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The Gifted #3

The Blessed

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Announcing the thrilling conclusion to the acclaimed Gifted trilogy…

In her breathtaking religious thriller The Begotten, Lisa T. Bergren introduced “a classic battle of good and evil” (Publishers Weekly) that culminates now in the provocative final chapter in the divine and powerful mission of the Gifted. In The Blessed, Sir Gianni de Capezzano and Daria d’Angelo face an uncertain future and are trailed by the enemy on a treacherous journey out of hell’s reach and into their blessed destiny.

384 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2008

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303 people want to read

About the author

Lisa Tawn Bergren

102 books3,800 followers
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.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Robin Mason.
Author 11 books81 followers
October 7, 2021
This story, indeed the whole trilogy, is as rich and detailed and telling as the tapestries that hung on castle walls.
Once again, Ms. Bergren has grasped the reality and depth of things not seen, the Truth of who we are in Christ, His hands and feet in the earth. His agents in battle against the enemy. His messengers of love and light and life. The spiritual battle that is going on around us and within us all the time.
The layers and twisted threads pull the reader deeper into the journey with Lady Daria and her entourage. The Begotten, the Blessed, the Chosen. The Gifted.
Ms. Bergren sheds light—the Light of Christ—on the wily, subtle ways of the enemy. Just as with Adam and Eve, he slithers in, into our subconscious, and tells his lies like so many eggs waiting to hatch.
Oh! the temptation, oh! the pull as the enemy targets us in our weakness. Lady Daria craved what her enemy offered. She nearly yielded to the evil one. [SPOILER]
This story moves through miracles and loss as the Gifted seek to vanquish and conquer their enemy once and for all. They are cut down, tormented—both in spirit and in the flesh—delayed, betrayed.
The ending is magnificent, and perfect to the journey, this trilogy. Ms. Bergren truly is gifted herself, both in the telling of the story, and in her knowledge of the spiritual world.

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-Monday, #TRD, Book Review, Blessed, Lisa T. Bergren, The Gifted Series, Begotten, Betrayed, JustRead Publicity
Profile Image for Holly Bleggi.
1,365 reviews27 followers
October 3, 2021
This is the gripping conclusion to Lisa T. Bergren’s “The Gifted” series. Although they can be read as stand alone, I would recommend reading them in order so you know who each of the characters are and how they got to be where they are by this book. This book is fast paced and action packed. It shows how good can triumph over evil and that God still will do miracles. I thought it did a good job of showing how the world was in the 14th century especially in regards to people who were different. I do like Lisa’s writing style and she kept you engaged in the story the whole time. She also made you care about the characters and feel like you were there with them. I would recommend reading this series.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own. 
387 reviews13 followers
November 8, 2021
A thrilling conclusion to this trilogy, a reminder that good triumphs over evil and Gods promises are always true.
This book was a journey reiterating how God uses people to let his name be glorified. The Gifted in this final journey have to fight through betrayals, and make sacrifices to reach out to people with the gospel.
There's loss and there are challenges but there are also individuals they meet on this journey that strengthen their faith.
Even when it seems like all is lost, there's hope and victory in the end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via JustRead tours. All opinions expressed are solely mine
Profile Image for Wren.
427 reviews4 followers
October 7, 2021
Daria, Father Piero, Gianni, and the rest of the Gifted are fleeing. Daria's former dear friend and beloved mentor, Baron Vincenzo del Buco, has joined forces with the Gifteds' enemy Lord Abramo Amidei, who is a killer, thief, and disciple of the Sorcerer. Exhausted from their last battle, the Gifted make their way into France; to Avignon, the current seat of the Pope. Believing their next step is to meet with him, they are met by a band of knights who bear the coat of arms of the family Les Baux. Daria once knew Armand Les Baux, as a child, but since so many nobles of her acquaintance have bonded with Amidei, she doesn't know whom to trust. Yet Tessa of the Gifted, who bears the gift of discernment, assures them that there is no harm to be found with the knights. So, after many years, Daria meets her childhood friend, the future count of Les Baux again, thinking that perhaps they might have a short time of respite before they resume their journey.

Yet, God's call for the Gifted is often unexpected and surprising, and so it is again, here. A door is opened for Daria's gift of healing to be exercised, bringing incredible opportunities for preaching, reunion with old friends and connection with new...and also, accompanying those, Amidei and his followers, who continue to seek to bring death and destruction upon the Gifted.

The Gifteds' journey of obedience is far from over, however, despite the evil intentions of Amidei. Before Daria and her friends are even more chances for healing and ministry along with entrance into the Avignon papal palace. Intrigue, sown seeds of discord, and new allies of Amidei threaten not only the Gifted but others of the Church. Will Daria, Gianni, and their fellow believers be able to defeat the forces of the evil one before their own lives are taken? Is martyrdom their only possible future?

