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River of Time #4
Deluge
The Bettarinis and Forellis have found rich fulfillment together in medieval Italia. But after fighting off countless enemies, they now must face the worst foe of all. As the Black Death closes in upon them, threatening everything and everyone they hold dear, Lia and Gabi–and the knights they love–must dig deep within to decide how they might remain safe…and if they need to risk it all in order to truly live as they’re called.
430 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 22, 2014
About the author
Lisa Tawn Bergren
128 books3,715 followersAbout
Lisa Tawn Bergren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 60 books, with more than 4.5 million copies sold. She recently released The Sugar Baron's Daughters Series (KETURAH, VERITY and SELAH), and recently finished a teen series called Remnants (SEASON OF WONDER, SEASON OF FIRE, and SEASON OF GLORY). She's also written the River of Time Series (WATERFALL, CASCADE, TORRENT, BOURNE & TRIBUTARY, DELUGE) and The Grand Tour Series (GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS, GRAVE CONSEQUENCES, GLITTERING PROMISES), time-slip romance duology called River of Time: California (THREE WISHES and FOUR WINDS), and some contemporary romances (ONCE UPON A MONTANA SUMMER and ONCE UPON AN IRISH SUMMER are the newest releases).
Lisa’s time is split between managing home base, writing, consulting and helping Tim with his business. Her husband Tim is a sculptor of ducks-out-of-fenceposts (RMRustic.com), graphic designer and musician. They have three big kids–Olivia (who just got married), Emma (who is about to get married) and Jack (who is a junior in high school).
The Bergrens make their home in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Lisa Tawn Bergren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 60 books, with more than 4.5 million copies sold. She recently released The Sugar Baron's Daughters Series (KETURAH, VERITY and SELAH), and recently finished a teen series called Remnants (SEASON OF WONDER, SEASON OF FIRE, and SEASON OF GLORY). She's also written the River of Time Series (WATERFALL, CASCADE, TORRENT, BOURNE & TRIBUTARY, DELUGE) and The Grand Tour Series (GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS, GRAVE CONSEQUENCES, GLITTERING PROMISES), time-slip romance duology called River of Time: California (THREE WISHES and FOUR WINDS), and some contemporary romances (ONCE UPON A MONTANA SUMMER and ONCE UPON AN IRISH SUMMER are the newest releases).
Lisa’s time is split between managing home base, writing, consulting and helping Tim with his business. Her husband Tim is a sculptor of ducks-out-of-fenceposts (RMRustic.com), graphic designer and musician. They have three big kids–Olivia (who just got married), Emma (who is about to get married) and Jack (who is a junior in high school).
The Bergrens make their home in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 346 reviews
July 19, 2021
**Reread:**
Heart wrenching, but this one remains my favorite.
**Original Review:**
You want to know what I feared? I feared the finale would sag. That it would be short--or stretch too long. That it would be sappy and too easy--or that it would depress me.
After all, this is the Black Plague we're talking about here. And characters I've loved and followed not just for 5 previous books but for the multiple (*multiple*) times I've reread those 5 previous books.
This final installment in the River of Time series does none of that. The length is mammoth and just right, yet I read it in two days. The romance and adventure and surging richness of the other books are all present, but this is a whole new level of life.
The characters are more mature, the stakes are higher, the family has grown, and the plague is upon them.
Something else I feared: that everyone would die. Yep, I thought maybe Lisa would go and pull a Roth or something and I'd be left heartbroken and have to get rid of the other books because I couldn't even look at them anymore. Well, at the risk of being all spoiler-y, everybody doesn't die. But not everyone lives. The plague is real, people, and it's horrible. And uncontainable, despite the Betarrini's best efforts.
This book is my favorite in my favorite series of all time. Because there are secrets and twists and I can never figure out where it's going but I don't care because I just want to get there.
For fans of books that make you think, feel, cry, laugh, and smile, here's one of the best.
Disclosure: The author not only gave me the privilege of reading this book pre-release but I was able to proofread it as well. Which means I was wiping my eyes and fixing the stray typo. Best job ever.
Heart wrenching, but this one remains my favorite.
**Original Review:**
You want to know what I feared? I feared the finale would sag. That it would be short--or stretch too long. That it would be sappy and too easy--or that it would depress me.
After all, this is the Black Plague we're talking about here. And characters I've loved and followed not just for 5 previous books but for the multiple (*multiple*) times I've reread those 5 previous books.
This final installment in the River of Time series does none of that. The length is mammoth and just right, yet I read it in two days. The romance and adventure and surging richness of the other books are all present, but this is a whole new level of life.
The characters are more mature, the stakes are higher, the family has grown, and the plague is upon them.
Something else I feared: that everyone would die. Yep, I thought maybe Lisa would go and pull a Roth or something and I'd be left heartbroken and have to get rid of the other books because I couldn't even look at them anymore. Well, at the risk of being all spoiler-y, everybody doesn't die. But not everyone lives. The plague is real, people, and it's horrible. And uncontainable, despite the Betarrini's best efforts.
This book is my favorite in my favorite series of all time. Because there are secrets and twists and I can never figure out where it's going but I don't care because I just want to get there.
For fans of books that make you think, feel, cry, laugh, and smile, here's one of the best.
Disclosure: The author not only gave me the privilege of reading this book pre-release but I was able to proofread it as well. Which means I was wiping my eyes and fixing the stray typo. Best job ever.
November 16, 2015
Lisa Tawn Bergren
This series has honestly saved my life. I found it while I was very depressed and I just completely immersed myself in to the world that Lisa Bergren has created. It was perfect for me; you see, I have always felt like I was meant to be born in that time period, and I always wish and dream of being able to go back in time and do the very thing that Gabi and Lia did. I absolutely love the idea of time travel and wish it could happen to me! (Not to mention meeting my own Marcello-that would be very nice indeed.)I LOVE Italy, especially medieval Italy, and God every aspect about it was perfect. It was like it was written for me. I am very, very sad that this is the last one, but at least I will be able to reread them over and over again. These books make me so happy, and honestly have probably save me. (Cheesy, I know. But it's true.)I have thanked Lisa on many occasions and written her many emails to tell her how much I love this series, and she has been kind enough to respond patiently and answer my many questions. she is probably terrified of me, but oh well. At least she knows how much she has impacted my life in such an amazing way. Okay, now for the actual review. I just finished Deluge, and I can honestly say that it measured up to all of my very high expectations of this book, and I was not disappointed in the least. My emotional journey throughout this masterpiece included erratic excitement, tears of both sadness and joy, heartbreak, bursting euphoria and just an utter state of bliss, but NEVER disappointment. I was terrified also, because I was so scared that any of my dear characters would die from the plague, but only minor characters (still terribly, heart wrenchingly sad) but I have to say that I was honestly relieved. It has been such an amazing journey and adventure with this amazing series, and with Gabi, Lia, Marcello and Luca. I have loved every moment of it, and enjoyed watching my beloved characters develop, especially Marcello and Gabi's love grow. I don't really know what to do with myself now that it's all over, so I guess I'll just have to keep re-reading the series over and over again- which I do not mind in the least. I highly recommend this book- this series- to everyone. It is a phenomenal, vivid paradise rich in historical detail, and amazing characters, and exciting adventures, and beautiful romance that I love escaping in to, every time. I couldn't imagine a better ending with all of their children together- I need a book about them!
