Begotten

The Gifted #1

by Lisa Tawn Bergren

(Previously released as THE BEGOTTEN)

At the height of the Inquisition, a secret half a millennium old is about to be exposed---a lost letter believed to have been written by Saint Paul but never part of the Christian canon. The letter speaks of men and women---the Gifted---with profound spiritual gifts that will strike fear in the heart of a Church dedicated to maintaining power. Now the letter has surfaced and the Gifted are gathering. But so are their enemies...

Genres: Fiction, Christian Fiction, Christian, Historical, Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Suspense

400 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2006

About the author

About

Lisa Tawn Bergren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 60 books, with more than 4.5 million copies sold. She recently released The Sugar Baron's Daughters Series (KETURAH, VERITY and SELAH), and recently finished a teen series called Remnants (SEASON OF WONDER, SEASON OF FIRE, and SEASON OF GLORY). She's also written the River of Time Series (WATERFALL, CASCADE, TORRENT, BOURNE & TRIBUTARY, DELUGE) and The Grand Tour Series (GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS, GRAVE CONSEQUENCES, GLITTERING PROMISES), time-slip romance duology called River of Time: California (THREE WISHES and FOUR WINDS), and some contemporary romances (ONCE UPON A MONTANA SUMMER and ONCE UPON AN IRISH SUMMER are the newest releases).

Lisa’s time is split between managing home base, writing, consulting and helping Tim with his business. Her husband Tim is a sculptor of ducks-out-of-fenceposts (RMRustic.com), graphic designer and musician. They have three big kids–Olivia (who just got married), Emma (who is about to get married) and Jack (who is a junior in high school).

The Bergrens make their home in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Reviews

[Ochegba · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must confess until I picked up this book I didn't know certain time periods existed. I don't normally read speculative fiction because it can be touchy on what is true and especially with artistic license and in CF too. This book pushed me to want to study Christian history more to want to know God more and gave me moment of reflection in the sense that am I ready to be used by God at any time?
From the start of the story we hear about the gifted and follow the journey if these individuals as they try to explain Christ and who He is to others. The fight between good and evil and we see just how much damage the darkness can cause.
This book is definitely not a lot that read but pushes you to remember that we fight battles in the spiritual realm too.
Recommended for mature readers but definitely an enjoyable read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via JustRead tours. All opinions expressed are solely mine

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Danger lurks on every side of this motley group...

Well.... That was definitely much different than I expected! But then, Lisa T. Bergren is pretty good at surprising people and she has a talent for crossing genres. Begotten was different from any other book that I've read by her but that only made it more interesting.

What really fascinated me about this story was Lisa T. Bergren's skillful, not to mention surprising, blend of historical romance, Catholic tradition, and what really threw me, spiritual warfare. Over the years I've read a number of novels featuring spiritual warfare, authors like Frank Peretti, Ted Dekker, Bill Myers, Angela Hunt, but pretty much all of them were 'contemporary' making Begotten the first with that particular topic as a central theme.

Begotten was intriguing on all fronts, as a historical romance, as a spiritual warfare novel, and as a story of faith. It's also a good wake-up call reminding us that all times are uncertain and that we are all called to live lives of prayer and faith, that we all have gifts that are meant to be used in service to others and for God's glory. Not bad, author Lisa T. Bergren, not bad. This book sure gets a person thinking, contemplating, not to mention wondering The Gifted will be taken next in book two...

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

[Scott Rezer · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good story and well-written, but it just moved much too slowly for me. I skimmed the second half and still came away not really missing anything. I liked the premise of the story. It’s quite original. I just think it could have been shorter with less filler. I may try to read the following two entries in the series just to see out it turns out. It started out with good pace as secrets began to be revealed and the story built, but then it slowed dramatically. Again, most I think will find it enjoyable, it was just too slow for me in the middle.

