Glamorous Illusions (Grand Tour Series, #1)

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Glamorous Illusions (Grand Tour Series #1)

by Lisa Tawn Bergren (Goodreads Author)

3.89 of 5 stars 3.89 · rating details · 957 ratings · 251 reviews

When Cora Kensington learns she is the illegitimate daughter of a copper king, her life changes forever. Even as she explores Europe with her new family, she discovers that the most valuable journey is within. The first book in the Grand Tour series takes you from the farms of Montana through England and France on an adventure of forgiveness, spiritual awakening, and self-...more

Paperback, 416 pages

Published June 1st 2012 by David C. Cook

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Jul 08, 2012 Yearning To Read rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: love-the-cover, arc, i-didnt-die-because-i-have-this, 13-and-up, 2012-read, best-lit-men, christian-fiction, fiction, historical, netgalley-read, order-paperback, series-unfinished, to-re-read, young-adult, pint-size-review, reviewed

Glamorous Illusions by Lisa T. Bergren (#1)
Pages: 416
Release Date: June 1st, 2012
Date Read: 2012, May 8th-13th
Received: ARC via NetGalley
Rating: 4/5 stars
Recommended to: 13+

SUMMARY -
Cora's life may not be grand or full of wealth, but there's one thing she's sure of: who she is. Even when tragedy strikes her father's farm and her education to be a teacher is in jeopardy, Cora works hard to do what needs to be done.
But when her true parentage is revealed, everything falls apart. She is whisked awa...more

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Jun 21, 2012 Kelli rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction

I was weary about this one. It's a great storyline, the author is good at spinning those up. However, I had a problem with the authors last books the 'river of time' series. Because the writing was super cheesy and silly sometimes. It's like the skeleton of the plot as a whole is great, but what's inside is mush. This one, sadly, follows those lines half the time.

Glamorous Illusions starts out super polite, the writing is almost over explanatory. Everything is explained, even when it doesn't nee...more

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Aug 04, 2012 Janice rated it 3 of 5 stars

I received this book from Bookreporter.com in a free drawing, from their Historical Fiction division. The book is set is 1913 in Montana, where Cora Diehl and her family have farmed, barely scraping by for many years. Now Cora has completed her first year in Normal School, with dreams of becoming a teacher. Her life is suddenly turned upside down, when her father is stricken with a sudden illness, and Cora's beliefs about her self and her family are assaulted by new information about her heritag...more

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May 18, 2012 Cindy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: chemistry-a-plenty, favorites, most-anxiouse-to-read, perfect-cover-cover-love, swoon-worthy-heroes, coming-of-age, grand-tours-i-want-one, somewhat-religious, please-please-do-not-end

I LOVED this story, and couldn't put it down. We start off with Cora and her family in 1913 Montana on a little dry farm trying to mill out an existence. Events transpire that lead to a mysteries man arriving on her front door step clamming to be her father. He wishes to get to know her and for her to get to know her siblings. He has arranged for her and her siblings to go on a Grand Tour, ( Okay I want to come too, well I guess I did in a way lol). The tour for this book takes place in England...more

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May 21, 2013 Deanna Gottreu rated it 5 of 5 stars

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 fin...more 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.(less)

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Jan 04, 2013 Michele rated it 4 of 5 stars

I have only read a handaful of Lisa Bergren's books but have immensely enjoyed each of them. She is a masterful story teller and is very talented at developing characters. And, all of this is done without profanity or explicit sex. The Christian message is always there but not "in your face". It is woven into the books in a subtle but strong and inviting manner.

This book was no different although I do have a couple of minor criticisms. One is that some parts of the book are a bit drawn out. A fe...more

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Dec 12, 2012 Jessica rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction

On the positive side, this book's (main) characters had depth to them and were multidimensional. I especially liked Cora's thoughts during the first few chapters when she is faced with the truth of her past and the unwelcome opportunities it presents to her. For the most part, Cora's emotional struggles seem very realistic. However, as the book wore on, I felt like Cora kept going through the same thought processes- I can't recall how many times she says she's had some great revelation about how...more

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Sep 02, 2012 Renae Sattazahn rated it 3 of 5 stars