This series has honestly saved my life. I found it while I was very depressed and I just completely immersed myself in to the world that Lisa Bergren has created. It was perfect for me; you see, I have always felt like I was meant to be born in that time period, and I always wish and dream of being able to go back in time and do the very thing that Gabi and Lia did. I absolutely love the idea of time travel and wish it could happen to me! (Not to mention meeting my own Marcello-that would be very nice indeed.)I LOVE Italy, especially medieval Italy, and God every aspect about it was perfect. It was like it was written for me. I am very, very sad that this is the last one, but at least I will be able to reread them over and over again. These books make me so happy, and honestly have probably save me. (Cheesy, I know. But it's true.)I have thanked Lisa on many occasions and written her many emails to tell her how much I love this series, and she has been kind enough to respond patiently and answer my many questions. she is probably terrified of me, but oh well. At least she knows how much she has impacted my life in such an amazing way. Okay, now for the actual review. I just finished Deluge, and I can honestly say that it measured up to all of my very high expectations of this book, and I was not disappointed in the least. My emotional journey throughout this masterpiece included erratic excitement, tears of both sadness and joy, heartbreak, bursting euphoria and just an utter state of bliss, but NEVER disappointment. I was terrified also, because I was so scared that any of my dear characters would die from the plague, but only minor characters (still terribly, heart wrenchingly sad) but I have to say that I was honestly relieved. It has been such an amazing journey and adventure with this amazing series, and with Gabi, Lia, Marcello and Luca. I have loved every moment of it, and enjoyed watching my beloved characters develop, especially Marcello and Gabi's love grow. I don't really know what to do with myself now that it's all over, so I guess I'll just have to keep re-reading the series over and over again- which I do not mind in the least. I highly recommend this book- this series- to everyone. It is a phenomenal, vivid paradise rich in historical detail, and amazing characters, and exciting adventures, and beautiful romance that I love escaping in to, every time. I couldn't imagine a better ending with all of their children together- I need a book about them!
April 27, 2022
2.5
This has been on my TBR pile for a long time... I've read the original trilogy a few times, I think its an enjoyable story and likable characters. The novellas and this final book, I just don't enjoy quite as much. BUT, I did like seeing what was going on with the character after the main trilogy and of course seeing how they dealt with the plague.
The book is told in different parts. I kind of think the first part should have just been a separate novella or shortened with more time given at the end of the book, to show after the plague had swept through the world. The plague parts take place later in the book. And as you can imagine, its pretty sad reading about. Even with the plague, there are still enemies coming to attack and lots of battles. Which is definitely a theme of the series...lots of battles and bloodshed. For me, that got a little old. Especially in this installment, they know who their two main threats are - why not take them out so they will no longer be a threat?
The book is told mainly in Gabi, and mainly Lia's POV - but to be honest, their POV are so similar, I often had to double check to see whose head I was in because they just "sound" too similar.
Lia is still unsure about being in medieval Italy, which is fine I guess, but I didnt like how she kept pushing Luca away. Asking him to wait possibly years for them to be together is just not fair, especially considering he has already waited years. Maybe it just bothered me because that storyline felt old, since those feelings of doubt had been going on for six books now. And Luca is amazing!
I'm still a bit miffed at Rudolfo's storyline. Rudolfo's character was so great in the trilogy, but I felt his character did a 180 in the novellas and this final novel. Where he was once confident, mysterious and charming...he is now unsure of himself, desperate and just felt like a filler character. I was most miffed about his still lingering feelings for Gabi (and hers for him). I felt like I never saw him fall in love with his wife, that she was simply a place holder since he couldn't be with his true love. Alessandra clearly loved him, and I felt he just cared for her. I wanted more for him. And I don't understand why Gabi still has lingering feelings for him. Theres no doubt she is loyal to Marcello, but its like she is afraid to be alone with Rudolfo in case something might happen between them. Just rubbed me the wrong way. So, losing Rudolfo for me was of course sad, but I felt like his character was lost before anyway.
Marcello and Gabi were pretty consistent from previous books. Marcello does have a harder time during the plague and being quarantined - taking to drinking. But he felt more like a side character in this book.
I felt things wrapped up a bit quickly. I would have liked to actually see things after the plague, have their lives get back to more normalcy. So it felt rushed. I did like the epilogue and the 15ish year time jump that focused on all their kids. I think if she does write another series with these characters I will for sure give it a try.
A bit longer review than usual, but I've invested so much in this series I had to get my thoughts out there.
Content Rated PG+
Romance: Kissing, closed door intimacy
Language: None
Violence: Moderate-Heavy
Other: Religious
This has been on my TBR pile for a long time... I've read the original trilogy a few times, I think its an enjoyable story and likable characters. The novellas and this final book, I just don't enjoy quite as much. BUT, I did like seeing what was going on with the character after the main trilogy and of course seeing how they dealt with the plague.
The book is told in different parts. I kind of think the first part should have just been a separate novella or shortened with more time given at the end of the book, to show after the plague had swept through the world. The plague parts take place later in the book. And as you can imagine, its pretty sad reading about. Even with the plague, there are still enemies coming to attack and lots of battles. Which is definitely a theme of the series...lots of battles and bloodshed. For me, that got a little old. Especially in this installment, they know who their two main threats are - why not take them out so they will no longer be a threat?
The book is told mainly in Gabi, and mainly Lia's POV - but to be honest, their POV are so similar, I often had to double check to see whose head I was in because they just "sound" too similar.
Lia is still unsure about being in medieval Italy, which is fine I guess, but I didnt like how she kept pushing Luca away. Asking him to wait possibly years for them to be together is just not fair, especially considering he has already waited years. Maybe it just bothered me because that storyline felt old, since those feelings of doubt had been going on for six books now. And Luca is amazing!
I'm still a bit miffed at Rudolfo's storyline. Rudolfo's character was so great in the trilogy, but I felt his character did a 180 in the novellas and this final novel. Where he was once confident, mysterious and charming...he is now unsure of himself, desperate and just felt like a filler character. I was most miffed about his still lingering feelings for Gabi (and hers for him). I felt like I never saw him fall in love with his wife, that she was simply a place holder since he couldn't be with his true love. Alessandra clearly loved him, and I felt he just cared for her. I wanted more for him. And I don't understand why Gabi still has lingering feelings for him. Theres no doubt she is loyal to Marcello, but its like she is afraid to be alone with Rudolfo in case something might happen between them. Just rubbed me the wrong way. So, losing Rudolfo for me was of course sad, but I felt like his character was lost before anyway.
Marcello and Gabi were pretty consistent from previous books. Marcello does have a harder time during the plague and being quarantined - taking to drinking. But he felt more like a side character in this book.
I felt things wrapped up a bit quickly. I would have liked to actually see things after the plague, have their lives get back to more normalcy. So it felt rushed. I did like the epilogue and the 15ish year time jump that focused on all their kids. I think if she does write another series with these characters I will for sure give it a try.
A bit longer review than usual, but I've invested so much in this series I had to get my thoughts out there.
Content Rated PG+
Romance: Kissing, closed door intimacy
Language: None
Violence: Moderate-Heavy
Other: Religious
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2014
Actual Rating: 4.5
Spoilers in Review
I mean it with all my heart when I say this is the best installment of the series. I recently reread them all, finding little faults to mar the way, but this one was the most solid, visceral, and passionate installment. The emotions were raw, and I could connect with them.
