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/
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