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Customer Reviews for David C. Cook Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
David C. Cook Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
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.
Average Customer Rating:
(30 Reviews) 30
Rating Snapshot (30 reviews)
5 stars
26
4 stars
3
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 star
0
29 out of 3097%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Review 1 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Great story
Date:May 21, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Glamorous Illusions by Lisa T. Bergren gave a glimpse into the life of the super rich at the beginning of the twentieth century. The year is 1913 and Cora has returned home from Normal School for the summer. Her dad has a stroke and recovers quite well. Then he has another stroke and this time he is completely incapacitated. Cora is working herself into a state exhaustion to keep the small farm going in spite of the drought that is plaguing the entire area. Cora is in the barn working when a fine carriage appears at the door of the farmhouse and two very well dressed men alight from the carriage. One man, a doctor, goes inside to examine Cora’s father. The other man, Wallace Kensington, the copper king of Montana, is talking to Cora’s mother and when Cora walks up her mother introduces him and then he drops a bombshell. He is Cora’s birth father. She does not believe him but then her mother convinces her that what he says is true. He is there to offer her the deal of a lifetime. She is to take the Grand Tour of Europe with his other three children and three of their friends and in return he will send her father to the best hospital in Minnesota, pay her mother three times the worth of the farm, and pay for the rest of her education at the Normal School. Cora argues that she can keep the farm going but after talking more with her mother she accepts Kensington’s offer in spite of her doubts. During the Grand Tour not only will Cora get to know her brother and two sisters, but she will come to learn a lot about herself.
The author did an excellent job developing the characters and they definitely came alive on the pages of the book. There were lots of twists and turns in the plot and many times one was left wondering what was going to happen next. There were also several times when I was sitting on the edge of my chair wondering if Cora or someone else was going to get out of the trouble they were in. There was even one incident when death seemed likely for one of the travelers. The dialogue in the novel was very enjoyable and whether it was Cora talking with Will, the two youngest girls talking and giggling, or any other individual speaking, the dialogue was great. When the Bear, leader of the group, was lecturing about the museums, art works, buildings, cities, and other items I could almost see what the group was seeing and felt as if I were right there with the group. The author obviously did a great deal of research for this novel and it shows throughout the entire book.
I highly recommend this book to all who like to read historical novels about the lives and loves of the super rich in the early twentieth century.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from David C. Cook at Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
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Review 2 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Wonderful start to a new series...
Date:April 25, 2013
Jen Pen
Location:Midwest
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Though content, Cora Diehl’s life seems to be unraveling as she struggles on the family farm with loss of crops, lack of money and illness to someone she loves. Unknown to her, a stranger appears to challenge her world as she knows it.
Cora is invited to partake in the Grand Tour of Europe (a tour which advances one’s education while immersing in ancient history), but soon discovers so much more. Finding herself to also be Cora Kensington, she discovers a dynasty of which she is a part, including siblings, resources, and wealth. Given no choice but to participate in the Grand Tour, Cora attains knowledge of both the benefits and drawbacks of which she is connected, but more importantly, she gains self discovery and identification.
A PENNY FOR MY THOUGHTS:
Yet again, Lisa Bergren writes a novel which draws the reader in and doesn’t disappoint. Written in a style which uses different character’s points of view, I found myself relating to the characters on a personal level. I appreciated the fact that Cora consistently turned to God for guidance on her challenges and decisions. Although a little plentiful at times on descriptions, the depth held my attention through romance, adventure, adversity and historical significance of the Grand Tour. The novel is loosely reminiscent of a rags-to-riches Cinderella story. While looking forward to the next book in the Grand Tour Series, Glamorous Illusions is definitely a must-read! Make sure to take the time to enjoy the Afterwords to further the story even a little bit more.
RATING: 4 (out of 5) pennies
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Review 3 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Glamorous Illustions
Date:March 7, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Cora Kensington is forced to leave her mother and ailing father to spend time with her birth father, a wealthy copper king, that she had not even been aware of until he showed arrived unannounced at their Montana farm. She is to take time to get to know this man she refuses to claim as her father. What shocked her the most was that her mother wanted her to go with him and spend time with him and her siblings she knew nothing about. How can she leave her Papa and go off with Mr. Kensington?
She is to go on a Grand Tour of Europe with her siblings. Mr. Kensington told her if she does this he will pay for her to finish Normal School to become a teacher, which is her heart's desire.
