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Northern Lights #1-3
Northern Lights Trilogy: The Captain's Bride / Deep Harbor / Midnight Sun
Three Historical novels for the price of one in this eBook-e-only omnibus. From the hills of Norway to the coast of Maine, the streets of San Francisco and the Alaskan wilderness, comes this stirring trilogy about a group of Norwegian immigrants whose lives are forever intertwined. Set in the late nineteenth century, The Northern Lights series will captivate historical fiction fans. Lovers of family saga and adventure will be swept into the tender romances, as characters make important journeys toward growth and real faith. The Captain's Bride Leaving their home in Norway behind, Elsa and Peder Ramstad embark on a new life in with their closest friends, Kaatje Jansen, a woman seeking a new beginning for the sake of her marriage and for the child growing within her; Elsa's sister Tora, a sly young vixen who knows exactly what she wants--and exactly how to get it; and Karl Martensen, a man torn between his friendship for Peder and a forbidden, secret love for Elsa. Experience an epic saga of perseverance and passion, faith, and fidelity. Deep Harbor Determined to live "the good life," no matter the price, Tora Anders weaves a web of lies that could cost her everything she cares for-including a successful future and the man she loves. Her sister, Elsa Ramstad, has everything her heart a loving husband, a family she adores, and a fulfilling life at sea. Then tragedy strikes. Now, drawing upon her faith and all the strength she can muster, Elsa must once again discover the woman she is and who she chooses to be. Four years after her husband's disappearance, Kaatje Janssen struggles to raise two young daughters and tend her farm. But when help comes from the most unlikely source, Kaatje faces both uncertainty about the future and a deep secret from her past. And after years of grappling with his feelings for Elsa and the mistakes he has made, Karl is caught in a life of loneliness and emptiness. Can he finally accept the reality of what he once lost and open himself up to the possibility of what could be? Separated by physical distance and emotional boundaries, these four bound by friendship and family find each other once again and discover that some ties can never be broken in Deep Harbor. Midnight Sun Desperate to know if her missing husband still lives, Kaatje Janssen hires the rugged, yet tenderhearted, James Walker to guide her through the perils of the Alaskan wilderness. What she finally discovers, however, is far from what she expected...and could well place her in the greatest danger of her life. As captain of the Majestic and mother of Kristian and Eve, Elsa Ramstad has sought to ease the ache of her lonely heart. But when an old friend rekindles the spark of romance within her, will she allow the flames of love to burn again? Her foolish youth behind her, Tora Anders looks forward to her wedding and a fresh start in life as the wife of her beloved, Trent Storm. But first she must confront, face-to-face, the terrible demons of her past--and her struggle to forgive the man who radically altered her future.
Though widely admired, Captain Karl Martensen feels no depth of emotion for any of the women with whom his life becomes uncomfortably entangled. He has only tender memories of the love he once lost--a love who, by the grace of God, he may just find again.
Though widely admired, Captain Karl Martensen feels no depth of emotion for any of the women with whom his life becomes uncomfortably entangled. He has only tender memories of the love he once lost--a love who, by the grace of God, he may just find again.
1357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
About the author
Lisa Tawn Bergren
105 books3,838 followersAbout
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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 7, 2013
As an eBook, the reader has the advantage here. The trilogy is complete when loaded to your eReader! No waiting to pick up the books in order.
Lisa Tawn Bergren presents her reader with three historical romance novels focusing on the Anders sisters, Elsa and Tora, and Elsa's friend, Kaatje Janssen. All three young women immigrate to America from Bergen, Norway, with other Bergensers looking for a newer, more enriching way of life.
Not only does each of these three young women make the trip to America, each has her own romance, heartbreak and renewal. The character development is rich and diverse.
Bergren is not afraid to insert the subject of adultery in her trilogy. Some have expressed a discomfort with that subject, but this reader sees it as an important introduction of the effect of sin in relationships and against God, and the result of such actions and choices. Definitely much-needed reminders for us all.
Bergren is a good writer stylistically and her descriptive language paints amazing images for her readers. These three books rely heavily on the meaning for these women, especially Elsa, of the Northern Lights. Bergren uses this to show off her clever handling of description.
