When Ryan Harper inherits an old painting and a set of journals from his grandfather Derrick, he and his girlfriend Natalie, an art restorer, expect nothing more than a quiet project. Instead, they are drawn into a love story set against the backdrop of World War II, pulling them into the heart of the 1940s.
As they uncover Derrick's past, Natalie faces a personal crisis. Her twin sister, Dina, suddenly falls ill, putting their close bond in jeopardy. With the weight of her sister's condition pressing down on her, Natalie's work on the painting transforms into a quest for meaning and connection when everything around her feels uncertain.
Secrets buried in Derrick's journals threaten to change everything Ryan thought he understood about his grandfather and his own identity. As the mysteries of the past intersect with the fragility of their present, Ryan and Natalie must navigate unexpected challenges while grappling with revelations that will forever alter their lives.
Two love stories, two eras; one amazing twist of fate ultimately ties them together through time and love. A Ripple Through Time by T. D. Bogart is a beautiful tale of two couple deeply in love, but time and circumstance created two different endings.
When Jianna and Derrick met their instant connection was strong, but World War II came between them as each were assigned to duties after graduation from the Naval Academy. Promising to write, keep a journal and to stay alive for each other, their love seemed unbreakable, their separation was heartbreaking, but hope for the future kept them going.
Natalie and Ryan are in love, but Ryan’s grandfather’s funeral and the things he left behind for Ryan will begin a journey for these two that will uncover an amazing link they share in their past, almost like a mirror image of who they might have been decades before. A simple letter from his grandfather, an old painting and some journals will lead to a heart-warming tale of the love between two people that miscommunication and a brutal war shatters as one moves on believing the other is dead.
Uncovering the neglect of decades on the painting, a beautiful woman is revealed, one who shares a likeness to Natalie that is amazing. Was this woman in the picture Derrick’s beloved Jianna? How could she look so much like the effervescent Natalie? Why would Ryan’s grandfather have this in his possession? The answer comes from Natalie's widowed grandfather as a tale of love, loss and second chances unfolds like a beautiful flower in bloom. As Natalie and Ryan marry,the past, the present and their future are joined with love. One can almost feel the presence of Derrick and Jianna, the peace they made with their decisions, glad that their story has finally been told.
Keep some tissues handy because T. D. Bogart writes straight from the heart with emotion, attention to detail and a touch of romantic mystery as she colors each page with loving care. This is one of those reads that will leave you thinking about life and love, time and circumstance for a long while. Unless you are heartless, you WILL be moved by the magic of love and Ms. Bogart’s ability to gently pull her readers into the story with her magnetic style. Her world-building is intense, the details are often hard to read, but, in the end, it is soooo worth the rewards.
I received this copy as part of T. D. Bogart's A RIPPLE IN TIME Tour & Giveaway stopping at Tome Tender April 10, 2014.
Publication Date: January 30, 2014 Publisher: T. D. Bogart ASIN: B00I64D4QO Genre: Adult Romance Print Length: 271 pages Available from: Amazon
"A Ripple Through Time" is a captivating novel that seamlessly weaves together the past and present, offering a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring power of human connection. The story unfolds as Ryan Harper inherits a seemingly ordinary painting and a collection of his grandfather Derrick's journals. What initially appears to be a simple inheritance soon transforms into a captivating journey through time, revealing a hidden love story against the backdrop of World War II. Natalie, Ryan's girlfriend and a skilled art restorer, becomes deeply involved in the project. As she delves into the intricate details of the painting, she grapples with a personal crisis – her twin sister, Dina, falls ill, casting a shadow over their close bond. The uncertainty surrounding Dina's health adds another layer of depth to Natalie's journey, as she finds solace and meaning in the restoration process, seeking a sense of control amidst the chaos. The novel masterfully intertwines the narratives of Derrick and Natalie, highlighting the enduring impact of past events on the present. As Ryan and Natalie unravel the secrets buried within Derrick's journals, they discover a side to their grandfather they never knew, challenging their perceptions of his life and their own identities. The revelations they uncover force them to confront their own fears and insecurities, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationship. "A Ripple Through Time" is more than just a historical romance. It's a poignant reflection on the fragility of life, the importance of cherishing loved ones, and the enduring power of love to transcend time and circumstance. The author skillfully crafts a compelling narrative that is both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating, leaving a lasting impression on the reader. This novel is a must-read for those who enjoy historical fiction with a touch of mystery and a focus on the complexities of human relationships.
