Cover Image: A Heart Adrift

A Heart Adrift

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I genuinely am at a loss for words. If you know me, you know that rarely happens. But I find myself, after having read the final page of A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz, completely unsure how to write this review. This story is masterful … absolutely masterful. At one point, I looked at my husband and told him, “I would read her [Mrs. Frantz’s] grocery list.” He laughed at me, but I’m serious. Frantz is such a stellar writer that I would pay money to read her grocery list. Every time Frantz picks up a pen, magic happens. God has surely gifted her as an elite storyteller, and this may be the most evident in her recent stunning novel. There is not one single thing I could critique except for the fact that the story ends. And I so did not want it to end!

I love when a book touches on a topic that is super relevant to the reader in the moment. It makes the book feel like a personal conversation between the author and reader. That’s how I feel about A Heart Adrift. Two topics — grief and idolatry — jumped off the pages and forced me to take a good, long look at myself. You wouldn’t think the two topics go together, but they do. Over the past few years, I have dealt with an insane amount of death and grief. I miss people who are dear to me every single day. And, yes, while the hurt and the pain changes every day, it never quite goes away. Over the past few years, I have learned that one aspect to grief is realizing that love can veer into idolatry if you are not SUPER careful. There is a moment in A Heart Adrift where Esmee and a chaplain discuss this idea of idolatry, and Esmee is a bit dumbstruck. She asks herself if it is possible to make a loved one, a human, an idol. I wouldn’t have understood it either before we lost a beloved member of my immediate family. As I watched my family go through their various grieving processes, I have witnessed firsthand that we humans can 100% turn our loved ones into idols. I have learned that just as love is a choice we make each day, so, too, is making God #1 in our lives. Every day we wake up, we have to choose to put God first — before ourselves, our spouses, our children, our friends. If we don’t, we could fall into the trap of putting a beloved family member before God. It is interesting how death and grief become mirrors and show us if we are in correct alignment with God or not.

There is no way to do A Heart Adrift justice in a single review. This book would make a wonderful book club selection as the discussions could be so varied and many. Suffice to say, A Heart Adrift is a story I will never forget. This is a book that touches the heart and sears the soul. I highly, highly recommend this novel. I implore you to purchase a copy immediately. You will not regret the purchase!

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author, Laura Frantz, via NetGalley. I also received a paperback copy of this novel from the publisher, Revell, in order to read and review. And I purchased a copy of this novel in eBook form from Amazon.com on January 4, 2022, in order to review. In no way has any of this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

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Where does someone even begin in reviewing a book as exquisite as this?! Any words I might pen to describe how much I loved it would be inadequate at best. Even as I try to write a review now, all manner of thoughts are swirling around in my head with no cohesion in sight. I want to share everything, yet not too much.

In a nutshell, A Heart Adrift is a novel meant to be savored. Laura’s ability to weave a story set in colonial America with a slow burning romance is second to none. The language of the era is authentic, especially when a delectable chocolate shop is a character unto itself. I could taste and smell every morsel straight off the page!

Her characters move the story along at a steady pace amid the threat of war. While love is trying to regain the time it has lost between Esmée and Henri, politicians and governments are focused on their own agendas. Once these two are finally able to reconnect with each other, you could not have pried this book from my hands.

This is a slower story compared to many of Laura’s other novels, but it is now a favorite. As with everything else she writes, I do not ever want to reach the last page. I have to force myself to read her books slowly because I want to revel in every word, every look, every moment as I imagine myself a fly on the wall with her characters. They become as real to me as my own friends.

So in case you hadn’t already guessed, this novel deserves a well earned 5 stars. Run, don’t walk to get a copy for yourself.

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A Heart Adrift was everything I’ve come to expect from a Laura Frantz book - unique, multi-dimensional characters with relatable struggles, a plot that surprises me as much as it entertains me, biblical truths that serve as a reminder, and a level of commitment to historical detail that allows me to truly experience the time period and location I’m reading about. Oh, and we can’t forget the fact that while reading a Laura Frantz book, I find myself having to whip out the ole dictionary app a few, erm...okay, multiple times. Again, the commitment to historical accuracy in character speech and day to day living enriches my reading experience all the more.

