My Review:
“Fathoms” by Lisa Bergren is the third book in the “Oceans of Time” series, which is an adult spin-off from the beloved “River of Time" series. I eagerly read the original “River of Time” books when they first released in 2011 and was so excited to finally have some Christian young adult fiction that was just as good as any secular fiction of the time. Since then, I have read every book in both series. I am sad that this beloved series is ending, but I was so glad that the final book lived up to my expectations for a series finale (it went beyond my expectations)! As I read “Fathoms,” it felt like coming home to read about this world and these characters. It was neat to see familiar characters, especially from the “River of Time” series as well. The book is gritty, heartfelt, and realistic with wonderful faith content!
In the beginning of “Fathoms,” Luciana is struggling with losing her sight and realizing her value is found in who she is, not in what she does. She is debating whether she should risk going through the tombs again to be healed but is not sure of where or when in time the tombs will take her on the return trip. I loved watching Luciana learn to adapt to living a life without her sight and how she learns ways to still fight and be a girlboss (or “She-wolf”). The characters of the book face immense joy and great hardships. I loved the beautiful faith content, which had me in tears and encouraged me in my own faith. There are lessons on family, love, and choosing to risk loving on a deeper level. The characters learn that God puts us in certain moments, places, and times for a purpose. They must learn to welcome peace, regardless of the circumstances. I do not want to say too much about the plot since it is the third book in a series, and I do not want to spoil anything. I will say there’s non-stop, pulse-pounding action and it was hard to put down. The romances were beautiful, as were the family relationships. I am so sad to say goodbye to these characters, but I am glad I can always re-read all the books. Do yourself a favor and pick up this book and series! I cannot wait to see what Ms. Bergren writes next!
Content: I give this book a PG-13 rating. Some examples of the content: mention of bawdy jokes; mention of bedding someone once they’re married; mention of alcohol; mention that people might be accused of witchcraft; someone wonders if they are hallucinating; a child is pledged in marriage to an old man; vague reference to past r*pe in a previous book; a bad man makes lewd jokes and sexual innuendos; someone thinks they’re possibly going mad; forced medical examination and procedures without consent; a man wants a woman to become his consort and it’s implied he has mistresses; a character possibly has PTSD; a man tries to force a woman to have an ab*rtion; blood, gore and violence; reference to a couple’s wedding night and waking up in each other’s arms.
TW: brief mention of hallucinations and possibly going mad; past r*pe; forced medical examination and procedures without consent and unwanted advances and kisses (with the intent to take advantage of her, but he is not able to); possible PTSD; mention of ab*rtion.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
