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Cascade (River of Time #2)

by Lisa Tawn Bergren (Goodreads Author)

4.34 of 5 stars 4.34 · rating details · 3,210 ratings · 474 reviews

Mom touched my underdress—a gown made six hundred years before—and her eyes widened as she rubbed the raw silk between thumb and forefinger. She turned and touched Lia’s gown. “Where did you get these clothes?”

Gabi knows she’s left her heart in the fourteenth century and she persuades Lia to help her to return, even though they know doing so will risk their very lives. Wh...more

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Published (first published May 24th 2011)

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Community Reviews

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Aug 19, 2011 Amber rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011, all-time-favorite-series, ebook-own, hall-of-fame, time-travel

This is going to be short and sweet simply because It's so hard to write a review and do it justice on a book that completely sweeps you off your feet in every way possible!!! This is such an AMAZING series and I really, really don't want it to ever end!!

Cascade was another addicting addition to River of Time series. I can ramble on and on but if you have read Waterfall, you are in for another AWESOME reading experience that will linger in your thoughts for quite some time. I read this a while a...more

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Jun 03, 2011 Steph (Poetry to Prose) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites-of-2011, read-in-2011, the-good-stuff, signed, owned, read-in-2010

Despite my excitement to dive back into this world with these wonderful characters, I was a little worried that Cascade wouldn't live up to my expectations or be as great as the first book. I was wrong on both counts! This series only continues to get better.

In this book, Gabi and Lia briefly return to present day to fix that sticky situation they were left with at the end of Waterfall. They don't linger too long, though, and quickly head back to the 14th century with their mother in tow, throwi...more Despite my excitement to dive back into this world with these wonderful characters, I was a little worried that Cascade wouldn't live up to my expectations or be as great as the first book. I was wrong on both counts! This series only continues to get better.

In this book, Gabi and Lia briefly return to present day to fix that sticky situation they were left with at the end of Waterfall. They don't linger too long, though, and quickly head back to the 14th century with their mother in tow, throwing us right into the action immediately. I really loved seeing more of Lia and Gabi's dynamic as they both went to many lengths to protect each other.

It is almost insane just how high the stakes were raised in this book. The girls really go through some hard stuff and yet they push through, as fierce as ever. Gabi? Wow, hats off to her for putting up with that cage situation. Gabi's mental and physical strengths aren't the only thing to admire: her selflessness really shines through in all of her actions. Much like in the first book, Gabi doesn't lose sight of the importance of her sister and mother and they remain at the forefront of her decision making. It would be so easy to simply agree to stay in the past --- hello, Marcello alone is more than tempting enough! -- but instead she's willing to wait until she can reach a mutual decision with her family. It's heartwarming to see such a wonderful bond with the Betarrini ladies, especially since these relationships continue to be so rare in YA.

I have to admit that I did miss Fortino's presence in this one, but Luca and Marcello more than met my swooning requirement. Marcello will be Marcello (perfect if you're unaware), but Luca definitely had moments where he stole the show. Heck, I even made a goodreads update that simply read "Oh, Luca <3." YEP, HE'S THAT GOOD.

The final chapter in Cascade was absolutely touching and ahhh! The emotion! I won't say much more, but I definitely teared up while reading and I'm looking forward to seeing this expanded in the next book.

This series has it all: action, adventure, romance, humor, amazing friendships and family bonds...it's a perfect blend of everything that I could want in my reads -- and then some! Truly, my love for The River of Time series continues to take me by surprise and you should definitely look into picking up copies of the books if you haven't already! I can't wait to get my hands on Torrent. September, get here soon!(less)

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Feb 28, 2012 Kathy rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: time-travel, medieval, favorites, read-2012, buy-hardcopy, romance-green

February 2012: Definitely gets a full five stars this time around. I loved how brave and loyal Gabi is in this one. Lia was present a little more, which is great because she is awesome! Luca is still charming and lovable. And Marcello is amazing. I think they are at their best when they are all together. So glad I already have boom three on hand so I can pick up right away!

Content: Medieval violence, otherwise clean.

July 2011: Wow. I can’t remember the last time a sequel was as good as its pre...more

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Jun 02, 2011 Small Review rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, published-2011, own, special-shelf

I wanna marry this book. This whole series. It's like Lisa took everything I want out of a book and put it all together to make the best series EVER! Even if you don't like historical fiction or time travel, this series is so much more than that. The River of Time defies simple categorization and gives readers something they so rarely get.

But this is a second book in a series, so you probably have some questions. Second books always sort of scare me, especially when I loved the first book like I...more

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Oct 16, 2011 TJ rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: clean, time-travel, young-adult, kindle-archives

4.5/5.0
Again, it must be noted that this book, like the first in this trilogy, is NOT a stand-alone read. All three books must be read in order if one expects to truly enjoy them. "Cascade" would make little sense if one picks it up without having first read "Waterfall" and, like "Waterfall", it doesn't have an ending. It just quits - mid-stream, expecting the reader to continue to the third book to find the answers and reach a conclusion. Annoying as that is, it is such a heart-pounding ride th...more

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Aug 22, 2011 Cyp rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Everyone. Seriously everyone.

