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The Web of Time
- GenresFantasy
304 pages, Paperback
Published May 20, 2025
15 people want to read
About the author
Flavia Brunetti
2 books28 followersBorn just outside of Rome, Flavia grew up bouncing back and forth between Italy and California and has lived between a myriad other countries, so her writing often revolves around place and identity and is usually written on a plane where she inevitably apologizes to the person sitting next to her for bumping their elbow. She is the author of the novel All the Way to Italy. Her second novel, The Web of Time, a YA grounded fantasy adventure set in Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli, will be published by Blue House Literary in May 2025.
Today, Flavia continues learning about the world while working for a humanitarian organization and getting lost in her Eternal City, writing flash fiction and non-fiction stories, and connecting with other readers, writers, and adventurers (also the armchair travel variety).
Today, Flavia continues learning about the world while working for a humanitarian organization and getting lost in her Eternal City, writing flash fiction and non-fiction stories, and connecting with other readers, writers, and adventurers (also the armchair travel variety).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 23, 2025
A web quietly spins, protected far beneath the ground. It's threaded, the keepers of time, markers, and the keepers of all history. What is done can't be undone. That is, until now.
The three Great Porals of Kindness, Art, and Language, Protected by the Gods, The Web of Time re-arranges itself as the humans continue to change their minds all the time, fall in and out of love, or they cause empires to rise or fall. It's when the Great Portals start to close from the world, that time itself begins erasing itself, history starts to disappear, the earth falls into chaos, and the Gods don't know what to do or how to stop it until Jack meets Anna.
Anna the passionate yet solitary writer, she's protected by her companion Nafusa of Libya who is the cat God. Jack the young painter who is harboring a past full of trauma, he's fallen through the Great Portal of Art in Tunis. His fate it seems has always been to stumble into Anna.
Anna and Jack start on a journey that they find is helped and hindered by a rotating cast of deities, they find that there are three ancient cities connected just at different times, Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli.
Very quickly they realize that it's Anna's natural gift for healing words and Jacks's talent for drawing places as they once were that can not only reinstate the Great Portals but also restore the world's balance. But, there are those darker Gods who live and thrive on the chaos and will stop at nothing to stop Jack and Anna and halt their quest once and for all.
As time tears faster and faster they find it's happening faster than they can heal it, Jack and Anna have to come together, work together, and fight together to save history, and the possibility of a future.
The Web of Time is the first book by Flavia Brunetti that I have read. I do plan to read her other book “All The Way To Italy” This book was just such an amazing story, I honestly picked this book up because the blurb sounded interesting but I didn't know what I was going to be getting out of this book. But, very quickly I realized I wasn't going to be able to put this book down, I needed to see this one through to the end. It engrossed and encompassed me on the days when my husband worked long shifts and I was left home alone and I needed something to do to fill my time. I can honestly say that I loved this book and I have no regrets whatsoever about reading The Web of Time.
Flavia has done such an amazing job of taking history and facts from all the different Mediterranean countries and weaving that history and those facts through this fictional story, and what makes it even better is that this is a story that is easy to read and accessible to anyone and everyone.
There is nothing pretentious about this book, the writing is superb and on par and what you want for a book of this caliber.
I loved and adored the locations that we got to see in this book. The blend of the past and present with the amazing descriptions that are described in the perfect detail and Flavia has the perfect way of conveying all the emotions of each place you visit without all the over lyrical singing or bogging down that some readers do get from other books.
The use of trivia throughout the storyline and plot was such a unique idea and made each page feel like an adventure of its own. Then you have the cartographers making notes underground marking locations like “here be dragons”.
One of the things that I did love was the way Flavia didn't skip over the fact that these were two teenagers who were in very real, very dangerous situations, and on top of that they both had very serious, very dangerous, very deadly professions even if those professions were humanitarian in nature.
I highly recommend you read this book, it is not a disappointment. It is a highly enjoyable, easy-to-follow one that I am sure you will be left thinking about long after you have finished the last page.
The three Great Porals of Kindness, Art, and Language, Protected by the Gods, The Web of Time re-arranges itself as the humans continue to change their minds all the time, fall in and out of love, or they cause empires to rise or fall. It's when the Great Portals start to close from the world, that time itself begins erasing itself, history starts to disappear, the earth falls into chaos, and the Gods don't know what to do or how to stop it until Jack meets Anna.
Anna the passionate yet solitary writer, she's protected by her companion Nafusa of Libya who is the cat God. Jack the young painter who is harboring a past full of trauma, he's fallen through the Great Portal of Art in Tunis. His fate it seems has always been to stumble into Anna.
Anna and Jack start on a journey that they find is helped and hindered by a rotating cast of deities, they find that there are three ancient cities connected just at different times, Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli.
Very quickly they realize that it's Anna's natural gift for healing words and Jacks's talent for drawing places as they once were that can not only reinstate the Great Portals but also restore the world's balance. But, there are those darker Gods who live and thrive on the chaos and will stop at nothing to stop Jack and Anna and halt their quest once and for all.
As time tears faster and faster they find it's happening faster than they can heal it, Jack and Anna have to come together, work together, and fight together to save history, and the possibility of a future.
The Web of Time is the first book by Flavia Brunetti that I have read. I do plan to read her other book “All The Way To Italy” This book was just such an amazing story, I honestly picked this book up because the blurb sounded interesting but I didn't know what I was going to be getting out of this book. But, very quickly I realized I wasn't going to be able to put this book down, I needed to see this one through to the end. It engrossed and encompassed me on the days when my husband worked long shifts and I was left home alone and I needed something to do to fill my time. I can honestly say that I loved this book and I have no regrets whatsoever about reading The Web of Time.
Flavia has done such an amazing job of taking history and facts from all the different Mediterranean countries and weaving that history and those facts through this fictional story, and what makes it even better is that this is a story that is easy to read and accessible to anyone and everyone.
