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