Shame on me for never having reviewed any of Laura Frantz‘s books before. I’ve read and enjoyed each and every one and couldn’t believe, when it came time to write this review, that I’ve never devoted a blog review to her before!
Time to fix that–and what better time to do it than with the book that quickly became my favorite of Laura’s.
With a heroine I could well relate to and a sweeping love story that beckoned me to read it slowly (when usually I devour books in a few days), Love’s Fortune has become one of my favorite books of the year.
I love Wren. Rowena Ballantyne is her birth name, but that is almost too royal-sounding for the girl raised in Cane Run, Kentucky, where she wore simple dresses and made violins. But Wren must become Rowena Ballantyne when her father forsakes Cane Run for Pittsburgh, the home of all the other Ballantynes, who are as good as royalty in Pennsylvania.
There Wren is pulled between society and who she really is, what is expected of her and what she really wants.
And what she really wants? Well, that is really James Sackett, who is an honorable man from less-than-honorable circumstances, who is hated by some for his abolitionist work. Wren and James both see through the trappings others place on them–and see they are the same. But near-tragedy and danger and duty threaten to pull them apart.
Complete with the attention to historical detail that I love about Laura’s work (did you know Pittsburgh was so dark with soot during the Industrial Revolution that they wrapped white-clad brides in sheets to protect them from the blackening?), this book sings. Wren is the type of heroine you want to remain loyal to, even with her flaws. And James is not so bad himself.
Couple that with the danger and intrigue subtly swinging its way behind the scenes. I loved how I wasn’t sure until the last page how it would all turn out.
Treat yourself with this book. If you’re at all a fan of history, grand love stories, or family sagas, this one will put you squarely in Laura Frantz’s corner.
About the Author
Award-winning author Laura Frantz is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century, and writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Her family resides in Kentucky and Virginia. According to Publishers Weekly, “Frantz has done her historical homework.”
Visit Laura // Peek Behind the Cover
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Revell provided me with a copy of this book to review. Please read my full disclosure here.
Laura Frantz says
Rachelle, I so love your review ~ and am thrilled you found a kindred spirit in Wren:) I didn’t realize you’ve read all my books. I’m honored and thankful by your words. Your site here is just beautiful – like the writer behind it:) Bless you so much.
Rachelle says
Hi Laura! I have! A shame I’m only just now reviewing them…hmm, excuse for me to re-read, perhaps? :)
And thank you!!
Joanne Bischof says
Laura’s books are stunning, aren’t they? She brings historical christian romance to a whole new art level. I”ve been so blessed by her books. And she herself is SUCH a blessing as well!
Rachelle says
Joanne, e.c.h.o. :)
Laura Frantz says
We’re having a 3 way chat! How cool is that! Love to Joanne, one of my favorite people on the planet – along with Rachelle:) You both inspire and bless me. It’s no surprise that you both are friends. Kindred spirits, truly. Thanks for being here and for the blessing you bring!
Rachelle says
You’re so cool, Laura. No surprise you love Joanne, as well–both of ya’ll are examples of the writer I want to be when I grow up. :)