There is nothing pretentious about this book, the writing is superb and on par and what you want for a book of this caliber.
I loved and adored the locations that we got to see in this book. The blend of the past and present with the amazing descriptions that are described in the perfect detail and Flavia has the perfect way of conveying all the emotions of each place you visit without all the over lyrical singing or bogging down that some readers do get from other books.
The use of trivia throughout the storyline and plot was such a unique idea and made each page feel like an adventure of its own. Then you have the cartographers making notes underground marking locations like “here be dragons”.
One of the things that I did love was the way Flavia didn't skip over the fact that these were two teenagers who were in very real, very dangerous situations, and on top of that they both had very serious, very dangerous, very deadly professions even if those professions were humanitarian in nature.
I highly recommend you read this book, it is not a disappointment. It is a highly enjoyable, easy-to-follow one that I am sure you will be left thinking about long after you have finished the last page.
April 29, 2025
The Web of Time by Flavia Brunetti (@whichwaytorome), releasing 20 May 2025
4/5 ⭐️!
Do mythical Gods really have an influence on the occurrences of the world? Do we really shape time and the future with our actions? Are Time and History and human choices really that interconnected? We follow two Teenagers Jack and Anna with their shapeshifting God Nafussa (the black cat), on an adventure through Tripoli, Rome, Tunis, Tunisia and throughout the Web of Time on an adventure to essentially save the world as we know it. We meet other Gods along the way like the spunky artistic Mayrna, the regal and wise Sira, Isola, Dorra and the mighty Teverre just to name a few. They all protect and are in charge of different parts of the world and protect the balance and guarded Portals. When those Portals begin to close they quest begins to stop time from erasing itself while navigating through histories and visiting monuments along the way.
All I can tell you is to make yourself an espresso, and settle down in comfy clothes while you traverse your way through this magical book! I loved the time swapping, and learning how Pietro, Nafussa's friend, was connected to Anna. We learn how his misadventures and curiosity killed him and paved the way for his daughter. Jack who was finding his way and his voice ended up along the ride while finding his purpose. They made a great team and it was so wholesome to watch unfold. There were some emotional moments, I was not expecting and I ended up highlighting a lot more quotes than I thought I would. Flavia, the author, wrote beautifully, and interspersed clever and poignant messages throughout her novel. I very much enjoyed the skipping through the past and present, "visiting" monuments and historical landmarks, and googling what these important historical places look like as I read along.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC, I enjoyed it immensely! Sending my gratitude to @literaryinspired @whichwaytorome !! Follow this author here: https://www.facebook.com/whichwaytorome :)
#Flaviabrunetti #LiteraryInspiredARCs #YAFantasy #TimeTravelReads #FoundFamily #MythInspiredFiction #AltHistoryBooks #theweboftime #netgalley #goodreads #bookish #bookreccomendations #bookshelf #booktok #bookstagram
www.goodreads.com/evelynreadseverything
https://www.facebook.com/EvelynReadsE...
4/5 ⭐️!
Do mythical Gods really have an influence on the occurrences of the world? Do we really shape time and the future with our actions? Are Time and History and human choices really that interconnected? We follow two Teenagers Jack and Anna with their shapeshifting God Nafussa (the black cat), on an adventure through Tripoli, Rome, Tunis, Tunisia and throughout the Web of Time on an adventure to essentially save the world as we know it. We meet other Gods along the way like the spunky artistic Mayrna, the regal and wise Sira, Isola, Dorra and the mighty Teverre just to name a few. They all protect and are in charge of different parts of the world and protect the balance and guarded Portals. When those Portals begin to close they quest begins to stop time from erasing itself while navigating through histories and visiting monuments along the way.
All I can tell you is to make yourself an espresso, and settle down in comfy clothes while you traverse your way through this magical book! I loved the time swapping, and learning how Pietro, Nafussa's friend, was connected to Anna. We learn how his misadventures and curiosity killed him and paved the way for his daughter. Jack who was finding his way and his voice ended up along the ride while finding his purpose. They made a great team and it was so wholesome to watch unfold. There were some emotional moments, I was not expecting and I ended up highlighting a lot more quotes than I thought I would. Flavia, the author, wrote beautifully, and interspersed clever and poignant messages throughout her novel. I very much enjoyed the skipping through the past and present, "visiting" monuments and historical landmarks, and googling what these important historical places look like as I read along.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC, I enjoyed it immensely! Sending my gratitude to @literaryinspired @whichwaytorome !! Follow this author here: https://www.facebook.com/whichwaytorome :)
#Flaviabrunetti #LiteraryInspiredARCs #YAFantasy #TimeTravelReads #FoundFamily #MythInspiredFiction #AltHistoryBooks #theweboftime #netgalley #goodreads #bookish #bookreccomendations #bookshelf #booktok #bookstagram
www.goodreads.com/evelynreadseverything
https://www.facebook.com/EvelynReadsE...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2025
This book is nothing short of extraordinary. The story of Anna and Jack is deeply moving — a journey filled with heart, quiet strength, and the kind of magic that arises from acts of kindness, even in life’s darkest moments. Jack’s struggle to rediscover compassion after trauma adds a powerful layer of emotional depth, and the author handles themes of grief and healing with remarkable tenderness and kindness. It feels, at times, like the narrative is gently holding the reader through each page.
The portrayal of the Gods is another standout element. They are written with such reverence and complexity — ancient and powerful, yet fragile and intimately woven into the lives of the characters and the fabric of the world. Nafusa, in particular, is a mesmerizing figure. His constant presence alongside Anna and Jack offers both grounding and mystery. He’s the kind of character readers would eagerly follow through ten more books.
One of the most captivating aspects of the novel is the use of portals — a brilliant narrative device that transports the characters (and the reader) across space and time. As Anna, Jack, and Nafusa travel together to places like Tunis, Rome, and Tripoli, the writing evokes these cities with such vividness and texture that it feels as though you’re right there beside them. The sensory richness and cultural depth make each destination feel alive, pulling the reader into the journey in a way that’s both immersive and unforgettable.
