Review of "Remnants: Season of Wonder"

Rating: 3.5 Stars

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Review: Lisa T. Bergren has taken readers on an array of adventures - from time travel in medieval Italy to a European Grand Tour.  "Remnants: Season of Wonder" embarks on a brand new journey, this time in the distant future.  As a dystopian novel, the plot has the expected danger, fighting, and action sequences.  There are few, if any, dull moments of the story, which is definitely a continuous journey for the characters and readers. The characters spend the entire novel traversing a variety of climates and landscapes with the goal of reaching the enemy territory of Pacifica and saving a Ailtith brother.  I was never bored by the plot with so many scene changes and enemies lurking around every corner; but when I reached the end, I felt no closure on an expedition which had clearly not reached its destination.  The Ailith will certainly face more adversity in upcoming novels, and Bergren leaves readers speculating what grave dangers will emerge and how the Ailith will fulfill their calling.

Among the lingering questions is Andrianna's relationships and her gift to read and feel emotions. Andrianna's "high gift" has already attracted the attention of the evil factions, and her struggle to block out the darkness seems to foreshadow future trouble.  Her forbidden attraction to her knight, Ronan, creates some romantic tension. Andrianna is warned a few times that love can be used as a weapon.  While I have little doubt that Andrianna's love for Ronan will find fulfillment, I suspect that Bergren has set the stage for struggles along the way that will pull them apart.  It strikes me as odd that none of the other members of the Ailith group are attracted to each other.  The Ailith characters all have their own distinct personalities and gifts, and the relationship between the Remnants and the knights seems to walk a fine line between brotherly love and romantic love.  Each character brings a different dynamic to the group.  After an exciting ending, we are left unsure about the fates of some of the Ailiths and their leader.

"Season of Wonder"  had me wondering and wandering.  I enjoyed the action, but the characters' journeys were more physical than emotional.  "Season of Wonder" feels more like a build-up to the series, and it doesn't seem that many of the events in the first half of the plot will impact the future novel.  There isn't much background on the Ailith group and the established group of elders, and most of the significant events occurred in the novel's second half.  At the novel's conclusion, the real adventure feels like it is just on the brink of beginning, leaving me with enough interest to await the next installment of the series.

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Zondervan through Net Galley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.


Summary from Zondervan: In the first book of the new futuristic dystopian series from author Lisa T. Bergren, the chosen remnants must work to redirect humanity’s course.

THEIR ARRIVAL WAS FORETOLD FOR YEARS….

Andriana is a Remnant, gifted as an empath and one of the Ailith, destined to act as humanity’s last shield against the horrors that now plague those who remain.

After years of training in stealth and warfare, Andriana and her Knight protector, Ronan, are finally ready to answer the Call and begin the life they were designed for. But as they embark with the other Remnants on the first of their assignments, they quickly discover that the world beyond their protected Valley is more dangerous than they imagined.The Sons of Sheol will stop at nothing to prevent Dri and Ronan from rescuing anyone sympathetic to the Remnants’ cause. And as the Remnants battle the demonic forces, still other enemies close in. Dangers intensity, but so do Dri’s feelings for Ronan–the one emotion she is not meant to feel. In the midst of their mission, Andriana must fine a way to master her feelings. Or risk compromising everything… 

Review of "Glittering Promises"

Rating: 4.5 Stars

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Review: "Glittering Promises" marks the conclusion on a three novel tour of Europe, courtesy of Lisa T. Bergren. I felt well-acquainted with Cora, Will, and their travel group.  The dynamics between Cora, the Kensingtons, and the Morgans are already well-established by the beginning of "Glittering Promises." Cora's Grand Tour has been a journey of self-discovery, and the previous two novels have paved the way for the decisions she faces in the conclusion.  Everything comes to fruition in this final leg of the journey - Cora's place in the Kensington family, her new-found status as an heiress, and her relationship with Will and Pierre. Bergren offers a satisfying ending with the suspense, danger, romance, and beautiful scenery that make all three novels "must-reads." 