Truly, these are enjoyable stories but definitely depend on one another. The endings create a looseness that would leave the reader without much to solidly complete their interpretation of the story, if the next book were not available.
I highly recommend these books, whether read in eBook format or otherwise. They are rich with relationship, love, friendship, but also show the truth that life has its heartbreak, loss, tragedy. And yet, there can always be healing.
Lisa Tawn Bergren presents her reader with three historical romance novels focusing on the Anders sisters, Elsa and Tora, and Elsa's friend, Kaatje Janssen. All three young women immigrate to America from Bergen, Norway, with other Bergensers looking for a newer, more enriching way of life.
Not only does each of these three young women make the trip to America, each has her own romance, heartbreak and renewal. The character development is rich and diverse.
Bergren is not afraid to insert the subject of adultery in her trilogy. Some have expressed a discomfort with that subject, but this reader sees it as an important introduction of the effect of sin in relationships and against God, and the result of such actions and choices. Definitely much-needed reminders for us all.
Bergren is a good writer stylistically and her descriptive language paints amazing images for her readers. These three books rely heavily on the meaning for these women, especially Elsa, of the Northern Lights. Bergren uses this to show off her clever handling of description.
Truly, these are enjoyable stories but definitely depend on one another. The endings create a looseness that would leave the reader without much to solidly complete their interpretation of the story, if the next book were not available.
I highly recommend these books, whether read in eBook format or otherwise. They are rich with relationship, love, friendship, but also show the truth that life has its heartbreak, loss, tragedy. And yet, there can always be healing.
June 19, 2022
I picked up this Christian historical fiction series after reading one of Lisa T. Bergren's young adult series, and found a beautifully enticing journey. From start to finish, Norway to America, I followed these characters and their diverging and converging paths with a joyous realization of the story's accurate portrayal of faith, sin, redemption, and life in general.
This is one of my favorite series (and authors) of all time, and I find myself recommending it (and her) again and again!
(The fact that Lisa T. Bergren is from my hometown only sweetens the deal. ☺)
This is one of my favorite series (and authors) of all time, and I find myself recommending it (and her) again and again!
(The fact that Lisa T. Bergren is from my hometown only sweetens the deal. ☺)
February 7, 2018
I just loved the vivid storytelling in this series and life stories that were depicted throughout. The deep connections between many characters kept me wanting to continue reading and not want it to end. There was adventure, love, sorrow and tragedy throughout the books but the deep sense of faith that prevailed was well portrayed. Probably what you would class as a 'female read' but it wasn't a book that you thought this could never have happened and too fairy tale-ish. I will definitely continue to look for more books by Lisa and put them on my to read list.
November 18, 2025
You must read all three books!
To get the whole story, all the love and adventure, all 3 books are needed. Christianity runs deep through most of the main characters’ lives as they live through a variety of joys, sorrows, trials, and successes. Travel from Norway to Maine to Seattle, the Alaska over about 10 years and all across the world as some of the characters go to sea. A sweeping saga of the 1880s that is hard to put down.
To get the whole story, all the love and adventure, all 3 books are needed. Christianity runs deep through most of the main characters’ lives as they live through a variety of joys, sorrows, trials, and successes. Travel from Norway to Maine to Seattle, the Alaska over about 10 years and all across the world as some of the characters go to sea. A sweeping saga of the 1880s that is hard to put down.
December 4, 2024
Good Read.
Excellent writing skill. Good story lines, but soooo long. It was at times, times tedious to read because of the length of the books. Forgiveness is emphasized throughout, but I think the proselytizing could have been limited.
Excellent writing skill. Good story lines, but soooo long. It was at times, times tedious to read because of the length of the books. Forgiveness is emphasized throughout, but I think the proselytizing could have been limited.
October 27, 2018
Enjoyed this tale of travel on the sea, on land, heartbreak, love lost and love found.
November 13, 2025
This series had a grip on me for a long time after I was done reading the series. So engaging and mysterious! So fun!