The integration of the portals of language and art is also handled with grace and subtlety, creating a reading experience that feels like a love letter to memory. The book explores how the past shapes identity, while holding space for hope — the hope for a more thoughtful, compassionate future and the possibility of learning from, rather than repeating, past mistakes. There’s a quiet encouragement to slow down, to notice, to care — not just for ourselves, but for others.
Friendship is another thread woven deeply into the narrative, offering a sense of warmth and emotional resonance throughout.
Overall, this novel is filled with soul, crafted with intention, and leaves a lasting emotional impact. It’s a book that stays with you. It’s the kind of story that doesn’t just ask to be read — it asks to be felt — the kind you want to press into the hands of others and say, “You have to read this.”
The portrayal of the Gods is another standout element. They are written with such reverence and complexity — ancient and powerful, yet fragile and intimately woven into the lives of the characters and the fabric of the world. Nafusa, in particular, is a mesmerizing figure. His constant presence alongside Anna and Jack offers both grounding and mystery. He’s the kind of character readers would eagerly follow through ten more books.
One of the most captivating aspects of the novel is the use of portals — a brilliant narrative device that transports the characters (and the reader) across space and time. As Anna, Jack, and Nafusa travel together to places like Tunis, Rome, and Tripoli, the writing evokes these cities with such vividness and texture that it feels as though you’re right there beside them. The sensory richness and cultural depth make each destination feel alive, pulling the reader into the journey in a way that’s both immersive and unforgettable.
The integration of the portals of language and art is also handled with grace and subtlety, creating a reading experience that feels like a love letter to memory. The book explores how the past shapes identity, while holding space for hope — the hope for a more thoughtful, compassionate future and the possibility of learning from, rather than repeating, past mistakes. There’s a quiet encouragement to slow down, to notice, to care — not just for ourselves, but for others.
Friendship is another thread woven deeply into the narrative, offering a sense of warmth and emotional resonance throughout.
Overall, this novel is filled with soul, crafted with intention, and leaves a lasting emotional impact. It’s a book that stays with you. It’s the kind of story that doesn’t just ask to be read — it asks to be felt — the kind you want to press into the hands of others and say, “You have to read this.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2025
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
🪄 are a fan of fantasy
🕰️ ever wished you could time travel
📖 enjoy YA books
🐈 named your cat after a god or goddess
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
Protected by the gods and powering the three Great Portals of Kindness, Art, and Language, The Web of Time re-arranges itself as humans change their minds, fall in love, or cause empires to rise and fall. When the Great Portals close from the world, time begins erasing itself, histories start to disappear, Earth falls into chaos, and the gods don't know how to stop it-until Jack meets Anna.
Anna is a passionate and solitary writer who is protected by her companion, Nafusa of Libya, the cat god. When Jack, a young painter harboring a traumatic past, falls through the Great Portal of Art in Tunis, he stumbles into Anna, and his fate.
Helped and hindered by a rotating cast of deities, the two embark on a journey that connects three ancient cities in different times: Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli. They realize that it is Anna's gift for healing words and Jack's natural talent for drawing places as they were that can reinstate the Great Portals and restore the world's balance, but some of the darker gods who thrive on chaos will stop at nothing to derail their quest. As time tears faster than they can heal it, Anna and Jack must come together in time to save history, and the possibility of a future.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
This was a fantastic read, filled with magical realism, suspense, love, and fantasy! The idea that time is falling apart and history is being erased because of these special portals was a new and unique idea. I loved the characters of Anna and Jack, and how they each held the key to a specific portal - art for Jack, and language for Anna. They get into some very messy situations throughout the book, and are constantly being sabotaged by the evil gods and goddesses who would love nothing more than to see mankind’s ruin. This is for fans of YA and fantasy! You won’t want to miss it!
🪄 are a fan of fantasy
🕰️ ever wished you could time travel
📖 enjoy YA books
🐈 named your cat after a god or goddess
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
Protected by the gods and powering the three Great Portals of Kindness, Art, and Language, The Web of Time re-arranges itself as humans change their minds, fall in love, or cause empires to rise and fall. When the Great Portals close from the world, time begins erasing itself, histories start to disappear, Earth falls into chaos, and the gods don't know how to stop it-until Jack meets Anna.
Anna is a passionate and solitary writer who is protected by her companion, Nafusa of Libya, the cat god. When Jack, a young painter harboring a traumatic past, falls through the Great Portal of Art in Tunis, he stumbles into Anna, and his fate.
Helped and hindered by a rotating cast of deities, the two embark on a journey that connects three ancient cities in different times: Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli. They realize that it is Anna's gift for healing words and Jack's natural talent for drawing places as they were that can reinstate the Great Portals and restore the world's balance, but some of the darker gods who thrive on chaos will stop at nothing to derail their quest. As time tears faster than they can heal it, Anna and Jack must come together in time to save history, and the possibility of a future.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
This was a fantastic read, filled with magical realism, suspense, love, and fantasy! The idea that time is falling apart and history is being erased because of these special portals was a new and unique idea. I loved the characters of Anna and Jack, and how they each held the key to a specific portal - art for Jack, and language for Anna. They get into some very messy situations throughout the book, and are constantly being sabotaged by the evil gods and goddesses who would love nothing more than to see mankind’s ruin. This is for fans of YA and fantasy! You won’t want to miss it!
June 5, 2025
What if the key to saving the world wasn’t brute strength or epic battles—but art, language, and kindness?
The Web of Time by Flavia Brunetti is a beautiful YA fantasy that blends myth, emotion, and creativity into a story that feels both timeless and urgent. We meet Anna, a quiet but powerful writer, and Jack, a young artist whose past is shadowed by trauma. When Jack stumbles through a crumbling portal in Tunis, he meets Anna and the fate of time itself begins to shift.