Shelves: historical, ya, 5-stars, favourites, 2011-reads, time-travel

From the very moment i picked up this book, i was like:

description

Seriously, it is that good. That is also why i've put off writing this review. I'm afraid of my inability to fully justify how good this book was.

I devoured this book. Literally. The first book didnt impress me much, more of, "oh okay, im done. Move on". Y'know? But this..This is a stunning novel that far surpassed its predecessor. A phenomenal book just short of a miracle.

*I must warn you i am wont to being a little over-spoilery. So if you...more

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Aug 24, 2012 Kristen rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, clean-read

Soooo good. I was so glad that I had book three in hand since the second I finished this one I grabbed book 3...

Full review to come. Too busy reading Torrent.

Ok, major cliffhanger at the end of book 2. I am super glad I had book three to keep going. It was so good. Kept me engaged from the first till the last page. I loved the adventure, the romance was superb, the writing brilliant. I loved how Gabi talked modern day slang with her medivel language.

Gabi is an awesome heroine, she is true to he...more

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Sep 11, 2011 Melanie rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Everyone!

Shelves: favorites

I recently finished 'Waterfall' (which was the first book I've read by Lisa T Bergren) and I loved it so much that I was eagerly anticipating the next addition in 'The River of Times' series.

'Cascade' picks up where 'Waterfall' left off. Gabi and Lia return from their trip through time, but Gabi wants to return because the man she loves is there - Marcello.

Gabi and Lia return pretty much right away - with their mother this time - and learn that months have passed in Marcello's world. This time t...more

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Aug 29, 2012 Bethany rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-books-i-own

Once I finished Waterfall, the first book in the River of Time series, I knew I jut HAD to read the next book, Cascade! I eagerly awaited for the previous reader to return it to our library, but after a month of waiting I decided to just go ahead and purchase it. Let me tell you it was worth every penny. :) Boy did I enjoy it! I can't tell you how much I love this series and think it's the best series I've ever read as far as action/suspense goes! I just love everything about it! This series rem...more Once I finished Waterfall, the first book in the River of Time series, I knew I jut HAD to read the next book, Cascade! I eagerly awaited for the previous reader to return it to our library, but after a month of waiting I decided to just go ahead and purchase it. Let me tell you it was worth every penny. :) Boy did I enjoy it! I can't tell you how much I love this series and think it's the best series I've ever read as far as action/suspense goes! I just love everything about it! This series reminds me of The Hunger Games a lot except there isn't as much violence. {Oh and Lia is pretty good with a bow and arrow.... ;)} While this book does have some violence with the wars and all, I don't think there is near as much as in The Hunger Games, so for those who are looking for a series similar to THG without the level of violence, you might want to check out this series! One of the things I love about this series is how it's set in Italy back in the 1300's and how it's got a lot of history involved. Not only do you get a action packed story in this series, but you also get some history too!

I really think that The River of Time series is WAY underrated! I could easily see these books being made into movies one day and being very famous! That would be amazing! This book was so worth every penny and I loved it! Although I did notice that the book had a lot of feminism which is shown in the female characters, I loved the story and think it was very well written. In this book we start from were we left off in Waterfall were Gabi and Lia come back from the 1300's. They end up going back to Italy with their mom this time and Gabi and Marcello's relationship really grows. I personally loved this portion of Cascade, about Gabi and Marcello and think it went perfect with the whole romantic Italy time period.

Just like Waterfall, this book had an incredible cliff-hanger ending were you literally look at the book and say "No! You can't stop here! What happens next?" Fortunately, I already had the third book and didn't have to wait to continue the story in Torrent, book number three. :) Overall I loved this book and would have to say it's one of my top favorite books I've ever read. I'd recommend it to ladies who love historical action fiction and must warn you that once you start it, you probably won't be able to put it down! :)(less)

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Jul 25, 2011 Nic rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Fans of romance and adventure

Shelves: 2011, romance-awww, time-travel, kindle, read-in-2011, favourites, series

Favourite Quote: We stood there for a moment, people swirling around us, laughing, greeting one another, kissing on both cheeks in Italian fashion. And our deep stare into each other's eyes was as intense as a kiss of our own. It was like he was speaking to me, singing to me, all through that long, silent, sexy-as-all-get-out look.

Cascade is awesome. It is another brilliant and addictive addition to what is quickly becoming one of my favourite series. It has the perfect mix of adventure and roma...more Favourite Quote: We stood there for a moment, people swirling around us, laughing, greeting one another, kissing on both cheeks in Italian fashion. And our deep stare into each other's eyes was as intense as a kiss of our own. It was like he was speaking to me, singing to me, all through that long, silent, sexy-as-all-get-out look.

