As storm clouds gather with the stirrings of war , “A Heart Adrift” by Laura Frantz shines a beacon of light on God’s amazing grace and the beauty of redemptive love. This poignant, heartmoving tale of difficult decisions, second chances and brave, heartwringing choices is the perfect blend of history, faith, and love sacrificed at the burning altar of ambition and desire. The two main characters battle to come to terms with their feelings and emotions, as Henri chooses ambition at the cost of Esmée’s love. She is endearing as a woman with a brilliant intellect, persevering against the rigid constraints of her time. Laura Frantz’s richly painted tapestry of history, beautifully blending with heroism, wins the hearts of readers with its intricate plot and fascinating storyline. Laura Frantz, the queen of epic historical fiction is at the height of her pinnacle of success. She has an amazing gift of portraying the conflicting emotions of the human heart exactly as they occur in real life. Her realistic characters are richly endowed with the fullness of life. Exquisitely portrayed, expertly crafted and elegantly penned, “A Heart Adrift” proves its own worth among books of sterling quality. Laura Frantz has a fascinating way with words, lacing her novels with fresh hope and the beauty of dreams fulfilled. In addition to exploring the hearts, thoughts and feelings of Esmée and Henri, the relationship between two different sisters, gentle, thoughtful, loving Esmée, who finds all she ever wanted against the backdrop of a love sacrificed, lost and found, and simplehearted, vivacious Eliza, who discovers everything she is in the wake of what she thought she was. I highly recommend this novel of the heart to all readers who seek to find satisfaction and fulfillment in the brain world of books.

Frantz does an excellent job setting the scene and exploring new aspects of colonial life. The chocolatiering was completely new for me, as with life in Virginia at the start of the French and Indian War--all I'd known before of the war took place farther north, primarily in New York. I really enjoyed the privateering aspect of the book; it's not a subject one sees often, especially as authorized by the colonial government (and technically king of England). I hadn't realized it played a significant role in the French and Indian War. Aspects of the story reminded me of the swashbuckling classic Captain Blood, which I have long enjoyed.

This was a solid, faith-filled story, besides being a lovely example of a second chance at love. I would have preferred more tension , particularly nearing the end. It could have used a little more lead-up to the final conflict; not that it came completely out of the blue, but there hadn't been any major tension leading up to it, so it didn't feel particularly necessary to the plot. I did like the scene, however, especially for Eliza's character arc, but some foreboding and tension in advance would have made it a really solid ending rather than a tacked-on, last-minute conflict.

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.

A tale of love, loss, and regrets. Such a sweet read from Laura Frantz!

I'll be honest and say I had a hard time getting into this one. But stick with it because, once you get to know the characters, you'll fall so in love with them and be enamored by the plot!

Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a free e-copy in exchange for my honest review!

#aheartadrift #netgalley

I love Laura Frantz's books, I'm a huge fan. I really, really wanted to fall in love with this book but I just couldn't quite get into the story. It didn't hold my interest like her other books have done. I'm not giving up on her though, I think it was just the story was a little slow.

Can a love once lost ever be renewed? Esmee Shaw hasn’t seen or spoken to her love, Henri, in ten years, not since they bitterly parted ways. She has filled her life with her late mother’s chocolate shop and caring for the poor in the almshouse, but her something in her heart still is lacking. Laura Frantz is a beautifully descriptive writer, and reading will immediately feel immersed into the tapestry of colonial Virginia. I was disappointed with the storyline. I felt as if I was constantly waiting for the story to progress and felt like the romantic climax was rushed and unbelievable. The ending was satisfying, but I felt as if the characters and romance were lacking.

Esmée Shaw, daughter, sister, business owner, longs for more in her life. Although running a business—Shaw’s Chocolates—seems unusual for a woman in colonial Virginia, Esmée has simply stepped into the role her mother left her. Chocolatier and keeper of the family treasury of recipes.

She runs her father’s household and visits nearby Williamsburg to see her younger, married sister. As often as possible, she travels out to the parish almshouse to support the widows, orphans, and men who can’t support themselves.

Although her life seems full, Esmée can’t help but wrestle with regret. Regret for losing the love of her life through her stubborn insistence he gives up his life at sea. Ten years have passed since their stormy parting, and no man has ever replaced Henri Lennox in her affections.

Captain Henri Lennox, a privateer (some say pirate), only allows unmarried men on his ship. A legacy of his heated discussion with his betrothed the last time he saw her. Ten years have passed, and he returns to Virginia and his island. Ready to trade in a life at sea for a lighthouse and solitude. After all, he’s made his fortune and can turn his talents to other pursuits.

But threats to the colonies from France call him to York and Williamsburg. Where he sees Esmée for the first time in a decade. Will they forever remain at odds? Or will their maturity and faith draw them back together again?