Warning: Be sure to have chocolates and or (both is better haha) hot chocolate close by when reading this beautiful novel because you’re going to be craving it.

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Love, loss, and hope culminate in a tender romance set against the lush backdrop of colonial coastal Virginia.

I loved this heartfelt love story set in the colonial era. It had beautiful prose, great historical details, and lifelike characters that make themselves at home in your heart.

Esmeé was a lovely heroine. As sweet as the chocolate she makes, she has a big and caring heart. Her work with the women of the almshouse was inspiring and I loved how she continued to help those women even after she left York. Of course reading about her profession was delightful, and, fair warning–it will make you hungry! I also liked reading about the relationship she had with her sister. While they were both polar opposites, and Eliza could be very trying, it was sweet the way they were always there for each other and had one another’s best interests in mind. Henri is a swoon-worthy hero. His obvious admiration for Esmeé was endearing, as was his heart for people. I loved how he was willing to speak out against slavery when so many of his peers were not. Their mutual passion for helping right injustices made Esmeé and Henri a perfect match. Reading as they go from a strained relationship, to falling in love all over again will delight those who love a good romance.

The supporting cast of characters was delightful, as well. From Esmeé’s father, to the people of York, they weave a colorful and interesting backdrop for the book. Mistress Saltonstall’s monkey Hermes in particular was so charming!

The world of colonial York and Indigo Island come to life within the pages of the book. You can practically smell the salty breezes weaving with the scent of Esmeé’s confections and brewed tea as you read. Combined with careful attention to detail and descriptions of the lush gowns and powdered wigs worn by the characters, it paints a charming picture of 18th century life.

Any fan of historical romance will love this beautifully written book. I highly recommend A Heart Adrift.

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

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Captivating...right to the end. A nice long read to sink into. Set in the early days of the French and Indian war. Esmee is the daughter of an Admiral that had spent much time at sea. She has been estranged from her friend Henri for 10 years, parting as he went to sea as she didn't want to be married to someone, like her father, who was also married to the sea. She kept busy as a businesswoman, running the chocolate shop that her mother had started and also doing charity work at the local almshouse. When Henri came back, she slowly realized how much she cared for him, just as he was called to set sail again - working for the government against French ships. So well written, it's very real. Frustrating and heart wrenching at times, and a truly lovely love story. As satisfying as the best chocolate! Lessons of Christian faith are wound throughout.

I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#AHeartAdrift #NetGalley

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Thanks to Revell for the free book.
What a beautiful love story this was. Frantz created such tension between Esmee and Henri, and I was excited to see where their story would go. I also liked how she created side characters with such depth. Each character was richly fleshed out. This book is a long one, and I feel like it did drag in a few places, but I always wanted to keep going to see what was going to happen. I also liked how there was such rich theology throughout the story. Frantz expertly weaved in God's word for each situation in this book, and she showed how to find comfort in the Bible. This book will be perfect for Christian historical fiction, romance lovers that love a slow burn.

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Set in 1755, the colonial years of America, A Heart Adrift is steeped in part of our history that we typically don’t think of — that of the sailors who were called on by the colonists to take on enemy ships by becoming privateers. But the book is far more than that. It is a love story and love unfulfilled. Then there is chocolate, a chocolatier. [This reviewer loves chocolate.]

Set in York in the Colony of Virginia, Captain Henri Lennox has returned after five years at sea. During his absence, Esmée Shaw now fills the two roles close to her deceased mother’s heart–chocolatier and the alms house. She and Lennox have a … ‘history’.

That’s just the tip of what A Heart Adrift contains. There is Eliza, Esmée’s sister, who in her own way is just as strong as Esmée. Her father is also an Admiral although now retired. But active in the colonial government.