When she meets her siblings they went out of their way to snub her. She was not surprised, after all she was their father's illegitimate child, an interloper. Mr. Kensington informs her he will not be going on the Grand Tour. Who will defend her from her very outspoken siblings?
Cora is introduced to Will the very handsome tour guide and she realizes she has found a loyal friend. Now she does not feel so alone. But Will has been warned that he is not to become romantically involved with any of the clients on the tour or he would be removed from the tour.
Cora is overwhelmed at all the beauty and decadence of the rich and famous while on their tour of England and France. She will have good and bad memories to carry her through the rest of her life from this Grand Tour.
But will she be able to accept her birth father and will her siblings accept her as their sister?
The author has written a real page turner with healing grace, romance, suspense, mystery, and an abundance of history as Cora tours Europe. I did not want to put the book down and was so glad I was able to pick up book two of the series to read more of Cora's Grand Tour.
I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure: I purchased a copy of this book for my own reading pleasure and was not required to submit a review. This is my honest opinion.
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Review 4 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Book #1 Grand Tour Series - PURE GOLD
Date:December 23, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
it's the summer of 1913, and Cora Diehl has just returned back to her family's farm in rural Montana on leave from teaching school. Life on the farm has taken a tragic turn as she finds the crops failing, plagued by debt, plus Cora's father suffers a stroke and needs more care than they can afford to provide. All seems hopeless, until one afternoon a stranger comes to call, none other than wealthy copper-king Wallace Kensington. Within a few minutes of his surprising visit, Cora finds she has a new father, a new name, new siblings, new wealth that she has never known for years that will radically change her future! Wallace is very stubborn and gives Cora no ultimatum but to be thrown into this new life of pleasure, and abandonment. He starts by forcefully inviting her on The Grand Tour of Europe, that is supposed to open this country girl's eyes to what true art, sophistication, ancient history and refinement truly mean. As she struggles to stay strong and keep faith in the Lord, her only true friend on the journey is the Tutor, William, he understands suffering and pain, the two find solace and an unexpected forbidden love awaits. (Cora has more than one!).
Having personally just gone through a recent grief, this first novel was like a dip in a river of cool water! I discovered more of myself in Cora like never before, and the message of God is ever present, ever alive no matter how hard life is, God is there, He's always been and He will continue forever more! The pages sparkle with life from beginning to the last with an unexpected twist of suspense and intrigue that will leave you breathless! I anxiously await #2!
*This book was given to me by the Publisher for my unbiased, non-profit, independent review*
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Review 5 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Delightfully surpised!
Date:October 11, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I'll admit that when I picked up this book I was thinking it would not be that good or could even could compare to The River of Time Series (which I loved!), but I have to say this book went beyond my expectations! I LOVED IT!!! I checked it out from the library, but I definitely plan to buy myself a copy to have on my own bookshelf!
Personally, I think this book is a lot better then The River of Time Series simply because Cora makes so much mention to her relationship with God! I really liked that! She admits her struggles with her siblings, but longs to be the woman God created her to be and earnestly prays about it! I felt Cora was very realistic and thought it was intriguing that she had two men that had strong feelings for her (I'm not sure who I want her to be with!) as well as having feelings for them! I also felt this book had a lot of depth that makes the reader reflect on who they are and any struggles they are having about who they are! I am greatly looking forward to the next book in this series because I know it will enrapture me as well as make me think about my own life!
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Review 6 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Different than expected
Date:August 21, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
Lisa's story had an off-kilter start for me. Her writing is beautiful, fluid, and sensory. I just didn't agree with any choice any character made. Perhaps that's why the theme and people didn't "settle" with me. I'm curious what will happen to Cora, her half-sbilings, "parents", and Mr. K, but not sure I'll like their futures and can't imagine a pleasant ending for them as a whole.
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Review 7 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Kept me reading
Date:August 2, 2012
Judes
Location:Melbourne, Australia
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
I really enjoyed this book and was disappointed to get to the end and find I've got to wait for the next one :-)
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Review 8 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Date:July 20, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I really loved this book and I can't wait for the next one. Cora struggles with her faith as she discovers that she's the illegitimate daughter of a copper baron. In order to help her mother and adoptive father, Cora sets off on a journey to Europe with her three biological siblings that she's just met. Cora questions who she is and what she wants from her life as she feels attracted to one of their tour guides and a Frenchman they meet in Paris. I look forward to the next book, I've enjoyed every book I've read by Lisa T. Bergren.
