This book had hints that reminded me of one of my all time favorite books, Celia Garth. Only hints, but it was very good. Ms. Frantz delves deeply into the history of the time period, along with how a woman of means would have been helpless and be used as a pawn, even with a strong character and resolve.  It was not just easy to go and make a life on your own, and forced marriages were commonplace, especially among the wealthy as well as the poor. 
I thought this book did a wonderful job of helping you live that. You felt her desperation, frustration and also resolve, as she set out to sacrifice what she could for those she loved. 
I am looking forward to reading Jocelyn Green's book as well, which was mentioned in the notes at the end of the book, that while not related, has some of the same notes of flavor. 
A deeper historical novel, much like her others, I wouldn't really classify this as a romance, although it has some romantic overtones and scenes, there is nothing that would not be appropriate for a high school student. 

I obtained this book from the publisher. The opinions contained herein are my own.

The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz brings to mind words that I don’t use in ordinary conversation – decadent, sumptuous, exhilarating – decadent romance, sumptuous historical detail, and exhilarating events captured my imagination with ease. In previous books, Frantz has proven that she has a strong knowledge of frontier life, with all the dangers and beauty that come with it. In this story, she takes on the time leading up to the American Revolution, bringing readers to colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, an exciting and tumultuous place for would-be patriots. As the daughter of the ousted British Governor, Lady Elisabeth Lawson, abandoned by both family and fiancé, knows that her ties with the British make her suspect to anyone who support revolution - everyone, that is, except for Noble Rynallt. Using her skills as a lacemaker to survive, she comes to realize that not taking a side could pose the greatest risk of all.

Liberty, as Elisabeth comes to call herself, is an endearing character. She feels like a lady of her time, however, as it was such a time of upheaval, she also rises to the occasion. Her actions still felt realistic and in keeping with the time period and what would have been an acceptable trade for a woman at that time. I appreciate the fact that she doesn’t feel like a modern woman placed in a historical setting. She feels organic and is firmly placed in the setting of colonial Virginia, which she clearly feels is her home.

Then there’s Noble Rynallt. Normally, such a name might give me pause, but it truly does fit him. He is both a gentleman and a Patriot, and I love how his character demonstrated the great sacrifice that they made for the revolution. It’s hard to envision men with families and homes, often very near the epicenter of their activities, and how this must have been such conflicting priorities for them. The fact that Welsh endearments are part of the story might also have a little something to do with his appeal. The fact that he and “Libby,” as he calls Elisabeth, both play roles in their sphere of the revolution is one of the most exciting parts of the story. Again, Liberty’s part in it feels realistic; her weapons and be silk dresses and upswept curls, but the consequences of discovery are just as dangerous for her as they would be for any Independence Man.

I truly did feel immersed in the world of this story. The historical details and the time period come to life. The plot is steady, pinpointed by moments of surprises both dangerous and delightful – once I hit the halfway mark, I could hardly put it down. I love how Frantz writes from the perspectives of both Liberty and Noble. It gives the story an added layer of complexity and made their relationship progression that much sweeter. Quietly steadfast and straightforward with his intentions, Noble Rynallt is everything a gentleman could be. Not to be overlooked, the faith element is never preachy but deeply rooted within the words and actions of the characters. Liberty’s decision to trust God no matter how dark the times may seem touched this reader’s heart. As this new year begins, I hope to remember Libby’s words in the face of adversity: “God goes with me. There’s no better escort.”

The Lacemaker is filled to the brim with history and romance and faith-affirming characters. It has earned a place on my favorites list, and I highly recommend it to fans of historical romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion.

I used to buy a lot of sewing collectibles on eBay and I have looked at the lacemaking bobbins and pillows thinking I would like to learn how to make lace. Then I saw a video on making lace and I think I'll stick to crocheting lace and let the experts do that stuff. But when I saw Laura Frantz's book, The Lacemaker, I knew I had to read it, without even knowing what it was about.

