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River of Time #3
Torrent
When Gabi and Lia finally learn to surf the river of time, they realize they must make hard choices about life and love in Torrent, the third and final book in the River of Time series.
Gabi and Lia Betarrini have learned to control their time travel, and they return from medieval Italy to save their father from his tragic death in modern times. But love calls across the centuries, and the girls are determined to return forever—even though they know the Black Plague is advancing across Europe, claiming the lives of one-third of the population. In the suspenseful conclusion of the River of Time series, every decision is about life … and death.
Gabi and Lia Betarrini have learned to control their time travel, and they return from medieval Italy to save their father from his tragic death in modern times. But love calls across the centuries, and the girls are determined to return forever—even though they know the Black Plague is advancing across Europe, claiming the lives of one-third of the population. In the suspenseful conclusion of the River of Time series, every decision is about life … and death.
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2011
188 people are currently reading
5905 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Tawn Bergren
102 books3,800 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 952 reviews
August 25, 2011
Favourite Quote: "And yet, this is part of it too. This deep, dark grief - it kind of shakes you up, makes you appreciate life, love more. It opens your heart."
The River of Time is one of my favourite series so I was super excited to get my hands on an early copy of the final installment Torrent. And what an incredible read! It was everything I hope for and so much more.
Again Lisa Tawn Bergren has written another exciting and suspense filled plot. There are so many pulse pounding moments as Gabi and her love ones are never far from danger. But it isn't just action and adventure but also a insightful and meaningful story. It reminds you to appreciate every moment you have.
Gosh, I adore these characters. They are the type you admire and who inspire you to be a better person. It is always hard to pick a favourite out of this outstanding bunch but it would have to be Gabi with her strength, courage and kindness. She really has grown and mature so much in the series. Then you have Marcello and he is much more than just an Italian hottie. He is smart, loyal, brave and has such a beautiful and caring soul. In this installment Gabi's family plays such a large part of the story. It is great to read a book with such strong and positive family presence.
Now, talk about swoon. Torrent had plenty of heart melting moments. And I was surprised as another character tempted my heart away from Marcello (which I thought impossible). I wish I could say more but I don't want to spoil the book for you. I am hoping (and begging) that Lisa Tawn Bergren will decide to write this character a spin off series because I am in love again!
Overall, Torrent was amazing. My favourite out of the three and a perfect end to an unforgettable series. If you like stories full of adventure and romance then this is a must read.
**** Amber please click
The River of Time is one of my favourite series so I was super excited to get my hands on an early copy of the final installment Torrent. And what an incredible read! It was everything I hope for and so much more.
Again Lisa Tawn Bergren has written another exciting and suspense filled plot. There are so many pulse pounding moments as Gabi and her love ones are never far from danger. But it isn't just action and adventure but also a insightful and meaningful story. It reminds you to appreciate every moment you have.
Gosh, I adore these characters. They are the type you admire and who inspire you to be a better person. It is always hard to pick a favourite out of this outstanding bunch but it would have to be Gabi with her strength, courage and kindness. She really has grown and mature so much in the series. Then you have Marcello and he is much more than just an Italian hottie. He is smart, loyal, brave and has such a beautiful and caring soul. In this installment Gabi's family plays such a large part of the story. It is great to read a book with such strong and positive family presence.
Now, talk about swoon. Torrent had plenty of heart melting moments. And I was surprised as another character tempted my heart away from Marcello (which I thought impossible). I wish I could say more but I don't want to spoil the book for you. I am hoping (and begging) that Lisa Tawn Bergren will decide to write this character a spin off series because I am in love again!
Overall, Torrent was amazing. My favourite out of the three and a perfect end to an unforgettable series. If you like stories full of adventure and romance then this is a must read.
**** Amber please click
April 25, 2022
I think a lot of what I could say in this review would be rehash from my previous book in the series. Gabi is awesome. Lia is awesome. Luca is awesome and Marcello is awesome. They all stay pretty consistent throughout the series. Gabi is faced with more obstacles and there are some big decisions that have to be made.
Bergren weaves the historical and political elements in so nicely that you hardly realize your learning something as you’re reading. While the story takes place in 1344 Italy, you don’t really feel like you’re reading a historical novel. Bergren really brings everything to life. The plot is great and executed well, you have to keep reading to find out what is going to happen and how Gabi is every going to get out of the trouble she finds herself in. There is even a bit of a love triangle in this one, which added some nice conflict to the story. I’m normally not a fan of LTs
The series is awesome and keeps you reading; I love the characters and setting and any series that can capture my attention and imagination so thoroughly deserves five stars. This does end with a lot of unanswered questions, but without any real huge cliffhangers.
Content Rated PG+
Romance: Kissing. Closed door intimacy w/ married couple
Language: None
Violence: Moderate
Other: More religious elements in this one then the past books
Bergren weaves the historical and political elements in so nicely that you hardly realize your learning something as you’re reading. While the story takes place in 1344 Italy, you don’t really feel like you’re reading a historical novel. Bergren really brings everything to life. The plot is great and executed well, you have to keep reading to find out what is going to happen and how Gabi is every going to get out of the trouble she finds herself in. There is even a bit of a love triangle in this one, which added some nice conflict to the story. I’m normally not a fan of LTs
The series is awesome and keeps you reading; I love the characters and setting and any series that can capture my attention and imagination so thoroughly deserves five stars. This does end with a lot of unanswered questions, but without any real huge cliffhangers.
Content Rated PG+
Romance: Kissing. Closed door intimacy w/ married couple
Language: None
Violence: Moderate
Other: More religious elements in this one then the past books
January 28, 2023
I liked the way our main heroine's character has been developed maturely in this third book. But one thing is certain: no matter what or how many handsome guys are added here, no one will be able to come close to our gentle-compassionate knight (Marcello). The way he patiently endured the female protagonist from the beginning... my God, I think every girl should have a boyfriend like him at least once in her life. 😉
September 12, 2011
What a rush.
A rush of excitement. A rush of intensity. A rush of exhilaration. Torrent, the third book in the River of Time series by Lisa T. Bergren, was the perfect ending to a story that has captured our hearts and minds, eliciting a fervor from us that we never expected when we picked up Waterfall, the first in the series. The final book in a series is always the most delicate. It must be well crafted and live up to those beginning books that so captured our interest, while closing out the story and giving us any missing pieces of the puzzle. The development and pacing must be sure footed, making us glad that we followed along for as long as we have.
Ms.Bergren hits it center-faced with Torrent, and after the electrifying words of Cascade, it was all I could hope for from the third installment. Each book begins where the previous left off and we can't help but be grateful to Ms. Bergren for leaving nothing out in this regard, allowing us as readers to take in the full, tempestuous feelings flowing through each of the characters.
Torrent holds surprise after surprise, with Gabi at the lead, growing and developing in ways we weren't sure she would ever be able to reach. She has a strength we would like to see in ourselves and her ability to move and develop in spite of her weaknesses gives us hope to, one day, do the same. The endearing nature of Gabi toward her family gives us the impression of solidarity and is a refreshing change from the bad parental/broken sibling stories we see more often than not.
Through to this point, we've seen the story progress through trials and heartache, seeing and feeling the pain and deaths of those we had grown to care for. Each of our amazing characters has had to push their way through these hardships, all the while growing and feeling. With the added development of the relationship between Marcello and Gabi and Luca and Lia, Ms. Bergren plays on our heartstrings in Torrent and we commend her for making us feel so attached to these characters. Furthermore, Marcello who we have loved for so long has felt the most loss of all, with most of his family gone and his people suffering we can't help but want to hold his hand and wrap our arms around his beautiful neck and comfort him in anyway possible.
However, Ms. Bergren, the amazing sneaky author that she is has given us something else to think about and while we want nothing more than to hold and comfort Marcello and see him succeed in all his wants and loves, we also want to molest Lord Rodolfo Greco. I spoke of him in my review of Cascade and the feelings of not quite knowing who he is or what his purpose is. Only knowing that he was important in some way. In Torrent, we finally deduce the meaning of Lord Greco and while we still ascertain deep feelings for all the characters, we cannot help but love and adore Lord Greco for all he is and all he presents to us. The conflicting emotions surrounding his character and his feelings only serves to further our feelings toward him and we want nothing more than to take him for our own and never let him go. {I'd definitely throw him up against a wall *licks lips}
Overall, the torrential downpour of feverish emotions and the awe-inspiring characters who have grown from something small to something bigger than time, makes Torrent a read that will warm the soul and brighten the heart. I give the River of Time series a strong 5 out of 5 and highly recommend the River of Time series to all those who enjoy Young Adult Fiction, Adult Fiction, Time Travel and books about Italy.