This is a wonderful historical fiction combined with love stories. As many books currently do, this book flips back and forth in time between WWII and after 911. The characters are well developed and as you read, you feel their joy, love, pain, and fears.
Having just visited the WWII Museum in NOLA, the descriptions of WWII felt very true to life at the time. Descriptions of the aftermath at Pearl Harbor and the Bataan Death march are particularly moving and provide an understanding not often written about from the points of view of the characters in the book.
Books like this are why I read! I am literally writing this review in tears. This story is stunning; it is heartbreaking, utterly gut-wrenching, and so raw. I'll never stop thinking about these characters and the real-life people who inspired them.
Highly recommend. My love and appreciation of the characters' stories continuously grew throughout this book, just as I couldn't put it down the more I read! It brought tears to my eyes by the end, but left me happy to have read the love story.
This is a very heavy book that takes you through World War 2 and the awful tragedies our troops and home front had to face. It also includes life during 9-11.
A Ripple Through Time is a love story that follows Derrick and Gianna (WW2) and Natalie and Ryan (told in the early 2000s). Natalie and her finance, Ryan, uncover Ryan’s grandfather’s story during World War 2 through paintings and his journals. His story unravels when they find out who a mystery woman from his journals and paintings is. Could their lives be more connected? Natalie displays Ryan’s grandfather’s artifacts for an art exhibition. A lot of heartbreak comes with this story, so have tissues readily available. It was a very intense text and I couldn’t put it down. 4 stars due to some grammatical errors in the print.
The beauty of the past and the merging of the present is what you find when you read this delicious wonderfully written novel from this author. This is the first time for me to read this author and she has a style unique to her. I was introduced to Ryan and Natalie-young and in love but having to attend his grandfather's funeral brings memories and reveals gifts left behind to tell a story not known before. Natalie has the talent to restore art with her gift and among the things is a very neglected painting that was the grandfather's prize possession along with some journals they have found. Not having said much of his past while in the service dating during the time of WWII. Ryan himself is also in the Navy following in the footsteps of the men before him. He leaves a letter to his grandson explaining the painting and the discoveries that lay ahead for him to uncover. Little do they know things are not as they had always thought they seemed to be. This author does a wonderful job of then transporting you back in time to when Derrick (the grandfather) meets for the first time the love of his life Jianna. As she does that she also knows the right time to swing you back to the present to tell Ryan and Natalie's story of their unending love for each other while they unravel the mystery of why the painting is in the state it is and the secrets journals do tell the living. Rich in poetic writings they are also,that grandfather sure knew how to woo a lady he loved. Not a easy task it was back then either ideals and opinions being as they may and Jianna hiding from the family what she truly was doing. It takes alot of talent to be able to pull off a book such as this and keep the reader interested and able to follow what is going on teetering between the two times. I was not lost could follow along and as I mentioned before at the right time clues would be given and answered to the ones in the present time. When the painting is restored and it is hung she also has someone from side to reveal the one they thought was the grandmother actually is hers, so what really is going on with the woman in the painting, the answers can be found among the living and the dead echoing from beyond with the clues left behind. Wowzer also was this filled with romance from the past to the present, The kind you hope for and search all your life for and if lucky can be found as these characters do. It warms the soul as you read of the love revealed and would seem lost. Also excellent most excellent description of the time Derrick is prisoner of war. From the time of capture till release there will be times a tissue could be needed especially when the news is delivered he is dead. The day he knocks on her door is another tear jerker boo hoo I did. Regardless of all the trials and tribulations the best thing in all this is the fact love does triumph and love does something really special for Natilie and Ryan that is very joyous indeed. You almost think maybe history was going to repeat itself and the meaning of that is found in the reading but it is turned around to bring forth a ending a lover of romance will love. Received a arc for a honest review.
This was my first time reading a Romance novel with a historical twist and it was not a disappointing experience. This gave readers some insight into not only past events, which were accurate and not over done, and into military relationships. The title definitely suits the story!
I LOVED the journal excerpts and the quotes that could be found throughout the book. As you get into the story, those quotes and excerpts add a wonderful touch to the story line as a whole. The reader is able to really identify with the characters... both past and present.
This book stirred some emotions for me having mentioned the events of 9/11. As a New Yorker, I can truly identify and feel the emotions surrounding that day even though it is years later, so it added to my emotions while I was reading this book.
I love that as this painting is being restored, you learn about the events surrounding it's history. This is definitely a sweet story and the letters speak of what love really is.
