Book Review: Torrent (River of Time #3)

By: Lisa T Bergren

Published by: David C Cook

To Be Released on: September 1st, 2011

Source: book from author to review

Series: Book 3 in The River of Time Series

5 stars- This Series Is Simply Fabulous

Purchase from: Amazon| Barnes & Noble

When Gabi and Lia finally learn to surf the river of time, they realize they must make hard choices about life and love in 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.

Torrent is fabulous! What a perfect way to wrap up an absolutely fantastic series. I love what Lisa does with this story line and her characters. There's a lot of great action scenes, the romance is so well done and taken to the next level in the best possible way, and the twists are fabulous. To complicate matters, both Gabi and Marcello have doubts. I mean, it's kinda of hard not to when Lord Greco has a part in this, and what a fabulously twisted character he is! Lisa kept me guessing right up to the very end with him and his motives.

The love story between Marcello and Gabi is captivating, beautifully written. Marcello is such a well written Knight in shining armor, literally, and he's definitely set a new standard on my list of fictional characters. I love the way he adores, admires, loves and respects Gabi. He'd do anything for her, and is more than capable of taking down an army to protect her, and yet he allows Gabi to be herself. She's definitely a fierce, butt kicking heroine who is more than capable of defending herself, and those she loves. Gabi has quickly become one of my favorite heroines. She's tough, she's loyal, she'll do anything for those she loves, and in the end she makes the ultimate sacrifice for love. One of the things I admire about her, is she's not out to prove a point. She can easily hold her own in war, but she allows Marcello to help her when she needs it. The other thing I like about Gabi is she thinks things through. She's intelligent and practical. I found Gabi's insecurities she has through out the story relatable and realistic. I can't elaborate without giving away some major spoilers.

This series is simply perfect. I absolutely love Lisa's writing, and I've found myself easily whisked away with each book in the series. The historical aspect of her stories are engaging and so richly detailed, that it feels like I've gone back to the early 14th century with Gabi and her family. The romance, the action and the humor are all fantastic! Aside from Gabi and Marcello, I love Gabi's sister Lia and Marcello's cousin Luca. They have this chemistry that pops right off the pages and of course who wouldn't be charmed by Luca's good looks, and witty one liners. Lia herself is just as fierce as her sister Gabi. I loved the bond the two sisters have. I also liked the role Gabi's family plays in this storyline. There are many things I've come to love about this series. It's layered with well written historical elements, a strong family theme, the theme of faith (which isn't over powering at all, but it blends in perfectly with the time period), and love.

I highly recommend picking up this clean cut, must have series. Waterfall, Cascade and Torrent will sweep you back into time, make you fall in love with their characters, and leave you wanting so much more of this beautifully written series.

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Be sure to follow our River of Time blog tour that kicks off tomorrow! Don't forget to pick up a copy of Torrent on Thursday when it's out! AND because I love this series so much, I'm giving away a SIGNED copy of both Waterfall & Cascade! You know the drill, just fill out the form below to enter.

- This is open Internationally (but our international giveaway policy applies)

- You must be 13 yrs & older to enter

- 1 entry per person

- This giveaway will end on September 20th, 2011