Laura Frantz

Sylvie Galant and her family live in Acadie, a hard-working, loving family. Sylvie was warned of increasing turmoil by William Blackburn, a British Army Ranger, but that was a day they would never forget, not yet realizing the impact it would have on their lives. The conflict between the French and British does not permit neutrality, particularly for a family living on land between bitter rivals.

It is a story of loss, survival, grief, and joy. It is a story of kindness, cruelty, thoughtfulness, negligence, resilience, courage, and love. As it tears at every heartstring, it rejoices in every moment of compassion and friendship.

In reading more historical fiction, I realize how little I know of history. I had never heard the name Acadie, so I didn't know where it was. I was immersed in history by the author’s meticulous research, thoughtful care to details, and creativity. History so heart-wrenching in its cruelty to innocents; it was difficult not to pause in reflection on the countless times history has been repetitive, and we have learned nothing over the centuries. Or, as aptly written,

"The sweeter the moment the faster it flees."

A glossary at the beginning of the novel and epigraphs at the beginning of each chapter were meaningfully curated.

I was gifted a pre-order of this book by a bookish friend with the only hint it would be published in early January. On arrival, I was captivated by the beautiful cover and am thrilled to not only have this lovely book on my bookshelf but to feel the depth of the story that is not just a pretty book. KB, my heartfelt appreciation for introducing me to the writing of Laura Frantz and this captivating story.… (más)

Beyond the beautiful book cover, this historical romance set in 18th century Virginia is a well written story that steals your heart from beginning to end. With a swoony sea captain, a beautiful chocolatier, and an island lighthouse, this second chance romance embraces all of the elements of a great love story while also including a host of historical details and a beautiful spiritual arc.

I read this book with both the ebook and audiobook and thoroughly enjoyed Barbara McCulloh’s interpretation of Henri and the other characters. Although she falls out of character here in there, her intonations and diction added an authentic flair to the story and gave life to a broad cast of characters.

This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language.… (más)

In 18th century Acadie, Sylvie Galant and her family have lived and worked their orchards for generations. When tensions arise between the French, British, and Indian tribes, the fate of neutral Acadie looks grim. At first the father is arrested and held at the nearby fort while the family’s men are forced to flee. When the women and children are ordered onto British ships, they reluctantly leave their homelands. Held in miserable conditions, one by one the family starts to die, leaving Sylvie alone in a strange land.

The book was a bit slow moving, and the character did not seem fully developed. Despite these criticisms, I enjoyed this book. It followed a group of people that I knew absolutely nothing about. My heart went out to the Acadian people as they were brutally forced off their lands and relocated. Overall, 3 out of 5 stars.… (más)