One of the major problems that is actually a laughable problem is the fact the girls are so concerned with preserving history and not messing with the course of time, so what do they do? They marry men from the 14th century and have babies with them. But oh no--you can't warn people about the Plague. That would affect the time stream.
One of the bigger disappointments in the story, though, is the fact that the actual Plague is rushed through. Bergren spends a large chunk of the book with the girls in Venezia trying to find new mystery cousins. While the scenes with Caterina and Nicolo (ostensible drunken playboys for the win) and the doge were great, as I got towards the end of the book, I realized that Galileo and his brother uselessly clogged the book. Had their plotline been removed, there could have been some better focus on the plague itself. Unless false advertising led everyone--not just me--to believe the book was meant to focus on the plague. Forgive me for thinking the plague was a big deal.
That being said, the changes in the characters were ones I wholeheartedly supported. For instance, Marcello becoming an alcoholic as he tries to cope with the Plague. That was brilliant, because it made sense for him, even as noble as he was. It made him human again, rather than some god Gabi had made him out to be. Instead of showing his descent, though, and showing his own struggles, Bergren comes out and says he's drinking more, and we see him drinking-towards-intoxication once. The way she writes it makes it seem arbitrary, and it just seems like she wants to make the situation more daring because "*gasp* Our knight in shining armor sometimes shows immorality and weakness." Not to support alcoholism, but it just seems that if you wanted to add that, make it count. It's not a once-and-done thing, which is how Bergren's addition of it seems.
Lia didn't want to marry Luca right off--and I think that is perfect. It makes her different from Gabriella, and it was a good decision. Then, when she gives birth after someone dies close to her, and she gives birth, her numbness and emotionless streak was also brilliant. It gives her a ghostly persona, which is something that gives her more dimension, in a way. However, Bergren just passes over the rest of her emotional journey by skipping to an epilogue where everything is okay.
Most people aren't okay when authors kill off characters in a quick, "Oh, by the way, this character is dead" sort of way. But really, to deal with the deaths of certain characters in that manner was truly effective, and I actually liked it. The author side of me says "Well, she only killed off four lovable characters." I was under the impression we would lose everyone except for a couple of people, y'know, staying true to the "1/3" of population thing. *shrug* I suppose in a teenage-girl driven fandom, you need to keep your pretties.
Like I said, the biggest disappointment was skipping over the scenes that were still needed for scenes that were arbitrary or filler. There was so much I needed to know about these characters. There was so much left that they still needed to fill out their emotional journey. I needed to see Marcello overcome his alcoholism; I needed to see Lia coming back to life (more than just one little portrait because, again, she's an artist, it should show in other ways) and learning to love her child; I needed to see Alessandra finding purpose as lady of a castello. While I adore epilogues that pass to the future to talk about the children of the central characters, they come second until we see how these characters resolve their own stories.
Don't let that fool you, though, I loved this in such a way that blows the previous installments away. Deluge is the ultimate River of Time book, and I mean that. So much of the writing shows how Bergren has improved, even if there was some that was lacking (hence the deduction of 1/2 a star.) It was a fantastic read, and I was so happy I jumped back in the River Tribe.
Spoilers in Review
I mean it with all my heart when I say this is the best installment of the series. I recently reread them all, finding little faults to mar the way, but this one was the most solid, visceral, and passionate installment. The emotions were raw, and I could connect with them.
One of the major problems that is actually a laughable problem is the fact the girls are so concerned with preserving history and not messing with the course of time, so what do they do? They marry men from the 14th century and have babies with them. But oh no--you can't warn people about the Plague. That would affect the time stream.
One of the bigger disappointments in the story, though, is the fact that the actual Plague is rushed through. Bergren spends a large chunk of the book with the girls in Venezia trying to find new mystery cousins. While the scenes with Caterina and Nicolo (ostensible drunken playboys for the win) and the doge were great, as I got towards the end of the book, I realized that Galileo and his brother uselessly clogged the book. Had their plotline been removed, there could have been some better focus on the plague itself. Unless false advertising led everyone--not just me--to believe the book was meant to focus on the plague. Forgive me for thinking the plague was a big deal.
That being said, the changes in the characters were ones I wholeheartedly supported. For instance, Marcello becoming an alcoholic as he tries to cope with the Plague. That was brilliant, because it made sense for him, even as noble as he was. It made him human again, rather than some god Gabi had made him out to be. Instead of showing his descent, though, and showing his own struggles, Bergren comes out and says he's drinking more, and we see him drinking-towards-intoxication once. The way she writes it makes it seem arbitrary, and it just seems like she wants to make the situation more daring because "*gasp* Our knight in shining armor sometimes shows immorality and weakness." Not to support alcoholism, but it just seems that if you wanted to add that, make it count. It's not a once-and-done thing, which is how Bergren's addition of it seems.
Lia didn't want to marry Luca right off--and I think that is perfect. It makes her different from Gabriella, and it was a good decision. Then, when she gives birth after someone dies close to her, and she gives birth, her numbness and emotionless streak was also brilliant. It gives her a ghostly persona, which is something that gives her more dimension, in a way. However, Bergren just passes over the rest of her emotional journey by skipping to an epilogue where everything is okay.
Most people aren't okay when authors kill off characters in a quick, "Oh, by the way, this character is dead" sort of way. But really, to deal with the deaths of certain characters in that manner was truly effective, and I actually liked it. The author side of me says "Well, she only killed off four lovable characters." I was under the impression we would lose everyone except for a couple of people, y'know, staying true to the "1/3" of population thing. *shrug* I suppose in a teenage-girl driven fandom, you need to keep your pretties.
Like I said, the biggest disappointment was skipping over the scenes that were still needed for scenes that were arbitrary or filler. There was so much I needed to know about these characters. There was so much left that they still needed to fill out their emotional journey. I needed to see Marcello overcome his alcoholism; I needed to see Lia coming back to life (more than just one little portrait because, again, she's an artist, it should show in other ways) and learning to love her child; I needed to see Alessandra finding purpose as lady of a castello. While I adore epilogues that pass to the future to talk about the children of the central characters, they come second until we see how these characters resolve their own stories.
Don't let that fool you, though, I loved this in such a way that blows the previous installments away. Deluge is the ultimate River of Time book, and I mean that. So much of the writing shows how Bergren has improved, even if there was some that was lacking (hence the deduction of 1/2 a star.) It was a fantastic read, and I was so happy I jumped back in the River Tribe.
October 15, 2015
Holy sh**.
CAN WE JUST WITH LORD BARBATO AND LORD FORABOSCHI. BUT MORE SPECIFICALLY LORD BARBATO BECAUSE HONESTLY, HOW DOES HE NEVER DIE? OH MY FREAKING GOD HE IS EVERYWHERE.
Seriously! I just KEPT waiting for Lia or Gabi or Marcello or Luca or someone to just take a freaking arrow, sword, dagger, stake, garlic, chair (WHO CARES) and just kill him. I mean HONESTLY. HOW DOES HE KEEP SURVIVING???????