What I Loved About This Book

Frantz paints a lush portrait of colonial Williamsburg—from the halls of power to the almshouse along the lonely shore. She spends time fleshing out each character in this second-chance romance. Readers will relate to Esmée’s yearning to find her true purpose, no matter what their age.

The descriptions of gowns, customs, architecture, and jewelry will delight the heart of any historical fiction aficionado. Esmée and Henri share an abhorrence for slavery shared by a minority of wealthy people during the time period, which causes additional conflict in the book.

Laura Frantz does it again! She left a warm sensation in the core of my belly with her swooning novel. I love that Esmée poured her life into helping others after being jilted. I wish she wouldn't have shut her love life out, but if she hadn't, she and the handsome, brave Captain Henri wouldn't have had a chance later on. Her sister added so much life to this already colorful novel, and the life lessons learned left a cozy sensation after all the danger and twists the sisters faced. A lovely book to match the beautiful cover!

Although this book gave great descriptions and historical detail, I found the story very slow and lost interest. It has interesting characters, it just felt like I was spinning my wheels waiting for the story to progress.

This is fantastic historical fiction with romance and privateers and action and chocolate. Esmee and Henri were two people that had to break apart and have years apart to finally know that they still loved one another. This has been one of my favorite books ever. The story flows beautifully and you will not want to put it down. It was interesting to learn how hot chocolate and other chocolates were made at this time. I also love stories that have light houses in them. I always look forward to reading books by this author and have never been dissatisfied.

I've long wanted to read this book because of the author and the beautiful cover. Last night I finished it, and goodness, it certainly lived up to the hype I've seen on social media!

A Heart Adrift starts as a tender slowburn romance as Esmée and Henri are reunited after ten years apart. From there, stakes are raised one by one through the author's immaculate storytelling. Seriously, Laura Frantz CAN WRITE. (I'm sure most of y'all know that already.) While the pacing seemed a bit slow at first, towards the latter half, I just couldn't put down the book until answers were given, and I was able to see how layered and important each scene was beforehand.

Spiritual themes of grief and full reliance on the Lord are woven in with a thoughtful and realistic touch--and had me tearing up at multiple passages. If you're wanting a historical romance with a lyrical feel and plenty of depth, you've found it in A Heart Adrift. Get yourself some chocolate and get ready to savor this one.

*I received a copy free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my very own.*

A beautiful historical fiction story that takes you on a journey into the world of 1700’s Colonial York with a chocolatier and a privateer sea captain. Exquisitely written, the words come alive transporting you directly into the story. You can almost smell the chocolate Esmee is molding with her hands and feel the sea beneath Henry’s feet.

Having ended their courtship 10 years ago, Esmee and Henry find themselves continually crossing paths once Henry has landed back in York again. We follow their journey through numerous hardships that challenges everything they thought they knew about each other and whether they can learn to trust each other again.

This story is filled with romance, danger, intrigue, and explores the dynamics not only in relationships, but also within families. I found it throughly engaging and hated to see it end.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Books by Laura Frantz are never quick reads for me, but I always look forward to savoring her word pictures and sighing over the clean but breathtaking romance. Thanks to Revell and NetGalley for another opportunity to read this preliminary copy. Since The Lacemaker is my favorite book by this author, I was excited to travel back to eighteenth century Virginia again for this tale of a second chance romance between a chocolatier and the sea captain who left her for the sea. This was a journey of faith for Esmee, not faith that everything would work out the way she wished, but that God would be her stay no matter how the wind blew. Many dire circumstances came into her life, but she continually recalled Scripture that changed her focus and renewed her faith. Both she and her beloved Henri demonstrated selflessness and generosity to others. I always enjoy learning more about history from the books I read, and Laura Frantz brings history to life.

Ten years ago, Esmee Shaw loved a man who loved the sea. When he left, taking her heart with him, she threw herself into learning all she could about the chocolatier's trade from her mother. Unlike her younger sister, Eliza Shaw Cheverton, who is preoccupied with society and fashion, Esmee is industrious—spending her days creating confections and visiting the almshouse as their mother used to do. The juxtaposition of the sister's personalities, character, and values proved to be one of my favorite aspects of the story.

I also enjoyed the immersive nature of the writing. Fantz's descriptions of the smells and flavors in Shaw's Chocolate shop will make you salivate. She vividly describes York society—from its rich textiles to its complex social mores. Finally, she litters the book with facts about seafaring, the abolitionist movement, and medicine (namely childbirth and smallpox). All of these work in harmony to draw readers into the colonial period.

Unfortunately, for a book that opens and closes strong, the middle seemed to sag. I attribute this to the timing of Henri's departure because, for me, it doused all the romantic tension which had built to that point. It's not to say, other readers will not connect with Esmee's longing for Henri only that pining has never sat well with me.