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Review 9 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Great Start to a Series
Date:June 9, 2012
Kim S
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I stumbled upon Glamorous Illusions while looking for a new book to read. It was my first book by Lisa T. Bergren, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. When the end came, I wasn't ready for it to be over. There was travel, mystery, romance, and fun. Bergen woven elements of faith well that make you consider how much you really trust God and know yourself. The characters were well developed and the plot was well thought out. I can't wait to read books two and three when they come out!
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Review 10 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
For Downton Abbey Fans!
Date:July 15, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Well rounded tale, with an excellent portrayal of class distinction in the years before WWI.
I absolutely loved this book, with a setting and time period that is so in vogue right now, (think Downton Abbey), and a leading character that won my heart over from the start.
When her father has a stroke, Cora's life changes forever in ways that she could never imagine in her wildest dreams, and I liked the way that she handled herself in the many tough situations that she had to endure.
The characters were really well developed, and many were not straight up what I thought they were on first meeting them.
I liked the quick and steady pace of the plot, and how parts of the story were told in first person by Cora, and others in third person by others, such as Wallace and Will.
When her father has a stroke, Cora's life changes forever in ways that she could never imagine in her wildest dreams, and I liked the way that she handled herself in the many tough situations that she had to endure.
The characters were really well developed, and many were not straight up what I thought they were on first meeting them.
I liked the quick and steady pace of the plot, and how parts of the story were told in first person by Cora, and others in third person by others, such as Wallace and Will.
Overall, I think this is a book that I would most certainly recommend to fans of historical novels with a wonderful depth to them. And I loved going on the grand tour with Cora and her new found companions. Highly recommend!
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thanks!
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Review 11 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
A Step Back in Time
Date:June 27, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Christian historical fiction is a genre that I've become more involved in reading lately. Lisa T. Bergren's Glamorous Illusions is the beginning of a series set during a time period I've not read much about -- the early 20th century.
In the summer of 1913, Cora returns home from a year of study in her preparation to become a teacher. There is no way she could have guessed the turn her life is about to take when a long-kept secret is revealed. Cora moves from trying to help her parents maintain the failing family farm to a life of privilege with the family of a copper king. She reluctantly agrees to accompany newly found relatives on a Grand Tour of Europe.
As Cora travels through England, France, and Italy, experiencing things she never would have dreamed possible, she struggles to "find herself." She is torn between loyalty to her parents and the life they've given her and the possibilities opening up in her new life. How can she reconcile the two completely different worlds and maintain a sense of who she really is? And what will she make of the opportunities for love that come along when she least expects them?
One of the things I really enjoy about historical fiction is the opportunity to learn facts of the time period, in the setting of an interesting story. I had never heard of the practice of the Grand Tour, which was evidently a part of the education of privileged young people (especially young gentlemen) in past centuries. The group was led by a tutor/chaperone, called a bear, who was responsible for exposing the young people to different cultures, teaching and protecting their clients as they traveled.
Lisa Bergen tells an interesting story that kept me involved in the twists and turns of the plot. And the ending . . . well, she definitely left me hanging and wanting more. I'll be anxiously awaiting the second book of this series.
This book was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest review.
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Review 12 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Glamorous Illusions
Date:June 26, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
What would it be like to be raised on a Montana farm, a farm that barely eek’s out a living, struggling to pay the essential bills and put food you didn’t raise on the table. Cora Diehl and her parents know all too well what it is like. With a drought, and her fathers ill health, Cora is wondering how she will continue her schooling at Normal School (teacher’s college).
Now imagine that a man, Wallace Kensington, a Montana Copper King, comes to your door. He tells you that he is your biological father, and tells you that you have siblings. He also offers to pay for your father’s medical expenses, take care of the farm’s debts, pay for your schooling, and send you on an European tour. What would you do? This was Cora’s dilemma.
Cora decides, with the encouragement of her mother, to go with Mr. Kensington, which opens up a new world for her. Suddenly money isn’t an issue, but, not being raised in it, it is like entering a whole new world. A world of butlers, personal maids, formal dining and fancy clothes.
I enjoyed the story, meeting Cora, Mr. Kensington and his children, the Morgans and Will. The journey across the Atlantic on the Olympic, the Titanic’s sister ship, was almost uneventful. England and France, the places I only get to visit in books, was romantic, heartbreaking, exciting, as well as, suspenseful.