This book is grounded fantasy at its finest. Instead of flashy spells or sword fights, Brunetti gives us portals powered by human expression. The story spans Rome, Tripoli, and Tunis, three ancient cities humming with history and mystery, as Anna and Jack navigate not only shifting timelines but also their own healing. Accompanied (and occasionally hindered) by a divine cast of gods and goddesses, they must restore the broken portals before history erases itself completely.
I loved the fresh take on mythology. Nafusa, the Libyan cat god, steals the show more than once, and the balance of divine chaos and mortal purpose adds both humor and heart. The Web of Time feels deeply personal. The themes of trauma, identity, and resilience are handled gently enough that even the heavier moments feel safe for younger readers.
This is the kind of book that reminds you why art matters, how stories can shape the world, that images can preserve what we’ve lost, and how kindness can literally hold time together.
The Web of Time is a thoughtful journey through time, myth, and the healing power of creativity. YA fantasy fans, especially those who love stories with emotional depth and artistic magic, will find something truly special here.
I received a copy of the book for the tour. This review represents my honest and unbiased opinion.
https://ginaraemitchell.com/web-of-time/
The Web of Time by Flavia Brunetti is a beautiful YA fantasy that blends myth, emotion, and creativity into a story that feels both timeless and urgent. We meet Anna, a quiet but powerful writer, and Jack, a young artist whose past is shadowed by trauma. When Jack stumbles through a crumbling portal in Tunis, he meets Anna and the fate of time itself begins to shift.
This book is grounded fantasy at its finest. Instead of flashy spells or sword fights, Brunetti gives us portals powered by human expression. The story spans Rome, Tripoli, and Tunis, three ancient cities humming with history and mystery, as Anna and Jack navigate not only shifting timelines but also their own healing. Accompanied (and occasionally hindered) by a divine cast of gods and goddesses, they must restore the broken portals before history erases itself completely.
I loved the fresh take on mythology. Nafusa, the Libyan cat god, steals the show more than once, and the balance of divine chaos and mortal purpose adds both humor and heart. The Web of Time feels deeply personal. The themes of trauma, identity, and resilience are handled gently enough that even the heavier moments feel safe for younger readers.
This is the kind of book that reminds you why art matters, how stories can shape the world, that images can preserve what we’ve lost, and how kindness can literally hold time together.
The Web of Time is a thoughtful journey through time, myth, and the healing power of creativity. YA fantasy fans, especially those who love stories with emotional depth and artistic magic, will find something truly special here.
I received a copy of the book for the tour. This review represents my honest and unbiased opinion.
https://ginaraemitchell.com/web-of-time/
May 22, 2025
📚 The Web of Time by Flavia Brunetti — A Lyrical Tapestry of Time, Art, and Courage 🌍🕰️
What happens when time begins to unravel? In The Web of Time, debut author Flavia Brunetti weaves a spellbinding tale that is as timely as it is timeless. This young adult fantasy transcends borders—both real and imagined—blending myth, memory, and magic into a story that pulses with purpose.
At the heart of the novel is Anna, a young girl with a writer’s soul, and Jack, a gifted artist. Together, they set out on a quest to restore the fragile balance of time. But this isn’t just another hero’s journey—it’s a deeply evocative voyage through ancient cities like Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli, guided by a constellation of deities who represent Kindness, Art, and Language.
As Anna and Jack race to reopen the Great Portals—sacred doors tied to human creativity and compassion—they learn that saving time is less about fixing the clock and more about rekindling connection, identity, and hope. Each portal becomes a metaphor for the forces that hold civilizations together. And in this delicate dance between mythology and modernity, The Web of Time shines.
Brunetti, a humanitarian and global storyteller, infuses each page with rich cultural textures and heart. Her lived experiences echo through the narrative, reminding us that stories shape worlds—and perhaps, even time itself.
If you love books that blend deep philosophy with vibrant fantasy, and tales that call young readers to imagine a better world, this one is for you.
✨ The Web of Time is not just a book—it’s an ode to resilience, creativity, and the power of language.
What happens when time begins to unravel? In The Web of Time, debut author Flavia Brunetti weaves a spellbinding tale that is as timely as it is timeless. This young adult fantasy transcends borders—both real and imagined—blending myth, memory, and magic into a story that pulses with purpose.
At the heart of the novel is Anna, a young girl with a writer’s soul, and Jack, a gifted artist. Together, they set out on a quest to restore the fragile balance of time. But this isn’t just another hero’s journey—it’s a deeply evocative voyage through ancient cities like Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli, guided by a constellation of deities who represent Kindness, Art, and Language.
As Anna and Jack race to reopen the Great Portals—sacred doors tied to human creativity and compassion—they learn that saving time is less about fixing the clock and more about rekindling connection, identity, and hope. Each portal becomes a metaphor for the forces that hold civilizations together. And in this delicate dance between mythology and modernity, The Web of Time shines.
Brunetti, a humanitarian and global storyteller, infuses each page with rich cultural textures and heart. Her lived experiences echo through the narrative, reminding us that stories shape worlds—and perhaps, even time itself.
If you love books that blend deep philosophy with vibrant fantasy, and tales that call young readers to imagine a better world, this one is for you.
✨ The Web of Time is not just a book—it’s an ode to resilience, creativity, and the power of language.
May 27, 2025
The Web of Time is a Unique Young Adult Fantasy. I really enjoyed the blend of history, fantasy and magical realism throughout this book. The storyline has a mythology element and a "save the world" style theme that still blends realistically with the teen characters' stories and abilities. The book is a clean read with characters that readers will enjoy growing with throughout the book.
The Writing Style May Require Some Focus. While the book is well-written and engaging, the back-and -forth movement between times, places and points of view is sometimes difficult to follow. It doesn't make the book too difficult to read, but there were times when I found myself initially a little confused during transitions. The book has wonderful characters and a unique storyline that will pull you in and keep your interest--but, I wasn't always immediately "on the same page" as the author during some of the shifts and would need to re-read a section.
