The Seamstress of Acadie is an excellent novel on so many levels. It is a sympathetic and emotional portrayal of a people whose history has been either forgotten or hidden from the rest of the world—except in certain areas such as the Maritime regions of Canada where Acadians first inhabited (and where I am from). They lived in what is today New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Cape Breton, Prince Edward Island and eastern Quebec. Currently, New Brunswick, the only official bilingual province, contains the largest remnant of Acadians in Canada. The population is one third francophone with 34% speaking both English and French. As a result, the Acadian culture is still very prominent there with a celebration of its food, music, language and festivals. If you venture to the French parts of New Brunswick, you will find it offers quite a pleasant experience. There is a joie de vie (joy of life) among the people that is celebrated fiercely and the enthusiasm is catching! I have enjoyed my visits there where the hospitality is warm and welcoming. These people have managed to preserve their nature loving holiday spirit despite their tumultuous history. This is often seen in their rollicking blue grass, country and western fiddling events.

The French first settled in North America in a territory they called ‘Acadie’ on Saint Croix Island in the early 1600s, a place that sits between Canada and United States on the St Croix River at the mouth of the Bay of Fundy (the divider of the two countries in the area of northeastern Maine and southwestern New Brunswick). The Acadians’ first winter was disastrous with many dying from scurvy. So, Champlain moved the community to a new location across the Bay of Fundy to Port Royal in Nova Scotia. In 1605, this location became the capital of Acadia until 1713 when the British took possession. The Treaty of Utrecht ceded the territory to Great Britain but the Acadians were allowed to keep certain lands. Of course, this was the beginning of much friction and sealed the fate of the Acadians and Mi’kmaq natives. As tensions escalated, the French built two forts: one being Fort Beauséjour. Later on, when asked to sign an oath to Britain: many Acadians refused as they were worried they might be called upon to fight against France. They also did not want to put themselves at risk and become enemies of the Indians. And they did not want to lose their faith/religion.

Laura Frantz’s novel initially focuses on Fort Beauséjour. A strategic site important in Acadie built in 1751 on the isthmus that is part of present day New Brunswick and connects with the province of Nova Scotia. Back then, though, the whole region was called Nova Scotia before it was divided in 1784 and became the two provinces of N.S. and N.B. But in 1755 when the French were defeated by the English, the Fort was taken over and everything changed in the lives of the Acadians.

Laura has done a beautiful job of presenting the conflicts and immersing us in the Acadian culture. Her research has served her well. She has shown us the anguish of a people being torn from the home they loved. With no say, they are loaded up on boats and shipped away. Eleven thousand and five hundred Acadians were forced from their lands, divided from their families, and in some cases— witnessed the burning of their homes. Many lost contact with their loved ones as they were deported and scattered to various British eastern seaboard locations. From New England to Georgia, many were put into forced labour or imprisoned.

When contemplating this horrific event, many of us will think of the romantic words of American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow who wrote of the fated lovers separated by the expulsion from their village of Grand Pre, Nova Scotia. Here is a quote from the Prologue of Evangeline: A Tale of Acadie. This poem captured the world’s attention, imagination and heart. And Laura’s novel certainly does the same and reiterates the mood reflected here.

Where is the thatch-roofed village, the home of Acadian farmers,
Men whose lives glided on like rivers that water the woodlands!,
Darkened by shadows of earth, but reflecting an image of heaven?
Waste are those pleasant farms, and the farmers forever departed!
Scattered like dust and leaves, when the mighty blasts of October
Seize them, and whirl them aloft, and sprinkle them far o'er the ocean
Naught but tradition remains of the beautiful village of Grand-Pré.

In Laura’s story, we get to know another young woman, seamstress Sylvie Galant, who is tender-hearted, resilient and full of courage. We follow her journey from the home she loves, the sweet scented apple orchards bathed in welcoming light, to the bowels and darkness of a ship shuddering across the waves to destinations she has never known. Here she must endure great suffering, after the loss and separation of her family and home. Her whole world has been shattered along with her security. Who can she trust? What will become of her? The trauma is heartbreaking but she manages to find an inner strength despite sometimes questioning her faith. And her seamstress abilities become a blessing that serve her well through some trying times. She encounters many people, some new and others from her past. William Blackburn re-enters her life: a man who initially seems to be on the opposite side but over time she realises he is also a victim who has been ‘wronged and wounded’. He does not support the expulsion and makes some major life and profession changes and becomes a positive force for the Acadians. With his help, Sylvie ends up in a place that shows great promise with other fellow Acadians: where she and they can heal and flourish. But, of course, there are conflicts and challenges she must overcome— including prejudice, kidnapping, jealousy and disease. When smallpox erupts, the Acadians try to stay together. Once again, William comes to their aid.

I was happy to see Sylvie find some happiness and a home. Her name really suits her. (It means spirit of the wood.) She loves being surrounded by fields and forests. As the text says: ‘Her whole being cried out for that.’ She thrives in her orchard: growing apples, cherries, peaches, pears and quince. This natural setting revitalises her. Although she has lost everything from her old world, she gains a new home in the new world along with a new perspective through a man who cares about the Acadians and tries to provide for them. The need for and finding a ‘home’ stands out in this quote: ‘Home. Were they not all looking for home?’