[Sydney · Rating 3 out of 5]

In her story Begotten, author Lisa T. Bergren has written an intriguing fantasy story that also intertwines the Christian faith. The story is told from multiple viewpoints, making it hard to get into the story, and character development was lacking. The premise of the story was promising, but just didn’t seem to pan out. If readers stick with the story though, it is both a suspenseful and spiritual journey. The first book in the series, Begotten sets readers up to dive into the next two books of the trilogy.

​Genre: historical, fantasy, Christian
Publisher: BCG Press
Publication date: April 26, 2021
Number of pages: 400

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Robin Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

The battle of good versus evil is timeless. This story may be set in Medieval Italy but it could be current day—truly any era since the time of Christ. Or the beginning of time.
The author clearly has a deep understanding of what it is to be a follower of Christ, to walk according to His will. To utilize the gifts God has endowed upon each one of us. As she has done with her writing.
Ms. Bergren works such mysterious moments into her story from the first pages. Coincidences that are not coincidental at all. Events and people that converge at just the right moment—minutes or even seconds sooner or later and the chance would be lost. The outcome different entirely.
The characters in this story embrace their Gifting as any of us would—with doubts and questions, wonder and awe, ultimately embracing it with their whole heart. With an inner knowing, beyond mere confidence, even in facing great spiritual opposition.
The telling is as rich and vibrant and intriguing as any tapestry hanging on the castle walls. Mystery and secrets, the dark enemy lurking about, God working His miracles through His chosen, His select. His begotten.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Friday, #TRD, Book Review, Begotten, Lisa Tawn Bergren, JustRead Publicity.

[Beckie Wendorf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most of Lisa's books I can dive right into and get lost quickly. This one took a little bit more for me to get into, but once I did, I'll admit the story had me hooked. I look forward to reading the next in the series. It is a great fictional account of spiritual warfare.

[Rebecca Embry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! Let me start by saying that Begotten is not a book I would typically pick up and read without being prompted, supernatural just isn't my thing really. Even if it's spiritual warfare supernatural, which this book is, I just get freaked out real easy and I tend to not read books that cover this topic. HOWEVER, I am so very glad I read this book. The story that transpired was gorgeously written and I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to read it.
This book vividly brings spiritual warfare and the power of prayer to life. Good against evil, Light against darkness, sorcery against prayer. At times it was pretty dark, what the bad guy was capable of, or did, was hard to read in parts. But for every evil part written in this book the Light shone brighter!!! I was moved to tears by the heroine, Daria's, heart and the prayers that she prayed. I know she is a fictional character, but I want to be like Daria! I want to have unshakeable faith and trust in my creator as she did. There's a part in this story when Daria stands face to face with her enemy and she boldly calls on the name of Christ to fight her battles and protect her. It gave me chills. It was just so powerfully written. 😭

There were a few times in the story that, I felt, were slower than the others and there are a lot of details and background of the characters written betwixt the pages. However, it all ties in together to set up for an amazing trilogy. I cannot wait to read the other 2 books in this series!

***In my opinion, there is some mature content in this book. Not incredibly detailed but there are mentions of a child sacrifice and an orgy. Again, things are not explicitly described but it does depict just how dark the enemy is.***

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

"We reside in enemy occupied territory. But it is as God wishes. We must pray for his divine protection and direction."

I have read very few books set in the 1300's. Because this time frame is unfamiliar to me, getting into this book was a bit challenging at first. But I kept going, and I am so glad that I did. There seems to be so much research done into this time period that it really brought a new realization to me as far as what life would have been like back then. The descriptions of transportation, meals and even costumes were interesting. A few traditions I would definitely wanted to avoid (handfasting!), but the falconry and pageantry would have been fascinating.

Ultimately this is a story of a select group of men and women who were supposedly called to step forward in faith during this time period. Supposedly a long lost letter of Saint Paul foretold some details of their involvement as did a prominent fresco. The author was very clear that these documents were not long lost inspired Scripture but instead documents of the faithful. This story is definitely portrayed as fiction, not as reality.