I am looking forward to the next books in the series,and I hope that these same characters will be featured as the story continues.
I give Glamorous Illusions by Lisa Tawn Bergren 5 out of 5 stars.
**Glamorous Illusions (book one in the Grand Tour Series) by Lisa Tawn Bergren was provided for me free by Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 13 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Exciting Series Start
Date:June 25, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
The setting is the early 1900s, when it was the tradition for wealthy young adults to take a ‘Grand Tour of Europe’ to broaden their minds and see other cultures. Cora Diehl just arrived off the train from her first year at normal school where she is training to become a teacher. When her father suffers a stroke, her whole world turns upside down. Cora is determined to keep the farm running so her parents can pay off loans and she can return to college, but her father’s health takes a turn for the worse, and Cora's life turns upside down when her previously unknown birth father, shows up and presents her with a shocking choice. Cora returns to Butte, Montana with him to join with her half siblings on a grand tour of Europe. Cora must deal with her worry for her parents, her anger over their decision to not tell her of her parentage, a new father, and siblings who are shocked and angry, all while traveling around Europe.
This is a great read. I cannot wait for the next installment; I will definitely read them all. The characters are strong with a desire to turn to the Lord for his strength, and Bergren tells the story through multiple eyes allowing the reader to develop a relationship with them. Bergeren does a beautiful job of describing the fashions and the scenery. This is a great choice for readers who prefer their romances to come with a little extra including suspense, history, and heart tugging sorrow.
Received Galley from NetGalley.com
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Review 14 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Great new series!
Date:June 20, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Glamorous Illusions is the first book in the new series entitled Grand Tour Series. I am anxiously awaiting the rest of the series after reading this book. I absolutely love the cover of this book and I wanted to read it from the moment I opened it in the mail!
Set in 1913, Cora Kensington discovers that her life isn't what she once thought it was. She always thought she was a farmer's daughter. However, she has learned from a series of events that she is really the daughter of a copper king. Her biological father now wants to have Cora in his life. Through a new twist of events, Cora is given the opportunity to get to know her siblings on a trip around Europe.
I wouldn't necessarily call this an extremely pleasant trip at first. Her siblings dislike her and scorn her, even though it wasn't her fault that her parents had her out of wedlock.
While trying to accept this new life and new family, she has to learn on the one constant ....God. She has to find her self-worth in Him and rely on Him to make sense of this for her. She comes to realize things about herself that she never would have learned had she not walked through what some people might call, a mess.
I love how this book is written some in the first person and some in the third. It always makes me feel like I know the character more personally because I'm inside their head. I also get the "big picture" look to give me an overview look. Can't wait to see what is revealed in the rest of the series!
-------------------------
I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.
I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.
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Review 15 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Rags To Riches
Date:June 19, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Love this story...talk about rags to riches! Cora Deihl comes home from Normal School to find her Dad collapsed from a stroke. She ends up doing all the chores on the farm...including carrying water to water the wheat. Which in the end dying, after all the hard work, there is no return and they are going to loose the farm.
Enter a complete stranger and her world is turned upside. She is no longer the poor farm girl...she is now a member of the Ultra Rich!!!
So begins her new journey of meeting unknown relatives, and being waited on! She begins a "Grand Tour"...never in her wildest dreams could she have imagined this. Such sites and splendor, and unbelievable food and lush surroundings.
There is also some romance thrown in...but with whom. I feel like I've been left on a cliff hanger, and thank goodness there are some more answers to come.
This is such an enjoyable read...loved the descriptions and be prepared for possible kidnappings, and murder. Don't miss this one!
Enter a complete stranger and her world is turned upside. She is no longer the poor farm girl...she is now a member of the Ultra Rich!!!
So begins her new journey of meeting unknown relatives, and being waited on! She begins a "Grand Tour"...never in her wildest dreams could she have imagined this. Such sites and splendor, and unbelievable food and lush surroundings.
There is also some romance thrown in...but with whom. I feel like I've been left on a cliff hanger, and thank goodness there are some more answers to come.
This is such an enjoyable read...loved the descriptions and be prepared for possible kidnappings, and murder. Don't miss this one!
I received this book from Litfuse Publicity Tours and the Publisher David C Cook, and was not required to give a positive review.