"Glamorous Illusions" is a women's Christian historical fiction novel written by Lisa Bergren, known famously for her Little Cub children's books. You might recognizer her name from such books as "God Gave Us You," "God Gave Us Two," "God Gave Us Love," and many more.
This novel centers around Cora Diehl, who learns that the father she has known her entire life adopted her, and that she is actually the illegitimate daughter of a well-known copper king. I genuinely enjoyed the characters in the b...more "Glamorous Illusions" is a women's Christian historical fiction novel written by Lisa Bergren, known famously for her Little Cub children's books. You might recognizer her name from such books as "God Gave Us You," "God Gave Us Two," "God Gave Us Love," and many more.
This novel centers around Cora Diehl, who learns that the father she has known her entire life adopted her, and that she is actually the illegitimate daughter of a well-known copper king. I genuinely enjoyed the characters in the book, and very much appreciate the author creating flaws within the characters to emphasize their humanness. Lisa did a fantastic job with every character.
Cora is transported to a small town where she meets her half-siblings and joins them on a Grand Tour of Europe. I consider this a strong start to the novel. There is a lot of potential for plot, but I thought we spent quite a bit reading time focusing on the changing setting.
After reading "Glamorous Illusions," I can tell that children's books are her sweet spot. The story line was lacking in interest, and the excitement at the end (in my opinion) should have been drawn out longer. The deal-breaker for me was the ending. I had no more told my husband "The book just got good!" and within a couple minutes it was over. I couldn't believe it! It was as if the back pages were missing. (In a traditional book you know the ending is coming, because you notice only a few pages left. I was using an e-reader, and had lost track of where in the book I was picking up from. I didn't realize I was nearing the end until it was over.)
My recommendation is to write in more dialogue between characters and start the excitement much earlier in the book. The ending did not resolve, and I was left completely hanging. Even pieces of a series should provide a sense resolution when you finish the novel. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough suspense to tempt me to read the second book in the series.
I believe this author is exceptionally talented and has a lot to offer the world of Christian fiction. Because of this, I look forward to seeing some changes in future novels. Lisa T. Bergren will continue to have our business, since we adore her children's books. I highly recommend them to every family.
This was a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.(less)

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Aug 14, 2012 Laura rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in Lisa T. Bergren's new Grand Tour series. Its historical setting in the early 1900 quickly caught my attention, and I enjoyed the beginning of this series very much. Unlike the River of Time series, this one has a slower pace and is more character-driven than action-packed, although there is plenty of action as the young characters set out on a Grand Tour of Europe.

Cora Kensington is a young woman who grew up on a farm in Montana. She returns home in the summer of 1913 f...more This is the first book in Lisa T. Bergren's new Grand Tour series. Its historical setting in the early 1900 quickly caught my attention, and I enjoyed the beginning of this series very much. Unlike the River of Time series, this one has a slower pace and is more character-driven than action-packed, although there is plenty of action as the young characters set out on a Grand Tour of Europe.

Cora Kensington is a young woman who grew up on a farm in Montana. She returns home in the summer of 1913 from her studies to become a teacher. But the crops are failing and her father is ill. It seems that things are bleak until a rich stranger appears at their door and everything in Cora's life changes. She is given the opportunity to do the “Grand Tour” of Europe with kin she's never known on a journey meant to educate and refine.

Bergren does a fine job of building characters that stand out and that I cared about. I love Europe and so the setting really appealed to me. Cora is on a journey of self-discovery. Her love for the farm, the simple life she left behind with parents she adores causes her to struggle with her new enjoyment of the life of the privileged and rich that she is now experiencing. Although I always enjoy a rags to riches story, I felt things came a little too easy for Cora. Having been raised on a farm, she should have struggled more with the etiquette of the rich, but instead she seemed to fit quite well and hardly made any faux pas. She seemed too perfect.

I loved William's character the most because his actions fit well with his station in life. He was very real to me. I understood and empathized with his struggles. The story alternates between Cora and William's point of view and I liked this, although Cora's is written in first-person, whereas William's is in third-person. Cora catches the eye of wealthy Frenchman, Pierre de Richelieu, in France where their journey ends in this first book. She has budding feelings for both him and William, which I'm sure will be further explored in the next instalment.