June 27, 2013
The Captain's Bride
Captain Peder Ramstad and his new bride Elsa Anders, embark on a journey from their homeland in Norway to America, taking some of their closest friends with them. Soren and Kaatje Jansen are wanting a fresh start, and their marriage depends on it. Karl Martensen has been Peder's best friend since childhood, and though he carries a torch for Elsa, he keeps it hidden from them both. Last, but not least, Elsa's seductive and stubborn little sister Tora, stows away and accompanies them as well, causing more chaos and heartbreak than one person should ever be allowed. Will they find the peace they seek in a new land? Or will the things they run away from in Norway follow them even to the New World?
Deep Harbor
Peder, Elsa, Karl, Soren, Kaatje, and Tora find out exactly how high the price of a new beginning really is. Soren disappears without a trace. Kaatje is left alone with two daughters to raise. Elsa faces the greatest tragedy of her life and a hopeless future. Karl finds disappointment at every turn, and finds no real satisfaction in living. Tora discovers the true meaning of consequences of her actions, and is unable to live with them. Will the price they paid to have a promising future have cost them more than they are willing to pay? Or have their dreams be as empty as the promises they made to themselves - and each other?
Midnight Sun
Kaatje want to know the truth - once and for all - of Soren's fate. Her new found friendship with a humble Tora Anders strengthens her resolve to go find him in the land of the midnight sun. Elsa Ramstad is the captain of Peder's ship, and she is alone in raising her two children. Karl has never found the companion of his dreams, finding only disappointment and disillusionment in his quest. Will their friendships, old and new, be able to sustain them in the trials and troubles that await them? Or will their darkest days become a bright light of hope of a better future for all of them?
This has to be the most suspenseful, romantic trilogy I have ever read. Something about the way Bergren portrayed all her characters in such a flawed, human way captured my interest and held me to the last page. None of these people were perfect, far from it, but I felt so invested in each of their lives I couldn't help but be transported to the time and place in my imagination. It was with a heavy heart I read the last page, unwilling to let it all end. This e-book edition really makes it too easy to become absorbed, forever lost in the pages of the tale, and I will never be able to forget any of the characters that became so dear to me in so little time. Recommended to anyone who wants to read an unforgettable tale of love, loss, and faith.
This e-book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
Captain Peder Ramstad and his new bride Elsa Anders, embark on a journey from their homeland in Norway to America, taking some of their closest friends with them. Soren and Kaatje Jansen are wanting a fresh start, and their marriage depends on it. Karl Martensen has been Peder's best friend since childhood, and though he carries a torch for Elsa, he keeps it hidden from them both. Last, but not least, Elsa's seductive and stubborn little sister Tora, stows away and accompanies them as well, causing more chaos and heartbreak than one person should ever be allowed. Will they find the peace they seek in a new land? Or will the things they run away from in Norway follow them even to the New World?
Deep Harbor
Peder, Elsa, Karl, Soren, Kaatje, and Tora find out exactly how high the price of a new beginning really is. Soren disappears without a trace. Kaatje is left alone with two daughters to raise. Elsa faces the greatest tragedy of her life and a hopeless future. Karl finds disappointment at every turn, and finds no real satisfaction in living. Tora discovers the true meaning of consequences of her actions, and is unable to live with them. Will the price they paid to have a promising future have cost them more than they are willing to pay? Or have their dreams be as empty as the promises they made to themselves - and each other?
Midnight Sun
Kaatje want to know the truth - once and for all - of Soren's fate. Her new found friendship with a humble Tora Anders strengthens her resolve to go find him in the land of the midnight sun. Elsa Ramstad is the captain of Peder's ship, and she is alone in raising her two children. Karl has never found the companion of his dreams, finding only disappointment and disillusionment in his quest. Will their friendships, old and new, be able to sustain them in the trials and troubles that await them? Or will their darkest days become a bright light of hope of a better future for all of them?
This has to be the most suspenseful, romantic trilogy I have ever read. Something about the way Bergren portrayed all her characters in such a flawed, human way captured my interest and held me to the last page. None of these people were perfect, far from it, but I felt so invested in each of their lives I couldn't help but be transported to the time and place in my imagination. It was with a heavy heart I read the last page, unwilling to let it all end. This e-book edition really makes it too easy to become absorbed, forever lost in the pages of the tale, and I will never be able to forget any of the characters that became so dear to me in so little time. Recommended to anyone who wants to read an unforgettable tale of love, loss, and faith.