Although I enjoyed the characters and their stories in the Grand Tour series, the scenery is what I will remember most. Bergren is a competent tour guide, highlighting some of the most beautiful areas of Europe and their unique histories.  The series is almost like watching a travel show or movie, so realistic and vivid are the descriptions. "Glittering Promises" ventures into the Italian countryside, the ruins of Pompeii, and the iconic city of Rome. Even during slower points in the novel, the imagery supports and complements the plot and maintains the pace. 

After reading "Grave Consequences," I wondered how the love triangle between Cora, Will, and Pierre would be resolved.  Would I be left feeling sorry for someone's heartbreak?  The situation is resolved in a way that I did not expect.  While there is a touch of regret in the turn of events, there is an overriding sense of rightness and happiness, befitting the ending of a series.


I received a complimentary copy of this book from David C. Cook through Net Galley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Summary from David C. Cook: Lisa T. Bergren's popular Grand Tour series concludes as Cora Kensington journeys farther into Italy, wrestles with a terrible ultimatum from her father, and comes to terms with the Father who will never fail her. 

America's newest heiress must decide if her potential fortune is rationale enough to give up her freedom and all that God is leading her toward. And when her newly-discovered siblings are threatened with ruin, her quandary deepens. Then as Cora nears Rome, more journalists are track the news story of the decade-"Copper Cora," the rags-to-riches girl-and want to know more about her family and the men vying for her attention. Meanwhile, a charming Italian countess decides that if Cora isn't going to claim Will's heart, she might just try...

Review of "Grave Consequences" by Lisa T. Bergren

Rating: 4.5 Stars

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Review: I have been looking forward to Lisa T. Bergren's second installment of the Grand Tour series since reading "Glamorous Illusions" last year.  Danger makes an appearance at the conclusion of "Glamorous Illusions" and continues to thread through "Grave Consequences," often lurking in the shadows of European landmarks.  The sense of impending attack upon the travelling party lends a suspenseful edge to the plot otherwise defined by romance and European history.  New characters also add intrigue as Cora attempts to ascertain their motives. Meanwhile, Cora must also contend with matters of the heart and determine her place in the Kensington family.  The romantic suspense is often stronger than the mystery of who is targeting the Kensington traveling party. 

Bergren established a love triangle between Cora, Will, and the wealthy Frenchman, Pierre, in "Glamorous Illusions."  Because the story is told from the perspectives of both Cora and Will, it is easy to relate to their feelings as well as their internal debate about whether or not to act on those feelings.  Will and Pierre both have their charms as potential suitors, but I consistently hope for a union between Will and Cora.  Of course, circumstances and family prevent an easy match, and increase the interest for readers.  I want happy endings for all three characters, but it seems that at least one heart is destined to be broken by the end of the series.

On the surface, Cora's story is like a fairy tale.  She is a farm-girl-turned-heiress on the trip of a lifetime, dressing, dining, and traveling in splendor.  Her new-found wealth creates hardships for Cora that are evident in "Glamorous Illusions" and "Grave Consequences."  The chapters told from Cora's first person perspective provide insight into her inner doubts and attempt to reconcile both sides - Diehl and Kensington.  Bergren adds emotional depth to the plot through Cora, and creates a realistic character.

Historical depth is also an appealing aspect of "Grave Consequences."  Bergren takes readers on a grand tour of Europe through her descriptions.  The sites, tastes, and sounds of France, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy come to life on the pages. These are all places I dream of visiting, and combining them with a historical setting make them even more appealing. I can't wait for the tour to continue in Book 3, "Glittering Promises."  

I received a complimentary copy of this book from LitFuse through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Buy the Book: http://ow.ly/i8ZWs    

Blog Tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/lbegren 

Summary: The Powerful, Epic Romance Continues, Book 2 in Lisa T. Begren's Grand Tour series

For Cora Kensington, the journey of a lifetime takes unexpected twists. And her future-her very life-depends on the decisions she'll make at each crossroad. As her European tour with her newfound family takes her through Austria, France, and Italy, an unseen enemy trails close behind. Meanwhile, a forbidden love continues to claim her heart, putting everyone's plans in danger.