The strongest element is the spiritual component. Both actual and hidden battles of good vs. evil take place. Daria is a heroine to be reckoned with, and Gianni the knight acts as her personal protector. He is definitely worth admiring. There were enough characters that occasionally I did get lost, but I do think that the author did manage to keep them all straight in her portrayals for the most part. Just as the author intended, a few people were definitely hard to identify as to their true colors.

I really appreciated how the emphasis was on doing miracles because of love. Healings took place because of prayer. This story held God in high esteem, not those who were "working" on his behalf. Although parts were resolved, this book definitely leaves the reader hanging. I plan on reading the remaining two books in the trilogy. Since the next book is entitled Betrayed, I am guessing that there will plenty of parts left to finish in the final book, The Blessed.

My understanding is that the author updated this series that she first released over a decade ago. She had readers help her to "freshen up" her original ideas. I can tell that the author really tried to do due diligence by interviewing experts and asking for input.

Although there were a few parts that were not ideal (such as the slower start,) there was so many great aspects to this book that I feel like it deserves a 4.7 rating and then to be rounded up to a 5. I was a provided a copy of this book in advance. I wanted to review this one. The cover and concept intrigued me. All opinions are my own.

[M.D. House · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book started a little slow for me, and somewhat confusing, but when it picked up I really started to enjoy it. By the end, I was anxious to read Book 2 (which I will do). Lisa's view on how spiritual gifts are nurtured and utilized aligns very well with mine, and that came out beautifully in the story, especially near the end. We underestimate sometimes how powerful our faith can be. Did Peter really walk on water (albeit briefly)? Yes. Yes, he did, and he later became a noted healer.

[Veronica · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting story, suspenseful with both physical action and spiritual warfare. Those parts I really liked, along with the hint of romance. I also liked learning about the time period and some of the customs but I don't really like church politics and there was some of that in the story. I was frustrated about some of the customs of the church, such as only reading the Bible in church and only in Latin, which most people couldn't even understand. I also got frustrated with Daria as she kept going her own way and making bad decisions, even after just agreeing that she had just done that! Sometimes she seemed incredibly naive, even knowing that she was in danger. I liked Gianni a lot, as he was a knight and sworn to protect her so was brave but also a man of great faith and Father Piero was also incredibly wise so a good leader. There was a lot of talk of faith as the group tried to understand Christ better and gain strength from him and trust him more so they would be prepared for the battle ahead. They read Scripture and prayed. This story was rewritten and republished and there are two more books so their story continues. Overall this felt a little slow to me but if you like books about spiritual warfare and historical fiction, you might want to check it out.

I received a kindle copy of this book free from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just like Lisa T Bergen. She can write more details and action in just a few pages than anyone! She also loves God, His Word and can show Him off in such fun imaginative ways.

This book is no exception—I don’t know what this genre is—it’s not fantasy b/c it’s talking about the real spiritual world and warfare. But, it’s not true either. Speculative fiction? I don’t know. But I liked it. I enjoyed all the characters and the theme of spiritual gifts. Some of the prayers prayed are straight fire!

However, the Siena setting had me looking for and missing the she-wolves from River of Time!

[Meagan Myhren-Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Begotten
The Gifted #1
By Lisa T. Bergren

A forbidden scripture long believed destroyed has been hidden for hundreds of years. The illuminations reveal something that those who have now come together must figure out - a gathering of the Gifted.

The Gifted are to make known God's great love for all people. Known through the gifts that each has been given. "The power of Christ within." And they have much to fear as what they do is not ordained by the Church and those in power fear that change will be a threat to the power they wield.

Are the Gifted truly of God or are they a threat to the Church? Soon the Gifted find themselves in a battle - a battle of the spiritual and their very lives are in danger as they prove to be a threat to Lord of Darkness and those who lust after the empty promises of power and wealth.