I always find that with YA novels there is always a set of mediocre events that lead up to the climax. This novel did not adhere to this belief I had at all . Lisa Bergren has a tendency to just throw intense scenes left and right, there is no "meh" events in my opinion, they could all have served as a climax in some other authors novel.
But then there was the plague. Can we just give Bergren a hoorah for actually doing a solid job at recording how terrible the plague was?
Because there was the feels for Gabi and Marcello, especially Marcello, when we read about him succumbing to his demons. And to be honest? I was kind of shocked as to how complacent Gabi came at that point with Marcello, and it wasn't until later when you see their sparks of life come back in MANY of the characters lives.
Although I didn't cry like some other people have (shockingly tissues were not necessary), tears almost occurred when a major characters death occurred, I mean there was one that really took the cake for me but I'll keep it to myself for the sake of not spoiling anything... Honestly, some scenes were ridiculously sad, especially near the end of the book when it came to Lia and Luca's relationship, because honestly ALL THE FEELS OCCURRED WHEN LUCA AND GABI WERE TRYING TO HELP LIA.
I am too sad that this series is over, it was the most unexpected and amazing read I have had in a very long time. I never though a historical YA would enthrall me as much as this one did, so I'm truly giving a round of applause to Bergren for this amazing series.
CAN WE JUST WITH LORD BARBATO AND LORD FORABOSCHI. BUT MORE SPECIFICALLY LORD BARBATO BECAUSE HONESTLY, HOW DOES HE NEVER DIE? OH MY FREAKING GOD HE IS EVERYWHERE.
Seriously! I just KEPT waiting for Lia or Gabi or Marcello or Luca or someone to just take a freaking arrow, sword, dagger, stake, garlic, chair (WHO CARES) and just kill him. I mean HONESTLY. HOW DOES HE KEEP SURVIVING???????
I always find that with YA novels there is always a set of mediocre events that lead up to the climax. This novel did not adhere to this belief I had at all . Lisa Bergren has a tendency to just throw intense scenes left and right, there is no "meh" events in my opinion, they could all have served as a climax in some other authors novel.
But then there was the plague. Can we just give Bergren a hoorah for actually doing a solid job at recording how terrible the plague was?
Because there was the feels for Gabi and Marcello, especially Marcello, when we read about him succumbing to his demons. And to be honest? I was kind of shocked as to how complacent Gabi came at that point with Marcello, and it wasn't until later when you see their sparks of life come back in MANY of the characters lives.
Although I didn't cry like some other people have (shockingly tissues were not necessary), tears almost occurred when a major characters death occurred, I mean there was one that really took the cake for me but I'll keep it to myself for the sake of not spoiling anything... Honestly, some scenes were ridiculously sad, especially near the end of the book when it came to Lia and Luca's relationship, because honestly ALL THE FEELS OCCURRED WHEN LUCA AND GABI WERE TRYING TO HELP LIA.
I am too sad that this series is over, it was the most unexpected and amazing read I have had in a very long time. I never though a historical YA would enthrall me as much as this one did, so I'm truly giving a round of applause to Bergren for this amazing series.
February 21, 2020
"At last the SHE-wolves were home".
Quote by me
These books are not well-known in the YA-historical section which is quite a shame because they are full of life lessons, love, joy and sadness.
Be ready for the last book in this series, because the Plague is ready to make her entrance in the lives of Lia and Gabi and she will not go by without a fuss. This book is going to be darker than all the others combined but also brings a lot of beautiful and joyful moments in the lives of the She-wolves.
Although I had a bit more trouble with reading this last book in the series I still think this series need to be much more known in the YA spectrum. Believe me it is worth your read.
Quote by me
These books are not well-known in the YA-historical section which is quite a shame because they are full of life lessons, love, joy and sadness.
Be ready for the last book in this series, because the Plague is ready to make her entrance in the lives of Lia and Gabi and she will not go by without a fuss. This book is going to be darker than all the others combined but also brings a lot of beautiful and joyful moments in the lives of the She-wolves.
Although I had a bit more trouble with reading this last book in the series I still think this series need to be much more known in the YA spectrum. Believe me it is worth your read.
January 4, 2015
Team Lord Greco!
February 15, 2017
(Presses play)
"How do I say goodbye...to what we had?
The good times that made us laugh, outweighed the bad.
I thought we'd get to see forever, but forever has blown away.
It's so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.…"
Thank you Boyz II Men! This was the only song that I could think of after this book ended.
Okay, okay... I may be a little overly dramatic, but I feel like it's necessary because... I did not want this book to end!!!
Deluge was nothing less than epic. If you read the previous books or are a complete River Tribe fan (ahem! Like me). This last book will knock your socks off!!
In this book you see Gabi and Lia really grow into strong women and take on new levels of adulthood. This series makes me so proud to be a woman. These ladies are always up for an adventure. And they know how to take care of business when it comes to the sword, bow and arrow!
I love the Forelli/Bertarini family! They would do any thing to ensure the safety of one another. Even when they face death on all fronts, they stick together. Which is beautiful. The bond between them is what really what makes me love this book soo much. Plus, the fact that Luca and Marcello are totally gorgeous, nobel and swoon-worthy doesn't hurt things either. ;-)
Bravo to Lisa T. Bergren for making an awesome series full of love, life and adventure. I will forever remember this story and the characters. And if this ever gets picked up for a film adaptation, I will so be at the ready to get my ticket!!
My Favorite Quotes ♥ ♥
“Indeed,” he said thoughtfully. “But our duty is to believe in the best, hope for the best, until that day we must face our own trial. Until then, we must not succumb to the devil’s claim on our lives. He prowls about seeking to undermine us. Pressing us to give sway to our worst fears, rather than trust in our Creator. "
“I think it’s how we were meant to live,” she said. “In community. Taking care of one another. Sharing. Loving. Celebrating and grieving together. I think it’s part of what drew me here.. "
"What was it about sisters that made us free to share both the harshest and kindest words?"
"Death, the Great Equalizer, Dad called it. Poor or rich. Beautiful or plain. In the end, we were all the same."
March 14, 2022
Major disappointment.
July 6, 2020
And this is the ending of the River of Time series, the last we know of Gabi and Lia, Marcello and Luca. There’s so much for my brain to process right now!
For the first part of the book, I had a pretty hard time getting into it but once it got to the time of the plague, it was harder to put down.
The romance went into too much detail for my liking. Don’t get me wrong, I love Marcello and Gabi and LOVE Luca and Lia but I could have done with less detail. In my opinion, I definitely feel like this is for much older teens and new adults.
I feel like the author did a very good job with describing just how terrible this plague was. I really knew nothing about it until this book but she described what it was like so well that it makes me shudder just to think of it! And I can totally relate to Gabi and Lia’s feelings of isolation during quarantine.
The ending was sad and brought me close to tears... yet I’m so glad that it ended on a note of hope!! I was afraid I would be left utterly depressed but instead I was left with a beautiful reminder to live in the moment that we have right now and trust God with the rest, something I definitely needed to hear right now. <3
I’m sad to say goodbye to these characters... but I do feel that I got good closure. So my final thoughts on the series? It was a wild ride, a ride I am glad I took and I won’t easily forget! :)
For the first part of the book, I had a pretty hard time getting into it but once it got to the time of the plague, it was harder to put down.