This e-book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2017
Excellent!
Beginning in Norway this exciting and eventful trilogy takes the reader to many places in the world as the sea-fairing characters find love and adventure. Through out the three books we follow along with sisters Elsa and Tora Anders, their friend Katje and her philandering husband Siren, friends Pedar and Karl as they pursue a new life as emigrants in America. Faith plays a big part in their lives, and the struggle to follow God's leading , the sad consequences when they don't, make this an adventure you don't want to miss. I have read several of this authors book a, and never have been disappointed. You won't be either!
Beginning in Norway this exciting and eventful trilogy takes the reader to many places in the world as the sea-fairing characters find love and adventure. Through out the three books we follow along with sisters Elsa and Tora Anders, their friend Katje and her philandering husband Siren, friends Pedar and Karl as they pursue a new life as emigrants in America. Faith plays a big part in their lives, and the struggle to follow God's leading , the sad consequences when they don't, make this an adventure you don't want to miss. I have read several of this authors book a, and never have been disappointed. You won't be either!
July 30, 2013
This historical romance trilogy follows Peder and Elsa Ramstad and their fellow travelers from their home in Bergen, Norway, to their new life in America. We become well acquainted with the Ramstads, Soren & Katje Janssen, Tora Anders, Karl Martensen and those they meet as they settle into jobs and life in their new land.
I thoroughly enjoyed this trilogy. In fact, I was really happy to get the 3-in-1 book, as it would have been very hard to finish one of the 3 and wait for the next to arrive! The books are full of realistic detail drawing you into each setting as if you are there. From the shore of Maine, to Seattle, along the expanding railroad to the west, to the wild of Alaska, you are taken on their journey and you live with them through the years. While you live the frontier life with the characters, you encounter their decisions and watch as God works circumstances out through their lives. Life wasn't easy as a pioneer, but God gave them the strength to endure.
Links:
Buy it on Amazon
Author's website
Blogging for Books by WaterBrook Multnomah has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed this trilogy. In fact, I was really happy to get the 3-in-1 book, as it would have been very hard to finish one of the 3 and wait for the next to arrive! The books are full of realistic detail drawing you into each setting as if you are there. From the shore of Maine, to Seattle, along the expanding railroad to the west, to the wild of Alaska, you are taken on their journey and you live with them through the years. While you live the frontier life with the characters, you encounter their decisions and watch as God works circumstances out through their lives. Life wasn't easy as a pioneer, but God gave them the strength to endure.
Links:
Buy it on Amazon
Author's website
Blogging for Books by WaterBrook Multnomah has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
July 28, 2015
I picked this series up because of the Alaskan setting of the third book, but as usual it was Lisa Tawn Bergren's skillful character crafting that kept me reading. I found myself wondering at each turn of events and each stride in a character's growth as if they were real people. And even if some of the events denied plausibility, she was able to maintain my suspension of disbelief most of the time - only the way some characters heard God's voice almost audibly was hard to swallow.
I don't think the series would have been as fulfilling if I'd let any time lapse between reading each book, so I'm glad it was packaged as an omnibus. I would give it a 3.5 overall as an average of the books if I could. I was a bit distracted by how quickly the point of view switched from character to character, but I have a hard time giving less than a 4 to any book that keeps me thinking about it all day until I can sit down and read more.
I don't think the series would have been as fulfilling if I'd let any time lapse between reading each book, so I'm glad it was packaged as an omnibus. I would give it a 3.5 overall as an average of the books if I could. I was a bit distracted by how quickly the point of view switched from character to character, but I have a hard time giving less than a 4 to any book that keeps me thinking about it all day until I can sit down and read more.
August 3, 2016
Very interesting story about moving to America, and life at sea, the travel, adventure, romance and struggles of people willing to strive for their dreams.
The ebook edition I checked out from my library was frustrating in that there were several instances where two different people were talking in the same paragraph, very unfortunate formatting; but still a very good series to read. Makes me want to travel by boat some time.