I look forward to reading the next two books in this series, Grave Consequences (Spring 2013) and Glittering Promises (Fall 1013).
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Jul 23, 2012 Heather Manning rated it 5 of 5 stars

I have to say that I have not read many books like this before, but I certainly enjoyed it. It was refreshingly unique.
Cora Diehl has returned to Montana after her first year of training to be a teacher. When she finds that no one from her family has come to pick her up, she ventures out to her family farm only to discover that her father has suffered from a stroke. They are about to lose their farm when a wealthy, unexpected visitor appears at their door. He informs her that he is her father, m...more

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Jul 11, 2012 Bluerose's Heart rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: christian, romance

After arriving home from school, Cora Diehl discovers her father in extremely bad health. Soon after, she discovers that she is actually Cora Kensington, the illegitimate daughter of Wallace Kensington. She's invited on a "Grand Tour" as a way to expand her education and get to know her half-siblings, Felix, Vivian, and Lillian.

The chapters mostly swap between Cora's viewpoint(1st person) and Will(3rd person), but Wallace(also 3rd person) gets a couple of sections to himself. Although it was a l...more

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Jul 07, 2012 Tammi rated it 5 of 5 stars

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 f...more

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Jul 03, 2012 Ruth rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

Cora Diehl was always secure in her identity and faith. The only daughter of Montana farmers who eked out a grain-poor living from the copper-rich soil, Cora's parents sacrificed and saved to give her the chance to earn a teaching certificate. Cora's precious enrollment at Normal School was her golden ticket to a future unencumbered by the vagaries of a farming life, dependent on the whims of the weather. But the foundation of her world crumbles when her beloved father suffers a stroke and her p...more Cora Diehl was always secure in her identity and faith. The only daughter of Montana farmers who eked out a grain-poor living from the copper-rich soil, Cora's parents sacrificed and saved to give her the chance to earn a teaching certificate. Cora's precious enrollment at Normal School was her golden ticket to a future unencumbered by the vagaries of a farming life, dependent on the whims of the weather. But the foundation of her world crumbles when her beloved father suffers a stroke and her parents stand in danger of losing the land into which they'd poured their lives for years. With her future hanging in the balance, the already fragile Cora sustains an even greater blow. The infamous copper baron Wallace Kensington appears, announcing biological father, and offering to make the Diehls' problems vanish -- for a price. He'll see to the physical and financial needs of Cora's parents if she'll agree to take the Grand Tour of Europe with her three half-siblings, and at the end of the summer if she so desires he'll provide the necessary tuition for her return to school. All he asks for is one brief summer -- a few months that promise to change everything. With Cora's very identity called into question, her greatest challenge may be in choosing between returning to the life she's always known or embracing the unthinkable -- the idea that the Tour, her newly-discovered family, might change the course of her life forever.

If there was ever a novel primed to capitalize on the fervor created by Downton Abbey, Glamorous Illusions is it. Bergren's opening volume in the Grand Tour series is a masterful exploration of a girl and her world on the cusp of earth-shattering change. For all the revelation of Cora's illegitmate birth rocks her world, that personal turmoil is but a small ripple in the stormy sea that threatens to engulf her newly-discovered world of wealth and privilege offered by the Tour. The summer of 1913 is very much the calm before the storm of world war that will engulf the glittering, overwhelming world that Cora is thrust into as the newest (and most scandalous) recognized member of the Kensington family. It is a masterstroke, setting Cora's very personal journey against the lush, decadent backdrop of a world of privilege in its twilight. Doing so allows Bergren to emphasize in a very organic way the transient nature of earthly wealth versus the eternal riches of faith and character which Cora must embrace if she's to survive and thrive in her new reality.

Cora is one of the most appealing and likeable heroines I've encountered recently in fiction of this ilk. Intelligent, passionate, and articulate, she's every inch a "diamond in the rough." I loved her compassion, her honest battles with grief, anger, and fear, and the raw wonder with which she approaches the world she encounters so far removed from her farm roots. It's refreshing to see a character raised a believer grapple with questions of faith and identity when the familiar and safe nest of childhood and home are stripped away -- in Cora's case quite literally. Faced with the choice of letting her past define her, or choosing who she wants to be in a world and circumstances not of her own making or choosing, Cora's personal journey is incredibly well-meted out, her personal struggles nicely woven into the fabric of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity her newly-discovered father has made possible.

Bergren populates Cora's world with a host of richly- drawn supporting players. I particularly love Will, the young tour guide-in-training and the quiet manner in which he shows his ever-growing (but oh-so-socially-inappropriate) regard for Cora. And Pierre, the unconventional nobleman? Oh my stars. Beween the two men Bergren has crafted the beginnings of a love triangle worthy of any Masterpiece production, and just as addictive.

