Once and Always by Judith McNaught

FACT- This is not a book I would normal read however during a recent Q&A with my favorite author Kristin Ashley she mentioned her favorite romance couple of all time was from this series. (Almost Heaven, Sequels #3 to be exact). That’s mighty high praise in my book! Therefore I decided to check out this series starting with this one.

Now fellas, please understand that I really, truly tried to immerse myself in this story. I kept saying to myself “If Kristin Ashley recommends it…it’s gotta be awesome.” Unfortunately I never connected with the characters or setting.

Therefore I’m forced to file this one away in the DNF pile.

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Deluge by Lisa Tawn Bergren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After finishing Torrent (River of Time #3) I (incorrectly) assumed that was the last book of the series. The ending, albeit abrupt satisfied my inquiring mind regarding the characters. I believe the word I used previously to describe my appetite for the first 3 books of the series was “devoured”. Yes, I loved the first 3 books and couldn’t get enough. Reading the books while cooking dinner, while my kids brushed their teeth and trying to fold laundry was almost necessary so that I could continue to find out what would happen next. So the fact that there were MORE BOOKS of these intriguing characters by such a fantastic author made me feel like doing cartwheels in my driveway. Wahoo!
Then, as I began to tuck myself into the story and follow the characters I found my attention evaporating. Wait, what?!? How is that possible you ask! Well, let’s just say the battle scenes and energy that I loved so much in the first few books became taxing and repetitive. I became tired of the blood and misery of the time period. At times I imagined the author as a masochist who couldn’t stop reveling in her character’s struggles. (Sorry Lisa!) It seemed as if every time I turned around there was more heartache and loss.
Out of loyalty to the author and characters I had fallen in love with I forced myself to finish the book. Le sigh. I’d recommend this book to individuals with an insatiable appetite for bloody battle stories.

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Cascade by Lisa Tawn Bergren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cascade is the 2nd book in the “River of Time” series by Lisa Tawn Bergren. Thank the heavens this story starts off right where the 1st book (Waterfall) ended. I don’t think my nerves could have handled waiting much longer to discover what became of our 2 She-Wolf sisters! Gabi and Lia have just returned from the past and are thrust into the reality of modern day life.
I’m hesitant in my review as to not spoil the book for any future readers. In this case I guess brevity is the best option.
The aspects of the first novel that drew me in continued in this story as well. The Betarrini sisters continue to impress with a refreshing mixture of beauty, passion, strength and determination. Throughout the novel both leading ladies use the adversity they face to further define who they are as individuals, sisters, daughters and romantic partners. Very much enjoyed the evolution of both characters. Admittedly I was not a huge fan of Lia in the first story after she announces to anyone that will listen that she’s traveled back in time. (Rule #1- If you go back in time DON’T TELL ANYONE.) However in this book she really comes into her own and flourishes beside her sister.

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Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wowzers. First, let me start off by explaining that this book has patiently waited on my “Want to Read” list for over a year. Yes, I admit I’ve overlooked this gem for far too long based on a negative review that made mention of Gabriella noticing how attractive men were when she happens upon them in the heat of battle. The reviewer referred to the novel as silly and thus, I avoided this book for far too long. As I began the book I still had my doubts but the further I read the more I was hooked.

With that being said…now that I’ve finally read the book I’ll do my best in convincing you to read it as well. CORRECTION- When I said I read the book I guess it would be more accurate to state that I devoured all 3 books in the series in 2 days. Allow me to share with you my thoughts and fawn over the beautiful characters that Lisa Tawn Bergren managed to create.
Let us start with the strong, compassionate and captivating heroine Gabriella “Gabi” Betarrini. As a 17 year old thrust 700 years in the past she manages to inspire everyone she encounters. Time and time again she demonstrates several qualities I admire in a female character.
As the story unfolds the author continues to introduce new and interesting characters, plot twists that kept me entertained and enough tender moments between family and friends to remind me of the high stakes.

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