Brimming with history and rich descriptive imagery, The Seamstress of Acadie showcases Laura Frantz’s impeccable research and attention to detail beautifully. The setting of Acadie, present-day Nova Scotia, Canada, in 1755 is a wonderful, intriguing backdrop as the story begins. The French and British had contested this area for years, and the British were finally taking over and forcibly removing the Acadian people from their lands and sending them on ramshackle boats to Virginia. A great many of them perished on their way.
Frantz is a master at creating colorful, engaging, and multi-layered characters that come alive on the page. This tale features Sylvie Galant of Acadie, and William Blackburn, a courageous British Army Ranger with a reputation for raising havoc in the area. As Blackburn realizes what the British soldiers are doing to the Acadians, he resigns his commission and heads for Virginia. When Sylvie and Will unexpectedly meet in Virginia, Sylvie finds that Will is really much different than his reputation would suggest. I enjoyed the slowly budding courtship and romance that simmered between the two.
When I read a Laura Frantz book, I’m always torn between wanting to savor each page and needing to hurry to finish the story, and this one was no exception. With her signature beautiful prose and rich historical detail, Laura Frantz has once again created a riveting, poignant masterpiece.
Filled with intrigue, action, rich historical detail, and just the right amount of romance, The Seamstress of Acadie is historical fiction at its finest. It has earned a spot on my keeper shelf, and I’m sure it will be a contender for my favorite books of the year list. I heartily recommend it to those who enjoy outstanding historical fiction.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy courtesy of Baker Publishing/Revell. All opinions are my own.
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PAULA'S REVIEW
With extensive research, Ms Frantz brings the past to life in this stunning novel.
Tragically yanked from her home on Canadian shores, Sylvie Gallant faces danger and the unknown on her voyage to Virginia. After losing her sister, mother and nearly her own life, she settles in Williamsburg as an apprentice to a bookbinder, eventually becoming a French tutor and seamstress to the family of the Governor. Fleeing typhoid, she seeks refuge with a perceived enemy from her old homeland, Major Will Blackburn.
Sylvie recognizes that the hand of God is on her life even as she faces many challenges. But her faith sustains her and she shows compassion and forgiveness. “One’s contentment has more to do with one’s outlook than one’s circumstance.”
Major Will, likewise looks to God for guidance. He is fair and champions the refugees from Acadie. He feels pulled toward Sylvie and love blossoms.
I enjoyed seeing characters from a previous book and remembering my visit to Williamsburg. A captivating story told in flowing detail with a timeless message of love and acceptance.
*I won a copy of this book from Library Thing. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*5 stars and a solid faith thread
BackCover Blurb:
As 1754 is drawing to a close, tensions between the French and the British on Canada's Acadian shore are reaching a fever pitch. Seamstress Sylvie Galant and her family--French-speaking Acadians wishing to remain neutral--are caught in the middle, their land positioned between two forts flying rival flags. Amid preparations for the celebration of Noël, the talk is of unrest, coming war, and William Blackburn, the British Army Ranger raising havoc across North America's borderlands.
As summer takes hold in 1755 and British ships appear on the horizon, Sylvie encounters Blackburn, who warns her of the coming invasion. Rather than participate in the forced removal of the Acadians from their land, he resigns his commission. But that cannot save Sylvie or her kin. Relocated on a ramshackle ship to Virginia, Sylvie struggles to pick up the pieces of her life. When her path crosses once more with William's, they must work through the complex tangle of their shared, shattered past to navigate the present and forge an enduring future.
So looking forward to reading this. Thank you for sharing!
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