The history of the Grand Tour is a fascinating one, and thanks to Bergren's meticulous research and richly evocative prose, the reader is swept into a fully-realized world now lost to time. Bergren's passion for history and travel shine in this novel, and through eager eyes of Cora and her travelling companions, Glamorous Illusions paints a vivid picture of the life-changing nature of their journey. Bergren has a wonderful knack for creating compelling characters that ring true to the time period. Her vivid characterizations and well-crafted plot mark Glamorous Illusions as the start of what promises to be an epic, unforgettable reading journey. This is a masterfully-executed, enthralling work of fiction from start to finish that will leave you eager for the next installment, and reluctant to bid even a temporary farewell to Cora's glittering world. A fantastic, addictive, compulsively-readable experience -- very, very well-done. (less)

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Jun 27, 2012 Chelsey rated it 5 of 5 stars

Cora Kensington is a small town girl from Montana whose life changes in one swift moment and she is whisked away on a Grand Tour of Europe. This is truly a rags to riches story and Cora has a hard time believing it herself. At times she dreams of having nice things and pretty gowns, but she never actually thinks that all of that could ever possibly be hers. She is introduced to family that she has never known and journeys into a world that is far different from her own. She leaves her mother and...more Cora Kensington is a small town girl from Montana whose life changes in one swift moment and she is whisked away on a Grand Tour of Europe. This is truly a rags to riches story and Cora has a hard time believing it herself. At times she dreams of having nice things and pretty gowns, but she never actually thinks that all of that could ever possibly be hers. She is introduced to family that she has never known and journeys into a world that is far different from her own. She leaves her mother and father behind and becomes a beautiful and admirable young woman.

The whole premise of being whisked away to Europe in order to finish one’s education is quite intriguing. I found myself being rather envious of Cora at times. The talk of ballrooms, elegant gowns, and royal princes has Cora’s mind spinning and at the same time she cannot wait to grab her own little taste of adventure. This book only added to my appreciation to the European continent; so refined and picturesque. I was delighted to take this trip with Cora because at first she did not think that she deserved something as wonderful as a Grand Tour education and as her character developed she came to find that she was just as worth as anyone else.

I absolutely loved Cora as a character because once she reached past her hesitations she was quite adventurous. She thrived on it actually. Here is one of my favorite quotes by her, “In the last year, I’d decided I loved learning. It fed me. Expanded me. Shaped me” (14). Cora wanted to become a teacher and she had a deep passion that continued to instill a strong drive within her. She knew that there was more outside of her little sleepy hometown just waiting for her to seek it out. I could really connect with Cora and appreciate everything that she stood for.

Cora was up against many obstacles in this book, and one of those being her newly discovered siblings. They were not all as welcoming as she would have hoped they would be. Some, such as Vivian, saw Cora as unrefined and often feared that Cora would ruin their good name. Her siblings never had a worry in the world while she was raised in poverty and prayed every day for enough food and money for her parents to get by. She almost envied them at times and definitely had a very hard time connecting with them. She tried her best to reason with them and even to make them like her. Her oldest sibling Vivian spouted out, “She is not family to me. She is a stray dog my father brought home” (187). Cora had many barriers to break through and at times it was so heart wrenching to see the way she was treated.

My favorite part of this book was Cora’s relationship with their tour guide, Will McCabe. His job was to make sure that the Kensington children make the most of their trip to Europe and that they retain the historical importance of such a journey. His feelings, however, began to lie with Cora. Will was never pushy with Cora, but he made it clear from the start that he would do whatever he had to in order to protect her. He was charming and very sensitive. I admired Will so much because he never gave up on his feelings for Cora even when he was told that it would not be appropriate in the least to romanticize with her.

Did I mention that this is a series? Well, it is and I am so excited for the next book! Lisa Bergren wrote an amazing novel that can make anyone appreciate the grand beauty and elegance of Europe. I cannot compliment this book enough and I did not want to put it down. I am so very proud to add it to my forever growing collection. If you love historical romance and have any desire to see or have seen the marvelous European continent, then you should pick up a copy of this book as soon as possible!
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Jun 26, 2012 Brandi rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction

Can you imagine waking up one day and finding out that everything that you thought you knew about your past was false? This is what happens to Cora Diehl. It’s not bad enough that her father has had a stroke and the crops on the family farm are failing, but now a stranger appears and turns Cora’s world upside down.