The romance went into too much detail for my liking. Don’t get me wrong, I love Marcello and Gabi and LOVE Luca and Lia but I could have done with less detail. In my opinion, I definitely feel like this is for much older teens and new adults.
I feel like the author did a very good job with describing just how terrible this plague was. I really knew nothing about it until this book but she described what it was like so well that it makes me shudder just to think of it! And I can totally relate to Gabi and Lia’s feelings of isolation during quarantine.
The ending was sad and brought me close to tears... yet I’m so glad that it ended on a note of hope!! I was afraid I would be left utterly depressed but instead I was left with a beautiful reminder to live in the moment that we have right now and trust God with the rest, something I definitely needed to hear right now. <3
I’m sad to say goodbye to these characters... but I do feel that I got good closure. So my final thoughts on the series? It was a wild ride, a ride I am glad I took and I won’t easily forget! :)
June 26, 2015
After reading the author's warning that there were going to be some deaths in this last book of the series I was hesitant to read it but I finally bit the bullet. I'm so glad I did!! I have LOVED this series and this book was just as good as the others.
Gabi, Lia, the knights they love (the Forellis), and their parents (the Bettarinis) have settled into a good life in medieval Italia after fighting off countless enemies. Gabi is about to have a baby and Lia and Luca are madly in love. But Lia is still fighting the fear of what will happen if she marries Luca and then the plague comes. How could she handle losing him and possibly a child? As the Black Death closes in upon them, they all struggle with their plans to seclude themselves to ride out the storm. Are they making the right decision? Could they or should they be doing more to help? And will the Plague reach them anyway?
If you liked the other books in this series, you'll like this one too. Yes, there are some really sad times but there are also some really good times and there are some twists that you won't see coming. And Lisa Tawn Bergren writes these stories with so much clarity and emotion that you just can't help being pulled in to the lives of the characters. This is one of the BEST medieval series I have ever read!
Gabi, Lia, the knights they love (the Forellis), and their parents (the Bettarinis) have settled into a good life in medieval Italia after fighting off countless enemies. Gabi is about to have a baby and Lia and Luca are madly in love. But Lia is still fighting the fear of what will happen if she marries Luca and then the plague comes. How could she handle losing him and possibly a child? As the Black Death closes in upon them, they all struggle with their plans to seclude themselves to ride out the storm. Are they making the right decision? Could they or should they be doing more to help? And will the Plague reach them anyway?
If you liked the other books in this series, you'll like this one too. Yes, there are some really sad times but there are also some really good times and there are some twists that you won't see coming. And Lisa Tawn Bergren writes these stories with so much clarity and emotion that you just can't help being pulled in to the lives of the characters. This is one of the BEST medieval series I have ever read!
July 22, 2020
What a thrilling conclusion to the series!
I loved catching up with Gabi/ Marcello and Lia/Luca! I've really loved seeing Gabi and Lia grow up and mature, and it was so beautiful to see the young women they had become. I've laughed along with them, rooted for them, and cried along with them, and I honestly feel like I'm best friends with them!
This novel had plenty of adventurous and action scenes, but there were also lots of beautiful and romantic moments. Deluge had lots of sad moments and also deaths .
But despite the sorrowful moments, the novel ended on a beautiful note of hope and it left me smiling as I read the last page.
I sure will miss these characters and the charming world of Medieval Italy.
Overall, a fantastic series, and a wonderful conclusion.
I would recommend this to older teens!
I loved catching up with Gabi/ Marcello and Lia/Luca! I've really loved seeing Gabi and Lia grow up and mature, and it was so beautiful to see the young women they had become. I've laughed along with them, rooted for them, and cried along with them, and I honestly feel like I'm best friends with them!
This novel had plenty of adventurous and action scenes, but there were also lots of beautiful and romantic moments. Deluge had lots of sad moments and also deaths .
But despite the sorrowful moments, the novel ended on a beautiful note of hope and it left me smiling as I read the last page.
I sure will miss these characters and the charming world of Medieval Italy.
Overall, a fantastic series, and a wonderful conclusion.
I would recommend this to older teens!
September 12, 2016
I believe my eyes will be swollen for a week. But my heart is happy that I finally finished the epic journey of Gabi and Lia, two sisters who found their future in the past and finally learned to live in the present.
January 3, 2016
This ending of the series gutted me in a way I didn't expect. tears tears tears. Now I don't know if I should throw things.
December 2, 2020
A satisfying conclusion to an intriguing series.
July 9, 2024
This book was great! I cried toward the end :'(
The beginning really took a while to get into, however. And though many loved Lia and Luca's love story in this book, I didn't really like it. I loved Luca, but as much as I have related and loved Lia in past books, I wanted to slap her so hard throughout this entire book. Lia made Me love Gabi a whole lot more in this book. And Luca, too.
But yeah, anyway, this book was still really great, but because of the slow beginning and Lia, I had to be honest and dock a star, as much as I would love to stick with five stars for the entire series.
The ending of this book was really sad, but was also really good. I still highly suggest this and the rest of the series to anyone and everyone!!
Seriously, go buy this book. But buy the other four first :) they should be read in order.
The beginning really took a while to get into, however. And though many loved Lia and Luca's love story in this book, I didn't really like it. I loved Luca, but as much as I have related and loved Lia in past books, I wanted to slap her so hard throughout this entire book. Lia made Me love Gabi a whole lot more in this book. And Luca, too.
But yeah, anyway, this book was still really great, but because of the slow beginning and Lia, I had to be honest and dock a star, as much as I would love to stick with five stars for the entire series.
The ending of this book was really sad, but was also really good. I still highly suggest this and the rest of the series to anyone and everyone!!
Seriously, go buy this book. But buy the other four first :) they should be read in order.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2015
I debated between giving this book 3 stars or 4. Finally, I settled on 3 1/2, though I can see that I'm in the minority (at least among my friends) on this one.
The story was good and it was nice to re-visit these characters in medieval Italy who I had grown to love over the course of the past 5 books. However, there was too much sensuality in this book-- especially considering the many many young girls who are/will be reading it. Because of that, I decided within the first few chapters that I would not be able to give it a 5-star rating.
There were a few things in the story that I didn't particularly care for, but nothing big. I also didn't really love the ending. And those combined knocked another 1/2 of a star off of my rating. It wasn't the sadness of the story -- sadness was to be expected, considering that they were dealing with the plague and other battles -- it's just that the ending didn't settle well with me. And I'm not entirely sure why. This book wasn't as satisfying as I'd hoped it would be.
The story was good and it was nice to re-visit these characters in medieval Italy who I had grown to love over the course of the past 5 books. However, there was too much sensuality in this book-- especially considering the many many young girls who are/will be reading it. Because of that, I decided within the first few chapters that I would not be able to give it a 5-star rating.
There were a few things in the story that I didn't particularly care for, but nothing big. I also didn't really love the ending. And those combined knocked another 1/2 of a star off of my rating. It wasn't the sadness of the story -- sadness was to be expected, considering that they were dealing with the plague and other battles -- it's just that the ending didn't settle well with me. And I'm not entirely sure why. This book wasn't as satisfying as I'd hoped it would be.
Shelved as 'maybe-read'
May 26, 2013I thought the series was done!
Then, I haven't read the novellas yet. Time an all that.