And as Cora stays one step ahead of it all, what might need the most protection is her own heart, torn between the dramatic pursuit of a dashing Frenchman and a man who has been quietly staking claim to her affections all along. Love has dangers all its own. She must escape the bonds of the past and discover the faith to make the right choices, as each one has grave consequences. 

Meet Lisa: Lisa T. Bergren is the award-winning author of over thirty-five books, with more than 2 million copies sold. A former publishing executive, Lisa now divides her time between writing, editing, parenting three children with her husband, Tim, and dreaming of her next trip to Italy. She lives in Colorado Springs. 

Visit http://lisatawnbergren.com 

Review of "Glamorous Illusions" by Lisa T. Bergren

Rating: 5 Stars

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Summary from David C. Cook: The first book in the Grand Tour series, Glamorous Illusions will take readers on a pilgrimage through Europe-and straight into the soul.

It's the summer of 1913 and Cora Kensington's life on the family farm has taken a dark turn. The crops are failing and worse, so is her father's health. Then a stranger comes to call and in one fateful afternoon, Cora discovers that her birth father is a copper king-a man who invites her to tour Europe with her new family. As she travels across America, then on to England and France, Cora faces the hardships as well as the privileges of assuming the family name. And though now she knows more of her true identity, she soon discovers the journey is only beginning.

Review: Glamorous Illusions is a captivating prelude to Lisa T. Bergren's newest series.  The novel's departure from the traditional settings of historical fiction is very refreshing. In a plot that takes us from Montana to Paris, France, Bergren's descriptions bring the locations alive from the relatable perspective of an average young woman. Amid the glamour of the Grand Tour, danger, romance, and family drama add levels of interest and intrigue.   

Despite difficult circumstances, Cora Kensington has the chance to embrace a lifestyle that many people can only live in their dreams. Although the plot is set in 1913, its message still rings true today.  It is easy to get caught up in dreams of the glamorous life, portrayed by the wealthy and the famous, but sometimes tarnish is revealed.  How much more obvious would the illusion of glamour become if we were give the opportunity witness a "privileged" lifestyle first-hand, like Cora?  For Cora, the Grand Tour is journey of growth and self-discovery.  Her doubts and questions are understandable; and her character is one with whom the reader can sympathize.  In addition to her struggles to claim her place in a newly discovered family and life, Cora must also contend with matters of the heart. Glamorous Illusions presents two potential but contrasting suitors.  Both have their charms, but will either win Cora's heart?   

Glamorous Illusions concludes in France, promising more European travels in the next novel. Bergren also leaves us with unanswered questions that pique our interest for the sequel.  I truly wish it was already released, but anticipation makes the wait more exciting. 

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from NetGalley, courtesy of David C. Cook.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Review of "Bourne" by Lisa T. Bergren

Rating: 5 Stars

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Review: Lisa T. Bergren's novella, Bourne, is like a delicious mini dessert. It is a tantalizing continuation of Torrent, just the right size to satisfy your appetite but leaving you anxious for your next chance to indulge. Following the pattern of the first three novels, Bourne continues seamlessly where the last novel ended.  Although this is a novella, the action, romance, and details are not lacking.  As always, there is looming mortal danger for the characters and the acts committed by the enemies are more brutal. 

Bourne allows us to experience the story from the perspectives of both Gabi and Lia, which is a refreshing change. Gabi is in many ways the quintessential newlywed, focused on her husband, and Lia's perspective provides a welcome balance. Lia has been present throughout all three River of Time novels, showing bravery and strength, but the only knowledge we've had of her thoughts and emotions have been thorough Gabi.  Lia's friendship with Luca adds some light and humor to the tense situations that permeate the Betarrini sisters' medieval life.

Each addition to the River of Time series leaves me thirsty for more. Although each novel concludes, there is so much potential for more action and adventure.  I find myself wanting to hear more of Lia, Luca, and the complicated Lord Greco. 