Through Cora’s story we are taken from a hard scrabble existence into unbelievable opulence. One day she is worried about how they will survive tomorrow and the next she has more than...more

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Jun 25, 2012 Glenajo rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, romance

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 t...more

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Jun 18, 2012 L_manning rated it 4 of 5 stars

Cora has been living a fairly good life. She's been given the chance to get off her parents' farm and go to teaching college. When her dad suffers a stroke, Cora realizes going back to finish her teaching certificate may not be possible. All her time and money is going in to keeping the farm afloat. Her dad needs more help than anyone in town can give him though. All this leads to the biggest surprise of Cora's life. The only father she has ever know has turned out to not be her biological fathe...more Cora has been living a fairly good life. She's been given the chance to get off her parents' farm and go to teaching college. When her dad suffers a stroke, Cora realizes going back to finish her teaching certificate may not be possible. All her time and money is going in to keeping the farm afloat. Her dad needs more help than anyone in town can give him though. All this leads to the biggest surprise of Cora's life. The only father she has ever know has turned out to not be her biological father. In truth, Cora is the daughter of a huge mining baron. Her biological father comes to offer Cora's family the care her father needs, but he also wants to take Cora under his wing and declare her his daughter. When he won't accept no for an answer, Cora finds herself embarking on the experience of a lifetime- the Grand Tour of Europe. Cora will see and do things she never imagined, all while trying to determine what her future truly holds.

This book was a joy to read on many levels. First, the whole idea of the Grand Tour enthralls me. How cool would it be to be able to just travel around Europe, seeing amazing sights and meeting amazing people? Of course, only the very wealthy could go, so I would have been out. It's a brilliant concept though. Having Cora be an illegitimate daughter allows the reader to relate to her more. Cora has a very hard time adjusting to her new situation in life, and she definitely does not get easy acceptance into these new social services. She can't help but be amazed and excited at her circumstances though. Who can blame her? I found it very interesting to watch Cora struggle with her duel identities. Her past and her future were so vastly different, so it was fun to see her deciding to forge her own path.

Of course, no grand novel would be complete without some romance. In this case, there are two potential beaus competing for Cora. One seems to represent her past, while the other is clearly a part of this new reality. While it was interesting to watch things play out, I know which one I preferred. I was frustrated (in a good way) by the ending. I was dying for more, and I cannot wait for the next book in the series! The ending wraps up well, but there are some loose ends that definitely left me hanging. This book will be appealing to a lot of people. The travel, history, and romance aspects are very enjoyable. I even found the fashion to be enthralling. I seriously enjoyed this book, and I will be looking out for the next in the series. I highly recommend this book.

Book provided for review.
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Jun 18, 2012 Linda rated it 5 of 5 stars

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 Ke...more 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.(less)

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Jun 17, 2012 Linda rated it 4 of 5 stars

Wow, Lisa T. Bergren kicks off her new Grand Tour season with a captivating story! I cannot imagine what it must have been like for Cora to have her entire world upended as she discovers the truth behind the mysterious gifts she received each year on her birthday. Has her life only been an illusion thus far? Or is this new life, filled with a glamorous tour of Europe, the illusion? Vivid characters fill this novel as Cora tries to discover who she really is and what God expects of her among the...more

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Jun 16, 2012 Amy Bradsher rated it 4 of 5 stars

When it all comes right down to it ... I really liked this book. Couldn't put it down, in fact - I stayed up half the night to finish it. Cora is a what-you-see-is-what-you-get kind of girl, and I like that. She's very honest and hardworking, dedicated to her family, and yet she sees life with the same kind of rosy glow that most of us do who have not yet been fully on our own.

The drama of Cora's situation is intense, and Bergren well describes the emotional roller coaster that Cora experiences...more

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Jun 14, 2012 Ibjoy1953 rated it 5 of 5 stars

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK!

Wow, this book is incredible, I love, love it! I have only read a few of Lisa Bergren’s books, and each ones just gets better!

Cora Diehl returns to her hometown Dunnigan, Montana after spending her first year at college, to find her dad seriously ill, and a farm to take care of. Cora prays for God to someway help their family with their crops in order to make it financial for the year. But Cora wasn’t expecting God to answer her prayer they way he did. Neither did Cora e...more MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK!

Wow, this book is incredible, I love, love it! I have only read a few of Lisa Bergren’s books, and each ones just gets better!

