A fantastic love story that transcends time.
342224
I had started the book with little expectation. I don't want to spoil anything, so I will keep this brief. It's a great story that will satisfy on all fronts. My advice is to not focus so much on the mission, but instead try to put yourself in Jake's position. I can't explain why it's good without spoiling something. Just read it!
4422962
At its heart, A thousand Pieces of You is a love story, but its not just any love story. Its a story about a girl, who loves a boy, even when at times she doesnt know, and maybe isn't even sure which boy she loves. Its a love story about a girls love for her father, and the lengths she will go to solve the mystery of his death, and get vengeance for those responsible. Its also a love story to science, and string theory, and alternate universes. Its about a girls journey to figure out who she is, who the people around her really are, and where her heart truly lies.

I love this book. I honestly, couldn't put it down. The cover is phenomenal. I fell in love with the idea behind the story almost immediately. There is science, and love stories, not just your typical love stories either, but bro-maces, family love, sisterly love, a love a girl has for her parents, and loves that make you wonder what love is? Does love transcend universes, is it the physical manifestation of a person that we love, or the soul inside?  Theres just so many feels. I really felt like I empathized with so many of the emotions the main character was feeling. Ive had similar relationships, sans the whole traveling through multiple dimensions thing. The scenery of the places she travels to, is described so well. The places she goes are very vivid and I could visualize each place in my mind. There were things that I felt were hints to what is to come, and I really like wondering about them, and trying to decipher them. There was something brewing beneath the surface the whole time. I felt like there was a bigger sub-plot going on, that was right on the edge of my mind, tickling my subconscious. When got to the end, it was a light bulb sort of moment, OH! Thats what that was!! Theres a lot of science in this book, explanations of how the process of traveling through dimensions would actually work. The science of it was a welcome change from books that have a sciencey premise, but don't describe the process of things. You don't have to suspend as much disbelief, because it feels plausible.

There were a few, read two, places where I thought the continuity was off, and the description of some things, didn't jive with other statements made about the process of traveling, or a characters experiences. It wasn't enough to make me dislike the book. Just one or two lines would have fixed the confusion.
2807831
Dane and Mandy were a world renown magic act, performing for 40 years, but beyond that they were deeply in love.  When the couple gets into a tragic car accident, it appears to everyone, including Dane, that Mandy dies.  Actually, Mandy, or at least her 19 year old self circa 1970, had awakened in a strange new world.  Gone is the life and the people she knew, and it would seem as if she has gone crazy.  She discovers she has mysterious abilities, and she uses them to build a magic act that eventually catches Dane's attention.  He cannot help but wonder who is this girl who looks exactly like his dead wife, and why has she entered his life?

This book is so incredibly complex, it was hard for me to boil it down to a one paragraph synopsis.  That paragraph in no way does justice to the richness of the storytelling at work in this novel.  I have read other books by Frank Peretti, and I must admit, this one feels so much different.  At first, I was confused by the forces at play in this story.  Time travel? Astrophysics?  While confusing, hardly the dark and sinister Frank I was familiar with.  But as I delved deeper into the story, I saw that the symbolism at play was the darkness and pride of which people can be capable, and how one selfish act by any one person can touch, ruin even, the lives of so many.  This book is also an incredible love story.  The romantic angle of this story had me in tears by the end of the book.

While Mandy's character is difficult to understand at times, that confusion is an important aspect of her character; we are confused because she is confused.  We do really get an intimate experience of connecting with Mandy's character, but it does feel at times as though it is from arms' length, until the full plot is revealed.  My heart just broke for both Mandy and Dane, and again the romance of the story really rocked me.

For those unaware, Peretti writes Christian fiction.  And while this book is Christian fiction, it is one that plays with great subtleties and symbolism.  It is not explicit regarding the role of Father, Son, or Spirit, but it is hard to miss the symbolism of thousands of doves carrying someone to their final destiny.  I appreciated this soft, gentle form of symbolism, and I think it will make the book appealing to a broader audience than just those of us who traditionally read Christian fiction.