Cascade is awesome. It is another brilliant and addictive addition to what is quickly becoming one of my favourite series. It has the perfect mix of adventure and romance making for a fully satisfying read.

I am still surprised at how captivated I am by this series especially since it is definitely kind of historical which is just not my thing at all. But that just goes to show how much of a incredible writer Lisa Tawn Bergren is. Her writing just keeps you completely captivated in this stunning tale.

The plot is fast paced that has a level of tension that constantly keeps you on the edge of your seat. Even more than the first instalment. It was like I could not read this fast enough.

I love spending time with these character as they bring humour and heart to this tale. Gabi is still the same strong heroine who's strenght and loyalty is inspiring. Marcello would have to be one of the kindest characters out there. And just when you think you couldn't possible swoon any harder for him you do. Then you have Lia and Luca and their banter provides lots of entertainment.

"Lia aimed shifted and waited watching one man peek out time and time again. She let her arrow fly anticipating his next peek at us and it pierced his eye.

“Okay that’s just going to make ’em mad ” I said.

“Three hundred and ninety-two ” she said to Luca tossing her braid over her shoulder and taking aim again.

“Saints in heaven ” he said to me rolling his eyes “how much deeper in love can I yet fall?"

The romance was beautiful. It made the romantic fool in me very very happy. Gabi and Marcello's relationship is sweet and tender. They definitely have that out of ordinary dreamy type of love.

Overall, Cascade was a perfect reading escape. It is passionate, meaningful and magical. The only problems is I need Torrent like right NOW!(less)

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Jun 01, 2011 Katie rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites

Much like the first book in this series, Cascade was awesome! Even after I finished reading the last page—another cliffhanger, ugh!—I instantly went back and started re-reading the highlights…which was nearly the whole book! The River of Time series just keeps getting better and better! (is it September yet??) I am really looking forward to how this series will be concluded. Tuscany continually grows on me, as it does on Gabi and Lia, and I can only hope that they decide to remain back in time w...more Much like the first book in this series, Cascade was awesome! Even after I finished reading the last page—another cliffhanger, ugh!—I instantly went back and started re-reading the highlights…which was nearly the whole book! The River of Time series just keeps getting better and better! (is it September yet??) I am really looking forward to how this series will be concluded. Tuscany continually grows on me, as it does on Gabi and Lia, and I can only hope that they decide to remain back in time with the men they have each grown to love.

The adventures in Waterfall are intense and perilous—and the events that Gabi and Lia go through in Cascade are even more intense! Just when one of the girls get out of a situation, they seem to fall right back into another perilous predicament. Their men, Marcello and Luca, are beside them the whole time, rescuing them from dire situations and, on occasion, being rescued themselves! If I thought I was attached to these four characters in the first book, Waterfall, the bond only grew stronger in Cascade. These four young adults are the best hero’s and heroine’s I’ve read in an action/adventure book in a long time.

Gabi came back in Cascade even stronger than before. Ever protective of the people she loves—Lia, Marcello, Luca, and now her mother—she fights to protect everything she holds dear. But she finds it more difficult than before as she realizes that Marcello isn’t the object the enemy most desires now…it’s her and her sister that they want now—the mighty She-Wolves of Siena. There was only one questionable thing that I thought to point out for younger readers. When Gabi is captured a man tears her shirt down the front. Nothing much is seen as her chest and stomach are bound with a clothe, as Gabi was suffering from broken ribs. The man glances down at the rope holding her pants up, but somebody steps in just then and nothing else happens. Lisa Bergren handled this situation so well, though, that I would think its fine for young teen readers.

As the girls continue their fight to stay ahead of their powerful enemy, Gabi struggles with the biggest decision she will ever make. She loves Marcello, and Marcello loves her. But if she marries him, she will be tying down her sister and mother to remain in the past forever. My admiration for Gabi grew as she struggled with this issue. Showing a vast amount of selflessness, she considers her mother and sisters happiness over her own. Even though all she could ever want was to remain in the past, marry Marcello, and spend the remainder of her days fighting at his side, she thought of her family first. A wonderful character quality that I really appreciated.

I mentioned above that the book ends in another cliffhanger, and now I am looking forward to the release of Torrent just as much as I looked forward to the release of this book. I am SO curious how this series will end. Gabi and Lia want to go back, but if they do, it will be right around the time of the dreaded Black Plague. Are they willing to risk their own death to return to the men who have captured their heart? That is the question that will be answered in Torrent and I cannot wait! At least I can re-read Gabi and Lia’s grand adventures over and over while I wait. Cascade makes me wish I could jump inside the book and go back in time with Gabi. :-)(less)

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Apr 06, 2013 Bethany rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

It's always a great shock when you change book formats in the middle of a series, so going from ebook for Waterfall to Audiobook for Cascade was a bit unnerving! However, the narrator did a fine job and I was able to settle in and even enjoy a bit of Fire Emblem while I listened.