Begotten is the first book in The Gifted series and it most definitely leaves the reader wanting to know what comes next. Those who fans of the work of Frank Peretti, James Rubart, Ted Dekker, and Tosca Lee should enjoy reading Begotten. This book is set in the Middle Ages in the general vicinity of Rome and is an era and place I have not read too many books in. Altogether I would say this was a good read and I'd recommend it.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

[Wren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lisa Bergren's BEGOTTEN is a fascinating, character-driven story of a vivid battle between the followers of Christ and those who embrace the darkness and the enemy. Lady Daria, Sir Gianni (a knight), and Father Piero discover their spiritual gifts of healing, faith, and wisdom in a time when the Church is the most powerful purveyor of God's Word and His gifts.

As the powers of darkness grow, other followers of Christ who are the Gifted join Daria and the others. People are healed, grow, and their own faith is increased as they see and experience God's miracles. But the enemy, and those who seek power for themselves, are also growing. A showdown is inevitable. Whose side will prevail? Read BEGOTTEN and find out!

There are some frightening scenes so I'd recommend this book for at least high school students and adults. But faith in God, and the spiritual gifts He gives His children, are also on display. Just be prepared for a fight, even as your own faith will be encouraged!

I received a free digital copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Have you ever read a book and are torn about how you felt about it in the end? That’s what happened to me with Begotten.

On the one hand, I had a difficult time getting into this book. It wasn’t until about the one-third mark that things started picking up, making things interesting, so while others may give up before this point, I’m glad I hung in there.

This is also a heavily plot-driven story with many points of view, so character development felt somewhat lacking even though the groundwork is laid out for the rest of the trilogy in this first book.

That said, once I hit that one-third mark, the pace of the novel really picked up, the tension and suspense were high, and the good versus evil aspect is drawn out well. The concept of the book is intriguing, and Bergren stays true to the fact that these gifts are from God.
And that ending definitely had me on the edge of my seat.


Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story pulled me in from the get go, with a mysterious book telling of a group of individuals who would work together to fight evil and show the world God's love. This book wound up being an excellent start to the trilogy, with it being a blend of history mixed with spiritual warfare. The twists and turns had me flipping through the pages quickly to find out what was going to happen next. This book is a wonderful start to the series and left me eagerly awaiting the next installment! I received this book from Just Read tours. This is my honest review.

[Wendy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Begotten is the first novel in a trilogy by author Lisa T. Bergren. It is the story of an ordinary group of people who discover that they have exceptional God-given gifts that are both miraculous and great in nature. The Gifted, as they are known, are called to come together for a divine purpose outlined in a centuries’ old letter from Paul, which has remained hidden and relatively unnoticed.

The book opens in eighth century Constantinople, as a priest, in his final act before being carried off to the pyre, asks his apprentice to take a letter from a holy manuscript and travel to Roma, where both will be safe. The Church’s hold on the people tightens, as the desire for power becomes more important than faith, and some in the Church seek to become more important than God.

The story picks up again six centuries later as Captain Gianni de Capezzana leads twenty-four knights of the Church into the catacombs in Roma where they discover just how powerful and diabolical their enemy can be. Gianni is determined to hunt down the evil Sorcerer wherever it may lead him. It is on that pursuit for the evildoer that his path crosses with a band of travelers on their way to Siena: the independent and strong-willed Lady Daria d’Angelo, who is gifted with the ability to heal; her faithful servant, the freed slave Hasani, who seems to have a talent for knowing what is to come; and a wise Dominican priest, Father Piero, who possesses a portion of the prophecy, believed to be written by Paul.

In the novel, which gets off to a slow start as the author builds the foundation for what will become a suspenseful, fast paced and intriguing story, the Gifted begin the difficult task of not only fortifying their stronghold, the home of noblewoman Lady Daria d’Angelo whose business and political clout are being threatened by outside forces, and finding worthy supporters to their cause. The chosen ones recognize immediately that their enemies will not only attack them physically, but also on a spiritual level. With the guidance of the priest Father Piero, the group find themselves questioning some of their long held beliefs and religious practices, as they reinforce their spiritual strength.

Furthermore, their enemies are vast. Not only does a confrontation with the evil Sorcerer seem imminent, but the Gifted know a threat lies with the Church as well, who will not easily tolerate a challenge to what they perceive as their religious power over the people.

