The Gifted Series: by Lisa Tawn Bergren

Though these are the first two novels I’ve read from Lisa Tawn Bergren’s collection, I can tell you that they will absolutely NOT be the last! I'm anxiously awaiting the final installment of this series in 2008, and may even have to add a few others to the top of my endless bedside stack. I was touched by both the storytelling, and the scriptural truths that she has masterfully woven in. A best-selling, award-winning author of over 28 books, she has outdone herself with these powerful stories of adventure, faith and suspense. I found myself fortunate to have both volumes on hand, once I’d entered her rich landscape!

In “The Begotten”, Lisa introduces us to an extensive cast of characters, intimately drawing us into their medieval Italian world.

Piero, a wise priest, passionate about “the living God”, carries an ancient secret that has been passed down for 500 years.
Daria, a noble, young woman seeking recovery from a devastating relationship with her childhood sweetheart, stumbles across God’s unique calling on her life.
Gianni, a faithful knight of the church, is on the heels of retreating evil, following an elusive man known only as “the Sorcerer”.

When three lives collide, the ancient prophecy reveals itself, inextricably binding them together as one, each with a divinely appointed gift. The troupe of “gifted” continue to rise in number and strength as they identify others who are a part of the divine plan.

Overflowing with beautiful symbolism, intense action and intrigue, “The Betrayed” brings each character to the fullness of their “glory”, as the battle continues between darkness and light.

While immersed in mystery, adventure and suspense, I found myself challenged to dive deeper yet into God's strength for the path He's put me on . Realizing at once, that even the simplest daily callings God has on my life deserve the depth of worship and faith that Lisa’s “Gifted” characters exhibit. And though entertained by knights and flying swords, I was “sharpened” in my own spiritual walk. The scriptures say in Proverbs 27, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” In creating this riveting series, Lisa managed to do both!

FYI--these books are available as near as your local Target store, where you'll find both “The Begotten” and “The Betrayed” featured this month on their Breakout Books display. Order either here, by clicking on the titles in the previous sentence.

For more about Lisa Tawn Bergren you can go to www.LisaTawnBergren.com. and click here to jump on the blog tour and learn more about this fantastic new series of books!

Peaceful page-turning!