THE SEAMSTRESS OF ACADIE by Best Selling and Award-Winning Author, Laura Frantz

How to begin to share such a rich story inspired by actual historical events . . .

Who could do the Acadian's justice but Laura? When you take a thriving and hardworking people whose nature is to seek peace and be left out of conflict, but toss in power-hungry people with harsh methods for obeying their commands, THE SEAMSTRESS OF ACADIE is birthed in the mind of an accomplished, award-winning author. 

I absolutely love the short historical notation (one paragraph long) before the story. A reader may skip past it, but my natural curiosity will not allow me to ignore such a nugget applicable for a richer reading experience. That, dear reader, is totally your choice. Read or pass. Also, there is an excellent prologue that I refuse to pass by and that kick-starts the story with a gripping scene! I'm ever so glad that I devour anything offered for the story set-up! Even the glossary is fun to skim over, though my excitement to delve into THE SEAMSTRESS OF ACADIE tugs at my attention. Laura does have some French references, but she is expert at not overloading or weighing down the dialogue. She sprinkles French words like seasoning, which makes the offering perfect and alluring. Now, onto the story . . .

1754 Tensions increase between the French and English in present-day Nova Scotia, Canada

1755 The Great Upheaval

Seamstress Sylvie Galant lives with her family located between two rival forts. Neutral Arcadians are not trusted by the English. No matter their actions and obviously peaceful, diligent lives. William Blackburn, the British Army Ranger, has been extremely useful to the English in causing chaos with the French, Arcadians, and the Indian tribe, Mi'kmaq, among others. But Blackburn's heart isn't in this greedy power-grab by the English. Before he leaves, he warns Silvie. What happens next tosses the reader into a heartbreaking tale, and yes, I'll use the cliché, gripping. There is much to overcome for both Silvie and William Blackburn, and so many linked to their lives. I will not give spoilers, but this is a tale that you will not wish to pass up.

The characters' inner struggles are realistic and compelling, and I yearned for their ability to overcome despite their huge losses and difficulties. Even my beloved Colonial Williamsburg is included in this polished story of struggle, cultural differences, and the discovery of what is truly important in the face of tragic events that would utterly destroy persons without the willingness to fight and believe.

Laura, I'm thankful you discovered this facet of history that may have gotten lost in the sands of time. Your novel gives the reader much to contemplate, historically, culturally, and personally. Thank you, dear one, for continuing to write and for sharing your heart on the pages so that others can benefit from it and expand their horizons. 

I preordered not one, but three THE SEAMSTRESS OF ACADIE novels. Every year I look for the next Laura Frantz novel! To learn more about Laura and sign up for her newsletter visit her at . . .

https://laurafrantz.net/