Grand Tour Series by Lisa Bergen

Book 1 - Glamorous Illusions
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-discovery.

Book 2 - Grave Consequences

For Cora Kensington, the journey of a lifetime takes unexpected twists. And her future—her very life—depends on the decisions she’ll make at each crossroad. As her European tour with her newfound family takes her through Austria, France, and Italy, an unseen enemy trails close behind. Meanwhile, a forbidden love continues to claim her heart, putting everyone’s plans in danger.  And as Cora stays one step ahead of it all, what might need the most protection is her own heart, torn between the dramatic pursuit of a dashing Frenchman and a man who has been quietly staking claim to her affections all along. Love has dangers all its own. She must escape the bonds of the past and discover the faith to make the right choices, as each one has grave consequences.

Book 3 - Glittering Promises

For Cora Kensington, the Grand Tour was to be the trip of a lifetime. She discovered the family she never knew she had, and may have even found the love she longs for in Will. And yet her life has just become infinitely more challenging.Hounded by journalists chasing the beguiling story of the newest American heiress, Cora fights to remain true to her past, reconcile her present, and still embrace her future. But as Will struggles with her newfound wealth, she begins to wonder if their love is strong enough to withstand all that threatens to pull them apart.

 

Complicating matters is the stubborn pursuit of Pierre de Richelieu and the increased demands on her time and attention. Cora must stand up for what she believes—regardless of how that might challenge current family and cultural norms—in order to remain true to who she really is.  And as she glimpses the end of the tour, Cora knows it’s time to decide Who and what defines her … and who and what does not. 

 

My Take:   I very much enjoyed this series.  I received the 3 books in the mail and first thought they didn't sound like something I would have chosen for myself.  It is categorized as a Christian Romance and that's not a genre I would ordinarily read, but each book kept me captivated.  The characters were all engaging and likeable.  The heroine is strong and courageous with a tender and genuine relationship.  I was disappointed when Book 3 came to an end.  As for the Christian label, there was an occasional mention of God's will but nothing preachy.  It was basically just a clean romance story.  I would recommend it.