This book continues the story of Gabi and Lia but this times incorporates their Mom into the tale. Unfortunately, you don't actually get much interaction with their Mom at all because the story leaves her behind at the c...more

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Feb 28, 2013 Elisa Johnston rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Sometimes great things just have to be kept secret for a little while. You know, we don’t want to be too trendy over here at Reading Teen, jumping on the bandwagon before its left the, um, barn? High school band room? What is a bandwagon anyway?

My point being, Reading Teen typically has the reviews for books right when you need them- before the book has a chance to get dusty upon the shelves of, or, contrarily, quickly disapparate from Barnes and Noble into the hands of readers. Cascade is indi...more Sometimes great things just have to be kept secret for a little while. You know, we don’t want to be too trendy over here at Reading Teen, jumping on the bandwagon before its left the, um, barn? High school band room? What is a bandwagon anyway?

My point being, Reading Teen typically has the reviews for books right when you need them- before the book has a chance to get dusty upon the shelves of, or, contrarily, quickly disapparate from Barnes and Noble into the hands of readers. Cascade is indisputably worthy of being sold-out like flapjacks at the Volunteer Fire Department’s pancake breakfast. Its noble, tasty and just that good.

(disclaimer: I have never actually been to a pancake breakfast at a volunteer fire department, although I have great aspirations to go to one someday. Henceforth, if you have had a negative pancake experience at said venue, please do not let that damper your enthusiasm for this novel. I only imagine these pancakes are marvellous, and as such, let that reflect on Cascade).

Despite the fact that I am a slacker in writing this review (doing more important things like raising the next generation while changing the world) I loved this novel. I guess that is obvious by now. Why did I love it? Well, I am a sucker for good stories that help me escape my intensive, above-described life. I like the stories that have a decent plot, tangy romance, a delightful setting (Italy!) and a tidy conclusion. A bit of suspense is needed as well, but not enough that I pee my pants. Cascade has all. Except the peeing pants bit.

Cascade is the second book in a three part series, the River of Time, by Lisa T. Bergren. The first book, Waterfall, finds two teenagers trapped in some weird time warp, ending up in Medieval Italy. That story was pretty great in itself, you can read the reviews here. The third book, Torrent, is officially out in just a couple weeks.

Not surprisingly, Cascade begins with the two Ladies Betarrini (Gabi and Lia) jumping back in history, this time with their mom in tow. Even with romance in the air and sure death around every corner, this family grows tighter together, requiring a certain conclusion. Just like Waterfall, the story’s framework exists of the many battles and non-stop intrigue which fills these four-hundred pages. Yet, after the first couple chapters pulling the reader in, this book glides through those pages, seemingly taking no time to read. It is captivating.

Another thing I liked is that somehow the author managed to hide nuggets of profound thoughts in the midst of life or death scenarios scattering the story. Maybe we all would begin to think about what matters in the face of the death and the unknown. But for me, as it is not an everyday experience for me, I liked escape into these girls’ minds (even though fictitious) to imagine what I would think/feel in the types of situations Gabi and Lia find themselves in. I like where Bergren has been going with this- musing over what is sacrifice, what is worthy, and even over whether there is a God who cares. I am curious where she will go with these nuggest in Torrent as the main heroine, Gabi, continues to noticeably mature through her experiences.

Overall, Cascade is a great read, especially if you like to be swept out of your life into another. It has everything integral to make it exciting, yet at the same time it is still soothingly enjoyable; a relaxing escape into a thrilling world. I hope it will be your pleasure, as it was mine. Ciao!

http://www.readingteen.net/2011/08/ca...(less)

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Aug 17, 2012 Jaime rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: all-time-favorites, books-i-own, great-series

In Cascade by Lisa T. Bergren, Gabi and Lia return to 14th Century Italy. Gabi's main intention is to find Marcello; she can't bear to be apart from him. Lia is concerned someone will get hurt or worse. But the place has changed. The She-Wolves of Siena (Gabi and Lia) have a price on their head, and the enemy is beginning plans to attack.

First, I must mention Luca. In the first book, he is the funny guy. The guy Gabi should have fallen in love with since Marcello is spoken for. Throughout Cascad...more In Cascade by Lisa T. Bergren, Gabi and Lia return to 14th Century Italy. Gabi's main intention is to find Marcello; she can't bear to be apart from him. Lia is concerned someone will get hurt or worse. But the place has changed. The She-Wolves of Siena (Gabi and Lia) have a price on their head, and the enemy is beginning plans to attack.

