Book Review: Glittering Promises by Lisa T. Bergren

Lisa T. Bergren’s popular Grand Tour series concludes as Cora Kensington journeys farther into Italy, wrestles with a terrible ultimatum from her father, and comes to terms with the Father who will never fail her. America’s newest heiress must decide if her potential fortune is rationale enough to give up her freedom and all that God is leading her toward. And when her newly-discovered siblings are threatened with ruin, her quandary deepens. Then as Cora nears Rome, more journalists are track the news story of the decade—“Copper Cora,” the rags-to-riches girl—and want to know more about her family and the men vying for her attention. Meanwhile, a charming Italian countess decides that if Cora isn’t going to claim Will’s heart, she might just try...

Our Thoughts...
I gave this series another try partially because I got so curious and I received it as a gift (one or more Lisa Bergren books every Christmas!). I found that this book was much better than the second book and just as good as the first! Less drama for me (although Will was still a tad bit annoying because of his jealousy and pride) and more laughter and fun times. Cora seemed to have changed considerably from the second book to the third, having matured and seemed to have grasped her own power. At times though, she seemed out of control and was less grateful for the luxuries available to her but it wasn't too bad. And she was an enjoyable character that made you laugh and cry when she interacted with Will and her brothers and sisters. I appreciated Will more in the third book than the others because he really cared for Cora and focused more on what was best for others. I ended up liking him more than I thought in the beginning. 

The plot was exciting and I was constantly turning the pages, anticipating what was next. Heartache, love, death, happiness, and jealousy played out in this final book and I would have never expected the major event near the end. But I had a bad feeling about Pierre, whom I have loved from the first book, turns out that he was one of the bad guys. Even though you knew who Cora would choose to marry in the end of the second book, the Frenchman comes back to make sure that even a piece of Cora's heart doesn't  belong to him. He keeps coming back and I gradually 
came to hate him, even if his heart was broken into a million pieces. This series was well finished and I am really glad that I read the final book to see if Cora's and Will's love could stand the hardest test that they have faced yet.

-ShewolfLia17

Deluge Cover!!!

So I just have to announce that Lisa T. Bergren has the cover of Deluge revealed on Christmas Day! Being the newest and final book of the River of Time series, which is the story of the Black Plague and the Forelli's and Beterrini's survival with their dearest friends. I know that the author said that she would release the book this spring and she hopes to begin writing it in January. Here's the beautiful cover with a little girl on the front (I don't want to spoil it for anyone who has not read the newest book yet).

-ShewolfLia17

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to all my book club members and the readers and have a Happy New Year! There will be more book reviews over Christmas break and a cover reveal for Deluge, the newest book to be released in the River of Time series. I heard it will be on facebook on Christmas day for anyone who is as eager as I am!

-ShewolfLia17

Book Review: Grave Consequences by Lisa T. Bergren

For Cora Kensington, the journey of a lifetime takes unexpected twists. And her future—her very life—depends on the decisions she’ll make at each crossroad. As her European tour with her newfound family takes her through Austria, France, and Italy, an unseen enemy trails close behind. Meanwhile, a forbidden love continues to claim her heart, putting everyone’s plans in danger.

And as Cora stays one step ahead of it all, what might need the most protection is her own heart, torn between the dramatic pursuit of a dashing Frenchman and a man who has been quietly staking claim to her affections all along. Love has dangers all its own. She must escape the bonds of the past and discover the faith to make the right choices, as each one has grave consequences.

Our Thoughts...

Being the second book in the series (Glamourus Illusions is the first), I just couldn't not buy the second book! The second installment is basically the same as the first and contains even more information about famous landmarks in Italy, France, and many other places along the way. Being a history lover and loved the history sessions from the author's other books, I found that it included more depth and made it all the more realistic. I felt like this story gave me an insight and that I was on this vacation, the grand tour that is all about discovering who you are as a young adult and having more independence. I've never been to Europe before and now after reading this series, I HAVE to go! 