A very elegant, prestigious read set in York, Virginia, with lots of twists and turns and vibrant characters.
I appreciated the Biblical references, prayers and faith based storyline. A very true to the time period, historical fiction. The elegance, royalty and richness of this book is unsurpassed, top notch.

Having said this, I believe Laura Frantz, simply said, writes above my pedigree. There I admit it. I’m not this sophisticated. :) However, I do not believe in trashing a book or leaving a bad review for books that aren’t my cup of tea, unless it is vulgar or poorly written. This book is neither of those things. It just was not something I could relate to. It was not a page turner for me. It was not an easy read. But that is just me.

If you love historical, Christian fiction works set in the 1700’s with all of its high society allure, this is truly your book and you will definitely appreciate it so much more than I have. My ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review may be confusing to some after reading this review, however, I only take away 1 star for my reasons stated above because although it is not my cup of tea, it will be an extraordinary, poignant read for those that enjoy this genre/time period.

I was given an eARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Another beautiful and wonderful novel bu the author - I love Esmee and Henri's story, sort of reminded me of the plot in Persuasion by Jane Austen. Set in the peak of Colonial-era America, Henri is a privateer for the Crown and Esmee a master at making chocolate for the family's chocolate shop. War is starting between France and Britain, and tensions are high. When Henri returns after years away, he finds his love for Esmee is the same. But will she ever accept him or will she scorn him again? Esmee has changed too, and is a strong woman and her heart is always for Henri but she fears he has forgotten her. I just loved the setting, the history and the love story!

I cannot begin to say how much I absolutely adored A Heart Adrift.

Colonial Williamsburg is a place I've not had the good fortune to visit, but it's certainly on my bucket list. Through Laura Frantz's writing, I feel I could perfectly envision Colonial Williamsburg, and the cast of characters of this book.

Both Esmee and Henri were delightful characters, and i adored their love story. Reunited lovers has become one of my favorite tropes, and this story was just perfect in that regard.

i could not put this one down.

**I received an e-ARC via Netgalley from the publisher, Revell, in exchange for an honest review**

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4058819989?type=review#rating_449626652

Review has also been placed on amazon.

Some say Henri Lennox is a privateer. Others murmur that he is a pirate and troublemaker, with his ideas against slavery and his black jacks aboard ship. For Esmee Shaw, however, Henri is the only man she has ever loved. Unfortunately, he loved the sea and she could not bear to stay home as a captain’s wife with him gone so far away for so very long. Esmee is content with the life of a spinster, carrying on the work of her dear departed mother in her roles as chocolatier, companion to her younger sister, and patron of the almshouse. At least she is content until Captain Lennox returns to coastal Virginia and both are forced to reconsider their feelings and what they mean now that Henri has other ambitions better suited to life onshore.

There is a very good reason why Laura Frantz has won both Christy and INSPY awards, and she sets her sails for success with A Heart Adrift. Her main characters and primary plot are stellar. However, don’t underestimate the supporting characters or subplots which carry considerable weight of their own. Such attention to detail makes this one of her best novels to date.

Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me a copy to read and review. All opinions expressed here are my own and are completely genuine.

I loved visiting York and Williamsburg, Virginia with chocolatier, Esmee, and Captain Henri Lennox! Laura Frantz is one of my favorite historical authors and Colonial America is one of my favorite time periods so I knew in advance this book with be a winner with me! The characters were wonderful and the storyline was magnificent! I recommend A Heart Adrift! I received a complimentary e-book through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.

A Heart Adrift
by Laura Frantz
Pub Date: January 4, 2022
Revell

This was one of my most anticipated releases of 2022 and I was not disappinted. Frantz is the master of historical fiction. The theme of this book I could really relate to so I am highly recommending it. It is an absolute joy to soak in her words and let the story take over.
Thank you to Revell and NetGalley for the ARC.

This will be a great book for the book club!
5 stars

A Heart Adrift, is Laura Frantz at her finest. A magnum opus, if you will. Her writing is deeply layered it speaks to the heart and resonates on so many levels. Who hasn't felt adrift or at sea in this life? Shipwrecked by regret or longing for a second chance?
This story is so beautifully written, the characters so relatable, the romance sweet. Laura Frantz never fails to transport me back in time with a tale that makes me want to savor every page, yet race forward in an eagerness to read what is next. The plot unfolds slowly like melting chocolate and is oh so good, I didn't want it to end.

I always finding myself wishing Laura Frantz would release more than one book a year, but her exceptional story telling make the long wait well worth it. My first and best read of the year so far! This story will be on my mind for weeks to come. I highly recommend you read it.

Thank you Revell and Net Galley for the free DRC of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own.