Cover Image: A Heart Adrift

A Heart Adrift

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Laura Frantz just has a way with words and it definitely shows in this beautifully written book. I really liked Esmee's strength and her determination to do something worthwhile with her life. I loved the faith thread that was shown throughout the story as well as the historical details. There were some slow parts for me but overall I really enjoyed this story.

**I received a complimentarty copy of this book from Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.**

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With A Heart Adrift, Laura Frantz delivers another epic historical romance in the colonial days of America — this time with rich themes and a second chance romance.

The romantic relationship is paced perfectly, with the reader getting to know the hearts and the history of Esmée and Henri along the way. From a bittersweet reuniting to a tentative restored friendship, they find their way back to each other amongst social gatherings and providential meetings. I enjoyed the way memories of their young romance were scattered through their story, showing how the vibrancy of their youth was seasoned with maturity — in both behavior and choices.

Quote from the book: "There stood Captain Henri Lennox...
Henri’s confidence in Esmée is admirable and one of the (many) reasons to love him, as is his calm demeanor. He is deserving of the moniker hero in many ways, as his actions prove in the story. Esmée is a relatable heroine and her care for everyone around her, extending to her family, friends, and the recipients of her benevolence, makes her a worthy match for Henri and of steadfast character herself. Theirs is a love that has surpassed weathering and trials, both during their years apart and through the events of this novel. Faith is subtly woven as a natural part of their lives, as Frantz has proven with past stories, and this abiding hope in the Creator is a credit to their character and an integral part of their identity.

The coastal Virginia setting and maritime interests are very much active characters in the story. Frantz’s signature prose-like style paints an immersive setting and showcases fascinating aspects of history and tradition, with the addition of nautical imagery and verbiage that fascinated me (I learned some new words!). I was also intrigued with Esmée’s chocolatier role and the societal consumption of hot cocoa. In short, I recommend reading this book with a cup of cocoa or a nice chocolate dessert nearby.

Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.

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An interesting period of history is brought alive by this writer, with credible characters & attention-holding storylines. Just as in real life, nothing is quite predictable – when you think you know what will happen next....you are surprised instead! This story takes us right into the way of life, with depth to the characters, & making us care about their fate. This is only the fourth of Laura Frantz’s books that I have read, but it will not be the last : she is definitely a ‘keeper’! 4 1/2 stars

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A Heart Adrift is a historical novel set in Colonial Virginia. Esmee Shaw is a chocolatier who surprisingly meets her long lost love Captain Henri Lennox again. As they both work for the Colonial cause, will they also find love again?

I wanted to read this novel because I love historical fiction. I don't see a lot of historical novels set in Colonial America, so I found the setting particularly intriguing. I have also read (and enjoyed) fiction by Laura Frantz before.

This is such a wonderful, swept away type love story. It was such an engrossing story. I loved the aspect of the old loves reuniting and trying to see if their romance will work out a second time around.

Esmee was a fascinating protagonist. I enjoyed reading about her work as a chocolatier and admired her strength and courage.

I really enjoyed A Heart Adrift and recommend it for other fans of historical fiction.

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A Heart Adrift was all I expected from Laura Frantz. This is a very interesting story, having unexpected twist. The characters are realistic and likeable. I especially enjoyed the fact that it was set in the Williamsburg, Va. area and an island light house. I recommend this book to anyone who find historical stories interesting.

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Esmeè loves Henri, but he loves the sea more, or does he? After 10 years captaining his ship, Henri is back in York right before the French and Indian War. Esmeé has kept herself busy (and single) over the last 10 years running a chocolate shop and caring on her dead mother's cause of helping the people in the almshouse. I enjoyed the slow rekindling of their relationship. My favorite part of the book was the growth and change in the relationship between Esmeé and her somewhat self-centered sister. Having been to York and historic Colonial Williamsburg, it was fun to read about streets I have walked down and places I've visited such as Raleigh Tavern and the Governor's mansion. If you enjoy historical fiction or historical romance this is a good book for you.

I received an ARC copy of this book from Netgalley and Revell. I was not required to leave a positive review.

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Chocolate, lighthouses, Williamsburg, Sea Captains and lost love are some of the highlights from this beautiful tale. Esmee and Henri meet again after 10 years apart. They seem to keep being thrown together at parties, dinner and random times. Esmee along with a friend devise a plan. It’s unconventional. Definitely one I recommend reading. Filled with tragedy and triumph, realities of life are well told. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated are my own.

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Reading a book by Laura Frantz is like taking a leisurely stroll in the past next to a woman you want to encourage your daughter to grow up and be like.

Somewhere between Jane Austen's Persuasion and your favorite period drama to curl up with on a cold day, A Heart Adrift has beautiful story interwoven with characters you can't help but fall in love with by the end of the first page. The heroine Esmee refuses to give up on her happy ending and has the tenacity to go out and seize it for herself. But whether or not it will be successful is where Frantz really shines, unfolding the climactic conflict all the way up to the last nail biting paragraph and you love every second of the story and beautifully tidy ending.

