A Bound Heart

Laura Frantz latest book will take you on a exciting, well researched romp to misty Scotland, in the mid 1700's. From there you will cross the big ocean to colonial Virginia and even Jamaica. Ms. Franz does such an excellent job of making a setting come to life and placing you right there. Her Scottish themes reflect her family heritage. She writes of what she knows. After reading The Lacemaker, one of my top favorite books from 2018, I couldn't wait for her next book to come out. This book was filled with faith, trials, suspense and heartbreak. It was a perfect balance of all of that. You may want to have tissues handy. I loved the character of Lark. She was innocent, honest and such a sweet believable person. The love between her and Magnus was heart breaking at times. Their relationship was close, having grown up since babies together. Fans of Christian historical romance will not be disappointed with Laura's new book. I received a complementary copy of this book from Revell through NetGally. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I don’t know how Franz does it. From the very beginning I easily became invested in the story. She had me reading late into the night, and dreading going to bed, and trust me I love sleep. Franz has quickly become one of my favorites. It took a while to get used to the Scottish brogue, but once I did I loved it. I find myself wanting to say some of the words in my everyday language now. It kind of reminds me of how you end up mimicking your friends. I’m hoping that doesn’t make me weird. Haha. Franz had me on the edge of my seat many times, having no clue what would happen next. I knew what I wanted, but that doesn’t mean I’m going to get it. I loved seeing how the main characters often leaned on their faith to get them through the trials they faced. I can’t wait to see what she does next. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. I loved imagining the gorgeous landscape and how different things were back then. I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishers and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

•*• Like a fantastic miniseries you can’t wait to watch each night •*• This story is so authentic and heartfelt. I was swept up in the emotion of it all the way through. *** This story takes you on an amazing journey beginning in 1752, rich in detail, from the beautiful isle of Kerrara including the castle and its garden, the small cottage homes, the caves where a pirating sea captain offloads his cargo, to the grime and misery of Edinburgh, to the awful ship where indentures and prisoners serve during transport, to the young colonies of America and the slave islands of Jamaica. Lark is a simple and sweet young lady full of never-ending kindness. Her heart is linked to Magnus whom she cannot have. At times she considers Rory, the pirate captain, who may be her best chance at a future. Later she is drawn to Trevor who might meet her needs in America when her options seem to be running out. No matter her thoughts, she continually seeks the Lord for wisdom and guidance. *** This book is so rich in history, faith, and love. I truly enjoyed it. *** Interesting History can be found on Wikipedia re Gylen Castle which recently went through a restoration process thanks to worldwide members of the Clan MacDougall. *** SCOTTISH PROVERB: The devil’s boots don’t creak. *** FAITH QUOTE: For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world. *** TEA QUOTES/MOMENTS: •*• “None could afford salt – or tea – since the Crown taxed both nigh to death.” •*• “Now, shall we have a dish of tea?” No more was said about the past. Lark felt a burden lift like a slate wiped clean. The lovely porcelain tea set appeared, the cozy room suffused with the fragrance of souchong. Though the housekeeper took her tea lain, she remembered Lark liked otherwise. Silver sugar tongs and a small jug of cream sat on the tea table. Truly, tea was the cup that cheered.” •*•“’Twas four o’clock in the afternoon. Lark watched as Mistress Flowerdew poured steaming water into a silver teapot and let the tea leaves steep for the customary three minutes. “I’m growing quite fond of cups with handles,” Theodosia said. “No more burning one’s hands and spilling tea on one’s skirts. I’ve ordered an entire set of Wedgwood from England and expect it any day now.”” *** DEDICATION: “To my sixth great-grandfather, George Hume of Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland.” *** SCOTS GLOSSARY: Can be found at the beginning of the book which was useful and interesting. *** I downloaded a complimentary book in the hopes of a favorable review, with no further compensation thanks to NetGalley and Revell Publishing.