First, I must mention Luca. In the first book, he is the funny guy. The guy Gabi should have fallen in love with since Marcello is spoken for. Throughout Cascade, he cracked the jokes. He makes me even laugh, out loud as I read (with me having to apologize to those around me staring). I think he's my favorite character. I always go for those funny guys. Haha. :D

This book picks right up where Waterfall left off. But his time, the Bertarrini girls bring along their mother (who ends up being pretty awesome). The emotion is still there. I felt what Gabi felt, every loving word from Marcello's lips, every hand holding moment or dancing. It felt real and alive. When Luca tickles Lia I wanted to laugh along, because it is just so darn cute.

The danger is there too, all the action ans suspense and adventure. Gabi and Lia are running for their lives through most of the story and it's very heart-pounding, even as I sit in my safe little living room. I love action and adventure movies, and I definitely got into the action moments, the fights and battles. It is intense and absolutely astounding.

Everything kept me on the edge of my seat. I was desperate to find out what happened. Would there be a happily ever after? Will they save Gabi? Will they save the castle or be defeated? After all, this wasn't the last book. Things could happen that they would need to fix in the last book, before the happily ever after. But my biggest question... How will Gabi convince her family to stay in the 14th century?

Oh, it was exciting. I enjoyed that Gabi begins to rely on God more. She prays more for safety and protection. In uncertain times, in hopeless situations she doesn't sit there and mope, she thinks through things, tries to find a way out, and trusts God. It's a lesson a lot of us should learn.

New characters, new fears and disasters made the plot roll without much slowing. There are plenty of twists and turns that I didn't see coming, others I hoped would happen.(less)

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May 13, 2012 Yakety Yaks rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviewed-by-annalynn

Ever since Michael J. Fox stepped foot in the delorean*, I think a small piece of us all wanted to believe in time travel. To go back and correct our mistakes. Or relive the amazing moments of our lives that dull in memory as time goes by. To warn someone–a national leader, a beloved friend, a family member–of a tragedy that you wish you could spare them. I think there’s a little bit of mercy in the fact that we can’t do any of those things…but doesn’t it make a GREAT story? The answer, of cours...more

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Apr 11, 2012 Marian rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites

In Waterfall we traveled back to the 14th century with Gabi and Lia. Gabi fell in love with Marcello. At the end of the book Gabi and Lia had to travel back to the 21st century. That is where Cascade continues.

When Mom finds out what happened to Gabi and Lia she freaks out. Gabi convinces her Mom and Lia to travel back to the 14th century. When they get there a couple of months have passed since they left and some things have changed. Marcello is very happy to see Gabi again and he arranges a fe...more

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Feb 29, 2012 Rambling Readers rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Cascade picks up right where Waterfall ends, so there is no disruption in the action. From the start, the plot is packed with adventure and danger. The pace is steady with moments of heart-pounding close-calls. Amid the tribulations that Gabi and Lia face, they mature into strong young women and lose their hearts a little more to Italy and the Forelli family. Thankfully, character development is not sacrificed for action. Gabi's story is told from her first-person perspective, with the interesti...more

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Dec 05, 2011 Rachelle Rea rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites

This review has been a long time in coming. Ever since I first read Waterfall, I have been enthralled with Lisa T. Bergren's River of Time series. I am so glad that I won Waterfall in a contest because believe it or not, it probably would have been awhile before I picked it up on my own.

But I know that I would have sooner or later.

As I was telling a friend the other day, Waterfall , as well as the rest of The River of Time series, has everything that I love in a good book. One, it's part of a se...more

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Dec 04, 2011 Amy rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This series just keeps getting better and better.
I have yet to read the last book, Torrent, but if this one is any indication, the third one should be stunningly amazing.

Continuing exactly where the first one left off, Gabi and Lia convince their mother to return to the past with them. Showing up months later, they realize the battles are still far from over, and there is betrayal in the ranks. Also, Gabi and Marcello work out their relationship, which has some issues that should be obvious: th...more This series just keeps getting better and better.
I have yet to read the last book, Torrent, but if this one is any indication, the third one should be stunningly amazing.

Continuing exactly where the first one left off, Gabi and Lia convince their mother to return to the past with them. Showing up months later, they realize the battles are still far from over, and there is betrayal in the ranks. Also, Gabi and Marcello work out their relationship, which has some issues that should be obvious: they are from completely different time periods.

If I could pick one aspect of this series that I adore, it would be the “epic” adventures. They start so innocently. “Let’s go watch a soldier get reunited with his family!” Complications arise, they rush off to one place, more complications, leave that place, split up, run away, hide out, get caught, run away, split up, get caught, rescued, fight to escape, run back . . . and what? MORE COMPLICATIONS! Before you realize it, almost the entire book has gone by and the entire adventure was based off of one little expedition. IT’S CRAZY! But completely awesome. This chain reaction style adventure is addicting, you can’t stop reading because from that one moment, everything changes and everything is at stake.