Cora seemed to have found part of herself at this part of the tour but I seriously felt like she just got more and more confused in some cases and it seemed as though she's feeling even more torn between her wealth and status and her comfort place, home in Montana. She becomes closer to her sisters and brother and they in turn, seem to be learning much more than her and through tears, happiness, and jealousy, they become more like a true family. That also accept her more, my favourite scenes are Cora and Felix's and how they come to terms with being close siblings. Felix is surely my favourite character, he's always jolly and accepts new things very easily. He also takes good care of his sisters and at is the clown! Especially the scene where Cora talks to him in a museum and he wished that he could stab himself with a fork rather than to wait through the history lesson! I still didn't like Will, he is a good character but I find that he sometimes comes to the wrong conclusion, but I liked that he wrestled with his self control and tried to hold himself back. But at the same time, he was never himself because of his lies and desperately trying to hide his feelings for Cora. The ending seemed a bit rushed as if everything was so perfect, it didn't need anymore. I felt after reading this book, that there isn't a need to have a third book. But maybe I get a surprise! This book is very similar to the first one and I'm interested to get my hands on the third and final book to this series!

-ShewolfLia17 

Book Review: Glamourus Illusions by Lisa T. Bergren

When Cora Kensington learns she is the illegitimate daughter of a copper king, her life changes forever. Even as she explores Europe with her new family, she discovers that the most valuable journey is within. The first book in the Grand Tour series takes you from the farms of Montana through England and France on an adventure of forgiveness, spiritual awakening, and self-discovery.

Our Thoughts...

This wonderful series caught my eye when I saw the beautiful cover and the elegant dress. Not to mention that I've never disliked a book of Lisa T. Bergen's! I've always wanted to live in a lifestyle like in the early nineteen hundreds. The plot was enjoyable and the characters had moderate depth to them. The main character was realistic and relatable. She had many faults, as did her friends. She learned many lessons and discovered new things as she matured with God, and His wonderful plans for her and her siblings. Overall, a light and fresh read for anyone who loves historical fiction and drama.

However, there was too much drama for my taste and I felt that I was stuck in a love triangle that was probably more obsession than love. Cora overreacted a bit at times and can't seem to decide for herself and what she wants. I find that as she continues her journey,  instead of finding who she truly is and her identity, she becomes even more lost and confused because of the many suitors and 
spoiled children surrounding her. She does learn some things about life and how it isn't fair, but she seems stuck in some places and can't move on. With all said, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and loved some of the spiritual scenes and especially the scenes with her and Pierre (a rich Frenchman) who really has some deep feelings for Cora at times. In the beginning I thought that he might be the antagonist and do something bad, but he was friendly and wanted what was best for Cora. I find Will to be a bit annoying with his ever changing emotions. This series was a good, fast, and light read. There are two more books to this historic series, read them!

-ShewolfLia17

Book Review: Phantom of the Opera by Gaston

The Phantom of the Opera was first published as a serialisation in Le Gaulois from September 23, 1909 to January 8, 1910. 

The Phantom of the Opera lives under a famous opera house. A mere chorus girl, Christine Daae, becomes, under his guidance, a well known singer with a beautiful voice. But her old child hood sweetheart, the Vicount Raoul de Changy, has also entered the picture. The past comes back to haunt her, the future ahead is uncertain, and the present is undecided. Who will win the heart of Christine?; the handsome, rich Raoul or the masked Angel of Music? A story of romance, murder, sacrifice and sadness, this riveting, seductive tale will keep your emotions high until the very last page of the shocking conclusion.

Our Thoughts...

This book was an enjoyable thriller, not too haunting, not too fake, but a realistic story of a Phantom who isn't too plain, and the best antagonist you will find. He is so mysterious for his actions and his mask makes him all the more intriguing, but who is really behind it? As a classic thriller, the riveting plot will take you from the stunning chandelier in the prestiguis opera to the dark hidden cellars, where death looms and lakes and houses are obscured from the rest of the world. And what about the Phantom and his mask that he wears inside his soul, which is revealed and the shocking actions he commits because of his anger and resentment. 