If you're not already a fan of Laura Frantz by the time you have picked up a Heart Adrift, be prepared to add her to your "must read" list by its last page.

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This story reminded me a lot of one of my favorite Jane Austen novels, "Persuasion." Like Anne in Persuasion, Esmee had a chance at love but it slipped by. As time went on, her sea captain returned, to explore the renewal of love that was thought to be lost. While, of course, there are many details that are different, the story lines felt very similar. Different from Anne, though, was Esmee's boldness in exploring her feelings. I loved that aspect of her character. Henri, like Captain Wentworth, fell in the love with the sea in his youth. As he spent years following its siren call, and making his fortune, he eventually made his way back to Esmee, fully expecting her to have moved on with her life. It created a lovely amount of tension as they found each other again, and got to know each other as mature adults, as opposed to the naïve youth they once were. Their reacquaintance is set in the American colonies, on the cusp of becoming a new nation. Frantz' attention to detail is what makes her stand out as a writer. I always feel like I'm being transported to another time and place when I read her books...engaged with all senses. I would highly recommend this novel as must read for clean historical fiction lovers who also enjoy a Christian faith element to the story.

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Laura Frantz whisks readers back to colonial times where we see Esmee Shaw run a local chocolate shop, and we meet Henri Lennox, (a privateering sea captain) as their paths cross after many years. It’s fun because it surprises them both.

His country has requested his services, so he makes his way out to sea on official business, it’s there readers get a perspective of the French and Indian war at sea. When Laura and Shaw were younger, they both thought they were destined to be together forever. Their plans got derailed when Henri accepted a mission that carried him out to sea.

Esmee likes making chocolate to share with others and of course for her business. She is mindful of others and steps out to do her part in helping the needy. I loved how the author takes us into Esmee world of a Chocolatier. It was fun to see how others loved not only eating the chocolate creations by Esmee, and her delicious hot chocolate drinks.

Captain Henri Lennox returns to Chesapeake Bay with a new perspective on life, love, and a mission to complete the lighthouse, fulfilling a dream he and Esmee had as kids. They had hoped to do it together. Could that happen, did they still have a shot at love?

I was quickly swept up into this sweet, fun-loving story. What’s not to love, sweet romance, chocolate, family drama, healing grieving hearts as the story has a few twists and turns I didn’t see coming. This is a book to snuggle up with by the fire, and one to select for your next book club pick. It’s rich in character and setting. There is so much to discuss.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through Kindle Unlimited. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

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Ten years ago, Henri Lomax asked Esmee Shaw to marry him. She had been raised in a home where her father was always away at sea, and she did not want a part time husband. Words were spoken and Henri chose the sea. Now he is back. Both thought they had moved on, but both were wrong. They are different people now. Is there enough left of what they once had to try again?

Set in coastal Colonial Virginia during the turbulent times of the French and Indian Wars, the time and place are vividly brought to life. Politics, slavery, and romance are woven into the story. Social classes are well defined. The characters are intriguing and believable. Their dialogue is filled with the vernacular of the time. Their stories are well worth telling.

A Heart Adrift is historical fiction at its best. Skillfully told, dramatic and engrossing, this book is well worth reading. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

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This story, set at the beginning of the French and Indian war, was so well written and captivating, I found myself drawn in at every spare minute. I wished I could have sat down and read it in one setting. The imagery was fantastic. I could almost smell the chocolate and found myself needing some more than once.

Henri and Esmee were all they should be and more. The supporting cast of characters including Esmee's father and sister as well as members of Henri's crew was rich and full and added so much to the story.

This story showed such natural faith and the characters allowed themselves to grow in faith which added so much more depth to an already amazing story. I found myself longing for the same kind of faith.

My only complaint is that the story ended too soon. It had built up beautifully and the ending left me wanting so much more. Otherwise, it was a perfect read. The conflicts were natural and felt organic to the time period. The writing was beautiful and I found myself devouring every page.

I received an early copy from the publisher and this is my honest review.