**Now, for all those who haven't jumped into this series, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?! It really is amazing. For all those who have jumped into this series, you know what I'm talking about. Lisa T. Bergren has started on book 4, but hasn't signed on for it yet. They need to see how her other 3 books do, so GO buy the books, read them, they are amazing.
And for you curious readers, here is A LINK TO SNIPPET OF BOOK 4, Tributary.. *squee* It's epically exciting!
A rush of excitement. A rush of intensity. A rush of exhilaration. Torrent, the third book in the River of Time series by Lisa T. Bergren, was the perfect ending to a story that has captured our hearts and minds, eliciting a fervor from us that we never expected when we picked up Waterfall, the first in the series. The final book in a series is always the most delicate. It must be well crafted and live up to those beginning books that so captured our interest, while closing out the story and giving us any missing pieces of the puzzle. The development and pacing must be sure footed, making us glad that we followed along for as long as we have.
Ms.Bergren hits it center-faced with Torrent, and after the electrifying words of Cascade, it was all I could hope for from the third installment. Each book begins where the previous left off and we can't help but be grateful to Ms. Bergren for leaving nothing out in this regard, allowing us as readers to take in the full, tempestuous feelings flowing through each of the characters.
Torrent holds surprise after surprise, with Gabi at the lead, growing and developing in ways we weren't sure she would ever be able to reach. She has a strength we would like to see in ourselves and her ability to move and develop in spite of her weaknesses gives us hope to, one day, do the same. The endearing nature of Gabi toward her family gives us the impression of solidarity and is a refreshing change from the bad parental/broken sibling stories we see more often than not.
Through to this point, we've seen the story progress through trials and heartache, seeing and feeling the pain and deaths of those we had grown to care for. Each of our amazing characters has had to push their way through these hardships, all the while growing and feeling. With the added development of the relationship between Marcello and Gabi and Luca and Lia, Ms. Bergren plays on our heartstrings in Torrent and we commend her for making us feel so attached to these characters. Furthermore, Marcello who we have loved for so long has felt the most loss of all, with most of his family gone and his people suffering we can't help but want to hold his hand and wrap our arms around his beautiful neck and comfort him in anyway possible.
However, Ms. Bergren, the amazing sneaky author that she is has given us something else to think about and while we want nothing more than to hold and comfort Marcello and see him succeed in all his wants and loves, we also want to molest Lord Rodolfo Greco. I spoke of him in my review of Cascade and the feelings of not quite knowing who he is or what his purpose is. Only knowing that he was important in some way. In Torrent, we finally deduce the meaning of Lord Greco and while we still ascertain deep feelings for all the characters, we cannot help but love and adore Lord Greco for all he is and all he presents to us. The conflicting emotions surrounding his character and his feelings only serves to further our feelings toward him and we want nothing more than to take him for our own and never let him go. {I'd definitely throw him up against a wall *licks lips}
Overall, the torrential downpour of feverish emotions and the awe-inspiring characters who have grown from something small to something bigger than time, makes Torrent a read that will warm the soul and brighten the heart. I give the River of Time series a strong 5 out of 5 and highly recommend the River of Time series to all those who enjoy Young Adult Fiction, Adult Fiction, Time Travel and books about Italy.
**Now, for all those who haven't jumped into this series, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?! It really is amazing. For all those who have jumped into this series, you know what I'm talking about. Lisa T. Bergren has started on book 4, but hasn't signed on for it yet. They need to see how her other 3 books do, so GO buy the books, read them, they are amazing.
And for you curious readers, here is A LINK TO SNIPPET OF BOOK 4, Tributary.. *squee* It's epically exciting!
September 6, 2011
Oh. My. Word!!!! The She-Wolves of Siena are BACK!
If you've heard me talk about the River of Time series before, you know I thought Waterfall was awesome and Cascade was awesome-er…but I think Torrent was awesome-est!! Each book just kept getting better, and better, and better! Starting Torrent sometime in the afternoon, I did not stop reading till I finished it. Clinging to the pages in breathless suspense, I devoured the new adventures that Gabi and Lia go through with their guys, Marcello and Luca. I’ve said it before, but I’m saying it again—this is a series you do NOT want to miss!
All the characters were just as amazing as in the previous books. I loved the twist of Gabi being forced to marry one of Marcello’s enemies. (I kept willing her not to give up on her man!) All the adventures were new and had twists in the plot nearly every way they turned. No one can accuse Lisa Bergren’s plots of getting monotonous, boring, or cliché! When you pick up Waterfall, Cascade, or Torrent, you just have to hold onto your seat and prepare for a wild ride!
All the tension and suspense wrapped up in Torrent would be enough to break the weak of heart. But, as all River of Time fans know, none of the Betarrini's are weak. Each one bears up under all odds! In a very hedge-sort of way, Gabi is told that not only will she be forced to marry the enemy of Marcello, but that several prominent men would watch the consummation to ensure the plan was carried all the way out. Awful thought, if you ask me! But, then again, that was the way it was back then. Marriage was important, and to successfully marry Gabi away from Marcello would've aided the Firenze's plans. While it might seem crude/TMI to include, I'm thankful Lisa doesn't ignore the gritty facts of the medieval period.
There was more sensual tension in Torrent then the others, as both Marcello and Gabi are itching to get married. There are several heated kisses and Gabi even raises the question why they have to wait for their wedding night, but Marcello instantly rejects the idea. (My respect for them went up! ;-) There's also a scene where the husband is helping his wife undress for the night. They begin kissing and the scene cuts off as they fall into bed.
Lord Rodolfo Greco was introduced in the last half of Cascade and I really liked how, while he was on Firenze's side, he was really trying to help Marcello and Siena. A double agent! (Yes, I admit it, there’s just something about the “slightly bad-boys” that I love!) I was so excited to see Lord Greco back in Torrent! I fell in love with him all over again. I know Gabi was in love with Marcello; but, man, Rodolfo sure can be tempting! While I always liked Marcello and Luca, I never felt head-over-heels for them. But I sure do with Rodolfo! He was totally awesome!!!
While I was so sad to see this series come to an end, I couldn’t have been more pleased with how Lisa left the She-Wolves of Siena. It made me want to find my own time-capsule-transportation and go back in time with them (and find Lord Greco, of course!). I know the River of Time series will forever be a favorite of mine and one that I will read over, and over, and over again! Lisa Bergren has written a winner with this series! An enchanting time period, a complex and unique plot, and in-depth characters that leap from the pages all come together to make an AMAZING and award-worthy book! Don’t miss out! Seriously! They need to be read in order to get the whole effect, but all are totally awesome and Torrent is sure to sweep you off your feet! Words just can't do this series justice!
If you've heard me talk about the River of Time series before, you know I thought Waterfall was awesome and Cascade was awesome-er…but I think Torrent was awesome-est!! Each book just kept getting better, and better, and better! Starting Torrent sometime in the afternoon, I did not stop reading till I finished it. Clinging to the pages in breathless suspense, I devoured the new adventures that Gabi and Lia go through with their guys, Marcello and Luca. I’ve said it before, but I’m saying it again—this is a series you do NOT want to miss!
All the characters were just as amazing as in the previous books. I loved the twist of Gabi being forced to marry one of Marcello’s enemies. (I kept willing her not to give up on her man!) All the adventures were new and had twists in the plot nearly every way they turned. No one can accuse Lisa Bergren’s plots of getting monotonous, boring, or cliché! When you pick up Waterfall, Cascade, or Torrent, you just have to hold onto your seat and prepare for a wild ride!
All the tension and suspense wrapped up in Torrent would be enough to break the weak of heart. But, as all River of Time fans know, none of the Betarrini's are weak. Each one bears up under all odds! In a very hedge-sort of way, Gabi is told that not only will she be forced to marry the enemy of Marcello, but that several prominent men would watch the consummation to ensure the plan was carried all the way out. Awful thought, if you ask me! But, then again, that was the way it was back then. Marriage was important, and to successfully marry Gabi away from Marcello would've aided the Firenze's plans. While it might seem crude/TMI to include, I'm thankful Lisa doesn't ignore the gritty facts of the medieval period.