From rooms full of deceptive mirrors to mysterious letters and glowing eyes, the action never stops. The love triangle is especially interesting too, given that Raoul is a true gentleman and the Phantom is just obsessed over the naive Christine. I found this novel to be one of my favourites not only because of the plot, but because there is a lot of symbolism, which also makes this book a great essay.  
There is also a movie, a musical that captures the real story with a slight change in the plot. Pick up the book and movie today!

-ShewolfLia17  

Book Review: The Picture Of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

                                           

"The painter stared in amazement. It was so unlike Dorian to speak like that. What had happened to him? Was Lord Henry's evil influence already at work? "

Our Thoughts...

This book has been around for a while now, and is recognized as a classic. I enjoyed reading it, although it isn't the best book I have read. I recommend it to mature readers, who are not content with a 'fairy tale' plot. It has a bit of history in it as well, as it takes place in 19th century London. 

I don't want to give away too much, but it is basically about the main character, Dorian Gray, a fashionable young man who sells his soul for eternal youth and beauty. There is a deep moral behind this book. It will give you alot to think about! You will learn how the right kind of company can make or break you. This book has also been turned into a movie, staring Ben Barnes! So after reading this book, the movie will make a great treat.

There are 2 copies of this in the NCC Library! Hurry up, you dont want to miss out on this great novel! 

By: Gabs99

Book Review: Bourne and Tributary by Lisa T. Bergren

It's possible to beat a She-Wolf. But you cannot keep her down... The Betarrinis and the boys they love are back with these two novellas that follow Waterfall, Cascade and Torrent.

In Bourne, the story picks up right where Torrent left off...Find out what happened to wounded warriors returning from battle, to the Betarrinis, fighting for the men who've captured their hearts, and what will happen to them next... A year later, in Tributary, Lia struggles to overcome the fear that constant battle has heaped upon her; Gabi and Marcello face an unexpected crisis; and Lord Greco may be ready to leave the grief and loss of his past behind him, so that he might grab hold of the future...

Our Thoughts...

In the newest addition to the series, these two novellas are a little too short (we all wanted more!) but the writing never seemed endless and the plot never got repetitive. These smaller books are  from Evangelia's and Gabriella's point of view, the previous books were from only Gabriella's, but Lia changed it up a bit. But I must admit, I loved Gabriella and her ways. In Tributary, everyone 
got their time in the spotlight and their POV except Marcello. I just want to get inside of his head and see Gabi and everyone from his perspective! The overall story was incredible as usual, Tributary is the second last book to the series! 

Continuing straight from Torrent, the action never ceases! Marcello hovers on the verge of death and faces challenges to recover after battle. Luca and Lia continue to flirt endlessly until you just want to shout "just ask her for her hand in marriage!!!" The plague still looms and Marcello must gather enough supplies to last the Castello for a year and continues to 
protect his lady. To avoid any spoilers, I will skip over their story crisis! Deluge will be the next and last book in the series and will be released this winter. In Deluge, the Forelli's and Betarrinis will face the horrible plague of 1338! Will they all live through it? Stay tuned for the upcoming Deluge book and review! 

Content

Language- none

Sexual Content- mild (mild suggestions appropriate for teen) Violence- sword fighting (weapons, murder, battles)

-ShewolfLia17

Book Review: Torrent by Lisa T. Bergren

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.

Our Thoughts...

This is the third book in the River of Time series and matches perfectly with the two previous books. This was our favourite book or most of us liked Torrent best. This is probably the most serious book in the series with life and death looming in all of the situations. Gabriella, especially must endure terrible events and makes the ultimate choice to stay forever...but are her parents and sister willing too?

Gabriella matures considerably in this book. She is no longer the awkward teenager from Waterfall or a a stubborn girl in cascade but a woman who thinks about others and their wishes. Marcello still waits, even after a year between Cascade and Torrent for his bride to say yes. He especially matures and is one of the leaders in the Nine, which is a politically lead group for Siena. While Castello Forelli is still ruled by Firenze and Fortino's life is hovering between life and death, Marcello has to make a move to save his brother, his Castello, and protect his lady. The entire book was refreshing and amazing! You will enjoy the battles, handsome Italian knights saving damsels in distress, and the power of friendship in this fun read.

