Review: Estuary (Oceans of Time #1) by Lisa T. Bergren

About the Book

Can a family bond stand the test of time?

Lady Tiliani Forelli is the epitome of the She-Wolves who raised her, an adept archer with a mind of her own. It is long past time for her to wed, but she deems each young lord who comes to bid for her hand lacking. With battles upon their border, and rumors of war growing louder on every front, Lady Forelli’s decision could secure her kingdom’s peace . . . or bring about its destruction.

Centuries later, history major Luciana Betarrini takes a summer job alongside her twin, Domenico, as a period actor at Castello Forelli in Italy. As incoming college seniors, this might be their last chance to spend meaningful time together, so she’s soaking up every minute. But when Nico's theory that their lost Betarrini relatives have traveled through time becomes potentially real—and they might be able to follow—Luci fears they’ll be forever divided.

In this new trilogy, author Lisa T. Bergren is extending the world originally created in her bestselling River of Time series.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I’m a huge fan of the original River of Time series. In fact, it’s the series that got me hooked on Christian Fiction in the first place. I was so excited when I heard about this new series. A little bit nervous too. How could it possibly live up to the original? I had no need to worry, though. This was another fantastic and thrilling trip back to medieval Italy.

I liked all the new characters. I’ll admit that I was a little suspicious of one of them, but I genuinely enjoyed getting to know all of them. And I loved seeing some old favorite characters. It was so nice to catch up with them!

There are two POVs: Luciana from the present and Tiliani from medieval times. I really enjoyed having two different perspectives. They both had distinct voices, so I had no trouble keeping them straight.

This book is good for old fans and new alike! It’s not a requirement to read the original series. It stands alone perfectly fine, but I'm sure you’ll be eager for another trip back to medieval Italy! I know I am!

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Estuary (Oceans of Time #1) by Lisa T. Bergren

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring Estuary (Oceans of Time #1) by Lisa T. Bergren.

About the Book

Can a family bond stand the test of time?

Lady Tiliani Forelli is the epitome of the She-Wolves who raised her, an adept archer with a mind of her own. It is long past time for her to wed, but she deems each young lord who comes to bid for her hand lacking. With battles upon their border, and rumors of war growing louder on every front, Lady Forelli’s decision could secure her kingdom’s peace . . . or bring about its destruction.

Centuries later, history major Luciana Betarrini takes a summer job alongside her twin, Domenico, as a period actor at Castello Forelli in Italy. As incoming college seniors, this might be their last chance to spend meaningful time together, so she’s soaking up every minute. But when Nico's theory that their lost Betarrini relatives have traveled through time becomes potentially real—and they might be able to follow—Luci fears they’ll be forever divided.

In this new trilogy, author Lisa T. Bergren is extending the world originally created in her bestselling River of Time series.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

In all my daydreams about time traveling to medieval Italy, none included being in a wagon, bouncing over cobblestone streets, with my hands tied behind my back.

Friday 56

"Aurelio would skin me alive if he learned I had escorted you outside the gates, unarmed. Let me get my broadsword. And four of our men ready to keep watch over us. They shall alert us if anyone approaches."

What have you been reading lately?

Book Beginnings: The Noble Servant by Melanie Dickerson

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading, along with your initial thoughts/impressions. 

This week I'm featuring The Noble Servant by Melanie Dickerson

The year 1365, Barony of Mallin, the Holy Roman Empire

"Where do you think you are going looking like a beggar?" Mother asked.  Magdalen's hand was on the door.  "Just walking."

My Thoughts:

I'm very interested to know where Magdalen's going and why she's dressed the way she is.

What's the first line (or so) of the book you're currently reading?  Leave a comment and let me know.

Waiting on Wednesday: The Noble Servant by Melanie Dickerson

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that highlights upcoming releases we are eagerly anticipating.

This week I'm featuring The Noble Servant by Melanie Dickerson, releasing May 9.

Summary

She lost everything to an evil conspiracy . . . but that loss may just give her all she ever wanted.

Since meeting Steffan, the Duke of Wolfberg, at Thornbeck Castle, Lady Magdalen has not been able to stop thinking about him. She knows—as a penniless lady with little to offer in terms of a dowry—she has no real hope of marrying such a highly titled man, so it comes as a great surprise when she receives a letter from him, asking for her hand in marriage.

But all is not what it seems at Wolfberg Castle. Steffan has been evicted by his scheming uncle, and his cousin has taken over the title of duke. Left for dead, Steffan is able to escape, and disguised as a shepherd, hopes to gain entry to the castle to claim the items that will prove he is the true Duke of Wolfberg.

Journeying to the castle, Magdalen has no idea what awaits her, but she certainly did not expect her loyal maidservant to turn on her. Forcing Magdalen to trade places with her, the servant plans to marry the duke and force Magdalen to tend the geese.

Without their respective titles—and the privileges that came with them—Steffan and Magdalen are reunited in the shepherd’s field. Together they conspire to get back their rightful titles. But they must hurry . . . or else they risk losing it all to the uncle’s evil plan.

Why I need it...

I've loved every single one of Melanie Dickerson's books and am always eager to see what she comes up with next.  The Noble Servant sounds like another great fairy tale retelling!

What book are you waiting on?  Leave a comment below and let me know.