Based on the history of the period and dialogue in the vernacular of the period, Laura Frantz has employed considerable research into this book as well as others she has written set in this period of history. The dialogue takes a bit of getting used to, but I personally enjoyed looking up words where I was only guessing the meaning. Reading on a Kindle made this easy by either using the dictionary or search/web option. The terminology was spot on for the period.

The characters are rich. The scenes, especially those set on the fictitious Indigo Island, were so well done I could visualize them easily. The pacing was a bit slow at first perhaps because of the dialogue, but interesting enough to keep me reading. Then I was hooked. I had to learn more. For a genealogy nut like me, the book became a must-finish.

Ms. Frantz often employs short chapters instead of dividers to separate the scenes. Re the terminology: I would hope there is an appendix in the print books as I can’t imagine looking up words, even as easy as it is today, as often as I did on my Kindle. Be sure to read the “Author Note” after completing the book.

I received a complimentary e-ARC* copy of A Heart Adrift from the publisher, Revell, via NetGalley. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Rating: 4 stars due to rich terminology and no sign of a terminology appendix for the print reader.
Cover rating: Very good, but I wish the flower near the center of the picture was removed so that the ship has more prominence.
Standalone.
Pages: 394.
Publish date: January 4, 2022.

#AHeartAdrift #LauraFrantz #NetGalley
e-ARC* — electronic Advanced Reader Copy.

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Title: A Heart Adrift

Author: Laura Frantz

Ch: 73

Pg: 416

Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Christian Historical Fiction

Rating: 5 stars

Publisher: Revell


I didn’t think Laura could ever write a hero that would replace General Seamus Ogilvy as my favorite hero of hers. And have him now sharing second place with Xander Renick. Sorry Seamus but not really. But I should have known as soon as I learned the hero of A Heart Adrift was Captain Henri Lennox a sea captain that I was going to have a new favorite hero. I blame my childhood literary crushes on Captain Hook and the Dread Pirate Roberts on my love of nautical heroes and such.


Esmee Shaw on the other hand was a bookish kindred spirit not since Temperance Tucker in A Moonbow Night have I related so much to one of her Laura’s heroines being a chocolatier aside as I can’t stand the smell of melting or cooking chocolate (I know I’m weird) but I’ve been that way since childhood. Like Esmee I’m the older sister who also had watch a father deal with “A Heart Adrift” after the loss of my mom. She was the compass that always brought my own seafaring father home through dad was a Marine not a ship’s captain.


That’s what I love about Laura’s books even you don’t think they are going to there’s always a small detail a character a scene or quote that’s going to hit your personally that’s going to say with you long after your close the page.


I’m also probably reading too much into the Lighthouse being in the story. But to me it was a reminder of God being the light in the storm getting us safely back to shore so speak.





I received a copy of this book from the publisher a part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

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The premise of this book sounded intriguing to me, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I had hoped. It felt very long and drawn out, until the end, when the ending resolution felt rushed. It was well written with attention to detail, but the characters didn’t draw me in enough to make me really invested in how the story would turn out. I know many people love this author, and this was my first of her books, so I wasn’t familiar with her style. I tend to be pickier about historical fiction and prefer the WWII era. If you are used to more contemporary romance or more plot-driven stories, you might not enjoy this book as much, but if you love historical fiction, I think it would be worth reading!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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A Heart Adrift is among one of the best pre Revolutionary War novels I have read to date. I loved being transported back in time to Colonial Virginia. I adored Esmée’s story and getting to know her. The historical details made me feel as though I was living among her inner circle and watching her in real time. I loved the chemistry she had with Henri. Such a beautiful story. I loved every single page.

I am giving A Heart Adrift a very well deserved five plus stars. Readers who enjoy reading clean historical fiction, particularly those set during the American colonial time period. It is definitely not one to be missed. I believe it is going to be among my favorites I have read in 2022.