Image result for lace makingThe timing of the novel is on the cusp of the War of Independence, and Elisabeth is sitting on the fence as far as where her loyalties lie. Her father is the lieutenant governor of the Virginia colony and demands that his family follows his tyrannical lead in supporting the crown. When the governor's and lieutenant governor's mansions are invaded and sacked, Elisabeth's father runs for safety, leaving Elisabeth to manage on her own. She searches all over town before finding a place to stay, sew, and make her lace, but it's in a "rebel" stronghold and not as safe as it would seem. One of her customers was Noble Rynallt, who took more than a passing interest in Elisabeth, and wanted to protect her.

I love Laura's books for the most part. I've read a few that haven't excited me as much as others have, but this one is so good that it is truly hard to put down. She has woven history and historical personalities into the plot so that not only was I entertained, but I was also educated. Which liberators were hot-headed which ones were even tempered, which ones held honor as the highest trait a man can have, all of these have been included in the telling of this fascinating story.

Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, and a yard of handmade lace.

My thanks to Revell Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book.

Title: The Lacemaker



Author: Laura Frantz



Chapters: 39 plus epilogue



Pages: 412



Genre: Christian Historical/ Christian Historical Romance



Rating: 5 stars



Laura Frantz has done it again. She's written another book that I absolutely loved. It's my first five-star read of the year (2018). However, know I have re-rank my favorite heroes of hers because after reading The Lacemaker I have a new hero. Should have seen that one coming.



The Lacemaker is Laura's ninth book and to me, they just keep getting better. This book is set in Williamsburg Virginia on the eve of the America revolution. Williamsburg is a powder keg that's ready to explode. Noble Rynallt is a patriot and Welsh who wants to help his fellow patriots break away from England. He is Laura's noblest hero to date, (pun not intended). And I think he's now my favorite hero.



Lady Elisabeth "Liberty" Anne Lawson is the daughter of Lord Stirling the Lt. Governor of Virginia. Her father is a Tory and her mother is a patriot and a firebrand with a pen. Liberty doesn't know where she fits in, that is till she finds herself left behind with her father flees, and the only one who comes to her rescue is Noble. It is seeing what kind of man he is as well as how he treats his servants and what he does for the cause. As well as what type of sacrifices he's willing to make for those he loves.



She makes a choice of her own and finally chooses sides. She then shakes off her name. She chooses to call herself Liberty the name her mother gave her. However the most important that these two have to learn is that no matter what a men's or women's plans God is the one that is in control. There's a choice that one of the character's makes that reminds me of the verse John 15:13; and this verse is even brought up by another character talking about it.



I love that Laura's books always feature one main character if not two who's faith play of huge part of their story, that the characters aren't afraid to pray and trust God. Every time I pick up a Laura Frantz book I know I am going to be blessed in some way. She's one of my auto-buy authors.





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

It's hard to know where to even begin. There's a gentleness about this book-in the writing style, characters, and storyline.

I was hesitant about this book at first, because of the synopsis. I'm not a fan of bad father stories, so I was a little hesitant. Much to my relief, I found it written well. Yep, he was a bad father, but not just because he asked Liberty to do a couple things she didn't want to. I'm impressed with how deep the characters motives run. I was surprised with how the story progressed, especially halfway through.

I could write a whole review about Noble. He was such an honorable man, and I loved how even when he tried to avoid "her", he kept getting pulled back to her because his nobility and standing on what was right :) The Welsh phrases and his home were endearing as well. I loved his involvement with the Independence men, which is a big part of the story!

Liberty took me a little bit longer to really love, but she won me over. I loved how she took another name when her life hung in the balance...and I love how she went about making her decisions. I believe some of the decisions made in these times were particular for then, but there are still so many lessons to learn from it. Standing for the Lord when it is considered weak, or being bold when people would rather you be intolerant.

The romance was superb, and I loved how so much was centered in marriage, not outside out of it. There are a couple scenes that are leading to intimacy that may make some uncomfortable, but I thought they were written sweetly and not detailed at all. Still, I would recommend this book more for young adult readers because of it.

The spiritual content is woven throughout beautifully. First, very gentle, and then as the tension mounted, the characters sought the Lord more and there were a couple mentions to salvation. As a note there is some social drinking (mainly cider) in this book, as well as several visits to pubs.