Cora Diehl returns to her hometown Dunnigan, Montana after spending her first year at college, to find her dad seriously ill, and a farm to take care of. Cora prays for God to someway help their family with their crops in order to make it financial for the year. But Cora wasn’t expecting God to answer her prayer they way he did. Neither did Cora expect to find out secrets that would totally turn her life upside down forever. And I know there are spoilers in review already written, but I’m not going to give them here! This is where you need to read the book to find out what is happening!

In my opinion, “Glamorous Illusions is a masterpiece by Lisa Bergren! Lisa creates characters that are so realistic and true that sometimes it is difficult to realize you are reading a fiction story! The relationship between Cora and her parents is heartwarming, and just knowing that they literally spent everything they had to send her to college gave me chills. And when you read the book, you will see what I am talking about!

However, Cora was always puzzled at the glamorous, expensive gift she received for her sixteenth birthday, along with all of the other birthday gifts she received, and even though her parents wasn’t telling, Cora suspected they knew what was going on.

Then the day comes that will change the lives of Cora and her family forever, and whether that be good or bad, only time will tell. And as you follow this hew happening in the lives of Cora and her family, Lisa Bergren takes you on an unforgettable trip of lifetime as Cora joins the Grand Tour with her family.

The only thing I found that I didn’t like about the book was it’s ending, and having to wait for the second book to drop down from the hanging this book left. I hope the author gives us a better view of Cora’s family and her choices she makes while on her tour.
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Jun 10, 2012 Iola rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, historical-fiction, christian-fiction, kindle, netgalley

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 de...more 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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Jun 09, 2012 Britni rated it 5 of 5 stars

Cora arrives home from Normal School in the summer of 1913 expecting her parents to be waiting at the train station to pick her up. What is actually waiting for her is family, but not the family she was expecting. After learning about a dark family secret, Cora is given the chance of a lifetime if she's willing to leave the life she currently knows behind - the chance to be a part of a Grand Tour through Europe where she will be introduced to incredible fashions, food, culture, and people. Can s...more

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Jun 05, 2012 Kayla Chavez rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favortie-series, love-it, favorite-book-covers

Oh my gosh this was so good! I couldn't put it down! I was lucky to get this for free on amazon. We start with Cora who just returned from school to see her parents only to discover that she is an illegitimate daughter of a copper king and was given an opportunity to go a Grand Tour with her siblings. Is she lucky or what??? I adored Cora character and how she dealt with all the gossip and talks about her among the rich society. She is so strong and it was nice to see a character like her in a b...more

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May 31, 2012 Maureen Timerman rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012

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 unk...more

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May 26, 2012 Tracy Riva rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: christian-romance, adventure, christian, historical-romance, romance

Glamorous Illusions
By Lisa T. Bergren
978-1-4347-6430-0 Paperback $14.99 Kindle ASIN B007ZH6VQ8 $9.47

I loved Glamorous Illusions by Lisa T. Bergren. It is the story of young Cora Diehl Kensington, a young woman who is simply the daughter of two hard-working farmers in the pre-World War I years of the twentieth century. Cora has been away at Normal School studying to be a teacher and returns home for the summer sabbatical. Her parents are supposed to meet her at the train station, but fail to arr...more Glamorous Illusions
By Lisa T. Bergren
978-1-4347-6430-0 Paperback $14.99 Kindle ASIN B007ZH6VQ8 $9.47

I loved Glamorous Illusions by Lisa T. Bergren. It is the story of young Cora Diehl Kensington, a young woman who is simply the daughter of two hard-working farmers in the pre-World War I years of the twentieth century. Cora has been away at Normal School studying to be a teacher and returns home for the summer sabbatical. Her parents are supposed to meet her at the train station, but fail to arrive so Cora sets off the three miles to home in her neighbor’s wagon. Arriving home Cora finds disaster waiting for her. It will set off a change of events in her life that Cora could have never foreseen and will take her far from the farm she has always called home.
I really loved the characterization and plot in this story. While there is certainly a love story or two running through the plot, the story is so much more than that. It is about discovering who are at your deepest core, what you value and even more importantly, all the places your faith can take you. It is a story that has a deep current of faith running through it, but it isn’t pushy about it. It is simply part of the make-up of some of the characters and it is revealed through their thoughts and their natures and comes across so naturally on the page. I really admire a Christian writer who can make the point of the importance of their faith without sounding like he or she is preaching on the page and Bergren does this wonderfully.
The storyline is packed with thrills and action. It never lags or plods wearily on. It kept me engaged the entire time and I hated when I reached the end of the book. The characters are rich and multidimensional and the heroine is portrayed as real person fighting real battles that challenge the person she is and the person she will become. I honestly can’t wait until Bergren comes out with the second title in this series and not just to see what else happens to the heroine, but also because there is an entire group of characters I have become involved with through this story and I can’t wait to learn more of them. I solidly recommend this book.
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May 23, 2012 Kara rated it 5 of 5 stars