"30 January 1941
Life is made of encounters that define our paths and intertwine our destiny. Be it good or bad, we always find the positives when we are able to look in the same direction. Because of you, I can navigate this cycle of life. Because of you, I am able to intersect obstacles, break solitude within myself. With you, I am able to listen attentively, and live through compassion and love. It is in this journey that we’ve become soul mates. You one half, I the other. And, in this realization, I have come to understand that everything in the past has been written in invisible ink, and tomorrow is not yet written.
–Derrick"
Overall, I would recommend this book. It was definitely a change from what I'm use to reading, but it was a nice break to really get into a romance novel.
Book Worms was given this book as an ARC for an honest review. Book Worms gave this book 5 stars! Lindsay a Book Worms reviewer left this review. Thank you Lindsay.
A Ripple ThroughTime by T.D. Bogart
Move over The Notebook, this is one masterfully written love story for the ages. I am one to say that this book brought me to tears quite a few times. Bogart tells two parallel loves stories that are intermingled through the connection of a painting.
Ryan Harper receives a painting from his grandfather after his death along with his journals. Natalie, his fiancé and an art restoration expert, seeks to find out why and how this work of art has that was Ryan's grandfather's most treasured possession could be in such disarray. Through restoration and the reading of the journals, Natalie and Ryan find out that they are connected through more that just their love story, but through the love of one woman, Jianna, that both off their grandfathers loved.
This remarkable love story is one for the ages and would be an amazing story that should be brought to the big screen. I am looking forward to finding out more about Ryan and Natalie's story.
Thank you T.D. for a beautiful, heartfelt story! I can't wait to read more from you. This story made me cry several times.
A Ripple Through Time was a book that I really enjoyed. It can be classified as being a romance, but one of the things I like the most was how the author created two separate stories, which were ultimately connected as far as the people involved. I also liked how a journal and a painting connected them through the years, from the present to the relatively recent past.
As far as main characters, I would say there are four. The first two are from the 1940's - Jianna and Derrick. Both are in their final year at the Naval Academy, and close to graduation before they go on to their assignments. What I thought was done well is how it seemed like they had an instant connection to one another when they met for the first time, and it was interesting to watch their relationship develop. I also liked the aspect of setting one part of the storyline during World War II. I thought integration of actual historical events was done well, and it gave me a new perspective on what had taken place during that era and the sacrifices our armed services made.
The second couple, which was more contemporary, are Natalie and Ryan. Natalie is a character that I grew to like instantly. She was funny, and obviously loved Ryan, and that love was reciprocated. I also need to mention Natalie's sister Dina. There were several times when Natalie's interaction with her brought a smile to my face.
What I can say is that the last 15-20% or so of the book had me saying “wow” on a number of occasions. This is the first book in a series, and I'm interested in reading the next.
I have so many thoughts and emotions on this book. I just finished it now and this book is one of those that I'll think of the characters for years to come. One specific character who's beautiful soul, bright, cheery disposition, and just contagious happiness will never leave my heart.
On a personal note, I suffered one of the biggest losses of my life earlier this year. My beloved grandfather, my best friend, my biggest cheerleader, passed away suddenly. This book and this journey? It was cathartic and it was healing while heartbreaking all at once.
This story is what I'd classify as a historical romance but it is so much more than that. There is so many layers to this story that it truly feels like life. Life has so many twists and turns and it's filled with so much. These characters go through some of the most difficult things anyone can go through and we get to see them through it. We see them through the happiness and the heartbreak. The beautiful thing is that you see it through both timelines and both love stories.
The symbolism and the significance of the small little details in this book make it all the more heart wrenching and heart warming.
The fact that so much of this story was pushed to it's development because of a painting because of art makes so much sense to me. That's how it was written and developed, as a work of art. The restoration of the piece of art to me felt symbolic. It felt like the story was restored and a voice was restored.
Let me start off by saying Romance isn’t my normal genre. I usually have problems staying interested in the lovey dovey type books. This book however kept my attention and was a great read for me. A Ripple Through Time was well thought out and written. The characters all fit in perfectly. The story flows along smoothly and isn’t rushed. The author gives great details where they are needed. With that being said the story is a Military setting based on two couples who fall in love. The couples are both from the present and the past. When Ryan’s grandfather passes away he is given his grandfathers journals and a painting that is in desperate need of being restored. He is just in luck because his fiance Natalie just so happens to be an art restorer. The painting and journals are where we are taken back in time to the first love story. That is when learn that both Natalie and Ryan’s grandfathers were in love with one woman,Jianna. We get a look back into the worlds time setting into 1940′s. And while the ride there is bumpy it is also packed full of emotions that make this such a wonderful love story. After I got into this book I found myself wanting to continue reading it and not stop for breaks. If you love Romance then you will love this military inspired emotional love story for sure. And even if Romance just ins’t your forte give it a go, you maybe surprised like I was and really enjoy it.