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Isn't this cover simply gorgeous? I knew I had to read it! And then, I heard the fact that the main character is a chocolatier, and I was hooked.
Esme and Henri (pronounced On-ree) have a complicated history. Once upon a time, many years ago, they had an understanding. And then, his love for the sea took him away, and she stayed and kept her mother's dream of a chocolate shop alive.
At the time of this story, their paths cross once again, and they have to determine what is most important in life.
This is much easier said than done....because each has realized that they still have feelings for the other.
This is set during the early colonial American time period. A time of war, slavery, beautiful dresses, and so much more.
I loved visiting Williamsburg and York, and getting a glimpse and what life might have been like in those days.
Laura Frantz has a way of bringing these places and times of long ago to life.
I highly recommend this story to all who enjoy reading historical fiction.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

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While this story is beautifully descriptive and was an interesting read, I do wish that I had been able to enjoy it more. It just felt overly slow throughout and the climax itself felt rushed. Like the story really wanted to be something incredible, yet never quite made it past hello... It was well written and there wasn't anything distinctly wrong with the characters or events, yet I struggled to connect with either due to it's almost painfully slow style and the fact that where the story 'should' have been a bit more detailed and drawn out, it was almost skipped over as if added in an afterthought instead of the beautiful climax point and the focus of the story, it didn't really leave me impressed and isn't one I'm likely to remember fondly, or at all unfortunately, for long after the last page. Definitely not one that lingers and sticks around reminding me of the comforting and warm feelings I hoped from the genre and story description when I started it. Not a bad read, just sadly a somewhat forgettable one...

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The story takes place in 1755 and it’s about Esmee a 28 years old chocolatier and Captain Henri Lennox. After 10 years of absence Captain Lennox comes back in York Virginia. Esmee and Henri were in love once but Henri choose his career at sea but now that they are reunited they could have a chance together… However he is asked by the government to lead a secret naval expedition…

Though I like historical novel I could not connect with ther characters and finish this book. If you like books about the 18th century maybe this one could be for you.

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Laura Frantz’s newest romance release, A Heart Adrift gives Jane Austen a run for her money in the literary category—without all the snarky dialog. In this novel Frantz explores interesting aspects of colonial life. Being an unabashed chocoholic, making the protagonist, Esmee a chocolatier was delightful.

Personally, as the wife of a sailor who spent many months overseas, I truly felt the longing of Esmee as she waited for her Henri to return from a treacherous mission. I can’t imagine waiting months without any contact.

The book had a wide spectrum of relevant topics such as slavery, prejudice, slimy politics, privateering, espionage, lighthouses, and so much more. The book kept me engaged to the last page.

Frantz has also given the reader a strong, faith-filled and redeeming love story. Her secondary characters from Eliza to Quinn to Lucy and so many more were well rounded and could easily carry their own stories.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a beautiful romance that takes one back in time where the dialog was as beautiful as the gowns.

Thank you Revell and #NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

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A Heart Adrift by one of my favorite authors, Laura Frantz, is a wonderful historical romance. Watching Esmée and Henri's journey to a second chance at love was almost magical, although the journey was not without its struggles. Frantz does a masterful job of setting the scenes for this story, making one feel like one is right there in the story--a story rich with detail and full of so many interesting historical events during the mid-1700s in Colonial Virginia. Poignant and heartfelt, A Heart Adrift has history, romance, suspense, grief, family, friends, and faith in God blended throughout. Readers who enjoy historical fiction will not want to miss this book. I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher and won a copy through LibraryThing and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

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This is not a cookie cutter story with cardboard characters. This was a beautiful tapestry of love, family, and loyalty to one's country.

This is the story of Esmee Shaw and her long time ago beau, Captain Henri Lennox. For reasons that unfold they broke off their courtship but neither have been able to move pass their one-time love and still the flame flickers.

I found Esmee a vibrant heroine who was not afraid to go after what she wants. Her devotion to the poor and downtrodden was admiral and the love for her family was refreshing to read. She also had an interesting profession as a chocolatier and her description of her treats made my mouth water. I knew Esmee and Henri would eventually find their way back together, but there was going to be some hardships and trial to come first.

The backdrop of the year 1755 and its politics brought America's history and its dealings with France alive. And I enjoyed the colorful privateer versus pirate debate. It still amazes me how our country came to be and to thrive.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

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Review A second chance at first love …

As always Laura Frantz beautiful writing style kept me up late reading. I adore Esmee. And Henri! He makes a great hero, but so does Quinn. Oh Quinn!

I felt like sometimes the plot pivoted quickly, but still I love the cast of characters in this story, one of love and loss and tragedy and trial and trust in God.

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I am a devoted fan of Laura Frantz. Love all of her books and can’t wait for the next one. A promise of more ships at sea and possibly pirates? This book is about a second chance at love ten years later. Our heroine, Esmee has given up on love, but in reality she has never forgotten her first love who went off to sea. Then the Captain in the many years at sea and the different ports still thought of her and her life at her chocolate shop. I have never read about a chocolatier and the makers of chocolate before. It was interesting reading about how Esmee made her delights and something we now take for granted was once a sought after delicacy in that time era. Then we have Esmee’s sister Eliza, who is so different from Esmee in her flighty ways and so conscious of what the fashionably world is all about. There is danger, sickness, deaths, sorrows and of course love in this interesting book. All in all another great book with all the twists and turns that we expect from a Frantz novel…….Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the e-copy. Happy to leave my review.

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