Lisa T. Bergren has created the beginning of a tale that will resonant with many Christian readers, and perhaps some non-Christians as well. The author is well researched in her knowledge and interpretation of the scriptures. She has created characters who are easy to identify and empathize with, although many of the characters were two dimensional. There was very little gray area between good vs. evil. The Begotten is the promising start of what will be an entertaining trilogy.

Favorite Part: The scene in the piazza when Daria comes face to face with the Sorcerer.

[Crislee · Rating 2 out of 5]

I loved and hated it for so many reason. First I must say DO NOT READ IT IF YOU HATE FAITH BASED BOOKS. This was intended to be read for the faith in it. It's part of the description. Not sure why folks get bothered by the Christianity in a Christian book.
But if you, like me, wanted to read a faith based book you might want to know what I felt.
And if you, like me, are a faithful/knowledgeable Catholic....avoid this one.
Unlike others I care more about the faith than anything. Its why I wanted to read it to begin with. I am a Catholic, not by birth, I chose it. I grew up Protestant. I have studied the faith and church history for over 20 years. I read/studied my way into faith. I am deeply utterly in love with Christ. It is more important to me than anything else in my entire life. Even my wonderful family.
Ms Bergren is either an uneducated Catholic (which is most common among my fellow Catholics) or a non-Catholic Christian with a disdain for the Catholic Church. Which is why I could not finish it. I can look past the minor faulty history but I can not get past the throwing out and disdain for my faith. Before I quit (at their baptism and confirmation) I was seriously bothered with the hatred for the faith. I sensed it slightly at the beginning but decided to give it the benefit of the doubt that it would improve as it might have just been my attitude. Most authors hate the church. I was hoping she didn't. And for a while it seemed to get much better.
She has clearly studied the Church but not as a faithful. She knows the words (well bungled some of them) but not the meaning behind any of them. She clearly doesn't understand the teachings at all.
And is it me or did the 'bad guys' seem like she was talking about the Mormons. Of course most don't know much about that faith either. It seemed like she was crossing Mormons (LDS) with pagans and making them into this cult following a 'sorcerer.' Hopefully it was just me. I found that disrespectful too if it was intentional. Most Christians disagree with Mormons but they are good faithful people and at least deserve respect. They know their faith better than most of us.
I truly don't think she meant to disrespect the Catholic Church either. She just got so much wrong it was annoying to read.
1. Contrary to popular belief perpetuated by too many 'modern' historians the Church in an official capacity did not kill people for heresy. If you want to blame any church for that look at the Church of England. Look at Galileo. The Church has even admitted it's error in regards to their treatment of him but they did not kill him. But perhaps if you want to learn more read of the more recent opening of the historical documents about all the inquisitions officially done by the Church. Those documents were previously not allowed to be studied by are still held in the Vatican. They contain every single official investigation ever done by the Church. And very very few were actually killed by the Church. The Church has always taught that forgiveness is always possible up until the point of death. ALWAYS! Excommunication has been used but only to save the heretic not to damn them. We damn ourselves. Most of those killed were done outside the actual church. Remember clergy are not 'The Church.' They are just part if it. Some are good and holy, some are evil and corrupt. Like every single church on earth. But one or two men doing wrong doesn't make it 'The Church.' That would be like saying the entire USA is wrong because we have some bad leaders. Good grief, how naïve of us. Plus it's just wrong to keep saying 'The Church' did this that and the other when it's not true.
2. She doesn't even know why the Church has priestly confessions. And yes, it is scriptural. I won't go on with this one as we can never agree. But you can't understand it if you can say 'you don't need a priest.' I was once that way too...then I learned. I've also learned most don't want to learn or know, they just want to be right. I was a Protestant I get why some don't believe it. Yet it was that way for 1500+ years. They used to be public early on. But all that is beside the point.
The point being she flubs it up so much it's just sad and disrespectful even if completely unintentional. She's a phenomenal author and I've loved her River of Time series. LOVED IT! She does great with history most of the time. The things she misses usually isn't important to most people. But in this one it send the wrong message and perpetuates the hatred of the Church by most people. Heck even some Catholics.
BTW, the people were always allowed to hear scriptures in the vernacular (their language). They just used Latin IN MASS. She clearly has a post-1967 knowledge of Mass. Likely she asked some priest that has never seen the Mass as it was done before 1967. They are still done today. Just not as common.
But yes, the rest, for a Catholic that she started to spew was just heresy. And I don't think any faithful/knowledgeable Catholic at that time would have touched that priest with a ten-foot pole. The only priests that would have believed like he did were those wanting to do things their own way. BTW, the selling of indulgences were NEVER 'allowed' in the church. It just had to be forbidden when it was shown to cause corruption and refusal of the sacraments. Such priests weren't leading their flocks by faith, but by self-desires.
OK I'm done tearing this book apart. As I said I didn't even finish it. I had enough. I so badly wanted to like this. I was so excited she wrote a book for Christians about Christianity. She just blew it in so many ways but I doubt it was on purpose.
If she's a Catholic I highly suggest she find a Latin Mass (an approved one not an SSPX or some other Mass we are not to attend) and learn more about the history. Then find a good faithful priest who can help her learn the faith, not just the words. But I suspect she is not a Catholic. The disdain for the church was way too loud. If you want to read a good solid history of Christendom read (if you can, it's not light reading) The History of Christendom by Warren Carroll. It's hard. But it's excellent history without anyone's slant. Just the facts. There are several volumes. I think 5.