I found the ending a little rushed, but at the same time everything came together and there wasn't much more to say. Besides, I can't complain too much with happy endings!

I can't wait to see what other books this author has in store for us!

What an absolutely lush historical fiction! First off the cover just draws you in and lets you know that this is going to be an amazing read and it does not disappoint!
Set during the American Revolution this book has romance, mystery and intrigue and really brings the times alive making you feel like you were there. I loved the main character Liberty and especially loved Noble who was such a gentleman and was just plain noble.:)
Well researched and woven together with such grace and skill this book is utterly engaging and keeps you drawn in until the very end.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Noble and Lady Elisabeth! Williamsburg and the American Revolution! That should be enough to get you to pick up this book if the cover hasn’t already won you over. Another lyrical and historical beautifully written book by this author. I loved everything about this book and learning about the history in Williamsburg at the beginning of the Revolutionary War was a treat. And Noble! Wow! You won’t regret reading this book. I savored and enjoyed every page. I hope you will too! I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

publisher synopsis: 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?

Historical romance favorite Laura Frantz is back with a suspenseful story of love, betrayal, and new beginnings. With her meticulous eye for detail and her knack for creating living, breathing characters, Frantz continues to enchant historical fiction readers who long to feel they are a part of the story.

This story was good, but it was bogged down with historical references and other things that made the book less enjoyable. It was good, but it felt like you were getting a history lesson while reading it. I felt that the "love" story was almost more background than the main story. It has some good things and some bad. It was mostly complete, but some of the characters like Miles just disappeared . It would be nice to have some closure on him and a few others.

I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is a beautifully written work by Laura Frantz who is unparalleled as a christian Historical author. It gives insight as a young America begins to break away from the Mother country. I enjoyed reading of Williansburg 1775 with the politics, Tories , Patriots, the corruption that seems to worm it's way into the people of all eras. The love that Noble and Liberty had for one another and what they endured for God and their country. You will be enthralled with the lives of the characters as you turn the pages. Though I warn you, have your tissue box handy. "Give me Liberty or give me death"  I loved it and highly recommend it as a great Historical Romance that brings in prayer and turning to God for the help that is needed. I was gifted this book by the author and NetGalley and I am pleased to leave a review.

I have mixed feelings about this book. For some reason, I couldn't get into the characters...and that is uncharacteristic of the books I've read by Laura Frantz. I didn't really care about the characters and was just reading to read. I wasn't drawn into the story and I didn't have that realness feeling that is so satisfying about some of her other novels. Not that the book was terrible it just was not up to par with my expectations when it comes to Laura Frantz's books.

The Lacemaker

by Laura Frantz

Revell

Christian

Pub Date 02 Jan 2018

I am reviewing a copy of The Lacemaker through Revell and Netgalley:

This book takes us back to Colonial Williamsburg which explodes on the eve of the American Revolution. Lady Elisabeth “Liberty” Watson is abandoned by her fiancé when she is believed to be a spy for the enemies. (The British)

The only one who came to help her was the Patriot Noble Rynalit, Noble has enemies of his own, but will this Virginia Belle who became a Lacemaker side with the radicals or will she stay true to her English Roots?

There will be a cost, no matter what she decides, but what will that cost be?

I give The Lacemaker five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!

The author has set this story at the beginnings of the American Revolution and soon we are experiencing it up close and personal, and walk in both Elisabeth aka Liberty, and Nobel Rynallt a patriot, shoes.
We wonder for a little bit whether one or both of these people, that the author has made us care about, will live through the turmoil that is falling about them. The setting for this read is Virginia, and we are still under the Kings rule, but the beauty of the area is seen through the eyes of those we now care about.
I could just picture Liberty making her lace, what a beautiful talent, and I could see Nobel and his majestic horses, and made me want to live in this area, but with the war looming will it continue to exist as it is?
This is a read that would make a wonderful movie, and I felt I was watching as each chapter unfolded, once you pick this one up you will not want to put it down, you will have to know the outcome.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