But...while I loved the first three books I'm afraid that this one might not be worth picking up. Not because it won't be brilliant, but because sometimes continuing a series can be pretty iffy. If it is promised to be the last though...
Who am I kidding? I won't be able to resist reading this!
Then, I haven't read the novellas yet. Time an all that.
But...while I loved the first three books I'm afraid that this one might not be worth picking up. Not because it won't be brilliant, but because sometimes continuing a series can be pretty iffy. If it is promised to be the last though...
Who am I kidding? I won't be able to resist reading this!
April 11, 2023
Deluge.
The final book in my most favorite series ever.
It did not disappoint.
I cannot WAIT to read more of Lisa’s work! I have a feeling she’s gained a loyal reader in me. I’ll probably read anything the woman releases from here on out 👏🏻
The final book in my most favorite series ever.
It did not disappoint.
I cannot WAIT to read more of Lisa’s work! I have a feeling she’s gained a loyal reader in me. I’ll probably read anything the woman releases from here on out 👏🏻
January 9, 2024
Ahhhhhhh!!!!! I cannot believe this series is over!!! It makes me want to jump up and down and cry all at the same time! So here's the thing....I was disappointed in this book. I wanted more for the last book and this just didn't hit the mark. Which may lead you to ask why if I was disappointed in this book would I rate it 5 stars and add it to my all time favorites?!? Well you see... I loved the first half of the book with all my heart. I mean this book had literally my favorite scenes from the entire series, but it also had some of my least favorite. When compared to the rest of the series, it lacked a good ending. If Lisa had written another book to go after it then I would feel differently. I just don't think it was good enough to end such an amazing series.
Honestly, I'm mad at Lisa. I felt robbed (never mind, I STILL feel robbed). I invested hours of my days to read these books and sacrificed hours of sleep just to finish them and what do I get in return? A hasty finish and some quick funeral to wrap the whole thing up. I'm not satisfied. Not in the least. I feel like I had walked through life with these two Betarrini girls as they grew up, battled their worst enemies, fell in love and got married, but for some odd reason I was kicked out at certain times and wasn't invited to join them for all their other big life events! Like idk one of them HAVING A BABY!! They like completely ignored me for months and then all of a sudden I get a Christmas card showing me everything I missed out on!
I know, I know, she had to keep the story moving and finally finish it but seriously she really just needed to separate the book in two. It felt like she decided to write another book, you know tie things up and go through the plague. Then in the middle of writing Luca and Lia’s love story, she came up with this really good plot line and it was amazing and everything was great then she remembered OH WAIT! Im supposed to be writing about the plague! And oh yeah! My timeline is really off so lets just skip some months here and there and now I’m outta ideas so lets just make them all depressed and ruin these characters and forget about those characters and then throw in the battle scene cause every book needs a good ole battle and then we’ll have a few die but I need to finish this book soon so we’re gonna skip the whole sad thing and just make them depressed and then just back to normal in a quick paragraph or two and I’ll leave the whole audience to infer that the characters are all good now. AHHHH!!!
As soon as the plague hit she ruined everything and everyone she had built! First off, she ruined Marcello by making him super depressed and into his wine and completely ignoring his wife. And Gabi! She like completely doesn’t care about Marcello! He’s like drunk and shes just “I’m gonna avoid him at this time of day”. But thats not what makes me mad. Lisa’s probably right. I mean yeah it would have been really hard on them and Marcello probably feels like he’s turning his back on his people and all and so yeah he probably would have turned to alcohol. What makes me furious is that she HAS ABSOLUTELY NO REDEMPTIVE PART! I mean why could we not see this wonderful man’s life restored?! Like we just have to assume that since the epilogue tells us he has another kid that him and Gabi figured out their problems. Well thats not good enough for me, okay?
And then we move on to Lia… And yeah I’m sure that with everything she experienced that she would be all depressed especially with who died (don’t worry, I won’t spoil who)... and I thought the whole no crying thing was a good add except she was WAY too fast with making things better. Like she is like super depressed and won’t talk to her husband or see her child and then all of a sudden shes fine and we AGAIN just have to assume shes fine now!! I’m tired of assuming!! I want to know!! I want to hear her apologize and restore her relationship with Luca!! After everything I’ve been through with the two of them!! (Oh which good side point… I LOVED their whole thing in the beginning of the book!! I mean it was SO good!! Like their whole fight and everything was probably the best part of the whole series!!) And also, why was Gabi the one to get her out of her whole depressed phase?! Like sure the series is about the two of them but Luca is her husband!! I mean like you’re telling me that awesome, amazing Luca just sat by and watched as his wife went through all of this. Like how did he not like get so mad at her! I know Luca and the Luca I know would never let Lia go that long without being with her kid and just plainly living. Also, why was I not invited to their child’s birth?!? We didn’t even get a description of the child! Like I have no idea what their hair color was!! Like as soon as they started talking, I could just picture Luca with a little girl in his arms with the cutest blonde hair and Lia’s blue eyes!! Like I want to go write this scene myself! Except for it wouldn’t be the same. It wouldn’t be Lisa’s writing and it wouldn’t be the Luca that I love. So now I’m stuck here having to be content with what I got, but I’m not content.
Next, is the person who died. Again, I won’t say who. So yeah, someone needed to die. And you know this person was a good choice. It was a sad but doable death however it wasn’t sad. Lisa like completely bombed this one. I wanted a death that would make me cry. This one made me want to stop reading and read some puns to make things lighthearted. It wasn’t sad!! It was depressing!! And yeah depressing is sad but sad is not depressing. I mean where is the hope!! They go through the whole series coming to believe in God and such and speaking of his sovereignty and everything but when it really counts they just don’t talk about it and instead are all depressed. And then all of a sudden Lia cries, they have a funeral and boom everything is perfectly fine. I MEAN WHAT?!?!? WHY????
There was just too many open opportunities for like soul retching and arm tingling scenes!! SO MANY!! Like she could have had a scene with Marcello like apologizing to Gabi or like him and Gabi being out with his people like they used to do and like when they would work the crops with that one lady. Then Lia with Luca!! Like so many options for this one… And then Gabi, Lia, and their mom needed a scene. Maybe like at the tomb or something idk but something that like is them saying bye to the modern world. And then Ali needed a scene. Lisa just like forgot about her because she was too focused on the depressed Lia over here.
So here's what I loved...
BASICALLY LIKE THE WHOLE FIRST HALF OF THE BOOK. I LOVED IT LIKE ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!
Especially everything with Lia and Luca. I really thought that their whole fight thing was really good and just made their relationship so much stronger. And I loved married Gabi and Marcello (except for when the plague hits and their entire marriage crumbles!!!) like they were so sweet and he was the best son-in-law ever like who else cried at that scene?!
Anyway, maybe I have no reason to be mad. Maybe I just need time to calm down and in a few weeks I realize that once I get over how I feel personally offended and left out, I will forgive Lisa and move on with my life. Maybe I just have too many expectations for this book. But hear me out… I really did love the book. I mean I gave it 5 stars and its on my all time favorite list! And everything that I complained about it seriously did add to the book and it was realistic. I just needed some sort of redemption. I didn’t like the way Lisa finished it and how she didn’t give me a deep enough redemption. Like that funeral scene?! Cheesy. Fast. But good.