There was more sensual tension in Torrent then the others, as both Marcello and Gabi are itching to get married. There are several heated kisses and Gabi even raises the question why they have to wait for their wedding night, but Marcello instantly rejects the idea. (My respect for them went up! ;-) There's also a scene where the husband is helping his wife undress for the night. They begin kissing and the scene cuts off as they fall into bed.
Lord Rodolfo Greco was introduced in the last half of Cascade and I really liked how, while he was on Firenze's side, he was really trying to help Marcello and Siena. A double agent! (Yes, I admit it, there’s just something about the “slightly bad-boys” that I love!) I was so excited to see Lord Greco back in Torrent! I fell in love with him all over again. I know Gabi was in love with Marcello; but, man, Rodolfo sure can be tempting! While I always liked Marcello and Luca, I never felt head-over-heels for them. But I sure do with Rodolfo! He was totally awesome!!!
While I was so sad to see this series come to an end, I couldn’t have been more pleased with how Lisa left the She-Wolves of Siena. It made me want to find my own time-capsule-transportation and go back in time with them (and find Lord Greco, of course!). I know the River of Time series will forever be a favorite of mine and one that I will read over, and over, and over again! Lisa Bergren has written a winner with this series! An enchanting time period, a complex and unique plot, and in-depth characters that leap from the pages all come together to make an AMAZING and award-worthy book! Don’t miss out! Seriously! They need to be read in order to get the whole effect, but all are totally awesome and Torrent is sure to sweep you off your feet! Words just can't do this series justice!
February 15, 2017
If haven't said it before, I will say it again... (stands on soap box)... I LOVE THIS SERIES!!
I am convinced this needs to be a movie series!
I had bittersweet feeling when I started Torrent, because I thought it was the last book in the series, and I wasn't ready to say goodbye. But thanks to my awesome goodreads friends I see... It's not over y'all!!! (dances). There's novellas and a book #4, lol, I'm soooo excited.
Every book I read in the series just gets better and better! Gabriella, Marcello, Luca, and Lia are just my favorite! I feel like I've seen them really grow into their own in this third installment. This book really deals with the tense political climent between Siena and Florence in the mid to late 1300s. You see Marcello and Gabriella taking key roles in a growing war. I love how Bergren integrates real history throughout the story. But don't worry there is still plenty of awesome action and heartfelt drama mixed in.
There are so many major things happening in this book, I don't want to spoil it. All In have to say is read this series!! :-)
I am convinced this needs to be a movie series!
I had bittersweet feeling when I started Torrent, because I thought it was the last book in the series, and I wasn't ready to say goodbye. But thanks to my awesome goodreads friends I see... It's not over y'all!!! (dances). There's novellas and a book #4, lol, I'm soooo excited.
Every book I read in the series just gets better and better! Gabriella, Marcello, Luca, and Lia are just my favorite! I feel like I've seen them really grow into their own in this third installment. This book really deals with the tense political climent between Siena and Florence in the mid to late 1300s. You see Marcello and Gabriella taking key roles in a growing war. I love how Bergren integrates real history throughout the story. But don't worry there is still plenty of awesome action and heartfelt drama mixed in.
There are so many major things happening in this book, I don't want to spoil it. All In have to say is read this series!! :-)
November 19, 2011
Just as rockin' awesome as the first time through. Lord Greco was(OH MY WORD!!!) awesome!!!! Loved falling for him all over again.
I can't wait till Tributary comes out!! More Lord Greco. Yay!!!
I can't wait till Tributary comes out!! More Lord Greco. Yay!!!
August 31, 2011
The concept of this book could have been really good. I read this one because, after hating the middle book, I wanted to finish the series as a whole to see how the end turned out. I still think the first book is the strongest of the three. This one is probably just as awkward as the second book, sadly. Time travel is never an easy thing to write about. The language the author puts into her main characters head seems so mom-ish. Its what a mom thinks a teenager thinks like.
One of the major flaws of the series is in the second book. The whole awkwardness with the mom appearing, making Marcello and Gabriella's moments together childish and super awkward. This is 5x intensified with awkwardness with the appearance of the dad. This 'one big happy family' thing in the story is so old, and makes the romantic love seem unbelievable.
I also find it really hard to believe, that every member of the family would be ok with living out the rest of their lives never seeing the present time again, just to satisfy Gabi being able to be with Marcello. The concept is just to 'perfect' at the end. And the selfishness Gabriella eludes is annoying. She doesn't consider any option but staying with Marcello. She gets overly sensitive when her parents start talking about other possibilities. Its just weird.
In the middle of the story, their are glimmers of what this book could have been. The bits when Gabriella is away from Marcello and captured and forced into almost marrying that other guy, it was actually intriguing. Then the family & Marcello comes to 'rescue' her and its all awkward again. It makes me think that at least I know their is a good story hidden somewhere in this book, but it does not come into focus, because it was not executed well.
The dialog is riddled with cliches. I got to eye rolling every time I read a "yeah, this is gonna be good" or "Marcello is the one, this is true love!" or something along the lines of saying "bring it". Yuck.
If the author was going to write a fun, witty, love story--- then Luca should have been the lead. His character was actually enjoyable to read. He had the best lines.
One of the major flaws of the series is in the second book. The whole awkwardness with the mom appearing, making Marcello and Gabriella's moments together childish and super awkward. This is 5x intensified with awkwardness with the appearance of the dad. This 'one big happy family' thing in the story is so old, and makes the romantic love seem unbelievable.
I also find it really hard to believe, that every member of the family would be ok with living out the rest of their lives never seeing the present time again, just to satisfy Gabi being able to be with Marcello. The concept is just to 'perfect' at the end. And the selfishness Gabriella eludes is annoying. She doesn't consider any option but staying with Marcello. She gets overly sensitive when her parents start talking about other possibilities. Its just weird.
In the middle of the story, their are glimmers of what this book could have been. The bits when Gabriella is away from Marcello and captured and forced into almost marrying that other guy, it was actually intriguing. Then the family & Marcello comes to 'rescue' her and its all awkward again. It makes me think that at least I know their is a good story hidden somewhere in this book, but it does not come into focus, because it was not executed well.
The dialog is riddled with cliches. I got to eye rolling every time I read a "yeah, this is gonna be good" or "Marcello is the one, this is true love!" or something along the lines of saying "bring it". Yuck.
If the author was going to write a fun, witty, love story--- then Luca should have been the lead. His character was actually enjoyable to read. He had the best lines.
January 12, 2026
Um.... can I rate this book and series 100 stars? (Maybe even more!) This book was an amazing third book to this already amazing series!! This book was beyond amazing!! I have read only a few other book series where the second and third books are either as good or better then the first one!!! There were so many plot twists and things that I thought would end badly that ended well or things that I thought would end well that ended up bad.
I loved seeing the characters continue to grow closer to each other and to God. I loved watching their development. It is so beautiful and I cannot wait to see how they mature more in the books to come! Except I am hoping that nothing bad happens to them with the black plague coming...*shudders*
I love this book so much! Mrs. Bergren is such an amazing writer and she knows how to keep your hooked until the last page, and even beyond that. Though, she doesn't leave these books off on large cliffhangers, they are still slightly cliff hangers that make you want to read the next book asap. Re-reading this series definitely confirmed that it is a favorite and probably will forever be. I love everything in this series, especially the rich history that is woven throughout. We definitely need more time travel books in the Christian fiction industry.
I loved seeing the characters continue to grow closer to each other and to God. I loved watching their development. It is so beautiful and I cannot wait to see how they mature more in the books to come! Except I am hoping that nothing bad happens to them with the black plague coming...*shudders*
I love this book so much! Mrs. Bergren is such an amazing writer and she knows how to keep your hooked until the last page, and even beyond that. Though, she doesn't leave these books off on large cliffhangers, they are still slightly cliff hangers that make you want to read the next book asap. Re-reading this series definitely confirmed that it is a favorite and probably will forever be. I love everything in this series, especially the rich history that is woven throughout. We definitely need more time travel books in the Christian fiction industry.