My one issue with this series is the Lia-Luca thread. I love her. I love Luca. I love her and Luca together. I probably love them more than Gabi and Marcello. The author is obviously trying to continue their relationship and make it’s developments of interest to the reader, but it’s difficult with the first-person narrative of Gabi. As a reader, I want to enjoy the moments in Luca and Lia’s relationship, but it’s impossible when we’re just with Gabi. Gabi and Marcello step out on Lia and Luca “to give them some time alone.” WELL DARN. Because I wanted to see what happened there.
I’m thinking that the way to fix this little problem would have been to either have multiple narrators, both girls narrate alternating chapters, or have switched up the narrators each book. But at the same time, I wouldn’t have liked that too much because Gabi does all the interesting stuff.
If I’m remembering correctly, I do believe that Lia and Luca will have their own little book series soon, and that makes me extremely happy. Finish up this Marcello/Gabi thing and move on to the other couple.

All in all, this was a completely fantastic book, even better than the first one. I can’t wait to get the third one from the library. (less)

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Oct 12, 2011 Beccie rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, reviewed

Lisa sent me “Cascade” to review about a month ago but I had to pry it out of my mother’s hands before I could read it. I can’t express enough how much I enjoy this series. “Cascade” is the sequel to “Waterfall” and picks up right where it let off. This time Gabi and Lia’s 14th century trip becomes even more challenging. I liked that they take their mother with this time yet her character doesn’t monopolize the story. The plague concept was a great addition to the story. It was nice to breakaway...more

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Oct 11, 2011 Victor Gentile rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Lisa T. Bergren in her new book, "Cascade" Book Two in the River Of Time series published by David C. Cook takes us back on a time travel adventure to fourteenth-century Italy.

"Cascade" begins in the present day as the two sisters, Gabi and Lia return to the 21st Century and their mother. However Gabi wants to return to her Marcello as quickly as possible and both her sister and her mother return to the tomb to travel back to 14th Century Italy. When the three Ladies Betarrini arrive at the Cast...more Lisa T. Bergren in her new book, "Cascade" Book Two in the River Of Time series published by David C. Cook takes us back on a time travel adventure to fourteenth-century Italy.

"Cascade" begins in the present day as the two sisters, Gabi and Lia return to the 21st Century and their mother. However Gabi wants to return to her Marcello as quickly as possible and both her sister and her mother return to the tomb to travel back to 14th Century Italy. When the three Ladies Betarrini arrive at the Castello Forelli once again, their friends rejoice and their enemies seek only one thing: their death.

As Italy erupts into war all around them with the girls the main target of their enemies. Survival depends not only on their wits and skill with weapons, but also the mercy of God. From deadly hand to hand combat, to disguises, to capture and torture, the "She-wolves" Betarrini are forced to fight and flee for their lives. All the while, Gabi is falling more and more in love with Marcello; but will their love continue to survive in a world will that stop at nothing to rip them apart?

Lisa T. Bergren works some really marvelous themes into this book: we fight for what we believe in; we fight for who we believe in and no matter where we are, or when we are, God has us there for such a time as this. This is really an exciting book and adults will enjoy it as well. I know I did and I am really looking forward to "Torrent" book three in this series.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Jeane Wynn at Wynn-Wynn Media for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”(less)

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Oct 10, 2011 Kiri rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: series, young-adult, time-travel, historical-romance

Oh lord where to begin. I had some serious hopes because she at least began with a historical note on this book.

Hmm.. how about.. Book One set in 1332. Book Two 1342. However the author insists it's only 3 months since the girls departed at the end of book One. Then there's the plague thing. I could go on for paragraphs about the errors on that*, not to mention her character not wanting to "infect" people then barging into people homes and surrounding themselves with others willy-nilly. She thr...more Oh lord where to begin. I had some serious hopes because she at least began with a historical note on this book.

Hmm.. how about.. Book One set in 1332. Book Two 1342. However the author insists it's only 3 months since the girls departed at the end of book One. Then there's the plague thing. I could go on for paragraphs about the errors on that*, not to mention her character not wanting to "infect" people then barging into people homes and surrounding themselves with others willy-nilly. She throws nearly everything BUT the kitchen sink at the girls about 2/3rd of the way through the book and manages to pull them out (nice Mary-sueing!). I think your getting the point.

The worst gaffe is their mother - who gets conveniently left behind for most of the book - having to get a doctorate of anthropology along with her doctorate of archeology REALLY? I mean REALLY? Does this Author not realize that Archeology IS a branch of Anthropology? That is so basic I about called the publishing house and read them the riot act over their lack of editing (which I might add is incredibly bad).

Now I realize this is a romance and rules are decidedly lax. However this is also a young-adult novel and therefore I expect some standards to be met. Why? Because young adults do imbibe knowledge through their leisure reading. Being fed obvious misleading information like this really rubs me the wrong way. If an author cannot take the time to even get a few basic facts correct they shouldn't bother putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). I'm not asking for a historical treatise, just make sure that when you are writing about something you get it correct. Seriously it takes moments to fact check something this simple, do it for your readers!