I received a paperback copy of A Heart Adrift from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

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A Heart Adrift was one of my most anticipated reads of 2022 and it lived up to everything I imagined it would be. I hope you have a mug of hot chocolate and a box of assorted chocolates with you while you're reading this because you will definitely be craving it.
The author makes the colonial time period come alive in the books she writes.
You will get a richly, detailed history of the way things used to be as you imagine yourself being surrounded with the dialect,usual foods of the time,the customs and day to day life.
It is an absolute joy to soak in her words, they go right to my heart.
This author ranks high among my all time favorites. She continues to be the queen of historical fiction.
I highly recommend this book!

Pub Date 04 Jan 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

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Another stunner from Laura Frantz! Laura has long been my go-to storyteller when it comes to colonial happenings and all the bedecked covers and heartrending stories that come along with it. Often timely, in the daybreak of winter, a perfectly crafted story makes its way to my mailbox just when a light in the dark of winter is needed most.

A joy to my hands and heart as every story penned by this author, Laura instills a love of rich history, sharing the sorrows and elations of those who come before us in her newest tale, A Heart Adrift. A beautiful second chance story, Henri (pronounced Ahn-ree in beautiful French detail) and Esmee’ captured my head and heart from the first page of the prologue. If the true heart of the story, the main characters, aren’t enough to have you delving in, the painstaking details that have you smelling the fresh cocoa scents and breathing in the air of the sea will lead you straight to A Heart Adrift.

Far more than the tale of simply Esmee’ and Henri, I felt drawn into the world of ballgowns and ships, cities and the adventures of Eliza and Quinn, of Esmee’ and Eliza’s own dear father and the various side characters painted so beautifully whether in a chocolate shop or on the very streets of York or Norfolk. Adventure and intrigue awaited every corner just as well as the tender, faith-filled moments fireside.

Though the final page of the story has been turned and the cover closed, the words and characters will long be held close as their beautiful home sets on my bookshelf, until I open its pages to visit again. Few stories captivate as Laura captures the long-ago frontiers and countrysides of long ago, igniting a spark of excitement and desire for more knowledge, more “invisible” yet tangible friends, and I daresay, in this novel, more chocolate and seaside excursions. Five stars and many more happy sighs as I close out this review of yet another Frantz win!

*I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts were my own.

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After reading A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz, how can I be so disloyal to Esmée and Henri as to start another book? I read this novel as slowly as I could, savoring every poetic turn of phrase and lyrical word picture! A Heart Adrift has left my heart undone!! Replete with romance, intrigue, faith, and history, Laura Frantz has created another enduring masterpiece. The evils of slavery, both for those captured and those who fought it are presented. Trust in God and constant reliance on His Word and communion with Him permeate the lives of both Esmée and Henri, even through harrowing times. Set against the capriciousness of the sea and early colonial politics (1745-1755) mixed with the delicious smells of a chocolatier’s shop and difficult family dynamics, this is one historical romance that will bring the early colonial struggles to vivid life.
I received a copy of the book from the author and Revell through NetGalley. I also bought myself and a loved one a paperback copy to treasure.
Notable Quotables:
“He chose the sea—his captaincy and ship—over me.” “And I could not conscience being left behind onshore.”

“And then, much like a courtship, as wooing as a siren’s song, the sea had finally won him over.”

Her fervent prayers went the way of her hopes and became floating wreckage.

“How can you possibly provide all these items, Miss Shaw?” “I shan’t provide them,” Esmée said with a confident smile, pocketing the paper. “The Almighty shall.”

“…the island suddenly felt a tad hollow, as did his cottage. To say nothing of his heart.”


“ 'Tis never amiss to hope . . . dream.”

“I don’t believe in accidents, nor coincidences, but rather divine instances,”… "Especially in matters of the heart.”

“As for myself, I am in the prime of senility.”

