The Begotten

Lisa T. Bergren
The Berkley Publishing Group (2006)
ISBN 0425210162
Reviewed by Rebecka Vigus for Reader Views (10/06)

Compelling.  Captivating.  A must read!  Lisa T. Bergren has sculpted a masterpiece.  ‘The Begotten’ is a sit-on-the-edge-of-your-seat novel.  It takes place in 1339 and takes you to the prejudices of the Church at that time.  Daria d’Angelo is such a compassionate person that you feel as though you know her.

She finds herself in a convent after the severing of her handfast (engagement) of two years.  There she tends to the herb garden while tending to her battered heart.  It is there that she meets Father Piero and learns of a part of a letter he carries.

The letter tells of a group referred to as the ‘Gifted.” a healer, a wise man, a discerner, one of great faith and at least two more who will join the party to spread the word of God’s love.  Daria finds herself called on at the convent to save the life of one of the sisters. 

As the group grows, so do Daria’s mysterious healings.  Daria questions her healing abilities when she cannot save the life of her dearest friend.  Then another healer moves into the area.  His healings are, however, not the work of God.  He is a Sorcerer and seeks to capture Daria and her company.

The book ends with Daria’s company trying to escape the town of Siena.  It takes courage and the help of the Lord to fashion an escape.  Can they make it?  Will they find what they are seeking?

Ms. Bergren has written ‘The Begotten’ as the first part of a trilogy.  The reader can hardly wait for the next one.  If ever I had a test of faith, I do not know if I could stand up to it the way her characters have.  I do not know if my own faith is deep enough.  It really makes you think about what you believe.  I was so wrapped up in what was happening that I did not want this book to end.  I hope the next book is scheduled for early in 2007 so that I will not have to wait long.

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