All in all, I was really blown away by the book, particularly when the story really got moving and things started to make sense to me.  I would recommend it to anyone, do not let the Christian fiction label keep you away from reading what is a remarkable story.
586498
Not just your average romance novel. This is 2 lives changed by time and circumstances. From childhood to adulthood, from poverty to success. Their story is one you won't soon forget. It grips you from the very beginning and weaves it's magical spell around you until all you can do is think about what will happen next even after you've gone to work or doing your normal every day stuff. I couldn't stop thinking about it.. Fantastic story that refuses to let you forget that only love can heal the heart. It never gives up and really sends you on a ride you won't likely want to get off of. I think this book is actually good for men and women both. It's deep and a total pleasure to read. I was so sad when it was over because I wanted to read them into old age. Great book and that's an understatement.
2317497
A Hungarian love story with a little something for everyone from secret tribes, ancient traditions, rites of passage to healers and time travelers.  A beautiful young doctor with the gift of touch healing falls in love with a handsome medicine man with the gift of time travel.  United by their Hun culture, traditions, and predestined love, they must unravel the ancient code to overcome an evil plot that threatens their fate and spans the collective consciousness. Erika has taken the Fantasy genre to a completely new level of enchantment. A real page-turner, I was honestly sad to finish the book wondering about the fate of Ilona and Zoltan. I am compelled to read the second book to discover if these two star-crossed lovers will make their happily ever after dreams come true.
3016397
The Notebook, by Nicholas Sparks, is a sensational love story filled with ups and downs, memories and adventures, affection and happiness. This story starts out with the description of an old man reading a story to his wife who doesn't remember him because of her serious case of Alzheimer's. He tells her a story of two young lovers, Allie Nelson and Noah Calhoun, who fall in love one summer but then Allie moves away. Though their passionate love seems indestructible at first, they learn that being away is enough to destroy even their friendship. Allie and Noah came from different classes of society so naturally, Allie's rich parents were not fond of Noah from the beginning. When Noah sends Allie letters almost everyday, her parents secretly hide them from her to avoid her from falling for him again. Fourteen years pass with no communication between the two until a realization comes about. Allie is set to marry a rich man named Lon whom her parents adore but she may not be truly in love with. When preparations for the wedding become overwhelming, Allie suddenly takes off to find Noah. They spend only two days together but even this amount of time was enough to fall deeply in love with each other once again. Allie's parents finally realize that keeping the two apart will never work and Allie and Noah truly belong together. The story finishes by referring back to the beginning and revealing that the old man and his wife were really Noah and Allie. After reading to his wife for so long trying to make her remember the love they once shared, Noah helps Allie realize that they are married and have children. She gets her memory back and remembers her past once more.
I loved this story and thought it was one of the better love stories I have read. Even for those who have seen the movie, I would still recommend reading this book. The themes throughout the plot vary from general life lessons to choosing your priorities.  One theme throughout this story is that true love will overcome all obstacles. This is shown in the plot itself when Allie is engaged to Lon, but her and Noah's true love overcomes her family and Lon's money allowing them to be together. I can relate this story to The Alchemist because the theme in that book is that if you really want something and are meant to have it, the whole universe conspires to help you achieve it. In The Notebook, Allie wants nothing more than to be with Noah and even though she is engaged, the world conspires to getting Noah and Allie together.
Having the conflict of money vs. love taught me more about the classes of society in their setting. Allie's parents were rich folks who wanted their daughter to go to a University and marry a wealthy businessman whereas Noah and his father were perfectly happy on their own even though they did not have much money. Throughout this book, I was reminded that at times love blocks out all society, class, and conflict in order to bring two people together forever. Allie realizes that she needs to be with Noah in order to have a happy life.
The author, Nicholas Sparks, wants the reader to take away many lessons from this story. Most importantly, he wants readers to understand that Noah's character strengthens because of the love he has for Allie. His character is more distinct because he has such strong feelings for her. He also shows that if you are in love with a person, it is just as powerful as being loved by another. Nicholas Sparks does a great job with this complicated novel and I would recommend this to teenagers who enjoy a touching romantic novel about the powerful themes of love.
301010
Out Of The Past is like an old friend...you enjoy every moment spent with the characters and miss them horribly when the end arrives.  I loved the way Ms Roquet presented the time travel element of the story.  Torie may find herself in an unfamiliar time period, but the people and the place she is in, yes, in, is very familiar.  This book is a romance on several layers.  Not only does the character go into the past, she lives her life while in the past in a way she never thought possible.  What an imagination Ms Roquet has.  The settings are so real and vivid, I could smell the "oldness" of the piano as well as the fresh paint on the walls.  If you want a story that will have you anxious to turn the pages while dreading the time when the story will end, this is a must read.
926028
One of the most beautifully written stories I've read in a long time. It's a symphony of words that carries the reader along on a journey to another time and place. The author paints such a vivid picture of Scotland that  the reader becomes immersed in the story; sight, smell, sensation.  The time period is expertly detailed and the characters are brought to life with honesty and integrity. This is a love story the definitely stands the test of time.
1169832
This a remarkable and beautiful love story.  I finally got around to reading it at the urging of one of my friends who suggested many times that I read it.  I'm not a romantic/ sci-fi/ time traveler, but I was deeply moved and touched by this book.  I found myself, along with the characters, confused and bewildered at times, but I suppose that is to be expected given the complexity.  It is a deeply sweet and transcendent story.  Essentially about what it means to be human, whatever the circumstance, that love transcends.  It is a perfect end of the week for reading in solitude or even on a quiet park bench.  Through their ups and downs, Henry and Clare are undeniable, their love transcends, endures, and they are meant to be beyond the words.  Get this book.  It is many times worth it.
3909685
I adored this story. I'm a huge fan of family history and love stories. This was a double love story. This was Gael and Ashlins story and the tragic love story of Danny and Sophia. Ashlin has experienced loss throughout her life. She also lost herself in a loveless, manipulative relationship with a very powerful man. She decides to take her life back after the kids of her aunt. Life's too short to be unhappy. She meets Gael and sparks fly. They discover common ancestor and learn their story. It's beautiful and tragic. What a fantastic journey. My only thought was it was too rushed in some spots but in whole was beautiful.
162302
This is absolutely one of the best historical time travel romance stories of the year. I give A Bridge Through Time a 5 star rating! At first we meet Jane who has travelled to England for her work, however, she is on vacation for her first few days and takes advantage of the sites. She and her friend travel to the estate once occupied by Jestyn Greywick. Here, she's fascinated by a painting which she had seen as a small child and had touched his hand and was shocked to find it warm. She wants to touch his hand again to see if it's warm, however, when she touched his hand she's transported through time. She finds herself on the side of a dusty road. No longer in the year 2015, Jane finds herself back in the time of Jestyn Grewick. Soon Jane and Jestyn begin to fall for one another as the venture through many trials and situations in order to help Jane return to her home and own time. Will Jane be able to return? Or will her heart forbid her?