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Review 16 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Self-Discovery Amidst Wealth and Grandeur
Date:June 18, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Cora Diehl has only known Alan and Alma Diehl as her parents, at least until the summer of 1913. It was an extremely dry summer, with questionable hope of keeping their farm in Montana up and running. When her dad suffers two strokes, Cora’s life changes abruptly. Her life dramatically changes even more when a stranger comes to their farm and Cora discovers that her dad isn’t her real father. This stranger, Mr. Wallace Kensington, is her real father. Her mother’s secret has been unfolded.
Cora Kensington is escorted off with her father while her parents head to Minneapolis for additional treatment for her dad. As she comes to terms with her parentage, she finds herself invited to take a “Grand Tour” of Europe with her two half-sisters, one half-brother, and the three Morgan siblings. She’s fitted for glamorous new gowns and introduced to her siblings and their friends a week before touring Europe, along with their two guides–an uncle and his nephew, William. The Tour is ‘intended to finish a person’s education and solidify an understanding of refinement and ancient culture.’
Lisa skillfully and intimately describes the initial animosity between Cora and her siblings, along with their close friends, the Morgans. Her feelings of loneliness and isolation resonate within you. As they make their way to Europe aboard ship, the animosity remains kindled, though small instances seem to break down the walls when they weather a horrific storm just one year after the sinking of the Titanic. Your hopes rise right along with those of Cora’s and get dashed just as quickly.
Insight into the world of the wealthy and elite are richly elaborated through the eyes of Cora–the beauty of the countryside, the elegant mansions, the elaborate decor, and the refined living of the wealthy friends of Mr. Kensington. However, though wealthy and refined, we find these very human hosts reacting negatively to Cora’s lineage.
This is when the adventures really start to take place. Lisa engages you in the new festivity of plans in England all the way to the grandeur city of Paris. The ‘ideal’ of refinement and ancient culture had begun! There’s love and romance stirring in the air for Cora, with not just one romantic encounter, but two, leaving her sisters in a jealous fit. So apropos for family sibling rivalry!
The dual points of view of Cora and William set the stage for this whole “Grand Tour” rendezvous. Having familiarized myself with the code of dress for the times through Pinterest, I found reading Lisa’s book so vivid and exciting. I felt as though I was seeing and experiencing things right along with Cora–the gowns, the dancing, the ballroom, the romance. I even found myself questioning whether I fit would fit in after living on a quiet ranch in Wyoming.
From rags to riches, Cora tries to find her place in this new world of wealth and beauty. Just who is she amidst all this glamor? Does she really belong in this lifestyle? Will she find a place within the Kensington family? What is she really like?
This is a fabulous read for historical value as well as the excitement of the times! The cover says it all! I just hate to think I have to wait for the next books in the series!
This book was provided by Amy Lathrop and Christen Krumm of Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was exchanged.
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Review 17 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Glamorous Indeed!
Date:June 16, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
In Glamorous Illusions, Lisa T. Bergren sweeps the reader away on a journey that begins on a struggling farm, to the copper mines of Montana; to the gorgeous cathedrals, chateaus, and palaces of the very wealthy in England and Paris. Our heroine, Cora Diehl, has come home to her farm in Montana to visit her parents after attending college, only to have her father suffer a stroke and is now unable to work the farm. Then a stranger arrives on her doorstep with a shocking secret and a proposition...one that she realizes she cannot refuse.
Cora finds herself on a fabulous journey of self discovery and adventure with her siblings--siblings she never even knew existed, in a world quite different than her own. With much trepidation and anticipation, Cora joins them on The Grand Tour of Europe led by tour guides, Will McCabe and his uncle. Suddenly thrust into a world of masked balls, gorgeous gowns, art museums, and magnificent palaces, Cora begins to question who she is and where she really belongs. And two very different men are falling for her; one an extremely wealthy, French Prince Charming, and her tour guide, Will. Where does Cora's path to self discovery lead her, and will she ever feel comfortable in this opulent lifestyle, and with her haughty siblings? Is she a Kensington or a Diehl?
Lisa T. Bergren takes us on a wonderful journey of places most of us only dream of visiting! Her use of imagery, and firsthand knowledge of Europe will fascinate and draw the reader in with a novel that is nigh unto impossible to put down. I loved the unpredictability and excitement of this book-one never knows what is going to happen next, not even which honorable character our heroine is going to end up with. With a wonderful cliff-hanger of a conclusion (to be continued in next book of series) and a spiritual thread throughout...this is an absolute must read! Nicely done, Lisa Bergren!