I picked this series up originally because I enjoy history, have a penchant for time-travel novels, and well.. I didn't realize it was a twenty-first century formulaic romance novel in disguise. *ugh* (I sincerely wish these things came with a warning.. I won't bore you with my usual rant on that)

Negative 12 stars.

*I don't expect her to hit her readers with details about the plague ad nauseam. but plague was around and about all through that period. Her years and descriptions are off. As are the peripheral characters reactions to quite some degree. There had been several years where it had already ravaged the populace -- 1292 and 1306 come to mind. While I realize 1348 is a year most laymen are familiar with the plague came in several strains and forms and in waves across many many years. Not something to be addressed in detail in such a book, but it should have been acknowledged and addressed if it was going to be brought up at all as a plot point. (less)

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Oct 04, 2011 Julie Witt rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviewed

Oh My Gosh!! I can't believe this series just keeps getting better and better, but it does! Gabi and Marcello are just as adorable as ever, but now we get to see Lia and Luca get to know each other a little bit better. And now their mother is there, so that adds more intrigue, although she is a natural in historical Italy!

Basically, the girls convince their mother that they are not crazy and that they did in fact travel back in time to 14th century Italy, and they convince her to go back with t...more

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Sep 07, 2011 Reading Teen rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Sometimes great things just have to be kept secret for a little while. You know, we don’t want to be too trendy over here at Reading Teen, jumping on the bandwagon before its left the, um, barn? High school band room? What is a bandwagon anyway?

My point being, Reading Teen typically has the reviews for books right when you need them- before the book has a chance to get dusty upon the shelves of, or, contrarily, quickly disapparate from Barnes and Noble into the hands of readers. Cascade is indis...more Sometimes great things just have to be kept secret for a little while. You know, we don’t want to be too trendy over here at Reading Teen, jumping on the bandwagon before its left the, um, barn? High school band room? What is a bandwagon anyway?

My point being, Reading Teen typically has the reviews for books right when you need them- before the book has a chance to get dusty upon the shelves of, or, contrarily, quickly disapparate from Barnes and Noble into the hands of readers. Cascade is indisputably worthy of being sold-out like flapjacks at the Volunteer Fire Department’s pancake breakfast. Its noble, tasty and just that good.

(disclaimer: I have never actually been to a pancake breakfast at a volunteer fire department, although I have great aspirations to go to one someday. Henceforth, if you have had a negative pancake experience at said venue, please do not let that damper your enthusiasm for this novel. I only imagine these pancakes are marvellous, and as such, let that reflect on Cascade).

Despite the fact that I am a slacker in writing this review (doing more important things like raising the next generation while changing the world) I loved this novel. I guess that is obvious by now. Why did I love it? Well, I am a sucker for good stories that help me escape my intensive, above-described life. I like the stories that have a decent plot, tangy romance, a delightful setting (Italy!) and a tidy conclusion. A bit of suspense is needed as well, but not enough that I pee my pants. Cascade has all. Except the peeing pants bit.

Cascade is the second book in a three part series, the River of Time, by Lisa T. Bergren. The first book, Waterfall, finds two teenagers trapped in some weird time warp, ending up in Medieval Italy. That story was pretty great in itself, you can read the reviews here. The third book, Torrent, is officially out in just a couple weeks.

Not surprisingly, Cascade begins with the two Ladies Betarrini (Gabi and Lia) jumping back in history, this time with their mom in tow. Even with romance in the air and sure death around every corner, this family grows tighter together, requiring a certain conclusion. Just like Waterfall, the story’s framework exists of the many battles and non-stop intrigue which fills these four-hundred pages. Yet, after the first couple chapters pulling the reader in, this book glides through those pages, seemingly taking no time to read. It is captivating.

Another thing I liked is that somehow the author managed to hide nuggets of profound thoughts in the midst of life or death scenarios scattering the story. Maybe we all would begin to think about what matters in the face of the death and the unknown. But for me, as it is not an everyday experience for me, I liked escape into these girls’ minds (even though fictitious) to imagine what I would think/feel in the types of situations Gabi and Lia find themselves in. I like where Bergren has been going with this- musing over what is sacrifice, what is worthy, and even over whether there is a God who cares. I am curious where she will go with these nuggest in Torrent as the main heroine, Gabi, continues to noticeably mature through her experiences.

Overall, Cascade is a great read, especially if you like to be swept out of your life into another. It has everything integral to make it exciting, yet at the same time it is still soothingly enjoyable; a relaxing escape into a thrilling world. I hope it will be your pleasure, as it was mine. Ciao!

~Elisa
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Aug 14, 2011 Lydia (Overweight Bookshelf) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

First reviewed here: http://overweight-bookshelf.blogspot....

I don't think I drew in a full breathe for most of this book. My heart was stuck in my throat and I probably left nail marks on my Kindle where I gripped it. I am going to go ahead and call this one of the best historical novels I have read all year. Seriously, why didn't they have inspirational YA books like this when I was a teen?! Maybe I wouldn't have skipped the whole genre, even though I am relishing it now.