Click the links below to read our reviews:

Waterfall

Cascade and Torrent

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Lisa T. Bergren . I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Review of "Cascade" and "Torrent" by Lisa T. Bergren

Rating: 5 Stars for Both!

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Lisa T. Bergren's River of Time Series is captivating and addictive.  It's the kind of series that you don't want to end but at the same time you devour every page anxious to find out what will happen next.  Although it is classified as a young adult series, Waterfall, Cascade, and Torrent, can definitely be enjoyed by adults of all ages.  The fantastical concept of time travel has always appealed to my imagination, and Bergren's descriptions of medieval Italy, combined with just the right amounts of action, tension, and romance, leave me thirsting for more.  The River of Time Series is one that will remain in my collection to revisit again.

Read the Waterfall Review Here.

Cascade

Summary from David C. Cook: In the first book of the River of Time series, two bored American sisters stumble on a door to the past, where Gabi is rescued by a handsome knight who vows to love her forever. But there is a rival for his affections, and the girls flee into the present to escape.

Now lovestruck Gabi persuades Lia to help her return, even though she knows dangers abound in medieval Italy, including an entire city who seeks revenge. But Marcello awaits, and Gabi must decide if she's willing to leave her family behind for love.

Review: Cascade picks up right where Waterfall ends, so there is no disruption in the action.  From the start, the plot is packed with adventure and danger.  The pace is steady with moments of heart-pounding close-calls.  Amid the tribulations that Gabi and Lia face, they mature into strong young women and lose their hearts a little more to Italy and the Forelli family.  Thankfully, character development is not sacrificed for action.  Gabi's story is told from her first-person perspective, with the interesting and fresh take on historic Italy from a modern day teen.  Without knowing the thoughts or motivations of some other characters, the reader is left to question who is good and who is bad.  The mystery is as propelling as a swift undercurrent. 

The introduction of Gabi's mother adds an endearing family element to the plot.  Watching her adjust to medieval Italy and observe her daughters in their element is both heart-warming and funny. Her mother shows just as much spunk as her daughters, and their combined penchant for finding themselves battling fierce enemies create a multitude of exciting twists and turns.  I truly never knew what was around the next bend.  

Torrent

Summary from David C. Cook: When Gabi and Lia finally learn to surf the river of time, they realize they must make hard choices about life and love in the third and final book in the River of Time series.

Gabi and Lia Betarrini have learned to control their time travel, and they return from medieval Italy to save their father from his tragic death in modern times.

But love calls across the centuries, and the girls are determined to return forever-even though they know the Black Plague is advancing across Europe, claiming the lives of one-third of the population. In the suspenseful conclusion of the River of Time series, every decision is about life and death.

Review: When I finished reading Cascade, I planned to wait a few months before reading Torrent, enjoying the anticipation of what the pages would hold.  Torrent tempted me from the bookcase for just a couple of weeks, before I succumbed to the pull.  Once again, I was swept away with Gabi's story.  This time, the novel begins with a tug on the heartstrings as Gabi and her family are reunited with her father.  His fatherly perspective adds an extra dimension to the growing love between Gabi and Marcello, and creates some humorous moments. 

As the entire Betarrini family travels back to Italy, the excitement begins.  New challenges and battles,which I will not reveal, keep the plot fresh.  Romance and faith take precedence in Torrent, as Gabi contemplates her future. Although Gabi's struggles take place in another time,   her questions and temptations are very realistic and relevant for today's readers.  The romance element lends itself to a few "steamier" scenes, but they are offset by a message of restraint in the face of temptation.  The sure and steady faith of Marcello and other characters are positive examples to both Gabi and readers.  Of the three books in the River of Time Series,Torrent offers the best balance of action and emotion.

Bergren takes the reader to other areas of Italy in Torrent, including ancient Rome.  Her clear and vivid descriptions paint a scene as masterful as the frescoes that define Rome's architecture. I enjoyed the change in scenery and the new twists those changes introduced.  Torrent is the perfect ending to an amazing series.  I loved Bergren's references to the River of Time and the symbolism of waterfall, cascade, and torrent. The novel tied all three books together, yet left room for more...and I am certainly thirsting for more!