The ebook edition I checked out from my library was frustrating in that there were several instances where two different people were talking in the same paragraph, very unfortunate formatting; but still a very good series to read. Makes me want to travel by boat some time.
February 1, 2013
I got so attached to the characters in this book I'm missing them now that I'm done! This trilogy was inspirational on many levels. Through the characters relationships with each other, their faith and trust in Heavenly Father, and the sheer strength that they showed in their trials. Just what I needed at this time in my life!!! Lisa T. Bergren never disappoints.
March 15, 2013
As always loved it!!! I'm a huge L.T.B. fan so no surprise I really love her characters and the strength of her heroines! None have disappointed me yet! This one has 3 amazing strong Godly women and some swoon worthy boys as well. Thanks for helping me get lost in the adventure and longing to see the world the way your characters do.
June 29, 2013
Probably one of my most favorite books of a time!!! I balled a billion times! I read the series in 2 days! It has romance, excitement, and teaches great lessons. It is a great Christian read! I LOVE this book. Lisa is an amazing author! All of her books are amazing and hook me on the first few pages!
August 9, 2016
Excellent Books
I love the books written by Lisa. I can always picture myself in her books as a bystander. I love the way she includes God and Christianity in her book her books and I love the historical fiction aspect,too. I would definitely recommend this series to both younger and adult audiences.
Keep writing Lisa...you are doing a good job!
I love the books written by Lisa. I can always picture myself in her books as a bystander. I love the way she includes God and Christianity in her book her books and I love the historical fiction aspect,too. I would definitely recommend this series to both younger and adult audiences.
Keep writing Lisa...you are doing a good job!
October 22, 2013
Three Historical CHRISTIAN Romance Novels would clarify the genres that this book falls into. I enjoyed these books very much but not as much as the author's River of Time series. I am still looking forward to reading the final book in that series, Deluge, hopefully to be released in November!
May 8, 2015
Excellent
I LOVED this series. Completely fell in love with the characters. Noticed some typos on Tora's name being Lora on the kindle edition of the 3rd book but other than that.... Fantastic.
I LOVED this series. Completely fell in love with the characters. Noticed some typos on Tora's name being Lora on the kindle edition of the 3rd book but other than that.... Fantastic.
Want to Read
April 26, 2013How do I buy this book
March 9, 2016
Good books - would have given a four for the writing, but not my favorite time period so I had a hard time staying engrossed.
March 28, 2017
Loved the series
The three novels tell the story of a community of neighbors, friends and family that leave a seaside village in Norway and immigrate to America. From Camden, Maine, where The great Ramstad Shipyard is built to the seaports of California and the forests of Washington territory and finally the wilderness of Alaska. The great sailing ships
and eventually the new steam ships built by Ramstad are in all the great ports of the world. This is a wonderful historical story of immigrants, struggle, sacrifice, failure and ultimately success. But most of all it is a love story. Elsa, her husband Peder Ramstad, his best friend Karl who has always loved Elsa and her younger sister Tora, who is wild and ambitious. Her best friend Kaatje and Kaatje's husband who is handsome, irresistible and weak as water. Their lives lie at the heart of the story. Sometimes the trials are almost too hard to read, but the love is irresistible, the strength of family and friendship enviable. It is truly a love story on every level.
The three novels tell the story of a community of neighbors, friends and family that leave a seaside village in Norway and immigrate to America. From Camden, Maine, where The great Ramstad Shipyard is built to the seaports of California and the forests of Washington territory and finally the wilderness of Alaska. The great sailing ships
and eventually the new steam ships built by Ramstad are in all the great ports of the world. This is a wonderful historical story of immigrants, struggle, sacrifice, failure and ultimately success. But most of all it is a love story. Elsa, her husband Peder Ramstad, his best friend Karl who has always loved Elsa and her younger sister Tora, who is wild and ambitious. Her best friend Kaatje and Kaatje's husband who is handsome, irresistible and weak as water. Their lives lie at the heart of the story. Sometimes the trials are almost too hard to read, but the love is irresistible, the strength of family and friendship enviable. It is truly a love story on every level.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews