Hi there. I seem to have an inclination for having several times in my stories. Times is probably not the correct word (since I am not English) so let me explain. In my epic novel i will describe a religious movement with the instigators story and then with a person living 250 years later who escapes the movement. And in upcoming December short story contest on this very site the prompt is: "the text message said 'I know what you did' " , which also asks for two times. What u think?
If I were you, I would read A Canticle for Liebowitz by Arthur Miller. Science fiction novel that takes place in three r four different time periods, a new one for each section. Phenomenal novel dealing with nuclear war, the development of religion, and the general cyclical nature of history repeating itself over time. I believe it was his only novel, but entirely worth while. I suggest this, because might help you understand how to do this sort of thing right. Another book that does this well is Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell. This takes the concept and pushes it steps even further by having the characters repeat themselves through different familiar or futuristic times in different mediums or genres. Difficult, yet rewarding novel. Also, if you don't have the time to read it, the movie version has a laundry list of decent actors/actresses and is worth the watch. Just some starting points for utilizing multiple times.
@EFMingo - As I read the OP, Miller's book immediately sprang to mind. IIRC, there are three periods in the book, each one 500 years after the previous one. It is one of my two favorite dystopian novels.
