Paperback: 352 pages
Release date: February 1st, 2011
In Waterfall, American teenager Gabi Betarrini accidently finds herself in Fourteenth-Century Italy . . . Knights. Swords. Horses. Armor. And Italian hotties. Most American teens want an Italian vacation, but the Betarrini sisters have spent every summer of their lives there with their archaeologist parents. Stuck on yet another hot, dusty dig, they are bored out of their minds... until they place their hands atop handprints in an ancient tomb and find themselves catapulted into the Fourteenth Century and in the middle of a fierce battle between knights bent on killing one another.
This book is a mix of YA Historical Fiction, Science Fiction, and Romance. It’s the first time that I read a time travelling book because I always see them in movies. I literally squealed in delight upon receiving it in the mail! And as what the rave reviews I’ve read had promised, Waterfall was a fantastic read. I was absorbed by the story from the very beginning, and it never failed to entertain me ‘til the very last page.
Waterfall was unique in a sense that the time Gabi and Lia travelled into was during the 14th century. I have little knowledge about the 1300s, except that Dante Alighieri lived during that time. It was fiction but some of the things mentioned actually happened. It was set in Italy, a place I’d love and hope to visit someday. The places (except for Florence) were unfamiliar but I never felt confused, thanks to Ms. Bergren’s great talent in executing every detail in the story. She created such intricate yet coherent novel that makes up for a riveting adventure.
I have nothing but love for the characters. Gabi is a clever and an independent heroine. I have a feeling that she could adapt to any era because of her shrewdness. Her strong resolve and feisty spirit caught the eyes and the heart of Fortelli’s future lord, Marcello.
Unfortunately, Marcello is promised to be betrothed to another woman who will guarantee the safety of Forelli’s palace. But that doesn’t stop the solid connection that they felt for each other. It wasn’t the kind of romance that made toes curl-up but it was still a very good one nonetheless. I adore the literally knight in shining armor Marcello, and I cannot wait for another fix of 14th century gentlemen.
To sum up, Waterfall is a fantastic first book in the series. It has an unpredictable plot that kept me wanting to turn the page to find out more and be surprised for what happens next. It’s definitely one of my best reads this year.
Waterfall was unique in a sense that the time Gabi and Lia travelled into was during the 14th century. I have little knowledge about the 1300s, except that Dante Alighieri lived during that time. It was fiction but some of the things mentioned actually happened. It was set in Italy, a place I’d love and hope to visit someday. The places (except for Florence) were unfamiliar but I never felt confused, thanks to Ms. Bergren’s great talent in executing every detail in the story. She created such intricate yet coherent novel that makes up for a riveting adventure.
I have nothing but love for the characters. Gabi is a clever and an independent heroine. I have a feeling that she could adapt to any era because of her shrewdness. Her strong resolve and feisty spirit caught the eyes and the heart of Fortelli’s future lord, Marcello.
Unfortunately, Marcello is promised to be betrothed to another woman who will guarantee the safety of Forelli’s palace. But that doesn’t stop the solid connection that they felt for each other. It wasn’t the kind of romance that made toes curl-up but it was still a very good one nonetheless. I adore the literally knight in shining armor Marcello, and I cannot wait for another fix of 14th century gentlemen.
To sum up, Waterfall is a fantastic first book in the series. It has an unpredictable plot that kept me wanting to turn the page to find out more and be surprised for what happens next. It’s definitely one of my best reads this year.
*Disclaimer: I was sent this book by the author in exchange for an honest review
Completely smitten!!
