This an enjoyable read. It was a little slow in the beginning learning all the characters, not liking some characters, and hoping certain characters ended up together in the end.

This story of Elizabeth (Liberty) the daughter of Lord Stirling in Williamsburg, Virginia, a Tory. Elizabeth is a lacemaker, taught by her mother. When things go wrong and the Patriots attack Elizabeth's home and her father deserts her and seeks shelter on a ship in the harbor, she must find a place to live and how to support herself.
The Raleigh is just the place. The known meeting place of Patriots, and they need a seamstress. But with Elizabeth's father on a Tory ship, this makes it very accessible for inside information, but not always the information he is requesting as Elizabeth has also chosen a side. Noble Rynallt, is the cousin of Elizabeth's intended and a Patriot. One who is high up in the Patriot league, he helps Libby and in so, feelings are starting to show.

I enjoyed the slow burn of their romance and the way they helped the cause in the end. This was an enjoyable read and will look forward to more of Ms. Frantz's books in the future.

Sometimes reading historicals feels like embarking on a long, intensive journey. It’s immersive, or can be, because many of the terms, locations, and certainly the timelines are foreign to us. If you’ve hung out here at my blog very long, you’ve probably noticed I most often read and review contemporaries. A lot of my close writing buddies enjoy historicals, and they highly recommend this author, so I gave this book a try. Unfortunately, it didn’t grab me.

Even now, trying again to read it, I checked Amazon to see if this is book two or later in a series and perhaps that was why I wasn't connecting with these characters. From what I saw, there aren’t earlier books. I definitely felt at a disadvantage, like I was missing earlier character development.

I liked the occupation of lace making. My great-grandmother was a tatter. Thankfully, she taught my older sister how to tat before she passed. The skill lives on. Very intricate work, and a fascinating choice for our heroine.

The political conflicts were also interesting, as this was a key historical season in American history.

Since I couldn’t get into the story, I’m going to move on with my TBR pile and let this one go. I wish the author and publisher all the best.

I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Rich with impeccable historical detail and filled with unforgettable, colorful characters, The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz brings colonial Williamsburg to life at the beginning of the American Revolution. Elizabeth “Liberty” Lawson is courageous, plucky, and torn between the Tories and the Patriots. Noble Rynallt is a perfect hero—caring, protective, yet ready to help his country gain independence. The interaction between these two characters was entrancing and riveting, and I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow. Frantz is one of my favorite authors, and I learn much about history from reading her books. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Have you started your 2018 reading list yet? Do you have your #2018stack compiled? If you are a historical fiction fan like me I have one you are definitely going to want to add to your list! The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz will kick start your reading plan with a bang.

From the beautiful cover, the engaging story line, the rich historical detail, this book has everything I love. This is truly my favorite genre and it's author's like Laura Frantz who make it so enjoyable for me. When an author can take their readers and somehow transport them to another era and keep you guessing is truly a gift. I've always been a fan of Laura Frantz, but I believe this is her best book to date. This is one you will not want to miss!

When colonial Williamsburg explodes like a powder keg on the eve of the American Revolution, Lady Elisabeth "Liberty" Lawson is abandoned by her fiance and suspected of being a spy for the hated British. No one comes to her aid save the Patriot Noble Rynallt a man with formidable enemies of his own. Liberty is left with a terrible choice. Will the Virginia belle turned lacemaker side with the radical revolutionaries, or stay true to her English roots? And at what cost?

This is a suspenseful story of love, betrayal and new beginnings. Once you start you won't be able to stop. be sure to pick up your copy today!


***Thanks to Revell Reads for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I love historical fiction novels that take place during the American Revolution. Laura did such an amazing job with this time period and this story. This cover is so incredibly beautiful. It really drew me into wanting to read this book. This is the first book of hers that I have read and she has made me into a huge fan!!

This book brought colonial Williamsburg to life. Laura Frantz did a wonderful job creating a well developed story and believable characters as well as creating imagery that places us all right along with Lady Elisabeth. Frantz never disappoints!

Elisabeth is a very lovable character. I could sympathize with her. She is feisty, smart, and caught up in a dilemma. She wonders if she should remain true to her mother country or torn between the American rebels. I thought Mrs. Frantz did a great job in portraying how an American woman might feel about the American Revolution. Thus, I was deeply invested in Elizabeth's views about the rebellion.

As for the novel itself, it was a very fast-paced and romantic read. There were some parts that I thought were rushed. However, the novel made for pleasant reading, and I will be on the lookout for Mrs. Frantz other novels. I highly recommend this novel for fans of Bette Bolte!

I don't even know where to begin with this book. WOW! The passion...the history...the romance...the hero! SWOON!!!



Set during such a tumultuous time in our country's history, my heart was caught up in this story so thoroughly, I wish I didn't have to leave! Noble Rynallt is a hero among heroes...handsome, a patriot, intelligent, rich, a fighter, a lover, and most importantly, a man of faith. Add him to my list of #bookboyfriends for sure!