So lastly, if you for some reason decided to waist 5 minutes reading my crazy thoughts… I recommend this book and DEFINITELY this series. But this book should come with a warning label… don’t get your hopes up that the ending will be some really sweet everyones there and the cutest love scene between Lia and Luca… maybe Lisa just wanted us to imagine it?!
But seriously, go read it.
Honestly, I'm mad at Lisa. I felt robbed (never mind, I STILL feel robbed). I invested hours of my days to read these books and sacrificed hours of sleep just to finish them and what do I get in return? A hasty finish and some quick funeral to wrap the whole thing up. I'm not satisfied. Not in the least. I feel like I had walked through life with these two Betarrini girls as they grew up, battled their worst enemies, fell in love and got married, but for some odd reason I was kicked out at certain times and wasn't invited to join them for all their other big life events! Like idk one of them HAVING A BABY!! They like completely ignored me for months and then all of a sudden I get a Christmas card showing me everything I missed out on!
I know, I know, she had to keep the story moving and finally finish it but seriously she really just needed to separate the book in two. It felt like she decided to write another book, you know tie things up and go through the plague. Then in the middle of writing Luca and Lia’s love story, she came up with this really good plot line and it was amazing and everything was great then she remembered OH WAIT! Im supposed to be writing about the plague! And oh yeah! My timeline is really off so lets just skip some months here and there and now I’m outta ideas so lets just make them all depressed and ruin these characters and forget about those characters and then throw in the battle scene cause every book needs a good ole battle and then we’ll have a few die but I need to finish this book soon so we’re gonna skip the whole sad thing and just make them depressed and then just back to normal in a quick paragraph or two and I’ll leave the whole audience to infer that the characters are all good now. AHHHH!!!
As soon as the plague hit she ruined everything and everyone she had built! First off, she ruined Marcello by making him super depressed and into his wine and completely ignoring his wife. And Gabi! She like completely doesn’t care about Marcello! He’s like drunk and shes just “I’m gonna avoid him at this time of day”. But thats not what makes me mad. Lisa’s probably right. I mean yeah it would have been really hard on them and Marcello probably feels like he’s turning his back on his people and all and so yeah he probably would have turned to alcohol. What makes me furious is that she HAS ABSOLUTELY NO REDEMPTIVE PART! I mean why could we not see this wonderful man’s life restored?! Like we just have to assume that since the epilogue tells us he has another kid that him and Gabi figured out their problems. Well thats not good enough for me, okay?
And then we move on to Lia… And yeah I’m sure that with everything she experienced that she would be all depressed especially with who died (don’t worry, I won’t spoil who)... and I thought the whole no crying thing was a good add except she was WAY too fast with making things better. Like she is like super depressed and won’t talk to her husband or see her child and then all of a sudden shes fine and we AGAIN just have to assume shes fine now!! I’m tired of assuming!! I want to know!! I want to hear her apologize and restore her relationship with Luca!! After everything I’ve been through with the two of them!! (Oh which good side point… I LOVED their whole thing in the beginning of the book!! I mean it was SO good!! Like their whole fight and everything was probably the best part of the whole series!!) And also, why was Gabi the one to get her out of her whole depressed phase?! Like sure the series is about the two of them but Luca is her husband!! I mean like you’re telling me that awesome, amazing Luca just sat by and watched as his wife went through all of this. Like how did he not like get so mad at her! I know Luca and the Luca I know would never let Lia go that long without being with her kid and just plainly living. Also, why was I not invited to their child’s birth?!? We didn’t even get a description of the child! Like I have no idea what their hair color was!! Like as soon as they started talking, I could just picture Luca with a little girl in his arms with the cutest blonde hair and Lia’s blue eyes!! Like I want to go write this scene myself! Except for it wouldn’t be the same. It wouldn’t be Lisa’s writing and it wouldn’t be the Luca that I love. So now I’m stuck here having to be content with what I got, but I’m not content.
Next, is the person who died. Again, I won’t say who. So yeah, someone needed to die. And you know this person was a good choice. It was a sad but doable death however it wasn’t sad. Lisa like completely bombed this one. I wanted a death that would make me cry. This one made me want to stop reading and read some puns to make things lighthearted. It wasn’t sad!! It was depressing!! And yeah depressing is sad but sad is not depressing. I mean where is the hope!! They go through the whole series coming to believe in God and such and speaking of his sovereignty and everything but when it really counts they just don’t talk about it and instead are all depressed. And then all of a sudden Lia cries, they have a funeral and boom everything is perfectly fine. I MEAN WHAT?!?!? WHY????
There was just too many open opportunities for like soul retching and arm tingling scenes!! SO MANY!! Like she could have had a scene with Marcello like apologizing to Gabi or like him and Gabi being out with his people like they used to do and like when they would work the crops with that one lady. Then Lia with Luca!! Like so many options for this one… And then Gabi, Lia, and their mom needed a scene. Maybe like at the tomb or something idk but something that like is them saying bye to the modern world. And then Ali needed a scene. Lisa just like forgot about her because she was too focused on the depressed Lia over here.
So here's what I loved...
BASICALLY LIKE THE WHOLE FIRST HALF OF THE BOOK. I LOVED IT LIKE ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!
Especially everything with Lia and Luca. I really thought that their whole fight thing was really good and just made their relationship so much stronger. And I loved married Gabi and Marcello (except for when the plague hits and their entire marriage crumbles!!!) like they were so sweet and he was the best son-in-law ever like who else cried at that scene?!
Anyway, maybe I have no reason to be mad. Maybe I just need time to calm down and in a few weeks I realize that once I get over how I feel personally offended and left out, I will forgive Lisa and move on with my life. Maybe I just have too many expectations for this book. But hear me out… I really did love the book. I mean I gave it 5 stars and its on my all time favorite list! And everything that I complained about it seriously did add to the book and it was realistic. I just needed some sort of redemption. I didn’t like the way Lisa finished it and how she didn’t give me a deep enough redemption. Like that funeral scene?! Cheesy. Fast. But good.
So lastly, if you for some reason decided to waist 5 minutes reading my crazy thoughts… I recommend this book and DEFINITELY this series. But this book should come with a warning label… don’t get your hopes up that the ending will be some really sweet everyones there and the cutest love scene between Lia and Luca… maybe Lisa just wanted us to imagine it?!
But seriously, go read it.
May 14, 2019
REALLY REALLY LOVE this book!!!
It wasn't as sad as I expected. I expected more people to die from the plague. But it was VERY good!!!!
This series is DEFINITELY A FAVORITE!!!!! Seriously, one of my top books/series!!!!!
Okay, I was SOOOOOO excited when
It wasn't as sad as I expected. I expected more people to die from the plague. But it was VERY good!!!!
This series is DEFINITELY A FAVORITE!!!!! Seriously, one of my top books/series!!!!!
Okay, I was SOOOOOO excited when
June 8, 2019
A truly great ending to a wonderful series. Action, adventure, chaos, love, hope, despair, heartbreak, and joy...you couldn't ask for more. My ONLY complaint is that I didn't like the epilogue. I would have MUCH preferred a peek from one of the main characters POV, NOT their kids. I thought that last scene was pretty much a waste. I wanted to know more about the characters we have grown to love and cherish, not their offspring that we barely had a glimpse of (or not at all) from the ending of the book. Or if it was the case, MORE. Not just a quick scene with some thoughtful words at the end....unless she is planning on writing another series with these guys and this was her way of kicking it off? Hmmmm. Other than that though, I really loved it. One of the VERY few series I've ever completed that did the rest of the books justice. This one did not disappoint, and was one of my favorites.