April 23, 2020
I finished the first 3 books a while ago but I feel that I need to write this review. I know mine will not matter much but I need to try to get the number of stars down, because it definitely doesn't deserve an average of 4.24. I mean come on! Do you know who has around the same amount? Diana Gabaldon. Are you really going to tell me that her Outlander series is equal to this one? Let me tell you this, it's not even coming close! If you want to read a GREAT time travel novel with admirable characters? Read Outlander, it will not disappoint.
I have never been more disappointed in a book I picked based on goodreads reviews, I was expecting a lot because of that. I probably shouldn't have (the last mortal instrument got 4.49 -.- just looked that one up, haven't yet read it, probably will never either but judging her previous it should have never even gotten close to that) or maybe I outgrew the Young Adult genre, I don't know but Lisa Tawn Bergren just didn't deliver in my eyes.
SPOILERS
First of all the author is trying to be way to 'cool' in her writing style, since it's been a while I don't remember all the specific typical teenage girl words she used but I'll give you the one I remember; 'Duh!'. I don't even know what to say about that. This is not fanfiction lady! You can show in a different way that you are writing about a young teenage girl. The amount of time I have been rolling my eyes reading shit like this is not normal, it should have damaged them. But it didn't, luckily.
The heroine Gabriella. Bergren probably tried to write about a brave young girl who her readers could relate to but it was just laughable. Gabriella was not brave, she was stupid. Nothing more, nothing less. She throws herself in every dangerous situation she can, forcing the people who love her to risk their lifes. & If she even acknowledges that later she just shrugs it off with an; 'but I didn't ask for that' attitude. No, you didn't but you knew very well they would do it. If you don't want to think about your own safety then for goodness sake think about the safety of the people around you. Selfish entitled brat. & in the end she dares to have a mental breakdown? Your kidding me right? Do I have to feel sorry now? Nope sorry not happening...
Ok, lets talk about all those dangerous situations the characters in this novel have to face. Do you think for one moment they suffered anything worse then a broken bone? One even survived the plague, the infamous black death. You know? The one which killed 30 to 60% of all Europeans back then? Not to worry, back on his feet in a day or two... One likeable fairly major character died throughout the 3 books. One. Let's repeat that again; ONE! If you don't want your characters do die Mrs Lisa T. Bergren, i'm sure you could have found yourself a peaceful time in history, without war and the black dead knocking on your backdoor. It would have made everything a little more believable, to use your words; DUH!
The last thing im going to throw on the table is the time travel concept. Way to easy. You can cross it as many times as you want, nothing happens. You can even take someone with you, all they have to do is hold onto you really tight! Isn't that great? & wait for it, it also heals you, even if your deadly poisoned. Welp, that's certainly easy! Last but certainly not least, you just simply bring someone back from the dead by travelling back to before they died and get them the hell out of there. That way Gabriella, her sister, father and mother can be one big happy family in fourteenth century Italy. But let's not forget Gabriella shouldn't have it too easy convincing her family why they shouldn't just go right back to the safe, battle/plague free 21st century. Practical down to earth sissy falls in love too (how convenient, could have seen that one coming from the beginning) and mother and father decide that in modern times we lost the essence of life, or some stupid shit like that. I need alcohol even thinking about it, lots of it. Now let me get to bed and cry myself to sleep again that I waisted all that time reading the river of time series.
I have never been more disappointed in a book I picked based on goodreads reviews, I was expecting a lot because of that. I probably shouldn't have (the last mortal instrument got 4.49 -.- just looked that one up, haven't yet read it, probably will never either but judging her previous it should have never even gotten close to that) or maybe I outgrew the Young Adult genre, I don't know but Lisa Tawn Bergren just didn't deliver in my eyes.
SPOILERS
First of all the author is trying to be way to 'cool' in her writing style, since it's been a while I don't remember all the specific typical teenage girl words she used but I'll give you the one I remember; 'Duh!'. I don't even know what to say about that. This is not fanfiction lady! You can show in a different way that you are writing about a young teenage girl. The amount of time I have been rolling my eyes reading shit like this is not normal, it should have damaged them. But it didn't, luckily.
The heroine Gabriella. Bergren probably tried to write about a brave young girl who her readers could relate to but it was just laughable. Gabriella was not brave, she was stupid. Nothing more, nothing less. She throws herself in every dangerous situation she can, forcing the people who love her to risk their lifes. & If she even acknowledges that later she just shrugs it off with an; 'but I didn't ask for that' attitude. No, you didn't but you knew very well they would do it. If you don't want to think about your own safety then for goodness sake think about the safety of the people around you. Selfish entitled brat. & in the end she dares to have a mental breakdown? Your kidding me right? Do I have to feel sorry now? Nope sorry not happening...
Ok, lets talk about all those dangerous situations the characters in this novel have to face. Do you think for one moment they suffered anything worse then a broken bone? One even survived the plague, the infamous black death. You know? The one which killed 30 to 60% of all Europeans back then? Not to worry, back on his feet in a day or two... One likeable fairly major character died throughout the 3 books. One. Let's repeat that again; ONE! If you don't want your characters do die Mrs Lisa T. Bergren, i'm sure you could have found yourself a peaceful time in history, without war and the black dead knocking on your backdoor. It would have made everything a little more believable, to use your words; DUH!
The last thing im going to throw on the table is the time travel concept. Way to easy. You can cross it as many times as you want, nothing happens. You can even take someone with you, all they have to do is hold onto you really tight! Isn't that great? & wait for it, it also heals you, even if your deadly poisoned. Welp, that's certainly easy! Last but certainly not least, you just simply bring someone back from the dead by travelling back to before they died and get them the hell out of there. That way Gabriella, her sister, father and mother can be one big happy family in fourteenth century Italy. But let's not forget Gabriella shouldn't have it too easy convincing her family why they shouldn't just go right back to the safe, battle/plague free 21st century. Practical down to earth sissy falls in love too (how convenient, could have seen that one coming from the beginning) and mother and father decide that in modern times we lost the essence of life, or some stupid shit like that. I need alcohol even thinking about it, lots of it. Now let me get to bed and cry myself to sleep again that I waisted all that time reading the river of time series.
November 26, 2016
Torrent was definitely my favorite book in the River of Time series so far :D There was so much more going on in this book compared to the others! At least to me anyway :P I never wanted to put it down and when I had to, I couldn’t stop thinking about it! I felt more connected to the characters and the world in this book and I could easily picture all of the beautiful scenery of Siena, Italy.
A big plus for me in this book is that we got to see more of Lord Greco (Rodolfo). And I have to say that I really did enjoy his character, because he made the story waaaaay more interesting :P And is it bad that I kind of liked Lord Greco better than Marcello? Lol okaaay maybe not “better”, I just thought that he made the story a little more fun and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I am just being honest lol
But of course I still love Gabi with Marcello, I mean, who wouldn’t ^_^ Marcello is so sweet and you can tell that he really loves her. Another thing I loved about this book is that we got to see the whole Betarrinis family together and I thought that Gabi and Lia's parents were so sweet :)
I am a little sad that we didn’t get to see more of Lia and Luca in this book :/ But hopefully there will be more of them in the others! :D Now I just need to order the last two books and I will be good to go! I really can't wait to get my hands on Bourne & Tributary as soon as I can!
A big plus for me in this book is that we got to see more of Lord Greco (Rodolfo). And I have to say that I really did enjoy his character, because he made the story waaaaay more interesting :P And is it bad that I kind of liked Lord Greco better than Marcello? Lol okaaay maybe not “better”, I just thought that he made the story a little more fun and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I am just being honest lol
But of course I still love Gabi with Marcello, I mean, who wouldn’t ^_^ Marcello is so sweet and you can tell that he really loves her. Another thing I loved about this book is that we got to see the whole Betarrinis family together and I thought that Gabi and Lia's parents were so sweet :)
I am a little sad that we didn’t get to see more of Lia and Luca in this book :/ But hopefully there will be more of them in the others! :D Now I just need to order the last two books and I will be good to go! I really can't wait to get my hands on Bourne & Tributary as soon as I can!
Read
October 7, 2016Review to come :D
August 17, 2011
Spoil-Free-Review
After Cascades emotional and fantastic ending, Gabi and Lia find themselves racing back to 14th-Century Italy. For Gabi she is racing back to her true love, for Lia she races back to save her family and an unspoken romance that has risen in her own heart. Coming back this time however will have its consequences, getting back home will be almost impossible and perhaps out of the question now that a life hangs in the balance.