Gloria Gay's writing is impeccable. She's created a plot that is rich, filled with mystery, romance and intrigue with every page turn. I highly recommend this book for any lover of historical romance, this is truly a wonderful story and you will soon fall in love with Jane and Jestyn.
2090706
A heart-warming story of love that transcends disability.
3677286
In today's times, it is so nice to read a love story that makes you feel like it could be true.  The spectacular storyline,  covers 65 years and with the descriptions of surroundings put this book in a category that is out of this world.  I found the characters to be well scripted and intriguingly intertwined throughout this book.  There is an unexpected twist that occurs early on in the book which places you into an environment that many will be surprised with.

This is the most unusual ending to a love story that I have ever heard of and it makes me wish it to be true.  Readers, enjoy!
4236055
This novel is something rare- a romance that is intelligent and profound. The love story is not just a love story, but rather, a tale that illuminates the human condition. The historical setting is fascinating and the story is rich in cultural detail. A very enjoyable and enriching read.
1939248
Jan-Philipp Sendker is a master storyteller, bringing us one incredible tale for the ages.

This is a love story.  A sort Burmese Romeo and Juliette love story.  Only, in the beginning we know not where the story is going.

We meet Julia Win when she is sitting in some run down teahouse in Kalaw, Burma.  There she is approached by an older man, U Ba who asks Julia if she believes in love.  And, it is not ordinary love, but:  "No, I speak of a love that brings sight to the blind.  Of a love stronger than fear.  I speak of a love that breathes meaning into life, that defies the natural laws of deterioration, that causes us to flourish, that knows no bounds.  I speak of the triumph of the human spirit over selfishness and death."