All the elements I lo...more

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Jul 19, 2011 Sandra Stiles rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: adult, romance, young-adult

I love this series. In the second book of the River of time Series, Gabi and Lia have returned and been found in the tomb. They are taken to their mother. She is in awe of their gowns, yet upset that they would enter the tomb. They wait until she is alone and tell her about traveling back in time. Gabi has fallen so in love with Marcello that she feels she must get back to him. She and Lia and their mother all enter the tomb and return to the past. Like the first book, this one is filled with ev...more I love this series. In the second book of the River of time Series, Gabi and Lia have returned and been found in the tomb. They are taken to their mother. She is in awe of their gowns, yet upset that they would enter the tomb. They wait until she is alone and tell her about traveling back in time. Gabi has fallen so in love with Marcello that she feels she must get back to him. She and Lia and their mother all enter the tomb and return to the past. Like the first book, this one is filled with even more adventure and danger. It is obvious that Lia and Gabi have fallen hopelessly head over heels in love. They must return. However, not necessarily to their present time. They have something very important they must do before they return. That is all I will say about this book. It would be so easy to tell too much. I have a love at relationship with the endings of these books. I love how they make you wait to find out what is going to happen until the next book. I hate it for the same reason because there is such a long time between them it seems. The third book Torrent comes out in September and so I must wait until September 1st to read it. This is a must read for anyone who loves romance stories and/or medieval stories. They are good enough that when I got each of these books my mother took them from my desk and read them first, loaned them to her best friend and then let me have them to read. My mother is 79 years old. She is as anxious about the books as I am. It is her opinion that women of all ages should read this book. She said if a mother and daughter read it they have something to discuss. Besides, she said she could relate to Gabi and Lia’s mother and what she was going through. She could understand the mother wanting to protect her children and at the same time wanting them to be happy. If I know my mother, and I do, she will read Torrent first. The good thing is she won’t say a word about it until I’ve read it. I can’t wait to discuss it with her. This would make a great book for mother/daughter book clubs. It will also be a great addition to my school book shelves.(less)

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Jun 27, 2011 Jill Williamson rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Sisters Gabi and Lia aren’t home for long before they return to the mysterious cave with their mother—then return to the past. It’s the 1300’s Italy. Gabi seeks out the man of her dreams, Marcello, only to discover that much has happened in the minutes they were gone. It’s been three months for Marcello. The sisters are hailed as heroes, but a war is brewing. Gabi is determined to discover what is going on and who can be trusted, all the while trying not to think too much about what might happen...more

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Jun 17, 2011 Cori rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The love story and adventure continues! As good if not better then the first (Waterfall). Cascade took off like a shot and never slowed down. After the last page, I was thumbing through just praying the author had decided to give us a few pages of the next book at the end but alas no such thing! I was totally engrossed in these books. I couldn't put them down! They had the same feeling as when I read the Twilight series. It was as if the book had drug laced ink. I was definitely hooked reading t...more

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Feb 19, 2013 Michele rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

As I said in my review of Waterfall (the 1st book in this series), this is far from the type of book I usually read. However, because Waterfall eventually grabbed my interest enough to finish it, I decided to finish the series. Cascade was even more captivating than Waterfall. My one criticism is that I wanted to say "Enough" when another battle scene started. I could have done with less of that but I enjoyed seeing Gabi and Lia continue to grow not only in their medieval lives but also just as...more

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Jan 06, 2013 Erin rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: kindle-not-free

I give this book a 4.5, but since Goodreads doesn't allow half stars I'm rounding up. My main reason for taking off a half point is that I didn't care for the ending. I'm hoping Bergren will surprise me in book 3, but the end left me feeling let down.

On a positive note I downloaded this book right after finishing book 1, and ended up reading it straight through to the 85% mark. After that I went to bed, and finished the book first thing in the morning. I just couldn't make myself stop reading i...more

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About Lisa Tawn Bergren

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Lisa Tawn Bergren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 35 books, with more than 2 million copies sold. She recently finished a teen series called River of Time (WATERFALL, CASCADE and TORRENT) and soon will release a follow-up e-novella called BOURNE. She's currently writing a New Adult series called The Grand Tour, and the first release is GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS (June 2012).

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Quotes from Cascade

“Lia aimed, shifted and waited, watching one man peek out time and time again. She let her arrow fly anticipating his next peek at us and it pierced his eye.

“Okay that’s just going to make ’em mad ” I said.

“Three hundred and ninety-two ” she said to Luca tossing her braid over her shoulder and taking aim again.

“Saints in heaven ” he said to me rolling his eyes “how much deeper in love can I yet fall?” — 44 people liked it

“Together, come what may.” — 23 people liked it

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Cascade (River of Time #2)

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