Content
Language- none
Sexual Content- Mild (mild suggestions before the chapter closes)
Violence- Sword Fighting (weapons, blood, death)

-ShewolfLia17

The Russians are coming! Book Review by Michael Phillips and Judith Pella

My recommendation today is for semi-lovers of history, and die-hard lovers of fiction.  The series by Judith Pella entitled "The Russians" is an accurate view although fictional story of Tsarist Russia during a very troubled portion of their history.  You will follow a peasant girl and a family of the aristocracy as they work through issues of wealth and poverty, privilege and servitude, faith and self-sufficiency.  Oh, and did I mention the palace intrigues, the handsome prince and the brutal Russian winters?

I enjoyed these books (and I did read all 7 several times) because they gave me a beautiful window on a period of history that I knew very little about.  My faith was challenged as I read of the challenges to Anna's faith, the birth and growth of faith in Sergei, and the environment that both fostered and discouraged a belief in God.  Enjoy!

Our NCC library has 1-6 of these books, so quickly grab them before someone else does!  Bookworm 55

Book Review: Cascade by Lisa T. Bergren

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. When they arrive, weeks have passed and all of Siena longs to celebrate the heroines who turned the tide in the battle against Florence—while the Florentines will go to great lengths to see them dead. But Marcello patiently awaits, and Gabi must decide if she’s willing to leave her family behind for good in order to give her heart to him forever.

Our Thoughts...

This is probably the greatest action-filled book you will find that 

not only includes the lovable, courageous characters that won your 

heart in Waterfall, but the battles, love, and faith continues in this epic sequel! 

Gabriella returns with Lia once again and persuades their doubtful mother to travel back to the very real people in 1343 who long to celebrate the victory over Paratore's Castello and congratulate their heroes, whom they have nicknamed the "She Wolfs". But it has been three whole months since they have disappeared from Siena and many changes have been made in that time of peace. And while they celebrate and are invited to dazzling balls and greeting Siena's people, the Beterrini's and Forelli's are once again in the midst of danger. But that doesn't mean that they aren't prepared! A new mysterious character appears and seems so intriguing with their political ties and takes major risks because of a great secret that has never been revealed before...

A Warning!!! There is a huge cliffhanger at the end, be ready with Torrent, the third book to find out what happens to the clan next!

Read Cascade for November Reading Month, you will not regret it!

-ShewolfLia17

Book Review: Waterfall by Lisa T. Bergren

What do you do when your knight in shining armor lives, literally, in a different world?

Most American teenagers want a vacation in Italy, but the Betarrini sisters have spent every summer of their lives among the romantic hills with their archaelogist parents. Stuck among the rubble of the medieval castles in rural Tuscany, on yet another hot, dusty archaeological site, Gabi and Lia are bored out of their minds...until Gabi places her hand atop a handprint in an ancient tomb and finds herself in fourteenth-century Italy. And worse yet, in the middle of a fierce battle between knights of two opposing forces. Suddenly Gabi's summer in Italy is much, much more interesting.

Our Thoughts...

This was the first book our book group read, it did not disappoint us!This story is packed with action, intriguing scenarios, surprises at every turn, and romance that will make you swoon. The plot was dramatic and suspenseful, and the romance wasn't over the top gushy.

-The story of in first person (which made me hesitate to read this at first)

-it is a YA book but many adults have loved reading Waterfall

Overview of a Few Characters

We LOVE Gabriella Betarrini and her amazing personality that is between a daring, slightly immature teenager and a responsible woman. She is extremely independent and stubborn, as her sister, Evangelia. She is no woman needing Prince Charming to save her (although there is a Prince Charming in the story)! We also ADORE Marcello Forelli, who was an exceptionally handsome Italian knight! Responsible and caring, he was just...perfect! Luca Forelli was a clown in the book! He is also a knight who is cousins with Marcello. He wasn't our favourite but was still hilarious and charming with his laid back attitude.

Content
Language- none
Sexual content- mild
Violence- moderate (sword fighting and battles) 
This book is a fast read, perfect for November Reading Month!

-ShewolfLia17