January 13, 2015
This book made me laugh, squeal, and cry! Oh, boy did I bawl toward the end! I had a little trouble getting into the beginning of it, but it didn't take me long at all! I love Lisa's writing! I feel like I am connected to the characters. This is the fifth book in the River of Time series. They need to be read in order! This is suppose to be a book for teens, but I wouldn't recommend to teens under 14-15 years. One thing I disliked about the book is she started switching the POV between Lia, and Gabbi. Which got Confusing because I was used to Gabbi's POV. I thought I had gotten used to it in the novellas, but guess not!
January 14, 2021
I was a little frustrated with the beginning of this book because relationship issues, previously resolved, needlessly came back. I considered a 4 star rating but honestly, the second half of this book is absolutely perfect. Each of the characters experiences the emotional turmoil of the plague in such unique ways. It definitely took you along each of their journeys with them. Such a great ending to the series.
October 11, 2016
Laughing and crying and the whole 9 yards....LOVED THIS SERIES!!!!! It was entertaining, exciting and often times on-the-edge-of-your-seat suspenseful! Gabi and Marcello are to die for!!!!!! And Luca and Lia as well!! So darn cute!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2015
I've been waiting for it since forever!!
May 18, 2020
Very well written and entertaining finish to this thrilling series!
*Warning*Be prepared to cry.
*Warning*Be prepared to cry.
Read
September 16, 2021Bergren’s story brings you in and makes you feel like part of the family. This remains an absolute favorite of mine. Go read it.
Read our full review of all five books on www.theliteratureladies.com!
Read our full review of all five books on www.theliteratureladies.com!
March 19, 2019
Oh my goodness! This was a finale to beat all finales!! Oh how I wish there to be more! Maybe little novella's here and there from the children or descendants? I don't know, but having just finished it less then a minute before I am writing this, I am already missing the She-Wolves.
Bergren has certainly surprised me with the last two installments in the River of Time series. Most authors falter when they continue a series for the fans and their novels fall flat and seem too forced. But this? Oh this was just perfect! There were many tears at the end, so to any who get into this series and end it, you will need tissues right next to you!
Thank you, Lisa, for a wonderful story that will forever live on my shelves and forever live in my heart!
She-Wolves! She-Wolves! She-Wolves!
3-19-2019
So it's been about 4 years since I last read through this series. I must have grown up a lot since then because I found the series very juvenile this time around. The use of the word "preggers" got extremely annoying. It's fine in quick, casual conversation but consistently? No, thank you. I was hoping that by the final book, the families internal thoughts would start reflecting their speech - that is what tends to happen. Your speech molds your thoughts and vice versa - usually, anyway. And if that statement is not true, then it could have been true in the book.
I did feel like this book was just kind of slapped together. You'll see a conflicting statement in a minute between this review and the one above - but it has been 4 years.
I'm not a fan of authors writing books to appease the fans. They usually are not that good and you can really tell that they are fan-servicing. This book is no different. I don't quite recall how book 3 ended so I'm not sure if it left off with the feel of a "sequel" but the novella's and this were a bit hard to swallow.
She also changed the perspective of the MCs. The first three are in Gabi's perspective but then the novella's and this final book switch between Gabi and Lia. I don't hate it, but she really didn't make them sound different. Sometimes - sometimes - you can hear Lia's own voice come through while reading her bits, but most of the time, they aren't any different then each other.
The back of the book gives one description - the Black Plague is coming. But the whole first half of the book is focused on random cousins that show up. Yeah, there's mention of the Plague and the preparations that are being made but it's going on in the background. The Plague doesn't come back as a major plot/theme until a good portion pas the halfway mark. If there was a small mention of the cousins on the back of the book along with the Plague, fine.
And, oh my goodness, I couldn't stand how selfish Lia was at the beginning and it made me remember how selfish Gabi was! I get the love that Gabi had for Marcello - believe me, I get it - but they never really talked about what that means for the rest of the family. There should have been a serious talk, an argument, days with no one talking to each other, internal struggle. Maybe even Lia forcing the girls back to modern times for a few days or weeks and Gabi being severely pissed off. This book - this series - everything was just too perfect. Yes, there was conflict what with all the fighting and sickness, but there was no real conflict among the family members. That would have been way more interesting.
All in all, I do enjoy the series. Maybe not enough for a third read through, but I love it enough to keep it on my shelves. Maybe in 5-10 years I'll consider reading it again, but I think I've exhausted it for now.
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Language: None
Explicitness: None
Bergren has certainly surprised me with the last two installments in the River of Time series. Most authors falter when they continue a series for the fans and their novels fall flat and seem too forced. But this? Oh this was just perfect! There were many tears at the end, so to any who get into this series and end it, you will need tissues right next to you!
Thank you, Lisa, for a wonderful story that will forever live on my shelves and forever live in my heart!
She-Wolves! She-Wolves! She-Wolves!
3-19-2019
So it's been about 4 years since I last read through this series. I must have grown up a lot since then because I found the series very juvenile this time around. The use of the word "preggers" got extremely annoying. It's fine in quick, casual conversation but consistently? No, thank you. I was hoping that by the final book, the families internal thoughts would start reflecting their speech - that is what tends to happen. Your speech molds your thoughts and vice versa - usually, anyway. And if that statement is not true, then it could have been true in the book.
I did feel like this book was just kind of slapped together. You'll see a conflicting statement in a minute between this review and the one above - but it has been 4 years.
I'm not a fan of authors writing books to appease the fans. They usually are not that good and you can really tell that they are fan-servicing. This book is no different. I don't quite recall how book 3 ended so I'm not sure if it left off with the feel of a "sequel" but the novella's and this were a bit hard to swallow.
She also changed the perspective of the MCs. The first three are in Gabi's perspective but then the novella's and this final book switch between Gabi and Lia. I don't hate it, but she really didn't make them sound different. Sometimes - sometimes - you can hear Lia's own voice come through while reading her bits, but most of the time, they aren't any different then each other.
The back of the book gives one description - the Black Plague is coming. But the whole first half of the book is focused on random cousins that show up. Yeah, there's mention of the Plague and the preparations that are being made but it's going on in the background. The Plague doesn't come back as a major plot/theme until a good portion pas the halfway mark. If there was a small mention of the cousins on the back of the book along with the Plague, fine.
And, oh my goodness, I couldn't stand how selfish Lia was at the beginning and it made me remember how selfish Gabi was! I get the love that Gabi had for Marcello - believe me, I get it - but they never really talked about what that means for the rest of the family. There should have been a serious talk, an argument, days with no one talking to each other, internal struggle. Maybe even Lia forcing the girls back to modern times for a few days or weeks and Gabi being severely pissed off. This book - this series - everything was just too perfect. Yes, there was conflict what with all the fighting and sickness, but there was no real conflict among the family members. That would have been way more interesting.
All in all, I do enjoy the series. Maybe not enough for a third read through, but I love it enough to keep it on my shelves. Maybe in 5-10 years I'll consider reading it again, but I think I've exhausted it for now.
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Language: None
Explicitness: None
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