Litfuse Blog Tour + Review: Glamorous Illusions by Lisa T. Bergren

Glamorous Illusions (Grand Tour, Book 1)
by Lisa T. Bergren
Copyright 2012
David C. Cook Publishers
ISBN: 9781434764300

About the book:
It was the summer of 1913, and Cora Kensington's life on the family farm has taken a dark turn. Not only are the crops failing, so is her father's health. Cora is carrying on, helping her mother run their Montana farm until a stranger comes to call, and everything changes. Cora then learns a secret that will radically change her future: she is the illegitimate daughter of a copper king who has come to claim her. 


Cora is invited to take the "Grand Tour" of Europe, a journey intended to finish a person's education, to solidify an understanding of ancient culture and contemporary refinement. As she travels from England to France with half-siblings she's never known, Cora encounters the blessings of the Kensington family name, as well as the curses. But when an unbidden love begins to form, she realizes the journey is only beginning. 


Faced with the challenge of accepting her father, new family, and the identity that comes with it, Cora also struggles to accept that she is also the daughter of the one true King-a Father who is the only One who can truly heal. 


My Thoughts:
From the Rocky Mountains in Colorado to fourteenth century Italy Lisa Bergren knows how to take a reader on a journey. With her latest series she takes us from the dusty fields of Montana to luxe early 20th century Paris. Be prepared to live this story. Since there's not a lot happening to capture your attention as far as romance or suspense the reader gets to connect with Cora more and feel every emotion that she feels and sense how overwhelmed by everything, including scenery, that she is.


Glamorous Illusions can definitely be described as a coming of age story. While I was frustrated at the ease her parents let her go with an almost complete stranger, Wallace Kensington, and Cora's lack of contact with her family once she started out on the Grand Tour I really enjoyed seeing her interactions with Vivian, Felix and Lillian as well as the tour guide, Will. While this story focused more on Cora and what it felt like for her as a stranger in a new land so to speak I cannot wait to see what happens with Cora and her potential suitors. I have the feeling that the end of this story was just the beginning for her and there is A LOT in store for her. 


If you're into books that are fast-paced and full of adventure this might not be the book for you but if you like an intriguing read about farm life and later fish out of water tales you'll love this. As a fan of the hit TV series, Downton Abbey, I've been scouring the shelves for books set in the Edwardian period and this one did not disappoint. Book two, Grave Consequences can't come out soon enough! 


To read what others are saying about the book go HERE

To learn more about Lisa and her other books go HERE

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

*I received my complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for posting my honest review of the book for this tour.*

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What is our "true" identity? Join the conversation at Lisa Tawn Begren's Glamorous Illusions Author Chat Facebook Event Page. On the evening of 6/27 we'll gather to talk about our spiritual journey, share our stories and a few laughs.

In the meantime, celebrate with Lisa by entering her Glamorous Illusions Giveaway!

One "glamorous" winner will receive a "Glam Prize Pack":

• A $350 Visa Cash Card (Oh ... think of what you could do: treat yourself to a mani/pedi, a fabulous new dress, dinner for two, or even a two-night escape in a lovely hotel - you're only limited by your imagination!)
• Glamorous Illusions (by Lisa Tawn Begren)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 6/26/12. Winner will be announced at Lisa's "Glamorous Illusions" Facebook Party on  6/27 {Fun begins at 5pm PDT / 8pm EDT}. Lisa will be hosting an evening of meaningful chat, fun trivia, laughter, and encouragement - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, and a Book Club Prize Pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club and a live chat with Lisa via video or phone.)

So grab a few of your friends and your copy of Glamorous Illusions and join Lisa on the evening of June 27th for an evening of fun.

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP TODAY and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 27th!

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Happy Reading!