Once more, Lisa T. Bergren has crafted an incredible, never-predictable, and adventurous tale of God's people, and the forces of darkness who seek to thwart God's call and invitation for all who would follow Him. Great joy and the blessings of obedience await the Gifted. But the enemy of their souls is crafty and doing all that he can to destroy them. Will the Gifted prevail...or will those of darkness? The Blessed is a rich and highly readable finish to The Gifted Trilogy that began with The Begotten and continued with Betrayed. Not only is this a truly amazing literary series with unforgettable characters and story, but it's one that shows, in prose, the spiritual battle that believers face...and that, with God in them and fighting alongside them, that they can prevail in. So encouraging.

I received a digital copy of this book. All opinions are honest and my own.
Profile Image for Gretchen Garrison.
Author 3 books31 followers
October 10, 2021
"The Lorde has seen this day. He has seen it. he knows what is to come, and none of it is a surprise to him. Should he allow it, we shall trust it, always praising his name. We do the greatest damage to our enemy by keeping to this path, always praising our God, no matter what we face - trail, trauma, or even death."

Epic Adventure. Compelling Characters. Medieval History. Unexpected Heroes. Love Stories. Spiritual Battles. All that you could hope for in a Christian fiction book is found in this series and maybe especially in this title. Unexpected surprises are also a part of this one - certain aspects I did not expect. I am going to limit some of my discussion about this novel simply because I do not want to give this one away.

This third book in the Gifted series is one that I have eagerly been awaiting. Book One, Begotten, was the beginning of the assembling of ones chosen by God. In Betrayed, those who are joining forces for God's kingdom face extreme hardship. While the group still undergoes trials and tribulations, Blessed helps the Gifted to embrace God's calling no matter what. I feel like that the Author wraps up the trilogy in a beautiful way as certain parts are recalled and remembered.

The nine chosen to make up the Gifted are not all ones that would be expected to be called. They have infirmities and struggles. Some of their strengths almost turn into weaknesses without God's power. While this is definitely a fictional story, the gifts given fit Scriptural descriptions. One could certainly see how God can and does work through those who have been cast away. These supernatural gifts may not always be present, but God can certainly work through His people in unexpected ways.

The most powerful part of this book is the spiritual battle. I would say that part can seem intense, so I would not recommend this one for anyone younger than teens, even as read aloud. I could almost have nightmares other than the fact that it is clear who wins in the end. God's Word being quoted out loud is what helps them to defeat the darkness. That practice is one that those of us who follow God should adapt today.

Note: This review is of the 2021 version of this book, Blessed. The author updated this title and removed the article from the beginning of the title. At the end of this book, more adventures are implied. But I do not think the author intends to write them. Sometimes when a trilogy ends, I want more. The ending and resolution made me feel satisfied even if not all of the details were happy ones. Perhaps sometimes "ever after" is enough. I was provided a complimentary copy of this book through a book tour. I wanted to write a review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jasmine.
1,297 reviews43 followers
October 3, 2021
Their greatest battles lies ahead...

I'm at a bit of a loss as to where to start. The Gifted has been such a sweeping epic that encapsulating my thoughts on the dramatic and wrenching conclusion into a few paragraphs is quite difficult.

In many ways Blessed was the hardest book of the trilogy to read. Evil seems to triumph and reminiscent of Tolkein's books things only get darker and seem more hopeless as the end draws closer. But...when things are darkest is when faith shines the brightest, when things seem hopeless is when God can do great miracles. I honestly don't know what Lisa T. Bergren intended to be the deepest message through this story but I know that the things that reached down into my heart mainly revolved around the need to, use the Word of God as a sword when battling the enemy, to as the Bible says 'count the cost', that while obedience is better than sacrifice they often go hand in hand, and that our faith should match our God.

As to the fiction aspects of the story, Blessed is a very moving tale that engages your emotions and transports you to medieval France and Italy. I'll admit that the plot didn't always go the way I wanted it to, and sometimes I wanted to yell “NO!” out loud, but it tells you just how invested I was in the novel.

Once again I was completely impressed with Lisa T. Bergren's skill at telling a story rife with the impossible without painting her characters with a modern brush. Thanks to the Age Of Enlightenment we have long been out of touch with the spiritual realm and with the miraculous aspects of our faith, both elements which people of the era in which The Gifted is set would have been familiar. The characters are wonderful in their tragedies, triumphs, and in their relatable human frailties.

Medieval era historical fiction, yes. An epic tale of intrigue and romance, yes. Valuable lessons in faith and spiritual warfare, yes. Blessed has all of that and more. Don't miss The Gifted series from the talented pen of Lisa T. Bergren. Just remember the most important thing...after darkness comes light...