Would I Recommend The Web of Time by Flavia Brunetti? I enjoyed the characters, the settings and the magical realism presented in the storyline. I did sometimes need to re-read a paragraph or two if I found myself in a different time or point of view during a chapter--but this didn't greatly affect the story flow. If you enjoy mythology and realistic, clean teen fantasy that is presented in a unique style, this story is an interesting one for your reading list.
I received a copy of this book for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
The Writing Style May Require Some Focus. While the book is well-written and engaging, the back-and -forth movement between times, places and points of view is sometimes difficult to follow. It doesn't make the book too difficult to read, but there were times when I found myself initially a little confused during transitions. The book has wonderful characters and a unique storyline that will pull you in and keep your interest--but, I wasn't always immediately "on the same page" as the author during some of the shifts and would need to re-read a section.
Would I Recommend The Web of Time by Flavia Brunetti? I enjoyed the characters, the settings and the magical realism presented in the storyline. I did sometimes need to re-read a paragraph or two if I found myself in a different time or point of view during a chapter--but this didn't greatly affect the story flow. If you enjoy mythology and realistic, clean teen fantasy that is presented in a unique style, this story is an interesting one for your reading list.
I received a copy of this book for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
May 5, 2025
Something has happened and the Web of Time is unraveling as a result of humans and their decisions. It's disturbing the gods and goddesses while changing and erasing history as we know it. Things change when Jack bumps into Anna and it's up to them to make things right, but they have their own emotions getting in the way. They will also encounter different gods and goddesses along the way who will challenge them and use them to help fix everything.
THE WEB OF TIME is a clean ya magical realism story rich with themes of time, fate, the power of language, and history. Flavia Brunetti's writing is enchanting and celebrates language as being more than just words. Weaving together Mediterranean history with fate, Flavia Brunetti opens the reader's eyes to how language is so much more than what we say. It's also what we physically and emotionally express. The only real complaint I have is that the story was a bit jumpy with all of the POV and time changes. I love the development and friendship of our MCs: Anna and Jack. The world-building is rich with all of the different gods and goddesses. The twist with Pietro was intriguing as well.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to fans of ya friendship, fantasy, time travel (I use this one loosely because it bounces between times), magical realism, and history. The POV changes make it seem very fast-paced and it's easy to consume in 1-2 sittings.
THE WEB OF TIME is a clean ya magical realism story rich with themes of time, fate, the power of language, and history. Flavia Brunetti's writing is enchanting and celebrates language as being more than just words. Weaving together Mediterranean history with fate, Flavia Brunetti opens the reader's eyes to how language is so much more than what we say. It's also what we physically and emotionally express. The only real complaint I have is that the story was a bit jumpy with all of the POV and time changes. I love the development and friendship of our MCs: Anna and Jack. The world-building is rich with all of the different gods and goddesses. The twist with Pietro was intriguing as well.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to fans of ya friendship, fantasy, time travel (I use this one loosely because it bounces between times), magical realism, and history. The POV changes make it seem very fast-paced and it's easy to consume in 1-2 sittings.
June 9, 2025
This story masterfully blends mythology, time travel, and creative expression, weaving a complex and intriguing narrative. The Web of Time, a mystical force powered by human actions, is a fascinating concept that explores the connection between human decisions and the fabric of time.
*Meet Anna and Jack: A Creative Duo 🌟*
Anna, a passionate writer protected by the cat god Nafusa, and Jack, a talented painter with a traumatic past, are brought together by fate when Jack falls through the Great Portal of Art. Their journey through time and ancient cities, including Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli, is filled with action, suspense, and emotional depth.
The gods, with their own agendas and motivations, add a rich layer to the narrative. Some aid Anna and Jack, while others hinder their progress, creating tension and uncertainty.
As the Great Portals close and time begins to erase itself, Anna and Jack must use their unique gifts to restore the world's balance. With time tearing faster than they can heal it, their quest is a thrilling and urgent adventure.
*A Must-Read for Fans of Mythology and Time Travel! 📚*
This book is a captivating tale that will appeal to fans of mythology, time travel, and creative storytelling. With its unique blend of genres and engaging narrative, it's a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling adventure.
*Meet Anna and Jack: A Creative Duo 🌟*
Anna, a passionate writer protected by the cat god Nafusa, and Jack, a talented painter with a traumatic past, are brought together by fate when Jack falls through the Great Portal of Art. Their journey through time and ancient cities, including Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli, is filled with action, suspense, and emotional depth.
The gods, with their own agendas and motivations, add a rich layer to the narrative. Some aid Anna and Jack, while others hinder their progress, creating tension and uncertainty.
As the Great Portals close and time begins to erase itself, Anna and Jack must use their unique gifts to restore the world's balance. With time tearing faster than they can heal it, their quest is a thrilling and urgent adventure.
*A Must-Read for Fans of Mythology and Time Travel! 📚*
This book is a captivating tale that will appeal to fans of mythology, time travel, and creative storytelling. With its unique blend of genres and engaging narrative, it's a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling adventure.
June 7, 2025
I didn’t expect The Web of Time to wreck me—in the best way possible.
This isn’t your typical YA fantasy. It’s lyrical, layered, and quietly defiant. Brunetti doesn’t spoon-feed you action or magic. Instead, she asks you to listen—to words, to silence, to history. And if you do, you’re rewarded with something rare: a story that feels like it matters.
The concept? Gorgeous. But it’s the execution that stunned me. Brunetti writes with a kind of reverence—for language, for myth, for pain. The emotional weight here hits subtly but deeply. It’s not about saving the world with swords or power. It’s about saving it with stories, with art, with compassion. And honestly? That felt revolutionary.
Anna and Jack aren’t perfect heroes. They’re soft, scared, raw, and that’s exactly what made them powerful. The world they move through feels ancient and urgent at the same time. You can feel the author’s lived experiences in every scene. This book isn’t trying to impress you. It’s trying to wake you up.
This book is a quiet storm. If you want fast-paced action, look elsewhere. But if you want something that honors the forgotten, questions the dominant narrative, and wraps it all in poetic myth—read this.
This isn’t your typical YA fantasy. It’s lyrical, layered, and quietly defiant. Brunetti doesn’t spoon-feed you action or magic. Instead, she asks you to listen—to words, to silence, to history. And if you do, you’re rewarded with something rare: a story that feels like it matters.
The concept? Gorgeous. But it’s the execution that stunned me. Brunetti writes with a kind of reverence—for language, for myth, for pain. The emotional weight here hits subtly but deeply. It’s not about saving the world with swords or power. It’s about saving it with stories, with art, with compassion. And honestly? That felt revolutionary.
Anna and Jack aren’t perfect heroes. They’re soft, scared, raw, and that’s exactly what made them powerful. The world they move through feels ancient and urgent at the same time. You can feel the author’s lived experiences in every scene. This book isn’t trying to impress you. It’s trying to wake you up.
This book is a quiet storm. If you want fast-paced action, look elsewhere. But if you want something that honors the forgotten, questions the dominant narrative, and wraps it all in poetic myth—read this.
February 17, 2025
This was an incredible story. I didn't know what to expect, but by page 30, I was hooked. I started it at the beginning of a very long airplane flight, and I was shocked that a few hours later, I was still thoroughly engrossed and loved the book more than the free movies!
The author has done an incredible job of weaving history and facts from different Mediterranean countries through a fictional story that is entirely accessible and easy to read. The writing is superb but not pretentious. Extraordinary locations, past and present, are described in exquisite detail and convey the emotions of the places without becoming overly lyrical or bogging the reader down. The trivia wound throughout the storyline is exceptional and makes every page an adventure, such as the fact that cartographers used to note underground locations as " here be dragons.” I also really loved how the story weaved the adventures of two teenagers with the very real and dangerous profession of humanitarian work.
As soon as I finished this story, I immediately purchased the other book published by this author, and I can't wait to start it!
The author has done an incredible job of weaving history and facts from different Mediterranean countries through a fictional story that is entirely accessible and easy to read. The writing is superb but not pretentious. Extraordinary locations, past and present, are described in exquisite detail and convey the emotions of the places without becoming overly lyrical or bogging the reader down. The trivia wound throughout the storyline is exceptional and makes every page an adventure, such as the fact that cartographers used to note underground locations as " here be dragons.” I also really loved how the story weaved the adventures of two teenagers with the very real and dangerous profession of humanitarian work.
As soon as I finished this story, I immediately purchased the other book published by this author, and I can't wait to start it!
May 17, 2025
The Web of Time weaves an intricate tapestry of myth, history, and human connection, taking readers on a journey across time and three ancient cities: Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli. When Jack, a young artist burdened by a painful past, falls through a portal into Anna’s world, their fates become irrevocably intertwined. Together, they must unravel the fabric of time itself, all while facing gods who both aid and thwart them. The key to restoring the balance of the world lies in their combined abilities - Anna’s power of healing words and Jack’s skill for capturing history through art.
The narrative has a richness to it, rooted in the lush, vivid setting. The cities themselves are more than just backdrops; they breathe and pulse with a life that feels both ancient and modern. I adore the way the author has blended real-world mythology with the fictional journey of these characters. The book is a breezy read, i finished it in two nights. It kept me turning the pages, eagerly wondering what would happen next.
The narrative has a richness to it, rooted in the lush, vivid setting. The cities themselves are more than just backdrops; they breathe and pulse with a life that feels both ancient and modern. I adore the way the author has blended real-world mythology with the fictional journey of these characters. The book is a breezy read, i finished it in two nights. It kept me turning the pages, eagerly wondering what would happen next.
May 30, 2025
Young Adult Fantasy is a genre that I have recently been really enjoying. The Web of Time by Flavia Brunetti is the most recent book in this genre that I have read.
I will admit that this book took me a couple of chapters to really get into the storyline of this book. The main characters in this book are Anna and Jack. Anna is a writer and Jack is an artist/painter. They bump into each other in the Magical Portal and a friendship begins. The storyline is about their journey to 3 different ancient cities: Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli and in different times of History. They set out to these Ancient Cities in Historical time to restore the things that they feel weren't accurate. The God's were not happy with Anna and Jack's presence and tried to do everything they could to make Anna and Jack did not succeed at their quest. I thought I wasn't going to be able to get through the book as it started out slow, but I am so glad I continued reading as the book was very mysterious and intriguing. I HIGHLY recommend this book to Young Adults who enjoy Mythology and History. GREAT BOOK!
I will admit that this book took me a couple of chapters to really get into the storyline of this book. The main characters in this book are Anna and Jack. Anna is a writer and Jack is an artist/painter. They bump into each other in the Magical Portal and a friendship begins. The storyline is about their journey to 3 different ancient cities: Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli and in different times of History. They set out to these Ancient Cities in Historical time to restore the things that they feel weren't accurate. The God's were not happy with Anna and Jack's presence and tried to do everything they could to make Anna and Jack did not succeed at their quest. I thought I wasn't going to be able to get through the book as it started out slow, but I am so glad I continued reading as the book was very mysterious and intriguing. I HIGHLY recommend this book to Young Adults who enjoy Mythology and History. GREAT BOOK!
April 29, 2025
When I read the blurb on what this book I was super intrigued because a web of time hidden in the earth that’s protected by the gods…how awesome. Im a sucker for a story that involves history and the different gods across different stories. The one thing that this book does that I didn’t like was was all of the jumping around to different time periods and it’s not the fact that the story kept jumping but there wasn’t very good indication of the when they jump to. If there was maybe a header as part of the chapter title that would help some confusion. Besides that I did really enjoy the story. The way the author takes you on a journey through time with two unlikely heroes, Anna and Jack, who have to navigate their own feelings with where they are at in life all the while the world seems to be crumbling around them and they have to figure out a way to heal the web before everything they know is gone.
May 16, 2025
I didn’t know what to expect when I started this book, but wow, it surprised me in the best way
The writing is smooth and rich, but not difficult. It explains history from different Mediterranean countries and connects it in a magical story that still feels real and easy to follow. I loved how the author made past and present mix together, with gods and mythology, but also with teenagers just trying to figure out life and emotions.
Anna and Jack are great characters. I enjoyed their friendship, even if their feelings make things complicated.
Sometimes the story jumped between different points of view and time moments, and it confused me a little, but not too much. It still kept my interest all the way. I really felt like I learned something while also enjoying the ride.
Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving a honest review
The writing is smooth and rich, but not difficult. It explains history from different Mediterranean countries and connects it in a magical story that still feels real and easy to follow. I loved how the author made past and present mix together, with gods and mythology, but also with teenagers just trying to figure out life and emotions.
Anna and Jack are great characters. I enjoyed their friendship, even if their feelings make things complicated.
Sometimes the story jumped between different points of view and time moments, and it confused me a little, but not too much. It still kept my interest all the way. I really felt like I learned something while also enjoying the ride.
Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving a honest review
May 30, 2025
A book of language and connection, filled with the nuances of Arabic and Italian while creating words in the air with water. If you happen to love languages and linguistics, you will enjoy a story of how the significance of small grammatical changes can alter meanings, and symbolize how language reflects both individuality and shared experiences. This is a beautiful story of love, memory, and the complexities of reality, as the characters navigate their emotions and the mysteries of their world, ultimately seeking to understand their past and the connection that binds them. The story is beautifully told and beautifully written, a blend of fantasy and intricate world-building, especially with a focus on language and cultural nuances.
July 19, 2025
A beautifully written YA fantasy that blends mythology, time travel, and the healing power of creativity. Set across Rome, Tunis, and Tripoli, the story follows Anna, a gifted writer, and Jack, a young artist, as they race to restore the crumbling Web of Time through portals powered by kindness, art, and language.
Flavia Brunetti delivers a unique, emotionally rich narrative that favors subtle magic over spectacle. The blend of history, myth, and personal growth makes this a standout. Perfect for readers who love lyrical writing, meaningful themes, and grounded fantasy.
Final thought:
Quietly powerful and deeply original—this book reminds us that art and compassion can hold the world together.
Flavia Brunetti delivers a unique, emotionally rich narrative that favors subtle magic over spectacle. The blend of history, myth, and personal growth makes this a standout. Perfect for readers who love lyrical writing, meaningful themes, and grounded fantasy.
Final thought:
Quietly powerful and deeply original—this book reminds us that art and compassion can hold the world together.
July 19, 2025
If you love fantasy rooted in myth, magic, and meaning—The Web of Time is a hidden gem. Instead of swords and spells, Brunetti gives us portals powered by Kindness, Art, and Language. The stakes? Nothing less than time itself unraveling.
Anna, a writer blessed with healing words, and Jack, an artist who can redraw lost worlds, must restore the balance before history vanishes. Gods walk among them—some divine, others dark—and their journey through ancient Rome, Tripoli, and Tunis feels like stepping into a sacred legend.
This is a fresh, soulful take on fantasy—more spiritual than violent, more poetic than epic. And that’s what makes it unforgettable.
A mythic adventure for readers who believe magic lives in words, art, and the heart.
Anna, a writer blessed with healing words, and Jack, an artist who can redraw lost worlds, must restore the balance before history vanishes. Gods walk among them—some divine, others dark—and their journey through ancient Rome, Tripoli, and Tunis feels like stepping into a sacred legend.
This is a fresh, soulful take on fantasy—more spiritual than violent, more poetic than epic. And that’s what makes it unforgettable.
A mythic adventure for readers who believe magic lives in words, art, and the heart.
May 18, 2025
What if the stories you told... could reshape time itself?
In The Web of Time by Flavia Brunetti, the Great Portals of Kindness, Art, and Language suddenly close—and time begins to unravel. Enter Anna, a gifted writer guarded by a cat god, and Jack, a painter haunted by the past.
I was able to read this one early thanks to @literaryinspired and I couldn’t have ever predicted that I would enjoy this book as much as I did. It has everything I love and want in a book: found family, magic, gods, animal protectors, and hidden worlds. It sucked me in and I couldn’t stop reading it! I haven’t picked up a good YA book in a while, and this one just hit the spot.
In The Web of Time by Flavia Brunetti, the Great Portals of Kindness, Art, and Language suddenly close—and time begins to unravel. Enter Anna, a gifted writer guarded by a cat god, and Jack, a painter haunted by the past.
I was able to read this one early thanks to @literaryinspired and I couldn’t have ever predicted that I would enjoy this book as much as I did. It has everything I love and want in a book: found family, magic, gods, animal protectors, and hidden worlds. It sucked me in and I couldn’t stop reading it! I haven’t picked up a good YA book in a while, and this one just hit the spot.
June 26, 2025
This is a beautiful story about the way that time works in the world. The gods interacted with Jack and Anna, who were stuck going through portals to different places and time periods. They showed how interconnected everything is throughout history. If one moment changed, it set off a chain reaction and changed all of history. I really liked the characters of Jack and Anna, and I would love to see what happened to them after the story ended.
The Web of Time is a beautiful story about time.
Thank you iRead Book Tours for providing a copy of this book for a paid campaign!
Content warnings: death of parent (off page), child abuse
The Web of Time is a beautiful story about time.
Thank you iRead Book Tours for providing a copy of this book for a paid campaign!
Content warnings: death of parent (off page), child abuse
September 26, 2025
1.5 stars.
