Another great story from this author. However, it is not a quick read so be prepared to spend a lot of time on the historic Virginian coast. She doesn’t waste a syllable, word, phrase, or description. You are transported to a world of privateers, lighthouses, wharfs, schooners and chocolate. Yes, chocolate. Esmee Shaw is a chocolatier in colonial York Virginia. The prologue takes us back to the foundation of the relationship between her and Captain Henri Lennox. After a ten year separation, they meet again. Esmee has accepted that she is, what in those times, was known as a spinster. She has resigned herself to a life of being single. Henri has returned to complete the construction of the lighthouse that was their dream.
This is from the publisher’s website:
“It is 1755, and the threat of war with France looms over
colonial York, Virginia. Chocolatier Esmée Shaw is fighting her own battle of
the heart. Having reached her twenty-eighth birthday, she is reconciled to life
alone after a decade-old failed love affair from which she's never quite
recovered. But she longs to find something worthwhile to do with her life.
Captain Henri Lennox has returned to port after a lengthy absence, intent on
completing the lighthouse in the dangerous Chesapeake Bay, a dream he once
shared with Esmée. But when the colonial government asks him to lead a secret
naval expedition against the French, his future is plunged into uncertainty.
Can Esmée and Henri's shared vision and dedication to the colonial cause heal
the wounds of the past and reunite them? “
The author does a great job of incorporating the character’s faith without being preachy. Their individual faith carries them through many trying and dangerous situations.
There are many characters included in this story. All are relevant and important to the story. One of my favorites was Eliza, Esmee’s sister. While Esmee is kind, gentle and doesn’t care about climbing the social ladder, Eliza is the opposite. The love between these very different sisters is heartwarming.
Go HERE to learn more about Laura Frantz and her books
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell
and Baker
Publishing Group through their book review program. I was not required to write
a positive review. The opinions expressed above 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.”