This historical novel by Laura Frantz is a fantastic book! The Lacemaker was the first book that I have read by Ms. Frantz, but it will not be my last! I highly recommend this book! I promise you that you will not be disappointed. The setting is set just prior to the Revolutionary War in Virginia. The main characters, Liberty and Noble, are instrumental in ensuring that what they believe in is important. Many of the events that happened throughout the book seemed to be accurate to the timeframe in which the setting and time of the book was written for. Throughout the book, I just kept wanting to keep reading to discover what would occur next. I enjoyed that this is a Christian novel and that it is a clean read. The story is engaging and entertaining!
***I was given a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest opinion. Even though I received this copy free, this is my own opinion.

"The Lacemaker" is a Christian romance set in May 1775 to Oct. 1776 in Virginia. Very little of that time was spent in Williamsburg or making lace (which, when referred to, was something just finished or something needing to be done). Libby's father was a noble, Tory, and complete jerk, but her mother was outspoken for American independence. Libby was left behind when her father fled due to danger. Her mother was gone traveling. Her betrothed decided he didn't want a Tory's daughter. But Noble will keep her safe!

To me, much of the story felt forced or fell flat. Libby was constantly making foolish decisions that resulted in exciting moments, yet any danger resolved quickly. For example, Libby was handed a letter containing sensitive information when it would have been easy to simply tell her the message. She didn't read the letter, decided to hold it in her hand and walk home alone rather than wait for her father's carriage, walked down a busy street and in front of a cart, was swept up to safety by Noble, all so she could lose that letter to the Independence Men and miss her chance to flee. Yet the Independence Men don't use the information, nor did Libby end up in danger. Much later, Noble was leading soldiers in a big battle. The entire battle was covered in about a page and was basically Noble thinking about how awful it was to kill and that he didn't want to keep fighting. What a missed opportunity for suspense.

The author appears to have researched some aspects of the book (like the historical building layouts and Welsh food), but I had a very hard time with how the characters acted. For example, Libby's father left her at home while he went to Libby's betrothal ball. The friends holding the ball started the ball without Libby or her betrothed being present, and no one checked up on her. Her betrothed felt it was socially acceptable to send Noble in his place to take her to this ball rather than attend himself. Libby and Noble entered the ball without being announced. And Libby was blamed for not being there on time. Huh?! The characters often behaved with modern values rather than reflecting the attitudes of the time.

Noble and Libby were a good pair in that they cared for and valued each other. There was no bad language or sex scenes (though a married couple does get intimate off screen). If you just want a romance story and care less about the setting, then you may enjoy this story.

WOW! This book was phenomenal! From it's front cover all the way through til the end. It is rich with history and the love story is well told and beautiful. This truly is a lovely story and I'm thankful I was able to read it!

This book surprised me. It shouldn't have. I have read other books by Laura Frantz and not only enjoyed them but just like I felt upon finishing this one, I felt like I came to better understanding of the time period. I really loved the setting of colonial Williamsburg at the moment when the Revolutionary war was just still a bunch of rebels who were not happy with the taxes and laws imposed upon them by the crown. It was really interesting to see this story unfold as we followed a girl who had to choose which side of the fight to be on. Her loyalties were really split and she had tough times to deal with. I have read many stories and accounts of what went on during this time period up in Boston and even Philadelphia so it was great to see how the people in Virginia, specifically Williamsburg were affected and choose to join in the fighting. Interesting to see some of those famous names of US History pop into this story.

The romance was slow at first and felt more real than if they fell in love at first sight. I liked watching them go from noticing the other to being infatuated and finally to loving. Switching perspectives really helped me get to know each of their personalities and helped them become well fleshed out characters. I really enjoyed this book and felt like I would like to revisit it again and would recommend it to friends who enjoy Historical Fiction.

The eve of Independence for the American Colonies looks different through the eyes of the daughter of the Virginia Colony’s lieutenant governor. Lady Elisabeth awaits her arranged marriage to Miles Roth, hoping that her father has chosen wisely for her, and mildly disappointed that she has scare said more than a few words to man she will spend the rest of her life with.