Laura Frantz has a unique voice and I adore her portrayal of history on the page. A gifted author with a passion for God and for romance, it surely shows in this story. I can't tell you how many times I shouted aloud, held my breath, and heaved a sigh of relief while reading this book. The emotions are raw and real, the romance fiery and tender, the faith genuine and moving...You won't want to put this story down until you finish it....so be warned...CLEAR YOUR CALENDAR!



I received a complimentary copy of The Lacemaker. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

I really like Laura Frantz's writing style. I've read a few of her books and have enjoyed them all. This is no exception.

This is my first Laura Frantz book but I really enjoyed it. I like the colonial time period it was set in. and the historic names that were mentioned in the book, like Patrick Henry. Libby's father has loyalty to England and Noble, a wealthy landowner wants to fight for Virginia's independence. Enjoy this story as Libby and Noble fight for liberty and each other. They rely on their faith to get them through.

This is a beautifully written book. The detail that Laura Frantz puts into her story speaks of lots of research. I could almost see the lace being made and was eager to get more of the character's stories.

There is a slight tie in to Jocelyn Green's A Refuge Assured, so if you haven't read that one yet, go check it out!!

When colonial Williamsburg explodes like a powder keg just before the start of the Revolutionary War, Lady Elisabeth Anne “Liberty” Lawson finds that staying neutral isn’t an option. Since Williamsburg is predominately leaning towards the patriots cause, those loyal to the English king quickly discover that they’re not particularly welcome, to the point that Elisabeth’s Tory father, the Lieutenant Governor, had their home and other holdings forcibly confiscated. In the wake of the ensuing scandal, her fiancée breaks off their betrothal and her father and some of his associates hole up on a riverboat, in the middle of the James river, leaving Elisabeth and her maid to fend for themselves, with nowhere to go, with only her lacemaking skills to try to support them with. Nobody comes to her aid, except for Patriot, Noble Rynallt, a man with plenty of enemies of his own. Liberty finds herself having to decide whether to stay loyal to her English heritage or side with the radical revolutionaries. And, because of who her father is, some of the patriots think she’s a spy for the tories, while others want her to become a spy for their side. Will she become lacemaker by day and patriot spy by night?

There were a few things that drew me to this book. One was the beautiful cover. I know the old adage about not judging a book by its cover, but this one really caught my eye. I’ve always been fascinated with historical fashion, so the cover was very appealing to me. Another thing was the author. I’ve read a few books by Laura Frantz and have enjoyed every one. Then, the description really sounded like a story I’d enjoy. And I’m so glad that I read it! Once again, Laura has written a story with the perfect blend of action, intrigue, romance, and history. She managed to catch my attention from the very beginning and hold it to the last page. I genuinely love the characters, especially Liberty, Noble, and Isabeau. The descriptions and scenery were amazing and I could picture everything in my mind’s eye. In fact, it’s possible that Ty Bryn is my new dream house. I could also tell that Laura does an incredible amount of research. I loved that so many of the characters were actual people.

Lady Elizabeth Lawson lives comfortably in the colonies, the belle of many balls, and engaged to marry Miles Roth a wealthy landowner with good social standing. But when revolution breaks out she finds herself town between the two sides, and her engagement broken. Mile's Welsh cousin and Independence Man, Noble Rynallt, comes to her rescue offering her protection and a arrangement to save her reputation and help her to start anew.



With the dawn of the Revolution, love blooms, and hearts find a home.



Elizabeth "Liberty" or "Libby" is a talented lacemaker, taught by her mother. When her father and her fiance abandon her, she takes her life in her hands and decides to try to make her own way, doing what she can to fight for liberty. I admired her strength and growth throughout the book, stepping out in faith, seemingly alone she was willing to face a very different life than the one she was raised in.



Noble is a man worthy of his name, he believes in the cause of freedom, and is willing to put everything on the line for its cause, he bravely declares his loyalties early on. Noble admires Libby's decision to break from her father, and try to make her own way using her lacemaking skills to support herself. He admires her character, and longs to be the protector that she needs, but will the arrangement that he can offer ever be one of love?



A well-crafted read, that brings to life the turmoil of an uncertain future in the early days of the Revolution. Liberty is a lady, with very little responsibility, she is naive, and her change in situation isn't easy, but she is stronger than she thinks and leans on her faith during troubled times. I like how Ms. Frantz brought Libby's plight to life, in this well researched historical read. Tingling with romance, Libby and Nobles lives are changed as they fight for freedom and love in a brave new country.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

The Lacemaker is a story of the American Revolution, but not the standard fare. What happens when a yankee daughter is abandoned by her loyalist father? The sins of the father are visited upon his child's head--no matter how faithful she remains to her revolutionary cause. However, there seems to be at least one patriot who sees her as she really is and here is where the sweet story is found.

The Lacemaker was a satisfying historical read. The characters were interesting and I enjoyed the romance greatly.

The beginning of the book was a little tough for me. I'm not sure if it was some of the language that took some getting used to or just that I had to get familiar with the setting/characters. Regardless, I felt that the story continued to get better and better as it progressed...and when I got deep into the story, I enjoyed it immensely.

