A HEART ADRIFT by Christy Award-Winning Author, Laura Frantz

1755 York, Virginia

This story is profound, A HEART ADRIFT, is memorable without question. Laura’s stunningly written tale swept this reader into the foam-tipped tides of a fresh story. Her unique grasp of the depth of human nature—both good and bad punctuate the story, making it dance on the pages, peeling away time so that we mere readers may glimpse the struggles of the 1700s, so remarkably relatable and relevant today. Such as prejudice, pandemic, and corruption of a few powerful men.

Esmée Shaw’s heart had been wounded by love a decade ago. The kind of love weighted with regret that is uncommon, irreplaceable, and which molds her life and future as skillfully as she does chocolate recipes. She has settled in as York’s Chocolatier in her father’s shop. Such a busy town where ships lay anchor and distribute their wares. And sailors remind her of a man she knew, loved, and lost.

Captain Henri Lennox gave his whole heart to the black-haired girl with stunning green eyes. But he was a sailor who couldn’t stay ashore. Adventures and duties awaited his skillful attention. And his return may cost the one he loves dearly more pain. The French threat approaches, and the government needs his sailing skills to defend them.  

Esmée and Henri’s story touches the beauty of generosity and dives into the pits of human greed and corruption. This is a story bolstered by their courage and fully ladened with opportunities for their growth and sacrifice.
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Laura’s brilliant language, intrigue, and details make this story shine—which makes this possibly her best novel yet. Laura reaches the peak of storytelling only to climb up into the clouds and deliver a full-bodied adventure that stays with the reader and inspires courage for today.      
 
I asked Laura if I could share her grandmother's hot chocolate recipe. She had posted it on FaceBook previously. Laura graciously agreed and so dear reader I place it here for your enjoyment! 

Laura F. Frantz's Grandmother's Hot Chocolate Recipe

1/4 cup water
1 Tablespoon cocoa
2 teaspoons sugar
Pinch salt
1 cup milk
Splash vanilla

The key is letting the first 4 ingredients simmer a couple of minutes before adding the milk & vanilla. Organic ingredients are best.
 
Well, there you have it. This is a lovely novel to sit and read and enjoy some of Laura's grandmother's hot chocolate! Blessings on your day!