"The only certainty about life was its uncertainty. Only God stayed steadfast. Only the Almighty could walk her through life’s many changes. And when she felt overwhelmed, like now, she simply had to look back to see how faithful God had been, did she not? The heartaches and closed doors of the past had made the present more beloved."

“Those for whom God has mercy in store He first brings into a wilderness.”

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Readers who love a good historical won't find a better researched or well told story than A Heart Adrift.
Author Laura Frantz knows her 1700's history. As a Virginian I love reading stories set in my state and at the beginning of early American history.

Esmee Shaw working her own business as a Chocolatier in York is a charming character working in a fascinating field. I learned a lot about the art of chocolate making and was surprised by how common drinking chocolate was in that time period. I loved that Esmee followed in her mother's footsteps and had a heart for the needy and downtrodden.
Her childhood friend and one-time love, Henri Lennox, while noble and driven to make something of himself as a privateer captain who sailed all over the world, was harder to understand. He pledged his love to Esmee but has no problem leaving her for ten years.
As a reader who enjoys not only the historical aspects of a story but the romantic element as well, I felt a bit of edginess, like being on a road trip asking are we there yet. Ten years? And then to hide from Esmee and not seek her out? Frantz eventually brings their love story around and Esmee and Henri find their place in time and each other's hearts amidst a backdrop of war tension and intrigue.

There are some lovely quotes in A Heart Adrift:
*"Truly, the smallest good deed was better than the grandest good intention."
*"I'd worry except for this. Surely the Lord didn't bring us together to tear us apart."
*"Let those who would learn to pray go to sea."
* "I am no saint, nor am I at all sure of my standing with the Almighty. Perhaps this His first severe mercy
to me."

A Heart Adrift is a classic example of the road to love and purpose being paved with sacrifice and hardship. I enjoyed Frantz's York setting, her appealing characters and her inspirational heart stirring message. I appreciate Revell Publishing making a copy of A Heart Adrift available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.

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A Heart Adrift was one of my most anticipated reads for 2022 and I'm so happy to say that it did not let me down. I was pulled into the story right away and felt transported into colonial York, Virginia.

The characters were amazing. I absolutely loved the romance. I enjoyed how it wasn't an insta-love, but instead a second chance romance. I appreciated how just when I thought I knew where the story was going, there was a twist and I was never bored.

All in all, A Heart Adrift was a wonderful read and I recommend it to fans of historical romance. I can't wait to read Laura Frantz's next story. :)

*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.*

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Ahh, what a lovely way to usher in the New Year—with another beautifully written book by author Laura Frantz and a cup of hot chocolate (definitely must have chocolate on hand!)—in her typically haunting, poetic prose. My heart is still raw from the poignancy of an innocent, precious love found...then lost, complex characters who quickly wrap themselves around your heart, and a war laced with tragedy.

Warning: Our heroine, Esmée Shaw is a chocolatier, so reading of said book may induce cravings for chocolate and other delectable sweet treats. I craved carbs throughout the entire book! Although quite vulnerable to Captain Lennox's many charms (who wouldn't be?), I found Esmée to be quite courageous and strong in the face of many hardships and loss—yet still remaining a beacon to many.

I dearly delighted in the colonial setting—the balls, the seaside island, the lighthouse, and betimes a certain gothic aura permeated throughout. There is simply not a thing about Laura Frantz's books that I don't thoroughly enjoy and 'A Heart Adrift' was no exception...as I totally immersed myself in the lives and loves of each character. And as always I'm loath to say goodbye to good friends.

"In the day of my calamity, the Lord was my stay." (Quote taken from A Heart Adrift)

I received an early copy of this book from Revell via NetGalley and was under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

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Thank you Netgalley and Revell for access to this arc.

I loved this setting. The language and actions of the characters felt period to me – yes, even including the fact that Heni and Esme are often alone while still unmarried. I read recently (can’t remember where) that up to 1/3 of all Colonial brides were pregnant at the time of their weddings so this laxity didn’t bother me. I also liked that the issue of slavery is addressed. Esme’s family (originally from Rhode Island) is strongly against it while Henri has several Black crew members (two of whom are officers). Years ago, his ship captured a slave ship off the coast of Africa and freed the captive people on board and burned the ship – something that has earned him the emnity of many powerful Colonial planters in Virginia.