There were many little things that I liked about The Lacemaker (the lacemaking, how the romance progressed, the setting, the espionage), but I feel it would be too much to list everything. Suffice it to say, The Lacemaker was an enjoyable read. I liked the beginning, but loved the ending. :)

I recommend The Lacemaker if you enjoy historical romance.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

An interesting historical novel. I liked the Christian faith of the characters and their dependence on God. This was my first novel to read by this author, and I’ll look forward to reading another one by her.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review. This is my honest opinion about this book.

The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz is a marvellous Christian historical novel that informs whilst entertaining.
Set towards the end of the eighteenth century life is precarious in America as people are unknowingly heading towards the War of Independence. Loyalties split families into opposing sides. Spies and double agents, love and loyalty, plots and arson were the order of the day.
Family meant nothing. It was all about where your loyalties lay. Everyone had to choose - which reminded me of the choice we are given in the Bible - to choose to follow King Jesus or not.
There were times when the only avenue was prayer. One had to try "to replace panic with prayer." God hears our prayers and He answers.
There was the theme of trust. Friends and even family could let us down. "You are homeless but not rootless." A home is just bricks and mortar, it can be replaced. We need to make sure we are rooted in God.
Marriages were business alliances. Daughters were expected to obey fathers. Wives were expected to be loyal to cheating husbands. But there was another way - the path of love. Following ones heart at all times.
Characters who put wealth and riches first were surely on a downwards path.
The Lacemaker is a comprehensive read with a strong, brave and likable female lead. She brightened the book with her love, life and loyalty. Her heart and motives were pure.
The Lacemaker showed a hard life at a turbulent time in history when tough choices had to be made. It emphasised that even when life is bleak, God is in control. We can fortify ourselves with prayer. God will lead, guard, guide and protect us. He will not let us down.
Love and loyalty are major themes. The reader is delighted to see love blossom.
The Lacemaker was a fabulous epic read and I can highly recommend it.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz is a book set just as the American Revolution begins in Williamsburg. This book has characters with great depth and a setting so vibrant that it makes the time period come alive. This book is so much more than your basic love story or just a historical novel. This is a book about struggle and finding your own way despite many difficulties. It is a book that brings the American Revolution to life with realistic characters-- it brings you right into the action where brothers fight against brothers on different sides of the war. This is the first book that I have read by Laura Frantz, but it will not be my last! I highly, highly recommend this book to anyone who loves great storytelling and loves being immersed in a story deeply. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher. These opinions are entirely my own.

This book takes place during the very beginning of the American Revolution in 1775. Lady Elizabeth Lawson, a native Virginian, finds herself at a crossroads when she is abandoned one night by her Tory father and her fiance and loses everything to angry, drunken Patriots who damage her home. Elizabeth's mother, a Patriot writer, has been away in England and goes to Philadelphia to stay safe and further the Patriot cause. Elizabeth chooses to stay in the town and mend clothing while making extra money making exquisite lace. Soon she meets Noble Rynallt, a staunch supporter of the Patriot cause, and they find themselves falling in love. Which side will Elizabeth choose in the face of dangerous and uncertain times?
I enjoyed this book very much and was quite happy to read a book set during the Revolution, which I think needs to be written about more often, especially in these uncertain times. I thought the plot, characters, and the setting were described particularly well. Many times I felt as though I was experiencing the events firsthand. This is a clean read with an encouraging message from various Bible verses. I highly recommend this book and will definitely be going back to read more of Laura's books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a favorable review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I was fortunate enough to receive an advance reader copy of this book shortly before my family and I left for vacation at colonial Williamsburg (Yay!), so I brought the book and its characters along with us. There was something irresistibly cool about visiting and learning the history surrounding many of the places mentioned in this book in the same week that I was reading the story.

Having these characters in mind that I felt a connection with, made me appreciate the history I was learning all the more. And learning the history of the time and place from tour guides and reenactors confirmed a number of details from the story and brought home just how much research must have gone into the writing of this book.

I’ll admit, the pictures would’ve been a bit cooler if I’d had a paperback copy to hold up instead of the digital copy on my phone, but I couldn’t resist taking a picture with the book in Williamsburg anyway. You’ll just have to take my word for it that the book is displaying on the screen, even if you can’t really see it.

Both Liberty and Noble are loveable and inspiring characters. Liberty is a strong and independent woman who, nevertheless can accept help when needed. And Noble is a selfless and generous gentleman, devoted to his cause and to helping those in need, regardless of political affiliation. Their romance is sweet, and the accompanying political and spy stories are exciting, and a certain self-sacrificial gesture at a pivotal moment is heartbreakingly beautiful.

Overall, a must read for anyone interested in this time and place in history who enjoys a good romance. And if you have the opportunity to visit Colonial Williamsburg in person, I would highly recommend that too. :)

Thank you to Revell for providing a complimentary electronic advance reader copy of the book through NetGalley for review purposes.