Lady Elisabeth worries about her future happiness when Miles fails to show up for their betrothal ball. He sends his cousin, Nobel Ryllant to escort Lady Elisabeth. Sheltered from birth, Lady Elisabeth has never fended for herself in any way--and accepting an escort from one other than her fiancé tests her composure. But worse trials will test her in the days to come.

Events in colonies’ quest for independence throw her entire future into question—as well as her past. She must decide if she will remain loyal to king and country, or follow her heart and stay faithful to her conscience—even if it means giving up everything that she knows and loves.

Nobel Ryllant, Welshman and Independence Man can’t understand his attraction to a loyalist—and one betrothed to his cousin, as well. But each time he comes in contact with Lady Elisabeth, he finds more to admire.

Franz writes books like the old masters painted. Layers upon layers of texture, color, and nuanced shading produce a masterpiece that glows from within. The reader will wish to linger long longer when the book ends.

The author’s love for the Lord comes through so clearly in The Lacemaker. As Libby faces the various trials in her life, she turns to God and remembers Scripture and prays. And all this pours out of her so naturally. I love how when she was visiting her mother, she turned to Philippians 4 as her guide in how to relate how she was doing instead of causing her more worry than she could bear, whatever is good, whatever is pure…

What could she, a sole woman, do at such a time? Prayer seemed the greatest need they had.

I really appreciated the way the author made the entire story feel as if it was written in the 1700s instead of today. References to objects by terms we don’t use today were not explained for what they are, but used in such a context that I could tell what was meant. And in doing so, it gave the book a more genuine feel.

I gained a new appreciation for, or at least a reminder of, the cost of the Patriots’ sacrifice in rebelling against the King as a result of reading this story. With it taking place in 1775 as the war was merely a shadow looming ahead, and the people trying to decide which sides to take and how to count the cost, it became more real than I think it has in any other story I have read about this time period.

Everything about this book was perfect. The characters, the realistic descriptions of the places and people, the suspense, the fear, the danger. I highly recommend it.

Once alone in the townhouse garden, out of sight of the street, she sought refuge among a small army of plants once victim to the mob. Now rallying in colorful profusion, no longer keeping to their beds, they spilled over walks and crept round corners with independent abandon.

Therein lies a lesson. Perhaps the Lord was showing her how brokenness could become abundance in the days to come. ‘Twas a hope worth holding on to.

This review first appeared on AmongTheReads.net
I am grateful to Netgalley, Revell for giving me a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

I know it’s only the beginning of 2018, but I’m predicting this story will be among my favorites for the year.

When Elisabeth’s world is turned upside-down, she’s stuck in the middle between two sides on the verge of war. Besides the look into a turbulent time in American history, the heroine echoed the cause through her attempt to move from being her father’s doormat to finding freedom in becoming Liberty. The interaction with Patrick Henry was fun and provided a bit of enlightenment into the “Give me liberty, or give me death!” historical figure. The romance is sweet with Noble’s effort to protect Elisabeth from both sides. However, I’ll admit I felt impatient with them at times. (No spoiler. After all, this is a romance.) And Noble is the kind of man you’d want your daughter to marry—courageous, compassionate, and self-sacrificing.

I received this book from the publisher. My opinions are my own.

The dashing young hero of “The Lacemaker,” Noble Rynallt, is truly noble and lives up to his name. The gracefully elegant and beautiful heroine, Lady Liberty’s great resourcefulness, in the face of the utterly devastating loss of everything most precious to her heart, reveals a woman of incredible courage, strength and determination. Laura Frantz has a fastidious approach to historical research and pays an impeccable attention to detail. Her clear-cut characterisation has an uncanny ability to revive heartfelt emotion in her readers with living, breathing characters, large as life. In “The Lacemaker,” Laura presents a highly suspenseful story of true love, cunning twists of betrayal, and brand new beginnings. With her flawless, meticulous eye for detail in historical fiction, Laura Frantz enchants her readers into the beautiful world of historical romance to make them feel a warm part of her incredible story.