'The River of No Return' by Bee Ridgway is a time travel novel that follows the story of Lord Nicholas Falcott, who wakes up in a London hospital in 2003 after dying on a battlefield in 1815. He is recruited by a secretive group of time travelers known as the Guild to prevent their enemies, the Ofan, from altering history. The book combines elements of historical fiction, romance, mystery, and adventure, with a focus on the concept of time as a river that only a select few can navigate. The writing style is described as captivating, fast-paced, and imaginative, with well-developed characters and an intriguing plot that keeps readers engaged.

Characters:

The characters are designed to engage readers through their development and relationships, with complex motivations and roles in the overarching story.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is evocative and illustrative, effectively capturing historical nuances while maintaining readability.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features prominent themes of time travel, intertwining the lives of the protagonist across different time periods, with a focus on the tension between groups of time travelers.

Setting:

The setting toggles between early 19th-century England and modern society, effectively enhancing the contrasts and connections between times.

Pacing:

Pacing fluctuates, with early sections being slow while the latter parts pick up, leaving readers eager for further exploration in future installments.

It had happened ten years ago. It had also happened two centuries ago, in the hills south of Salamanca. As the Most Honorable Nicholas Falcott—Lord Nick to his men—led his cavalry division in yet anot...

Notes:

The River of No Return is Bee Ridgway's debut novel.

It combines elements of time travel with historical fiction.

Set in early 19th century England, it features a character named Lord Nicholas Falcott.

Nicholas finds himself transported 200 years into the future, waking up in 2003.

The Guild is a secretive organization that manages time travelers.

Nicholas is tasked to return to 1815 to find a powerful object known as the Talisman.

Julia Percy, in 1815, discovers she can manipulate time, a talent inherited from her grandfather.

The narrative pivots around a complex relationship between Nicholas and Julia.

Some characters, like Arkady and Mr. Mibbs, add depth to the story with their unique backstories.

The book raises questions about the nature of time and emotional connections.

Ridgway's writing alternates between 19th-century language and modern expressions, creating a unique tone.

The romance between Nicholas and Julia unfolds amid danger and intrigue regarding time travel.

Readers have expressed frustration with the unresolved ending, anticipating a sequel.

The novel explores themes of gender roles and societal expectations in both time periods.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of historical violence, emotional distress, and instances of familial abuse that may be sensitive to some readers.

Has Romance?

The romance between Nick and Julia is central to the plot, with their emotional connection driving much of the narrative.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Named a Notable Fiction Book of 2013 by The Washington Post

"An engrossing adventure, with mystery, romance, humor, and impeccable historical detail." -The Boston Globe

Devon, 1815. The charming Lord Nicholas Davenant and the beguiling Julia Percy should make a perfect match.

But before their love has a chance to grow, Nicholas is presumed dead in the Napoleonic war.

Nick, however, is lost in time. Somehow he escaped certain death by leaping two hundred years forward to the present day where he finds himself in the care of a mysterious society - the Guild. Questioning the limits of the impossible, Nick is desperate to find a way back to the life he left behind. Yet with the future of time itself hanging in the balance, could it be that the girl who first captured his heart has had the answers all along? Can Nick find a way to return to her?

Ratings (3)

It Was OK (3)

Reader Stats (12):

Read It (3)
Want To Read (7)
Not Interested (2)

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About the Author:

Bee Ridgeway is an English professor at Bryn Mawr College. She lives in Philadelphia.

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The River of No Return

Bee Ridgway