The writing is truly beautiful with lovely phrasing. And I can tell the author was trying to weave something beautiful here with deep meaning, but overall it just didn't do it for me.
— the cast of deities is large and confusing, especially since Rome already has such a well-known pantheon
— it's YA, which is fine, but it feels geared towards 11-12 year olds
— it's a bit formulaic of god(s) seeks help, child(ren)-hero(es) fixes it, move to next quest
— the time/place/narrator jumps so frequently that it was quite disorienting
But, if you like middle-school YA fantasy, Rome, Tunisia, and a quick read, this could be for you.
The writing is truly beautiful with lovely phrasing. And I can tell the author was trying to weave something beautiful here with deep meaning, but overall it just didn't do it for me.
— the cast of deities is large and confusing, especially since Rome already has such a well-known pantheon
— it's YA, which is fine, but it feels geared towards 11-12 year olds
— it's a bit formulaic of god(s) seeks help, child(ren)-hero(es) fixes it, move to next quest
— the time/place/narrator jumps so frequently that it was quite disorienting
But, if you like middle-school YA fantasy, Rome, Tunisia, and a quick read, this could be for you.
April 29, 2025
The web of time is carefully woven. Strands break and reform as decisions change. One god becomes disturbed by the changes to his favorite city and sets out to correct them. He soon learns that changing one thing causes other things to change as well.
I enjoyed how historical events were brought into the story. The writing is very descriptive and vivid. I also really liked how portals were made and the letters and words floating around. I could easily imagine it in my mind. You'll have to read it to understand.
I enjoyed how historical events were brought into the story. The writing is very descriptive and vivid. I also really liked how portals were made and the letters and words floating around. I could easily imagine it in my mind. You'll have to read it to understand.
August 24, 2025
This was such a fun read, both wholemesome and poignant, and I loved that I enjoyed reading it but I can also envision both younger and older generations really loving it for different reasons. The story looks at important themes like growing up with trauma but in a way that I’d be comfortable having a kid read as well as an adult. I loved the relationship between Jack and Anna, and that Anna was clearly the hero of the book. Who doesn’t love a girl hero! This is a novel I’ll gift multi-generationally and to people who read different genres.
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June 6, 2025Graded By: Regina
Cover Story: Making Waves
BFF Charm: Torn
Swoonworthy Scale: 2
Talky Talk: Elegant Whimsy
Bonus Factors: Art, Loyal Pet God, Tasty Business
Anti-Bonus Factors: Awful Grown-Ups, Existential Fear
Relationship Status: Suspend Your Disbelief
Read the full book report here.
Cover Story: Making Waves
BFF Charm: Torn
Swoonworthy Scale: 2
Talky Talk: Elegant Whimsy
Bonus Factors: Art, Loyal Pet God, Tasty Business
Anti-Bonus Factors: Awful Grown-Ups, Existential Fear
Relationship Status: Suspend Your Disbelief
Read the full book report here.
June 4, 2025
This is a great read for fans of YA fantasy with history, time travel, mythology, magical realism, and a hero’s quest all rolled into one story. Anna and Jack are such endearing characters, and I loved their journey. If you’re looking for a clean read to give to a younger teen, this book is perfect.
July 13, 2025
A captivating story for both young and old, beautifully written with fascinating characters. It is a tribute to beauty, art, connection, and friendship—a tale that will inspire your imagination and transport you through space and time. A heartfelt call to be brave and responsible in a world that may be troubled, but is always worth defending.
July 18, 2025
The Web of Time by Flavia Brunetti is a captivating journey! This book explores cultural depths and boundless imagination with a web quietly spinning beneath the ground.
Flavia Brunetti’s The Web of Time spins a vivid underground tapestry of goddesses and global cultures, blending myth and setting into a mesmerizing, flavor-rich adventure. Highly recommended!!
Flavia Brunetti’s The Web of Time spins a vivid underground tapestry of goddesses and global cultures, blending myth and setting into a mesmerizing, flavor-rich adventure. Highly recommended!!
August 19, 2025
Curl up in a chair with this read and hold on to the armrests because this book will take you on trips through Italy, Tunisia, and Libya. I adored the mix of real histories and different cultures with the fantasty elements and some brand-new myths and gods I got really attached to, like the god of the river of Rome and the cat god of Libya
August 19, 2025
This novel blends myths, history, and cultures in a story that drew me in completely. I loved the different gods and characters, and the description of the places made me feel like I was really there, so every time I sat in my chair and picked up the book I got to be in the center of Ancient Rome, or the neighborhoods of Tunis, or the port of Tripoli. I’m ready for a sequel!
June 9, 2025
The Web of Time is my first introduction to the works of writer, Flavia Brunetti. Even though I am not a huge fan of the fantasy genre, I thought it was a pretty good read. It is a great example of why going outside my norm and trying something new. I am so glad I chose not to miss out on this one. I was quickly captivated with Anna and Jack's story. These two teens embark on a journey of friendship, history, adventure, and healing. I enjoyed travelling all over, past and present, with the two and seeing what they would endure from scene to scene. I found it to be a fun and entertaining story to follow. It was easy for me to read it all in one sitting. I thought it was a perfect way to spend on a rainy and cold spring day.
I am going to give The Web of Time a very well deserved five plus stars. I believe fans of clean young adult fantasy fiction will not want to miss out on reading it. I highly recommend it. I would be interested in reading more releases from the talented author, Flavia Brunetti, in the future to see where else their imagination will take their characters to next. They have definitely earned themselves a new fan with me.
I received a digital copy of Flavia Brunetti's The Web of Time from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am going to give The Web of Time a very well deserved five plus stars. I believe fans of clean young adult fantasy fiction will not want to miss out on reading it. I highly recommend it. I would be interested in reading more releases from the talented author, Flavia Brunetti, in the future to see where else their imagination will take their characters to next. They have definitely earned themselves a new fan with me.
I received a digital copy of Flavia Brunetti's The Web of Time from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
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