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Review 18 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
A new series with potential...
Date:June 10, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
Cora Diehl is returning to Dunnigan, Montana, near Glacier National Park, after completing her first year of training to be a teacher. Her father suffers a stroke and the family is about to lose their farm, when a wealthy visitor appears on their doorstep with news that will change Cora's life.
Apparently, she is not Cora Diehl, daughter of an impoverished farmer, after all. She is Cora Kensington, daughter of an ex-senator and Montana copper-mining baron. A man who now wants an opportunity to develop a relationship with his illegitimate daughter, to introduce her to her half-siblings, and to send her on the Grand Tour of Europe under the supervision of Sir Stuart McCabe and his nephew, William McCabe.
Cora has been raised with a strong Christian faith, and this comes through constantly in her speech and thoughts. Travelling in England and Europe challenges Cora to consider and confirm her beliefs and priorities as she consorts with the rich and titled. It also provides the promise of romance and the beginnings of suspense that will no doubt be continued in the rest of the trilogy. The final two books, Grave Consequences and Glittering Promises, will be released in 2013.
I recently reviewed Leaving Lancaster, and commented that I found the changing points of view distracting. Glamorous Illusions is another book that is written with first person chapters (from Cora’s point of view) alternating with chapters in the third person. Unlike Leaving Lancaster, each chapter is headed with the name of the point of view character, each has a distinctly different voice, and neither voice reads like that of a petulant teenager. I'm still not convinced of the technique of alternating between the first person and the third person point of view. But, in Glamorous Illusions, Lisa T Bergren proves that it can work in the hands of a competent writer.
Glamorous Illusions is well researched, but with a touch of modern sensibilities (e.g. the ongoing debate about whether treasures such as the Egyptian obelisks should be returned). There were a few annoying unanswered questions and one repeated plot point that I'm not convinced is historically accurate (and has the potential to derail the plot if it actually becomes important). This appears to be one of those trilogies that is the ongoing story of one main character, rather than three entirely separate stories about three related characters. For this reason, some readers may well prefer to wait until the final book is released before reading.
Thanks to David C Cook and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
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Review 19 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
Great Start to a New Series
Date:June 8, 2012
MarFur
Location:Portland, OR
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Cora Diehl’s life is turned upside down when she learns she is the illegitimate daughter of Wallace Kensington a Montana copper king. She is forced to come to terms with the knowledge of her biological parents’ sin and the secret her loved ones kept from her all her life. She has to discover how to love the siblings who scorn her, while she is thrown into a trip around Europe with them.
This first book in the Grand Tour series takes you on an adventure from the farms of Montana through England and France. Along the way Cora discovers that the most valuable journey is within. In the pages of this book there are lessons of forgiveness, trust, finding self-worth and reliance on God.
As I read this book I was pleased to once again find my self taken back in time. Lisa has a wonderful way of bringing cultures and foreign places to life right before your eyes. Each book I’ve read of hers leaves me wanting more! The characters become like family or friends and you don’t want to say goodbye at the end.
I look forward to the next books in this series!
This first book in the Grand Tour series takes you on an adventure from the farms of Montana through England and France. Along the way Cora discovers that the most valuable journey is within. In the pages of this book there are lessons of forgiveness, trust, finding self-worth and reliance on God.
As I read this book I was pleased to once again find my self taken back in time. Lisa has a wonderful way of bringing cultures and foreign places to life right before your eyes. Each book I’ve read of hers leaves me wanting more! The characters become like family or friends and you don’t want to say goodbye at the end.
I look forward to the next books in this series!
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Review 20 for Glamorous Illusions: A Novel - eBook
Overall Rating:
A great read
Date:June 3, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This story is set in 1913 and follows the main character, Cora Kensington, as her life is turned upside down. You will not want to put this book down as you read of her travels through America and Europe. You will watch her character develop and grow as she encounters difficult circumstances that change her thinking.
I thought this book was very captivating! You just can not wait until the next page to see where this characters journey is taking her. The other characters in the book are also intriguing and help make the book enjoyable. I thought the conversations and setting also helped make this book worth reading. They were definitely not just page fillers!
There are also lessons to learn while reading this book. Acceptance and forgiveness are two prominent lessons. Although this is a fiction book, the author does a superb job of illustrating some important Biblical principles. Overall this was a great story with an intriguing character and some interesting settings so I gave this book 5/5 stars.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
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