[Sharon Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so sorry to finish this book! I'm rushing to the library for book #2.

[Alissa Peppo (bookstagrambyalissamorgan) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Begotten by Lisa T Bergren is a captivating story of Christian faith, with spiritual warfare outlining a suspenseful story of good versus evil. Begotten is the first book in a saga to be told in three installments about a group called “The Gifted,” whose coming was foretold in a prophetic and divinely inspired letter. The Gifted exhibit profound spiritual gifts and are destined to battle a pervasive evil. In this first installment of the series, The Gifted realize their gifting and are called together in medieval Italy to battle an evil Sorcerer with Satanic power. This battle will continue throughout the entire series as The Gifted look to the Almighty for purpose and victory against evil. This story is a powerful illustration of good versus evil and is meant for adult readers of Christian Fiction. Spiritual warfare is widely depicted in this book, and some scenes contain vivid and somewhat shocking descriptions of the Satanic evil that The Gifted are fighting against with the power of Jesus Christ. However, the story also depicts the vivid faith of the main characters and God’s almighty power over darkness, which makes this book inspirational and encouraging overall. Although the premise of the book is somewhat fantastical, there is solid theology woven throughout the book that roots the overall message in biblical truth. I also loved the amount of history that this book contained, and I think the author did an amazing job of balancing historical knowledge with a plot that keeps you interested. She also did a wonderful job of setting the scene and making me feel like I was right there on the streets of a city in medieval Italy fighting evil with The Gifted. The well-written characters are intriguing, and I really wish we got more time with them and got to see more of the romance between two of the main characters that is sparked in this first book. However, I know the story will progress and the characters will continue to grow throughout the next two books, and I cannot wait! This is my first foray into the spiritual thriller genre of the Christian Fiction market, and I enjoyed it! I cannot wait for the next two books in this series, and I highly recommend Begotten by Lisa T Bergren to those who love a tale of history, faith, and good versus evil.

I received a copy of this book from the author for review purposes. My thoughts are my own.

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Are you truly willing to go wherever God leads you?"

This is the haunting question that follows each of the main characters as they navigate their medieval world where spiritual meets supernatural and evil meets its match. This first book in the series lays down the foundation for the trilogy nicely and there are already plenty of twists and turns in the intricate and complex plot to keep the reader on his/her toes. The church history is well-researched and incredibly fascinating. The journey they undertake is enlightening and eye-opening.