Books on Our Christmas Wish List...

Now that the holiday season is upon us, I am looking forward to spending time with family, enjoying the Christmas season, and curling up with a few good books in the evenings.  There are a few books that have been on my wish list for a while, and a couple of others that will soon be released in late December.

Since reading Waterfall, the first book in Lisa T. Bergren's The River of Time Series, I have been eagerly anticipating Cascade and Torrent.  I have to admit that I would probably not have read Waterfall if it had not been offered as a free Kindle book in the summer.  Besides Jenny B. Jones'  YA fiction books, I have not read many other YA Christian fiction books; but if their writing is any indication of what else is out there, I need to search for more!  The River of Time Series packs in all of the elements of engaging fiction:  multi-dimensional characters, a plot full of adventure with twists and turns, mystery, danger, romance... and time travel.

I still love to have a real book in my hands; so I am looking forward to getting these paperback books for Christmas.   I am also a big fan of the free books that Kindle offers; and in several cases, it has introduced me to great stories and authors that I would likely never have known.  The free ebook monthly promotions can be a powerful marketing tool for authors and publishers.

I am also looking forward to reading Alice Wisler's A Wedding Invitation.  I have enjoyed all of her previous books; so I am sure to enjoy her new release as well.  Like Wisler,  Julie Klassen is an author that has become synonymous in my mind with good fiction.  I love traveling to historic England in the pages of her stories.

After reading The Lady of Bolton Hill last summer,  I have been looking forward to Elizabeth Camden's sophomore release,The Rose of Winslow Street, as well.  I love the cover, and I hope that the story is just as promising!

The Maid of Fairbourne Hall

The Rose of Winslow Street

Wings of a Dream

A Wedding Invitation

Review of Waterfall by Lisa T. Bergren

Rating: 5 Stars

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Synopsis from cbd.com:  Gabriella has never spent a summer in Italy like this one...and leaving means forfeiting what she’s come to know...and love itself. Remaining means giving up all she’s known and loved…

Most American teenagers want a vacation in Italy, but the Betarrini sisters have spent every summer of their lives with their parents, famed Etruscan scholars, among the romantic hills. Stuck among the rubble of medieval castles in rural Tuscany on yet another hot, dusty archeological site, Gabi and Lia are bored out of their minds… until Gabi places her hand atop a handprint in an ancient tomb and finds herself in fourteenth-century Italy. And worse yet, in the middle of a fierce battle between knights of two opposing forces.

And thus does she come to be rescued by the knight-prince Marcello Falassi, who takes her back to his father’s castle—a castle Gabi has seen in ruins in another life. Suddenly Gabi’s summer in Italy is much, much more interesting. But what do you do when your knight in shining armor lives, literally, in a different world?

You can read an excerpt at www.cbd.com

Review: My sister raved about Waterfall after she read it a few weeks ago.  The question was, would I love it too? The outcome...We are both anxious to read the next two novels in the River of Time series.  Although Waterfall, is classified as a young adult novel, it can easily be enjoyed by adults. Its fantasy aspect brings to mind the Twilight series, which of course is popular among many age groups, but I found Waterfall to be more exciting and with more likable characters.


Waterfall is set during the Middle Ages in Italy, and is complete with knights, dungeons, sword fights, damsels in distress, castles, and villains.  I am usually not a fan of novels set in the Middle Ages, but this was an exception.  Bergren balanced the medieval qualities with Gabi's modern day perspective.  As a result, the reader gets the "best of both worlds."  The plot is full of adventure, breath-holding close calls, and perilous situations.  These elements are tempered by the budding romance between Gabi and Marcello, as well as Gabi's growing faith and her struggle with reconciling her medieval life with her life in the present day.  

The time travel fantasy is one not often approached in Christian fiction, but it offers a welcome escape from the real world while conveying meaningful lessons.  I have no idea how the River of Time series will end.  Will Gabi and Lia choose to live in the present or past?  Where will their time travel take them and what new dangers will they face? A journey down the River of Time is one adventure that readers will not soon forget.