I am a huge fan of Lisa Bergren since I stumbled upon the River of Time series. After that I began reading some of her other series and was not disappointed. When I signed up to read and review her latest book Glamorous Illusions I figured I would give it a try and was not disappointed. Lisa Bergren has another winner in her newest book and series.

She weaves a story about a young woman whose world is turned upside down when she discovers her less than ideal parentage while in the midst of a tryi...more

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Apr 22, 2012 Rambling Readers rated it 5 of 5 stars

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...more 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.” (less)

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Apr 10, 2013 Vicki rated it 4 of 5 stars

Cora Diehl has just returned from Normal College for break in the early 1900's. Her parents are not at the train station to meet her and she immediately knows something is not wrong. She gets a ride from a long time neighbor only to come home and find her father has suffered a stroke. She jumps in and starts trying to help revive their basically done in farm. After more health issues she comes to find out her real bio father is Mr. Kensington, only one of the most powerful men in Montana. He now...more

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Jun 26, 2012 Patty rated it 3 of 5 stars

Cora Diehl comes home from college to her family farm for the summer to help her parents. Things are not going well as there has been drought and the crops have not come in. Her parents scraped and borrowed to be able to send her to school and now disaster upon disaster piles up. Then her father has a stroke. Just as he is recovering from that - a heart attack! No money for medical care and no way to borrow money to get the winter wheat in. Cora does what she has to; she goes to the bank for a l...more Cora Diehl comes home from college to her family farm for the summer to help her parents. Things are not going well as there has been drought and the crops have not come in. Her parents scraped and borrowed to be able to send her to school and now disaster upon disaster piles up. Then her father has a stroke. Just as he is recovering from that - a heart attack! No money for medical care and no way to borrow money to get the winter wheat in. Cora does what she has to; she goes to the bank for a loan against a mysterious necklace that had arrived on her 16th birthday. Another in a long line of expensive gifts from an unknown giver.

Just as she thinks all is lost a stranger arrives - copper king, senator and HER FATHER?! - Wallace Kensington. He is there to tell her of her parentage and offer (?) her and her mother a way out of their predicament. Cora is completely shocked and wants nothing to do with him but her mother begs her to allow him to help. It will give her adoptive father the best chance at recovery.

So off Cora goes with Mr. Kensington to meet her half siblings and head off for a Grand Tour to Europe. The half siblings and their close friends the Morgans are less than thrilled to have Cora thrust upon them for they fear her illegitimacy will impact their ability to socialize with the "right" people but Mr. Kensington sends along enough money to cover any problems as he feels that ANYONE can be bought.

The book was charming if rather unbelievable. The writing kept me reading and turning the pages and truly enjoying the story and it wasn't until after I was done and started thinking about it that I realized that it was all total poppycock. But it was enjoyable poppycock. The characters were diverse and for the most part fleshed out. The European nobility were cardboard and the descriptions of the glorious places visited on the Tour were surprisingly flat but Cora carries the story and I would certainly pick up the successive books in the series to see what happens to her.
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About Lisa Tawn Bergren

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Lisa Tawn Bergren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 35 books, with more than 2 million copies sold. She recently finished a teen series called River of Time (WATERFALL, CASCADE and TORRENT) and soon will release a follow-up e-novella called BOURNE. She's currently writing a New Adult series called The Grand Tour, and the first release is GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS (June 2012).

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Quotes from Glamorous Illusions

“Only one sort of man is worse than an Italian when it comes to their appetite for women."
"Oh? And what is that?"
"A Frenchmen.” — 7 people liked it

“God," she said, her tone gently reproving, "brought Mr.Kensington to you, and with him, a world of potential. As I see it, each of our lives is a journey, Miss Cora. A path that takes us over the mountain or down through a dark valley. But He never abandons us. Never. That is how He cares for us - walking with us every step of the way.” — 5 people liked it

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Glamorous Illusions (Grand Tour Series #1)

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