The Lacemaker, (Paperback)

I had to read this book to know if it was as good as everyone is saying it is. I can honestly say, they were all telling the truth! I was riveted from the very first page and didn’t want to stop reading. The attention to detail transported me back in time and I couldn’t get enough. Frantz made me love the characters and hold my breath in anticipation a time or two. It was amazing being able to visit a time when our country was being formed, and imagine a little what life would have been like. Family turning against each other would be such a difficult thing to bear, yet that’s often how war can be. I can’t wait to see what Frantz writes next, somehow I know I need to read it as well. I received a copy of this book from the publisher, and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

What I loved: I will say my absolute favorite part of any story that takes place during the American Revolution or Civil War is the complexities of how families were affected. The relationship between Elisabeth "Liberty" and her family is so complex that I just relish every detail. Her father so wonderfully reflected the Independence Men's view of England while her mother was the independent spirit that refused to be broken. The broken family was such a wonderful symbol of Britain's relationship with it's colonies. I don't know if she meant that symbolism or not, but I absolutely loved it. Favorite Character: It is such a hard toss up between Liberty and Noble. Liberty is such an amazing young woman who really grows from the submissive daughter to a woman who learns to fend for herself without compromising her morals. She is brave, kind-hearted, and the woman I hope I would be under such circumstances.
Noble is the swoon worthy hero every romance needs. He is a man who watches out for the needs of others, has a strong sense of obligation and duty to bring this nation to independence, and Welsh heritage makes you want to cuddle up next to him in real life. I won't give away the details, but he is a great leader and a man who will do anything for those he loves. Such a brave man. 
Who would like this: Anyone who love historically accurate stories with love, romance, danger, and self-sacrifice (no one dies). Those who especially love the American Revolution and the complex relationships between the British and those seeking independence.
 Rating and Why: I give this story 5 stars. I loved the complexities of the story, the romance that was exciting but clean, and all the historical characters. It was masterfully created and a pure joy to read.

“These are times in which loyalties are continually in question. You do not know whom you can trust,” Liberty recalls her father’s words in Laura Frantz’s novel, The Lacemaker. ~ What ~ This four-hundred-and-thirteen-page paperback targets those interested in a historical romance set during the war for America’s independence. With no profanity, topics of gambling, drunkenness, and war may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending includes two food recipes, acknowledgments, an excerpt of another novel, and the author’s biography with advertisements. In this tale set in 1775 in Williamsburg, Virginia, twenty-three-year-old Lady Elizabeth Liberty Lawson may have lead a sheltered, secured life as a British lieutenant’s only child, but when her father orchestrates her betrothal, she questions the differences between the Loyalists and the Patriots. After she is abandoned by her family and fiance and is forced to survive by making lace, does she learn how colonial politics and the potential war for freedom puts true love at the forefront, even if she is accused of being a Tory spy. ~ Why ~ I enjoy novels where I learn about America’s history, especially when it is well written. The author does an excellent job explaining the societal norms, delineation of a country’s patriotism, the restricted fashion of the time, Welsh food favorites, and romantic inclinations. As the protagonist struggles to choose between her father’s British political beliefs and the independence of the colonies, her heart must decide what is right as she prays to God for answers. The moments between to newfound lovers is tender as they learn to trust each other as the inevitable upcoming war looms over them. ~ Why Not ~ Those who do not like stories of the Revolutionary War may pass on this book. Others may wonder if a sequel is in the works as there are several loose ends regarding a few relatives. Some may tire of the often interruption of romantic interludes. ~ Wish ~ Although I enjoyed the author’s detailed writing style, I assume liberties were taken regarding the characterizations of famous patriots such as Patrick Henry. It would be thoughtful to include a note of which characters are real or fictionalized and the gleaned historical background. Adding a map might be helpful. ~ Want ~ If you like a historical novel of America’s valiant liberty separating from the Crown’s rule while two find love among the turmoil, this is a quick and cozy read of love, loyalty, and trust. Thanks to Revell for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.