Another thing I enjoyed was the fact that women working outside the home and owning businesses is matter-of-fact. Esme eventually blows a lot of conventions out of the water but I’ll leave that discovery to readers. At this point in time, Colonials are still considered Englishmen loyal to the crown and that was the feeling I got. Two things that hit close to current issues were the smallpox epidemic that ravaged the geographic area of the book and how the destitute, homeless, orphans, and others unable to support themselves are forced to live in the almshouse.

Now for the romance. This is a quiet, mainly character focused story. Yes, events outside Esme’s and Henri’s relationship take place but the story uses those to show us things about the characters. They act as they do based on the background stories given them. Esme and Henri have never stopped loving each other but neither got hung up on that during their years apart. When they are reunited, each realizes that the other has changed – as one does over the course of ten years – and they mentally step back to see who the other person “is” now rather than immediately trying to jump into or remain outside of a relationship. But the final conflict that might affect them isn’t due to something internal but rather external and is the culmination of things that have been mentioned as the book progresses. One character surprised me a little bit in helping to resolve this and I’d love to see them get their own story at some point. This is the first book of yours I’ve read but I found myself enjoying it all the way through. B

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Laura Frantz is my go-to author for colonial historical fiction. Her newest novel, A Heart Adrift was the perfect book to travel with over the holidays.

Esmee Shaw is a chocolatier, trying very hard to mend a broken heart. Her broken heart however has been with her for 10 years, the last time she saw Captain Henri Lennox.

Captain Lennox is back in Virginia and war with France is on the horizon. The captain is trying to restore the lighthouse and decide if he wants to continue living at sea when the government tasks Lennox with a secret mission.

Esmee and Henri keep crossing paths and begin to realize they both still care deeply for one another. Can they move beyond their past? Will the threat of war keep them apart?

This story weaves many historical details into the telling and kept me engaged the entire time I was reading it. I loved seeing Esmee and Henri journey together in this story as the world around them changed drastically. Laura Frantz is a very talented story teller and I look forward to each book she writes. Her use of the English language, especially as appropriate to the time she is writing in always amazes me and leads to me learning new words. I cannot wait for the book that was teased at the end of this one.

Thank you to NetGalley, Laura Frantz, and Revell for the copy of this book in exchange for a review. all opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

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A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz is a novel set around the time of the French and Indian War. Esmée Shaw is a chocolatier who has a shop in York, Virginia. Ten years previously she had a love affair with Captain Henri Lennox and was hoping to be married. Captain Lennox chose a love affair with the sea instead of her. Esmée is resigned to a life alone until the Captain returns to port. He desires to finish building a lighthouse in the Chesapeake Bay, a waterway that can be dangerous to shipping. With the two of them together again in the York area, the love that they shared seems to blossom again.

I love the way Ms. Frantz writes her historical novels. They cleverly combine interesting characters with the history of the period. Picturing these events is easy when reading Ms. Frantz’s’ books. That’s my idea of a great read…being able to place oneself in the very place and time that I am reading about. I recommend her novels to those interested in historical romances.

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Set in the Virginia Colony in the 1750s, A Heart Adrift tells the love story of Captain Henri Lennox and chocolatier Esmée Shaw. This is no simple love story as the novel delves into the themes of the value of human life, the worth of all no matter the station of life, and the importance of a life well-lived. Themes our culture would do well to consider.

As always Frantz's research is evident, placing readers securely in the time and place alongside memorable characters. Her writing evokes deep empathy and compassion. She has inspired me to want to once again visit Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown once this pandemic is under greater control. For now, I will sit down with a cup of hot chocolate and a good book.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of A Heart Adrift from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

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