The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz

Elisabeth “Liberty” Lawson, daughter of the lieutenant governor of Virginia, is Williamsburg's bride. Her planned future includes marriage to Miles Roth, master of Roth Hall, and a life as its mistress. Love is not necessary. However, Williamsburg turns perilous for Elizabeth as tensions rise daily between the British Loyalists and American Patriots. When tragedy strikes in her own home, Elisabeth finds herself on a new life path that involves intrigue, independence and the handsome Noble Rynallt, cousin to her fiance and a leader of the independence men. Torn between family and the future, Elisabeth must decide which side to stand with. Read more in The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz.

I'm not sure how many of Laura Frantz's books I've read, but The Lacemaker is my favorite. This stand-alone novel is permeated with history, courage, faith, and romance. Being set on the eve of the American Revolution, plenty of action keeps the story moving and the reader devouring its beautiful narrative. Liberty and Noble's relationship grows and matures throughout the book and it was a pleasure to observe. Laura Frantz's writing is amazingly beautiful and practically effortless to read. She makes writing a book look easy, though I'm sure it's not. I recommend The Lacemaker to fans of historical romances. If you've read and like Laura Frantz's other books, you'll probably like The Lacemaker as well.

Read an excerpt from The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz on the publisher's website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. 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."

Rebellious Heart by Jody Hedlund

Susanna Smith and Benjamin Ross both seek an advantageous marriage to improve their station in life. Susanna comes from a financially comfortable family, but was denied access to higher learning. She's determined to marry well so that she can maintain her school for girls. Ben is a good lawyer, but his humble background has always deprived him of the respect that his actions merited. A wealthy wife would propel him into the world of the elite and open opportunities that would otherwise be closed. When Susanna helps a runaway slave, she finds herself turning to Ben for advice and protection. Yet, he is far from safe. Many Colonists resent the British and Ben's ideas seem almost rebellious. Will Susanna and Ben obtain desirable matches? Or will they find a love worth more than aspirations?

Rebellious Heart by Jody Hedlund is a stand-alone novel of drama and romance. I loved that this book was based on a real-life couple from Colonial times. The story line hooked me from the beginning and carried my interest throughout the book. Ben and Susanna both underwent deep character development, but the plot never stagnated as they dealt with their issues. Overall, Rebellious Heart was a great read. I was slightly disappointed with the ending. While it was sweet, I felt it left certain things unresolved. I'll definitely keep the book and read it again. However, some readers may find the lack of complete resolution off-putting.

Read an excerpt from Rebellious Heart by Jody Hedlund on the publisher's website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. 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."