes everything is working out, an unexpected twist comes along. The excitement does not end until the book does.

With any Crichton novel one can expect accuracy and suspense. He has mastered nearly every genre of writing and shows no sign of stopping. “Timeline” will grab readers and will not let go. If you only read one book this year, make it “Timeline.”