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
Profile Image for Meagan Myhren-Bennett.
Author 30 books162 followers
October 4, 2021
The Blessed
The Gifted #3
by Lisa T. Bergren

The Gifted are still being hunted while seeking to recover Hasani. With their path being manipulated the Gifted were in need of allies but determining who could be trusted was not easy, because, as Daria had discovered "all men who wielded power were dangerous, in some measure." A truth she knew all too well.

As their enemy moves against them the Gifted grow stronger as they are doing the work of the Lord. But standing firm is not always easy in the face of evil and its insidious methods. But through it all faith is the Gifted's greatest weapon in their fight against the enemy.

This is the third and final book in The Gifted series. Each book must be read in order as each book builds on what came before. Set during the Middle Ages (mid 1300s) miracles and healings are an important focus of ones faith - it is interesting to see how this all plays out throughout this series. Daria's gifts are both feared and coveted by those in power making her and those with her a threat. This is not a quick read nor an easy one because of the darkness seeking to destroy the light but this is a good read. Highly recommended for those who are looking for fiction with a spiritual aspect to it.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
294 reviews4 followers
October 8, 2021
OH my goodness!!! Talk about a adrenaline pumping, on the edge of your seat, page turning ending to a wonderful series!
Daria and Gianni and the whole Gifted group are amazing! Daria grows more and more in this book. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better. It does! Gianni is seriously the most handsome and bravest man ever! Seriously ladies you need to meet him. Read the book!!!
I love all the others in the gifted. I love Tessa. She has such an amazing future ahead of her. Daria will take such good care of her.
I can't believe I had the privilege and honor to read this series. I mean seriously go get your self all the books and read them. I will definitely be reading them again and again. I will also be moving these to the top 100 book recommendations on my list!
Lisa Tawn Bergren please write an novella telling more of what happens to them.
Profile Image for Amanda  H.
835 reviews54 followers
September 25, 2021
I have enjoyed this series and the variety it has brought to my reading list! It has been an interesting read, set in Medieval times about a group of Gifted individuals who come together in this story to pierce the darkness of that time period with light. I thought that Lisa Bergren did an excellent job of bringing the characters to life as they worked together. This is a wonderful series to pick up and enjoy!

I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Alissa  Peppo (bookstagrambyalissamorgan).
178 reviews44 followers
October 28, 2021
Blessed is the epic conclusion to the story of The Gifted, where good battles evil for the heart and soul of the church, and love blooms amidst the danger and darkness they face. This final chapter of the story that began with the first book Begotten, and continued in the second book Betrayed, concludes with Blessed in a battle of darkness and light as God’s chosen fight Satan’s evil in medieval Europe. Forgotten prophecy foretold the coming of The Gifted, and they now follow God’s direction straight into the heart of the medieval church to bring God’s message and miracles to the papal court. Meanwhile, The Gifted continue to fight the evil Lord Amidei in physical and spiritual battles for their lives and for the souls of strangers, friends, and church leadership. The dark side is depicted well in this book, and although the description of the evil can be disturbing, it brings depth to the story and emphasizes the goodness and light of God in stark contrast to what Satan offers those who do not turn to Jesus. The spiritual lessons from this book—and this entire series—are deep and rich in biblical truth and spiritual wisdom that reminded me of God’s love and power over the darkness of this world. What a wonderful message for a work of fiction! That being said, this series is definitely for mature adult readers who are ready to experience the reality of spiritual warfare in a work of fiction. Amidst the strife of the physical and spiritual battles, we see love bloom and marriage vows exchanged between Gianni and Daria of the Gifted. The relationship between Gianni and Daria was my absolute favorite part of this series, and I was so happy to get a good dose of romance in this third book even though the first and second book had less romance than I normally like to see. The suspenseful buildup of romantic tension in this story was well worth the love and joy of their marriage that we experience at the beginning of this third and final installment of the series. Readers should view this entire series as one gigantic story with a plot that moves forward both in each individual book and in the series as a whole. You must read this series in order, and you should be ready to invest in the characters until the end. Their story will captivate you until the very last page is turned!



I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts are my own—I really did love it!
Profile Image for Caryl.
1,939 reviews24 followers
November 29, 2021
WOWZERS! Bergen has crafted an exquisite masterpiece! I was immediately drawn into the drama. the danger and suspense kept me turning the pages. This novel is a fantastic conclusion to the series.

Recommend to readers who enjoy Christian fantasy.