Gabi knows her family will be making a huge sacrifice to stay in ancient Italy but also knows she tied to Marcello in a way that cant be broken, that is until events change the political atmosphere surrounding Marcello and the nation of Sienna. With a shocking wrench thrown into the plotting, Gabi's life may take a completely new direction than she ever imagined. While those who love her fight back and Gabi risks everything, the torrent that threatens to devour them all rears it ugly head.
My favorite of three, Torrent was a fast rollercoaster of emotion, shocking plot twists and a gorgeous well-done end. I cant review any of the stuff that made Torrent what it was due to not spoiling it for readers, is all I can say is that things happened that I wanted to happen and things happened that shocked me. Lisa threw in some added drama for Gabi that she needed in order to truly see what being with Marcello would mean, she also by the end grew Gabi into a fully developed character that shreds the last lingering thoughts of a 21st century teenager yet still maintains her spunk, bravery and courage.
Now that Ive finally docked the boat after being on a river that turns, spins, crashes, rips you under with its current and then gently calms you with its tranquility, I must say reading the River of Time series has been a marvelous adventure. I love these novels more than cake and that's saying a lot!! Lisa Bergren with her Jedi Master skills at romance, history that doesn't put me to sleep and action that jumps off the pages had me at page one in Waterfall, made me fall in love in Cascade and stole my heart with Torrent. This is a series that will stick with you long after you finish......
After Cascades emotional and fantastic ending, Gabi and Lia find themselves racing back to 14th-Century Italy. For Gabi she is racing back to her true love, for Lia she races back to save her family and an unspoken romance that has risen in her own heart. Coming back this time however will have its consequences, getting back home will be almost impossible and perhaps out of the question now that a life hangs in the balance.
Gabi knows her family will be making a huge sacrifice to stay in ancient Italy but also knows she tied to Marcello in a way that cant be broken, that is until events change the political atmosphere surrounding Marcello and the nation of Sienna. With a shocking wrench thrown into the plotting, Gabi's life may take a completely new direction than she ever imagined. While those who love her fight back and Gabi risks everything, the torrent that threatens to devour them all rears it ugly head.
My favorite of three, Torrent was a fast rollercoaster of emotion, shocking plot twists and a gorgeous well-done end. I cant review any of the stuff that made Torrent what it was due to not spoiling it for readers, is all I can say is that things happened that I wanted to happen and things happened that shocked me. Lisa threw in some added drama for Gabi that she needed in order to truly see what being with Marcello would mean, she also by the end grew Gabi into a fully developed character that shreds the last lingering thoughts of a 21st century teenager yet still maintains her spunk, bravery and courage.
Now that Ive finally docked the boat after being on a river that turns, spins, crashes, rips you under with its current and then gently calms you with its tranquility, I must say reading the River of Time series has been a marvelous adventure. I love these novels more than cake and that's saying a lot!! Lisa Bergren with her Jedi Master skills at romance, history that doesn't put me to sleep and action that jumps off the pages had me at page one in Waterfall, made me fall in love in Cascade and stole my heart with Torrent. This is a series that will stick with you long after you finish......
January 23, 2019
Another action-packed story about modern teen sisters Gabi and Lia and their parents who travel back through time to 14th century Tuscany. Like the first two tales, this one is jam-packed with romance and drama and gorgeous settings. What can I say? This series was perfectly targeted and brilliantly executed--hitting all the sweet spots for a teen series. Lots of fun . . . AND it features the wedding fans crave!
The violence gets intense and somewhat graphic, so not for the faint of heart. But the romance is very sweet. These books are entertaining not deep, so don't expect much realism. I would consider the series appropriate for maybe 15 and up.
The violence gets intense and somewhat graphic, so not for the faint of heart. But the romance is very sweet. These books are entertaining not deep, so don't expect much realism. I would consider the series appropriate for maybe 15 and up.
May 8, 2019
I LOVED the twists in this book! And I especially loved the ending. The series could have ended there and i would be happy but i am glad that Lisa wrote on!!
July 11, 2020
What an intense book! Lisa T Bergren strikes again with the third novel in her River of Time series, Torrent! This novel is filled with suspense, sorrow, joy, love, and some intense battle scenes! I admit I was a bit skeptical to read this series, but I am so glad I took the plunge and cannot wait to see what Ms. Bergren has up her sleeve for the rest of this series.
It has been such a joy to watch Gabriella and Evangelia (and even their mother) change, grow, and mature in fourteenth-century Italy. They have grown closer as a family in the past two novels, and it is beautiful to see their renewed relationship in this third novel. I can't wait to move on to the following novellas and novels that finish out this series to see the characters continue to blossom and thrive!
Note: Though this books is labeled as Young Adult, I would not recommend it to very young readers due to the violent battles and intimate romance described throughout the book.
It has been such a joy to watch Gabriella and Evangelia (and even their mother) change, grow, and mature in fourteenth-century Italy. They have grown closer as a family in the past two novels, and it is beautiful to see their renewed relationship in this third novel. I can't wait to move on to the following novellas and novels that finish out this series to see the characters continue to blossom and thrive!
Note: Though this books is labeled as Young Adult, I would not recommend it to very young readers due to the violent battles and intimate romance described throughout the book.
April 24, 2020
Wow!! Another epic journey!!
I was so excited to be thrust back into the world of Medieval Italy, and boy, was it exciting!
I LOVED catching up again with my favourite characters and seeing Marcello and Luca again. They are literally the epitome of the perfect book boyfriend!! They're everything you could want and more! Hottest guys ever? Check. Super chivalrous? Kind and caring? Crazy about our girls? CHECK!
I loved seeing Gabi and Lia in action again! They have matured so much from the first book, and it was so cool to see them fighting to protect their people.
The plot was also super fast-paced! At times I wanted it to slow down just a bit so I could catch my breath, but as soon as they were back from a battle or adventure, they were right at it again!
A new character was developed: Rodolfo Greco. I honestly thought that nothing could sway my devotion to Gabi/Marcello, but man, did Rodolfo challenge that! I can't wait to see what happens with him.
The development with Gabi and Marcello's relationship was so cute and I was squealing with delight the whole time.
I literally read books 2, 3, 3.1 and 3.2 in the same day!! That's how hooked I am!
Rife with political intrigue and drama, I'd recommend this to all lovers of historical romance with plenty of action.
I was so excited to be thrust back into the world of Medieval Italy, and boy, was it exciting!
I LOVED catching up again with my favourite characters and seeing Marcello and Luca again. They are literally the epitome of the perfect book boyfriend!! They're everything you could want and more! Hottest guys ever? Check. Super chivalrous? Kind and caring? Crazy about our girls? CHECK!
I loved seeing Gabi and Lia in action again! They have matured so much from the first book, and it was so cool to see them fighting to protect their people.
The plot was also super fast-paced! At times I wanted it to slow down just a bit so I could catch my breath, but as soon as they were back from a battle or adventure, they were right at it again!
A new character was developed: Rodolfo Greco. I honestly thought that nothing could sway my devotion to Gabi/Marcello, but man, did Rodolfo challenge that! I can't wait to see what happens with him.
The development with Gabi and Marcello's relationship was so cute and I was squealing with delight the whole time.
I literally read books 2, 3, 3.1 and 3.2 in the same day!! That's how hooked I am!
Rife with political intrigue and drama, I'd recommend this to all lovers of historical romance with plenty of action.
May 25, 2015
I feel like I’m becoming repetitive with this series, but go read it! They really are great and I am enjoying marathoning these books! I’m going to keep this review short because I’ve already reviewed the first two.
The characters are still awesome, and I especially loved that Lord Greco was in this book.
The storyline was super fast-paced and entertaining. I finished Torrent in two days, and immediately went to the novella, Bourne.
My favorite scene was the wedding–I’m not going to say who’s because of spoilers. It was a really sweet scene and it made me excited for the next book in the series.
I did feel like this book was a little rushed, and I wouldn’t have minded reading 200 more pages if it would’ve slowed down a little bit.
Overall, Torrent was really good, and I would definitely recommend continuing with the series. I’m going to give this book 5/5 stars.
If you liked this review and would like to read more, com visit my blog!: http://www.kelvreadsbooks.blog.com
*I was not sent this book for eview by the publisher or author. All opinions are my own. I was in no way compensated for this review.*
The characters are still awesome, and I especially loved that Lord Greco was in this book.
The storyline was super fast-paced and entertaining. I finished Torrent in two days, and immediately went to the novella, Bourne.
My favorite scene was the wedding–I’m not going to say who’s because of spoilers. It was a really sweet scene and it made me excited for the next book in the series.
I did feel like this book was a little rushed, and I wouldn’t have minded reading 200 more pages if it would’ve slowed down a little bit.
Overall, Torrent was really good, and I would definitely recommend continuing with the series. I’m going to give this book 5/5 stars.
If you liked this review and would like to read more, com visit my blog!: http://www.kelvreadsbooks.blog.com
*I was not sent this book for eview by the publisher or author. All opinions are my own. I was in no way compensated for this review.*
December 31, 2017
re-read: still love this series so much
only complaint is I wish we could've seen more of Lia and Luca
only complaint is I wish we could've seen more of Lia and Luca
February 22, 2015
Let me first start out by saying this: This is the third book in the River of Time trilogy, which means two things. First, if you haven't read the first two books, you should check out our reviews of Waterfall and Cascade. Second, if I made it to the third book, you know it has to be good. I don't have a lot of time to spend on a book series that isn't awesome, so you can be assured, this series is awesome!
I wondered, going into this book, what Lisa could possibly have in store for us. How could she keep this story interesting? How could she hold up to the high standard she herself set with the first two books? Well, I shouldn't have been worried, because Lisa is a wonderful story teller. She kept me on the edge of my seat this entire book, wondering how Gabi would escape or overcome each obstacle placed before her. This book is so action-packed and intense that at one point I felt out of breath. I kept thinking that if I were Gabi, I would just scream in exasperation. Like how much more could she possibly endure!
The love story takes a new turn with the amazingly hot and charming Lord Greco. Let me just say, that he stole my heart. He was just.....sigh......yes. I'm not really sure that it's fair that two amazingly rich, gorgeous, charming Italian men fall for Gabi, while I ended up with a guy from Arkansas (sorry, honey, just a joke, <3).
The thing I love most about this series is that there is this modern family placed in the middle of 14th century Italy. It's so intriguing to think about what would happen if I somehow landed in that time period. Would they think I was amazing, or would they think I was a heretic? Would they be in awe of me, or throw me in jail? Who knows how they would behave, but it was exciting to read about this possibility.
This series has everything I love in a book! Gorgeous setting, lots of action and adventure, an amazing family, an intense and well-developed romance, and a storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat. If you haven't read it yet, what are you waiting for? If you need more proof, check out Mundie Moms review here, or Once Upon a Twilight's review here. Even though this is a trilogy, Lisa is hoping to write a fourth book, called Tributary (read an excerpt), and it looks like it will be from Lia's perspective! I'm so excited about this, and I love that Lia will be our voice this time. I hope Lord Greco gets some more face time! :D
Andye
readingteen.net
I wondered, going into this book, what Lisa could possibly have in store for us. How could she keep this story interesting? How could she hold up to the high standard she herself set with the first two books? Well, I shouldn't have been worried, because Lisa is a wonderful story teller. She kept me on the edge of my seat this entire book, wondering how Gabi would escape or overcome each obstacle placed before her. This book is so action-packed and intense that at one point I felt out of breath. I kept thinking that if I were Gabi, I would just scream in exasperation. Like how much more could she possibly endure!
The love story takes a new turn with the amazingly hot and charming Lord Greco. Let me just say, that he stole my heart. He was just.....sigh......yes. I'm not really sure that it's fair that two amazingly rich, gorgeous, charming Italian men fall for Gabi, while I ended up with a guy from Arkansas (sorry, honey, just a joke, <3).
The thing I love most about this series is that there is this modern family placed in the middle of 14th century Italy. It's so intriguing to think about what would happen if I somehow landed in that time period. Would they think I was amazing, or would they think I was a heretic? Would they be in awe of me, or throw me in jail? Who knows how they would behave, but it was exciting to read about this possibility.
This series has everything I love in a book! Gorgeous setting, lots of action and adventure, an amazing family, an intense and well-developed romance, and a storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat. If you haven't read it yet, what are you waiting for? If you need more proof, check out Mundie Moms review here, or Once Upon a Twilight's review here. Even though this is a trilogy, Lisa is hoping to write a fourth book, called Tributary (read an excerpt), and it looks like it will be from Lia's perspective! I'm so excited about this, and I love that Lia will be our voice this time. I hope Lord Greco gets some more face time! :D
Andye
readingteen.net
August 25, 2011
The River of Time series is a Timeless Masterpiece that will capture your heart…
Torrent:
1. a stream of water flowing with great rapidity and violence.
2. a rushing, violent, or abundant and unceasing stream of anything: a torrent of lava.
The title Torrent is so perfectly suited for the third and final installment of the River of Time series. Since falling deeply for Waterfall and Cascade, I couldn’t even fathom the idea of not completing this series. It had me completely and utterly captivated and therefore, a lifetime fan of Lisa T. Bergren.
When looking for a book to read, one that will totally have you thinking about it at all hours of the night even days and weeks after, you know you have read something that is masterly crafted and brilliant.
The Betarrini sister’s are back with an element of surprise. Not only do they have their mother, but they have successfully saved their father. The Betarrini family has set off once again back in time, to be with the men they have come to love. Without fail, Mrs. Bergren has set the pace for action, suspense, lust and romance. There is never an easy path for the She-wolves of Sienna. Their skill and determination has come with a price and they are deeply wanted by Lord Cosmo Paratore. The stakes are higher and the action intense. You will fall in love with some new characters and deeply fall for Lord Rodolfo Greco. (Sorry ladies, he’s taken by my friend Nic) The Betarrini family will work together to overcome obstacles like never before, face tough decisions and rely on their faith to help and see them through.
This story isn’t just all action and romance. There is a deeper story within. It’s about trusting God and having faith in him, believing that everything will turn out for the best in the end. When it’s all said and done, the most important of all is Family and living life to it’s fullest.
The dialogue was smooth, the conflict was fatal, the suspense was a nail-biter and had me gripping the sides of my chair. This is an ABSOLUTE MUST-READ! TORRENT will take your breath away.
September 6, 2011
I loved Torrent just as much as the first two books (Waterfall and Cascade)! This is quite an amazing series. This review will be rather short for I want to let you the reader experience it all for yourselves. I have hope that this may not be the last we see of some of our favorite characters ( check out Lisa's website) she hints that there may be more books:D
The adventure that Gabi and Marcello go on this time around just had me shaking my head and talking to my book, hurray this is awesome, and then NO, NO, NO, NO, THIS CAN NOT BE HAPPENING! The ending was perfect and at the same time, I want more just because, I do.
Great series Mrs. Bergren, and oh please let us have the rest of the stories of these characters.
Clean read
The adventure that Gabi and Marcello go on this time around just had me shaking my head and talking to my book, hurray this is awesome, and then NO, NO, NO, NO, THIS CAN NOT BE HAPPENING! The ending was perfect and at the same time, I want more just because, I do.
Great series Mrs. Bergren, and oh please let us have the rest of the stories of these characters.
Clean read
Read
November 6, 2015Whew, this series was action packed down to the last page. Having switched over to mostly YA books its nice to find one with a knight in shining armor. Loved it!
June 27, 2011
Read the review at iLive, iLaugh, iLove Books.
Wow. I'm sad. Because this series is over. Do you know how fast I devoured it? I read Waterfall one night, Cascade the next... was pining for Torrent's ARC release... Which I finished within one night, too, when I finally got it.
**Spoiler alert: Do not read this review if you have not read this series and are afraid of reading any spoilers. I highly recommend you simply close this page, and open those of Waterfall, Book 1.
And that's partly why this installment of the series appealed less to me. It seemed too fast. In fact, the whole series seemed a little rushed. The ending was very predictable, but really, I wanted no other ending, so I was happy with it. But other than the immediate issues of life and death when there were bad guys attacking, the Betarrini girls didn't really have many problems. Marcello seemed to always be conveniently up for rescuing his lady love whenever needed. Not that the She-Wolves of Siena didn't have trouble. Boy, it seemed like they were attacked everywhere they went. There was no lack of action in this novel, in this entire series, and it was thoroughly enjoyable. Clean, and perfect for all ages. Almost a little too clean. For instance, their dad. He died. He was gone. And then they just went back in time and got him. That feels a little... intrusive. On the whole world. And without even knowing the consequences of their actions, they jump back into their little paradise in 14th century Italy. Too easy.