Move over The Notebook, this is one masterfully written love story for the ages. I am one to say that this book brought me to tears quite a few times. Bogart tells two parallel loves stories that are intermingled through the connection of a painting.
Ryan Harper receives a painting from his grandfather after his death along with his journals. Natalie, his fiancé and an art restoration expert, seeks to find out why and how this work of art has that was Ryan's grandfather's most treasured possession could be in such disarray. Through restoration and the reading of the journals, Natalie and Ryan find out that they are connected through more that just their love story, but through the love of one woman, Jianna, that both off their grandfathers loved.
This remarkable love story is one for the ages and would be an amazing story that should be brought to the big screen. I am looking forward to finding out more about Ryan and Natalie's story.
After his grandfathers death, Ryan Harper inherits a painting and some of his grandfathers journals. The painting itself looks damaged but Ryan's fiancé Natalie restores artwork and feels she can restore it. Reading his grandfathers journals they are taken back to the 1940's where Derrick writes about his life in the navy and meeting his soul mate Jianna. This book tells the love story of two couples from both the past and present who share a common tie to the painting.
I fell in love with this book! It is beautifully written with wonderful characters that you can't help but fall in love with. There are some heartfelt scenes which had me in tears. I can't say enough good things about this book and I can't wait for the next one! If you're looking for that next romance to read I highly recommend this book. You won't be sorry!
A romance novel. This story centers around two relationships. Both are developed well and allow the reader to feel like they know the characters involved. By the time the characters are presented with an assortment of events, the reader is emotional connected and feels drawn to continue reading. The military aspect in the book is very accurate but not over barring. There is no "political" undertone, just facts. The author uses correct military history to continue her story along. The climax is written at the right time, no lingering on uneventful chapters. The ending is complete. The reader will fell satisfied with where each character ends up, but there are clear openings for the sequels.
Overall, very enjoyable, a book you won't put down til the very end.
A gripping combination of old and new as two love stories are told, one from the past and one from the present.
This is the first book I have had the pleasure of reading from Author TD Bogart and it was gifted to me for an honest review and I want to say that I very much enjoyed it.
The historical twists were intriguing and drew me into a time long ago while the present day love story is just as gripping and left me with a warm fuzzy feeling.
I try not to give away anything in my reviews, but I loved the journal entries from the past and the links to the past that effect our present and future really hit home.
Congratulations to Author TD Bogart and wishes for great success with this amazing love story.
This is truly such a beautifully written book and story. I was honestly sad that it ended, but am looking so forward to books 2 & 3! I loved every aspect of this book, the war story/history, the great love stories (there are two!) and the mystery. I found myself trying to guess and unravel it, and it surpassed everything I could have thought up.
This is a book I rarely read but I must say I enjoyed the book ..Ryan get an painting and a note from his grandfather which at first puzzles him until every thing starts to Reveal things to him which he finds that him and grandfather are more alike .. This was a first time read for me by this author I must I am looking forward to the next
A beautiful and artfully written story encompassing the lives of two couples living in different times. This heartfelt story will melt your heart while warming it at the same time. An amazing debut novel from an author with an almost poetic flare in each letter typed.
If you grew up loving the movie Pearl Harbor, this book will absolutely bring you right back to those feelings and vibes! The mystery aspects, combined with the then/ now time frames, connection and heartbreak will have you hooked.
As the author of A Ripple Through Time, this story is incredibly close to my heart. I first published it in 2014, but after a recent trip to Pearl Harbor, I knew it was time to give the narrative a fresh coat of paint. The history, the weight of the past, and the incredible energy of the historical sites of Pearl inspired me to rewrite the story in a more compelling and captivating way.
Derrick, Gianna, Ryan, and Natalie have been living in my head for years now, and I've always felt that their story could be even more haunting and beautiful. This rewrite allowed me to dive deeper into their journey, intertwining love, history, and mystery in ways that I hope will resonate with readers on a new level. It is now a stand alone book, and no longer a trilogy.
So yes, I'm biased, but for good reason. This is the best version of A Ripple Through Time, and trust me, you'll feel the same way after you read it.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a very beautifully written romance story with a Historical twist. This was not the type of story I uselessly read so I must say it made want to read more story like this.
This was also the first time I have read a book by T.D. Bogart and I really enjoyed it and will be reading more of these books!!