I purchased a copy from Lisa T. Bergren. I've expressed my honest opinion.
10 reviews
September 16, 2023
Inspirational

This series has helped me remember that I serve a God that continues to do miracles. We just need to look for them and keep strong in our faith. Only an author that has truly experienced God’s blessing can write such soul stirring words! Although bits of the history are hard to follow, the scriptures are wonderful reminders of God’s promises!
Profile Image for Ruth Scaife Scaife.
66 reviews
October 10, 2017
What a Blessed ending to a trilogy.

I am always impressed by Lisa's books. I can imagine being there as I read. She brings the book to life through the book pages. I would definitely recommend any and all her books!! Keep writing and may God bless you!
8 reviews
September 2, 2024
Another success

I just finished this series. It left me wanting to continue their journey with them. I hope Lisa continues to write at least 2 more books for us to join with The Gifted. What a wonderful story.
Profile Image for MJSH.
1,326 reviews73 followers
July 31, 2021
An incredible finale to the Gifted series! In this book, the one who prophesies is found and the seven “gifted” individuals are finally brought together, along with other faithful and loyal followers committed to their cause of defeating the darkness and spreading the light and the gospel. There are numerous sacrifices and losses on their journey but also new friends who bolster their faith and mission. With plenty of action and plot twists, The Blessed will keep you glued to the pages until the last battle is fought. A must-read for those who love medieval fiction with a bit of church history and a good dose of the supernatural.
Profile Image for Ejayen.
497 reviews7 followers
October 23, 2021
Armand!! No! I feel like after the first book the author must have gotten complaints that the stakes weren’t high enough, no one was dying. The second book had a few deaths, but as a new comer to the series, they meant nothing to me. This book had three major good guys deaths. Two of the knights that travel with Daria die, the German and his friend, not the brothers, I still haven’t learned names. And Armand. He is introduced in this book and is a breath of fresh air. He’s having a fun time as he supports the Gifted and I enjoyed the change from SURVIVAL.
https://neaththehackberryreadingclub....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Bradley.
32 reviews2 followers
March 19, 2016
I thought for sure it all had to end tragically, all in sacrifice as Jesus life ended, as Paul's life ended, and as all but 1 disciple's life ended. Only John survived like these gifted did to a ripe old age, and that is likely just because God wanted it that way. So I say well done. These are the first books I have read of Lisa Bergren, and that only at the recommendation of Randy Alcorn in World Magazine.

I see she has written many books since these three. Sometimes an author gets better with each new book (Issac Asimov). Most can't seem to come up with a new idea (Terry Brooks, Ted Dekker).

All in all thought provoking. What is it really like to have the gift of healing, of miracles? These books paint a picture that is believable, yet other-worldly from what we experience day to day.
Profile Image for Megan.
1,323 reviews
May 27, 2014
A wonderful faith based series. Would have loved it if the author used the King James version of the Bible for translation, it would've made it that much more powerful.
I loved Daria but took exception to the couple of times that she doubted Gianni's insistence that Abramo would be strategic and cunning, never letting up in his pursuit of them. It was a departure from her normal decisive, wise character. Not to mention, all that she should have learned from her own past experience with a Abramo.
Would have also enjoyed hearing how things worked out with the Nine and her finances etc.

Profile Image for Michelle Griep.
Author 42 books2,611 followers
September 10, 2009
I adored the first book in this series, I loved the second, but this third could have been condensed by about a third. It's still a great story and had lots of action, it just could've moved at a faster pace to suit my tastes. Even so, I do recommend this trilogy for historical/action fiction lovers.
Profile Image for Christina.
201 reviews3 followers
October 13, 2010
I had a very hard time getting into the third installment of this series. It wasn't until the end of the book that things really started to pick up, it almost felt as if Bergren lost her flow and didn't find it until the conclusion. All in all, it was a good ending but not the best of the three. Books one and two were much better.
Profile Image for Christa.
35 reviews2 followers
August 6, 2011
This series is so, so good! I think now that all the books are out, I may read them all again, one right after the other. I was not only entertained as I read this book (it really keeps you wanting more) but I was also challenged in my faith.
Profile Image for Alyce.
21 reviews7 followers
March 4, 2009
back on track to the pacing of book 1 thankfully...ending not entirely satisfying.
Profile Image for Ann Correll.
14 reviews8 followers
December 11, 2010
Loved the book. The Blessed has a bit of everything and is enthralling and makes one consider what could be if we strive to become one of God's Blessed.
Profile Image for Anne.
Author 1 book50 followers
March 15, 2012
This sewries was terrific. The third book was full of mystery and a real thriller. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Melinda Gregory.
Author 2 books50 followers
December 21, 2012
A satisfying conclusion to a great triology... pure good vs. evil with romance and action thrown in against a lush historical backdrop. Give the whole series a try for a great read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews

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