There were a few issues that I felt were not addressed. For one, Rodolfo. Frankly, I kind of fell in love with him a bit, too. But he just kind of appeared out of no where, proclaiming his love for Gabi. I wish we got to know him a bit more, before he just disappeared altogether.
Also, the plague. The fearsome Black Plague seems to be a major conflict in novel. At least, according to the blurb. But then you read the book, and it's barely addressed. There's more of it in the second book than this one. It seems that the Betarrinis were, once again, let off a bit easy.
I ate up this book, and finished it so quickly I had to flip back and forth with the last page to make sure it was all done. I felt... nothing. It was just gone. I'm really sad that this series has come to an end, because I want more. Everything was tied up nicely, but there's nothing stopping Ms. Bergren from untying the wrappings.
Since it's the final book, I have to give a final tribute to Luca. He's great, guys. Hilarious and charming, with the blond-haired good looks. I loved Marcello, too. Oh, heck, I loved all the guys in this series. It's a must read for fans of fantasy. I couldn't put down the books at all, and I'm sure you won't be able to, either. Thank you, Ms. Bergren, for this amazing historical adventure. I absolutely can't wait for more from you.
Wow. I'm sad. Because this series is over. Do you know how fast I devoured it? I read Waterfall one night, Cascade the next... was pining for Torrent's ARC release... Which I finished within one night, too, when I finally got it.
**Spoiler alert: Do not read this review if you have not read this series and are afraid of reading any spoilers. I highly recommend you simply close this page, and open those of Waterfall, Book 1.
And that's partly why this installment of the series appealed less to me. It seemed too fast. In fact, the whole series seemed a little rushed. The ending was very predictable, but really, I wanted no other ending, so I was happy with it. But other than the immediate issues of life and death when there were bad guys attacking, the Betarrini girls didn't really have many problems. Marcello seemed to always be conveniently up for rescuing his lady love whenever needed. Not that the She-Wolves of Siena didn't have trouble. Boy, it seemed like they were attacked everywhere they went. There was no lack of action in this novel, in this entire series, and it was thoroughly enjoyable. Clean, and perfect for all ages. Almost a little too clean. For instance, their dad. He died. He was gone. And then they just went back in time and got him. That feels a little... intrusive. On the whole world. And without even knowing the consequences of their actions, they jump back into their little paradise in 14th century Italy. Too easy.
There were a few issues that I felt were not addressed. For one, Rodolfo. Frankly, I kind of fell in love with him a bit, too. But he just kind of appeared out of no where, proclaiming his love for Gabi. I wish we got to know him a bit more, before he just disappeared altogether.
Also, the plague. The fearsome Black Plague seems to be a major conflict in novel. At least, according to the blurb. But then you read the book, and it's barely addressed. There's more of it in the second book than this one. It seems that the Betarrinis were, once again, let off a bit easy.
I ate up this book, and finished it so quickly I had to flip back and forth with the last page to make sure it was all done. I felt... nothing. It was just gone. I'm really sad that this series has come to an end, because I want more. Everything was tied up nicely, but there's nothing stopping Ms. Bergren from untying the wrappings.
Since it's the final book, I have to give a final tribute to Luca. He's great, guys. Hilarious and charming, with the blond-haired good looks. I loved Marcello, too. Oh, heck, I loved all the guys in this series. It's a must read for fans of fantasy. I couldn't put down the books at all, and I'm sure you won't be able to, either. Thank you, Ms. Bergren, for this amazing historical adventure. I absolutely can't wait for more from you.
August 16, 2011
Actually, I am so angry right now I could wield a sword every bit as skillfully as Gaby and lop off a few heads. I knew eventually the moment would come when I’d have to close the cover on the last book in the River of Time Series, but now that it’s here...Bubba is angry! I miss Gabby and Marcello, Lia and Luca, and Roldopho and Tomas.
It took every last molecule-sized drop of my will-power to keep from flipping to the last page in TORRENT to find out what happens at the end. Will Marcello and Gaby ultimately be together or not? Nope, not telling. You’ll have to exercise your own self-restraint and find out yourself. Just gotta say, though, it’s well worth the struggle.
This third book in the series throws a few curve balls that I didn’t seen coming. I love it when that happens! Personally, I would’ve liked to have seen a little more closure with Rodolfo at the end, but hey, I’m not complaining. Although—light bulb moment here—perhaps Lisa Bergren could be persuaded to write another trilogy with hunk of knight Lord Greco as the hero, telling his story, eh?
If you love time travels, this is the series for you. And age doesn’t matter. Bergren’s writing captures the interest of teenagers and middle-agers alike. I don’t recommend picking it up half-way through, though. Start at the beginning with Waterfall and enjoy the entire ride.
It took every last molecule-sized drop of my will-power to keep from flipping to the last page in TORRENT to find out what happens at the end. Will Marcello and Gaby ultimately be together or not? Nope, not telling. You’ll have to exercise your own self-restraint and find out yourself. Just gotta say, though, it’s well worth the struggle.
This third book in the series throws a few curve balls that I didn’t seen coming. I love it when that happens! Personally, I would’ve liked to have seen a little more closure with Rodolfo at the end, but hey, I’m not complaining. Although—light bulb moment here—perhaps Lisa Bergren could be persuaded to write another trilogy with hunk of knight Lord Greco as the hero, telling his story, eh?
If you love time travels, this is the series for you. And age doesn’t matter. Bergren’s writing captures the interest of teenagers and middle-agers alike. I don’t recommend picking it up half-way through, though. Start at the beginning with Waterfall and enjoy the entire ride.
March 4, 2018
This series has a place in my heart. From the beginning I found out only the first book was translated in Dutch I bought it in English. Lia and Gabi are just amazing girls and Marcello and Luca are my bae’s like really guyss their hot!!
However this book was the least favourite of the series for me this far. Dont forget me wrong it still was pretty good only it didnt suprise me as I wished it did and I saw the plot coming and for most part I wasn’t wrong about it.
Nevertheless these characters have my heart and I will continue this book series with the hoop this next novel will be better.
I highly recommend this book series for everyone who wants to read a YA historical fiction book with knights and pretty gowns, but also aren’t dirty for a fight or two! Really Gabi and Lia are pretty damn cool heroines!
Enjoy your reading 📖
However this book was the least favourite of the series for me this far. Dont forget me wrong it still was pretty good only it didnt suprise me as I wished it did and I saw the plot coming and for most part I wasn’t wrong about it.
Nevertheless these characters have my heart and I will continue this book series with the hoop this next novel will be better.
I highly recommend this book series for everyone who wants to read a YA historical fiction book with knights and pretty gowns, but also aren’t dirty for a fight or two! Really Gabi and Lia are pretty damn cool heroines!
Enjoy your reading 📖
March 11, 2016
My favorite so far! There was less sword wielding, more suspense, and a greater focus on Gabriella's faith and spiritual development.
If you enjoy learning through historical fiction, this 3rd book holds intriguing facts about Rome, the Catholic church, and social norms of the time. I'm ready for book #4.
If you enjoy learning through historical fiction, this 3rd book holds intriguing facts about Rome, the Catholic church, and social norms of the time. I'm ready for book #4.
January 7, 2015
I don't know where to start,... This book was AMAZING!!!!!!!!!! I laughed, cried, and was like "EEEKK!!!" at some parts!! Definitely the best book out of the series so far! Really excited for the next one!
August 14, 2017
Originally posted at Small Review
I tried not to include any spoilers for the whole series.
Series can be tricky things. The first part needs to hook you, the second part needs to sustain you, and the third part needs to knock your socks off AND satisfy you.
Torrent is a win all around. Lisa T. Bergren so totally knocked my socks off and left me beyond satisfied (except for the fact that I want more, but I'm a glutton like that). Torrent was everything a concluding book should be and more.
Picked up right where Cascade left off
Torrent starts with a bang and doesn't let up until the very end (those were the tensest final 20 pages of my life!) There are some sweet moments where the characters get to rest, but these rests are very brief. All of the pulse-pounding action that I loved so much in the first two books is here in Torrent times ten. This is the end and the stakes are HIGH! No holds were barred and it felt like anything could happen.
If you read Cascade already, then you know something BIG happened right at the end. I loved this plot twist. It really enhanced my enjoyment of the story and led to a lot of awwww moments for me. I'm so happy Lisa T. Bergren did this for Gabi and her family because it couldn't have been more perfect. It was like putting in the final piece of a puzzle to make everything fit exactly how it should.
Expanded (a lot!) on the enigmatic Lord Greco
I like this guy! Ok, so I'm not giving him my heart (Luca has it, then Marcello), but there's not much I wouldn't do to get more Greco. Or should I call him Rodolfo, because, yeah, we're totally on a first name basis now.
Though I'm still not exactly sure if I want to make out with him like crazy, or slap him silly.
One thing is for sure, I love the role he played in this book. Gabi's experiences with him helped sort out my own feelings for Marcello, and I've gotta say, I finally fell for Marcello. Hard. I had always liked and respected him, but wowza, he's darn near perfect now.
What does this have to do with Greco? You'll see. Let's just say that Lisa T. Bergren knows how to write a love triangle in such a way that I actually like it (when usually I HATE them). Best part about it is that it rings true and Gabi never felt like a floozy.
Made me cry, and RAGE, and fist pump!
Yes, I actually did all three of those things. Including the fist pump. I know, so lame, right? Who actually does that?! But, um, yeah, I totally did it (and then I did this little ducking and furtively looking around me to see if anyone saw kind of move). I also exclaimed--out loud--"That's SO COOL!" on at least two occasions.
These were completely involuntary actions. It was like the sheer level of awesome packed into Torrent possessed my body and I lost all ability to maintain the appearance of "collected cool" (like I rock that look normally? Yeah, whatever).
Arrgh, and the rage! Lisa T. Bergren can seriously write bad guys. She puts poor Gabi and her loved ones into these awful situations with these characters who I hate so freaking much that I wish someone would cut off their ears!
Which only makes the books that much more filled with win when that sort of comeuppance actually happens! It's surprising how rare it is to have both bad guys worthy of despising on such a level where you want to curse their entire lineage AND have them get theirs. Lisa delivers on both counts. Score!
Ooooh, but I also said I cried. Prepare yourselves, because as much as I love how awesome Lisa T. Bergren is with the vengeance, and as much as the books are riddled with moments that make me want to hug puppies they're filled with so much Awwww--these aren't perfect fluff stories.
BAD stuff happens. And to good people, too. Your heart is going to swell with happiness, but it's also going to feel like it got ripped out of your chest and stomped on. But as much as I HATE these bad things happening to characters I love, it does make the story so much richer than it would have been without these tragedies.
Of endings...and beginnings?
The River of Time series is everything I ever wanted in a YA book, and so much more. It's a rare thing to read a series that is so consistently good, but The River of Time series is one solid win after another. If anything, each book only improves as the stakes grow ever higher, more characters are introduced, and Gabi grows from a likable teenager into a strong young woman worthy of massive amounts of respect.
Now here is my plea to you: BUY IT! Please. I'll be honest, I'm being totally selfish here. I want more books, plain and simple. I want Lia and Luca's story. I want Greco's story. I want a prequel about Marcello's secret brotherhood of kick-butt warriors (how cool would that be, right?). I want more adventures with Gabi and her family. I want to see . Bottom line, I want more!
I'll even bribe you (click this, it's a link to a giveaway. Yeah, I'm serious about the bribing. (Ends 9/28/2011)
Originally posted at Small Review
I tried not to include any spoilers for the whole series.
Series can be tricky things. The first part needs to hook you, the second part needs to sustain you, and the third part needs to knock your socks off AND satisfy you.
Torrent is a win all around. Lisa T. Bergren so totally knocked my socks off and left me beyond satisfied (except for the fact that I want more, but I'm a glutton like that). Torrent was everything a concluding book should be and more.
Picked up right where Cascade left off
Torrent starts with a bang and doesn't let up until the very end (those were the tensest final 20 pages of my life!) There are some sweet moments where the characters get to rest, but these rests are very brief. All of the pulse-pounding action that I loved so much in the first two books is here in Torrent times ten. This is the end and the stakes are HIGH! No holds were barred and it felt like anything could happen.
If you read Cascade already, then you know something BIG happened right at the end. I loved this plot twist. It really enhanced my enjoyment of the story and led to a lot of awwww moments for me. I'm so happy Lisa T. Bergren did this for Gabi and her family because it couldn't have been more perfect. It was like putting in the final piece of a puzzle to make everything fit exactly how it should.
Expanded (a lot!) on the enigmatic Lord Greco
I like this guy! Ok, so I'm not giving him my heart (Luca has it, then Marcello), but there's not much I wouldn't do to get more Greco. Or should I call him Rodolfo, because, yeah, we're totally on a first name basis now.
Though I'm still not exactly sure if I want to make out with him like crazy, or slap him silly.
One thing is for sure, I love the role he played in this book. Gabi's experiences with him helped sort out my own feelings for Marcello, and I've gotta say, I finally fell for Marcello. Hard. I had always liked and respected him, but wowza, he's darn near perfect now.
What does this have to do with Greco? You'll see. Let's just say that Lisa T. Bergren knows how to write a love triangle in such a way that I actually like it (when usually I HATE them). Best part about it is that it rings true and Gabi never felt like a floozy.
Made me cry, and RAGE, and fist pump!
Yes, I actually did all three of those things. Including the fist pump. I know, so lame, right? Who actually does that?! But, um, yeah, I totally did it (and then I did this little ducking and furtively looking around me to see if anyone saw kind of move). I also exclaimed--out loud--"That's SO COOL!" on at least two occasions.
These were completely involuntary actions. It was like the sheer level of awesome packed into Torrent possessed my body and I lost all ability to maintain the appearance of "collected cool" (like I rock that look normally? Yeah, whatever).
Arrgh, and the rage! Lisa T. Bergren can seriously write bad guys. She puts poor Gabi and her loved ones into these awful situations with these characters who I hate so freaking much that I wish someone would cut off their ears!
Which only makes the books that much more filled with win when that sort of comeuppance actually happens! It's surprising how rare it is to have both bad guys worthy of despising on such a level where you want to curse their entire lineage AND have them get theirs. Lisa delivers on both counts. Score!
Ooooh, but I also said I cried. Prepare yourselves, because as much as I love how awesome Lisa T. Bergren is with the vengeance, and as much as the books are riddled with moments that make me want to hug puppies they're filled with so much Awwww--these aren't perfect fluff stories.
BAD stuff happens. And to good people, too. Your heart is going to swell with happiness, but it's also going to feel like it got ripped out of your chest and stomped on. But as much as I HATE these bad things happening to characters I love, it does make the story so much richer than it would have been without these tragedies.
Of endings...and beginnings?
The River of Time series is everything I ever wanted in a YA book, and so much more. It's a rare thing to read a series that is so consistently good, but The River of Time series is one solid win after another. If anything, each book only improves as the stakes grow ever higher, more characters are introduced, and Gabi grows from a likable teenager into a strong young woman worthy of massive amounts of respect.
Now here is my plea to you: BUY IT! Please. I'll be honest, I'm being totally selfish here. I want more books, plain and simple. I want Lia and Luca's story. I want Greco's story. I want a prequel about Marcello's secret brotherhood of kick-butt warriors (how cool would that be, right?). I want more adventures with Gabi and her family. I want to see . Bottom line, I want more!
I'll even bribe you (click this, it's a link to a giveaway. Yeah, I'm serious about the bribing. (Ends 9/28/2011)
Originally posted at Small Review
October 18, 2018
I enjoyed this book though not as much as I enjoyed books 1 and 2. As a conclusion type book ( though there has since been a book 4 and two novellas) it worked kind of well but the plot line felt a little wishy washy in the middle and I had to push a little to keep reading. There weren’t too many surprises in this book and the middle felt a bit like the author was trying to pad it it a bit before getting to the conclusion. The main character Gabriella also seemed younger in this book, she kept going on and on about how being in the past and made her grow up a lot quicker and then in the next breath would be gushing about how good looking Marcello was and generally acting like a lovesick teenager.
Over all though i did still enjoy this book and the series so far and probably will still pick up the two novellas and book 4 sometime in the future.
Over all though i did still enjoy this book and the series so far and probably will still pick up the two novellas and book 4 sometime in the future.
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