The "Gifted," which is a group of seven persons with special individualized gifting, is to gather and allow the people to know of God's love through them. People with gifts of wisdom, faith, healing, and discernment are discovered in this book and band together with several others to battle the darkness that threatens to capture them for its own use. Given the premise and the plot, the cast of characters is somewhat large though Father Piero, Sir Gianni, and Lady Daria stand out as the main focus in this book. The plot moves at a fast pace with action and suspense and you'll immediately feel drawn into their circle as they try to figure out the next steps through interpretations of relics from the past. I can't wait to meet the embodiment of prophecy, visions, and miraculous power as the circle completes. Truly it's the perfect blend of historical, suspense, speculative, and supernatural with medieval church as the backdrop. I received the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.

[Kathryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Several forces are at work in the early 1300's that seek to seize control of this motley group of the "Gifted". The cardinal seeks to discover who they are and wants to force them to obey the letter of the law of the Church and thus increase the clergy's power to move the papacy from Avignon back to Rome. Daria's uncle, Vincenzo, whose grief turns him away from the church, sees power in forcing the group to acquiesce to his will. And the most evil of all is Lord Amidei, who wields powers of dark magic and seeks to rule over all the city states in Italy.
All the individual gifts of the "Gifted"are put to good use to thwart the evil powers that seek to overtake their mission. The struggles they encounter between their humanity and God's urgings are
deftly woven into a tale of mystery and intrigue.
In this book, they escape Sienna relatively unscathed and travel to Venizia, where they hope to find the remaining parts of their illuminated letter of prophecy.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh this was such a good book! There was so many details that you literally could see this book come to life in front of you!
I loved how the characters showed their vulnerable side and how they each struggled at times with knowing what God wanted them to do. They continually submitted to Him.
Daria and Gianni were my favorites. I loved how the author just made them so human. Struggling with normal problems.
Father Piero and Tessa were such wonderful additions to the book! I loved both of them!
I highly recommend this book and I am so looking forward to reading the next one in the series.

[Katie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This review is merely for my own benefit; if others gain anything from it, more power to them.

I read LTB’s River of Time series and loved it. Was expecting similar.


Why 3 stars?
1. I finished it.
2. It’s written by an author I like
3. Appeared to be well researched.

Missing 2 stars?
1. I liked it.
2. I liked it a lot.

However, I took away 1 star because I was unable to read more than a chapter at a time for the first 15 chapters.

[Laura Ladd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this journey through the eyes of these characters. So much truth from scripture. Action, adventure and more and not any foul language to skim over. Such a blessing to be able to read an exciting, well-thought out story that expresses so many emotions without the use of any expletives! Thank you Lisa! I’d happily be a beta reader for you any time!! I’ve enjoy many of your books and look forward to Betrayed!
God bless!

[Caryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this novel! Bergren has crafted an exquisite masterpiece!

I was engaged from the beginning. The danger and suspense kept me turning the pages. I so appreciate the spiritual elements woven throughout the pages. This novel is hard to put down!

Recommend to readers who enjoy Christian fantasy.

I purchased a copy directly from Lisa Bergren. I've expressed my honest opinion.

[S.L. Klein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lisa is an extremely gifted an anointed writer. She makes you fall in love with characters before you even realize it, and the story keeps you in anticipation. The last 3 chapters had me on my feet! So so so looking forward to the next 2 books!

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked the premise of this book, but it was a slow read for me. It's not a book you can breeze through in a couple days. It was well written, and I think fans of Da Vinci Code and the like would enjoy this.

[Angelina Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping storyline. It is better than any action movie; and is 'filled' with historical facts. The author paints the scene so well that I found myself wondering if I saw the estates on my own trip to Italy. Glad I have book two already so I don't have to wait long to see what happens next.

[Nicole]

Rtc

[Stacey M. Clements · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring Adventure

I loved this book! The characters are engaging. The story gripped me, challenged me, and inspired me. Looking forward to reading Book 2!