And, thus begins a bewitching tale of Tin Win and Mi Mi.  Tin Win was a successful lawyer, who one day, bids his newly minted lawyer daughter a farewell, indicating to all that he is flying to a meeting in Boston and will return in a few days.  His family, in New York is a bit perplexed and does not begin to worry until there is no further word from Tin Win.  Eventually, the trail of locating Tin Win leads Julia to Burma and the mountain town of Kalaw, where the unknown story of her father's humble beginnings unwinds to her like a fairy tale, similar to those her father told her during her childhood.  Little had Julia known of her father's past.

According to astrologers, Tin Win was born on a most unlucky day.  His mother fearful of the prophecy withdraws from her son.  When the horrors predicted begin to befall the young family, the mother eventually disappears and Tin Win is cared for by a kindly neighbor Su Kyi.  Eventually, as time passes Tin Win loses his eyesight. Su Kyi tries to find a solution and eventully leads Tin Win to the monastery where U May undertakes to educate Tin Win and help unlock the riddles of life.

As time passes Tin Win discovers that although he has been robbed of sight his ability to hear and hear to great depths and color is far superior to what he misses with his sight.  One day, he hears a beating and discovers the sound so beautiful belongs to a girl, Mi Mi.  Mi Mi has a less than perfect life, to which she has adapted.  Mi Mi, a beautiful girl with a voice so pure and beautiful was cursed with a body less than perfect.  Her feet, a birth, were deformed.  And, thus Mi Mi has learned to move gracefully about by the use of her hands and knees.  When she is not traveling in such a manner, she is carried.

Slowly, Tin Win and Mi Mi develop a relationship where Mi Mi gives Tin Win sight and Tin Win provides Mi Mi with legs.  Together they travel through life discovering its wonders in their small corner of the world, while deep affection grows.  They are planning their future, when Tin Win is suddenly taken from his town, by agents for his uncle U Saw.  Amid great saddness, Tin Win is hauled off to Rangoon to live with his uncle who is trying to avoid a prophecy given him by an astrologer.  In order to avoid a possible terrible fate, U Saw must render aid to a relative.  He remembers stories about Tin Win and brings the boy to him.

U Saw is able to help Tin Win with his sight.  He has him educated and as World War II is about to rip the world apart, sends Tin Win to America to further his education.  In the meantime, U Saw learns of the love between Tin Win and Mi Mi and thwarts their efforts to communicate with each other.  Yet, the two keep the love for each other in their hearts, throughout life.

It is once, when Tin Win's family is finally established that he disappears.  It is four years following that disappearance when Julia learns of her father's history and his return to the greatest love of his life, Mi Mi.

The story is artfully woven with U Ba's telling of the story of Tin Win, while Julia becomes less skeptical and opens herself to the tale U Ba is spinning.

This is one magical tale, lovely tale of a great love and devotion.  Enjoy.
1049974
I could not put this book down! It is a love story about a modern day Amanda Parker and the handsome Mark Patrick Callahan, a Chicago mounted policeman. But this story is so much more. It also follows Bonnie, Jack, and Daniel, who lived in the 1800s. The transitions are smooth, never jarring, and connect all the characters. From the civil war battlefields of Charleston, South Caralina, in 1862 to the Chicago Fire in 1871, you learn about a love that time and death cannot destroy. While the title says it is a novel of reincarnation, it was not preachy or pushy. More of a time travel novel, with detailed historical descriptions, such as candle making, church bells, and clockwork. Any fans of historical fiction, time travel, and beautiful love stories, will enjoy this book. While there is heartbreak and suspense, I was so glad that the book has a happy and satisfying ending.
443582
There are no words to adequately express what a phenomenal read this is. Its an EPIC journey that will give you all the feels. From the highest highs to the lowest low. Pepper Winters writing style remarkable, it draws you in and captures your heart. Ren and Dellas journey is one youve never experienced before and doubt youll ever will again. Their story is unique and unforgettable. Book hangover worthy. I am giving Pepper Winters a standing ovation for The Girl and Her Ren.
Love transcends time, space, distance, universes.