This novel kept me fully engaged at all times. The plot was well executed and the characters were exceptionally drawn. (Of course, I especially loved Sylvie and William!) It was easy to feel great emotions for these people who persevered through some pretty awful history. There are a number of brilliant bits of advice dotted throughout the story such as: ‘One’s contentment has more to do with one’s outlook than one’s circumstance’. This can make all the difference in the world to one seeking happiness. I also loved the verses listed at the beginning of each chapter (and scriptures throughout). They reflected beautifully on what followed. Many are my own favourite quotes, including those from various poets and writers.

I have only touched on a few things that make this novel a triumph as there is much to love about it. It was my first read by this author but now I want to buy Laura’s earlier books! (I’ve already started!) It was an honour to read and review The Seamstress of Acadie as it includes a page of history from my own home province in Canada. I highly recommend this thoughtful and inspiring story that will wrap itself around your heart (as it did mine) and never let go. 5 Stars for Creative Excellence ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Huge thanks to publisher Revell and Laura for a review copy.

The Seamstress of Acadie by Laura Frantz will stick with you long after the last page is read. I actually have read two books since this one finished, and I find myself wandering back to it and wanting to know more about what happened after the story ended. When the Acadians are uprooted from their homes in Canada, they are forced onto ships by the English government and taken to the American colonies. Sylvie is a young woman who loses most of her family and must find her way. Will is a Scottish soldier who was working for the English government, but his conscious demands he leaves after the way the Acadians are treated. The two will find each other in Virginia and will discover that, even in the midst of heartache and pain, there can be great joy. I wish I could give it more than five stars. Thanks #NetGalley.

This was an excellent book. The book had very well developed characters. The author wrote with such descriptive words I often felt as though I was an unseen observer in the scenes from many of the chapters. I would definitely read another book by this author. I am very thankful for the way GOD, Scripture, and HIS Hope was woven throughout the book. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a Christian perspective exquisitely written throughout the story.

The Seamstress of Acadie is a beautiful story that shares the heart-wrenching history of the Acadian people and their exile from their homeland by the English. Although their story is one of great sadness, it's also one of great perseverance and strength. The characters in this book embody that strength, both physically and emotionally.

Sylvie Galant is the daughter of a prominent Acadian family and has whole-heartedly embraced her life as a seamstress. When that life is torn from her and her family is forced from their home and onto a ship southbound, they are all devastated. William Blackburn has played a regrettable part in the Acadians banishment and has decided to resign from his post and walk away from that life. When he and Sylvie come face to face once again, their attraction to one another is undeniable. Their romance is wonderfully written and organic. I absolutely loved it!

From the historical details to the barrier of language to the cultural and religious differences, the difficulties these people faced is on every page. But their hope and joy and strength is extremely evident from beginning to end.
Go grab yourself a glass of cider and let Laura Frantz sweep you away!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

When it comes to Christian fiction, Laura Frantz is one of the authors at the top of my “must read” list and the reason why is simple. Nobody—and I mean nobody—weaves a rich and vibrant tapestry of history and heritage like Frantz, always interlaced with a tender love story that woos the heart and awakens the soul. The Seamstress of Acadie is no different, gifting its readers with yet another masterful addition to this award-winning author’s many heart- and soul-wrenching tales that always leaves one better for the reading.

Thank you to Laura Frantz and Revell for this #gifted book!*
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Synopsis: “Of late she’d felt that same nightmarish foreboding as when the English ships came into Acadie, before all their lives unraveled. What did the future hold?” Sylvie Gallant works as a seamstress in the area of Canada known as Acadie. Everything is perfect and peaceful as the Acadians strive to live their lives in community with those around them. But as war between the French and English threaten this peaceful peoples’ home, everything in her life threatens to unravel too. Sylvie must learn who to trust, how to survive, and where to look for hope. In a tale of suffering, romance, and faith, Laura Frantz weaves together the story of Sylvie and an English soldier that tell the untold history of the people of Acadie.

Analysis: This was my first Laura Frantz book, and I honestly have no idea how I’ve missed out on her for so long! The writing style is beautiful, and I loved the rich historical detail. The Acadians are a people group I knew very little about until reading this novel. Laura brings a new perspective to North American history as you see the struggles of refugees in colonial times in both Canada and America. I loved the insight she brought not just into history but also into faith. The characters struggle with the hard question of “where is God in the midst of suffering?” A question we still wrestle with today. While it is a heavy topic overall, the romance between Sylvie and her beau is slow-burning but sweet. This book will leave you with a new outlook and hope as you dive into Sylvie’s story.

Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

*I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Laura Frantz offers a meticulously researched story. I found it slow at first but was able to become more invested in the lives of the characters as the book progressed.

Laura Franz has a talent for writing historical fiction. I absolutely loved this beautiful novel. Because I’ve lived in the locations talked about, it was so easy to picture the scenes and get lost in this beautiful story. I ached for Sylvie as she lost everything dear to her and left the beautiful land she had grown up loving. She was so strong and resilient as she dealt with the heartbreaking circumstances her family faced.

All of the rich history and details of the time, combined with a slow burn romance, kept me turning pages. The novel portrays the horrors and unfairness of the Acadian people being removed from their land and their subsequent demise or unwelcome in the southern states. In our current time there is so much upheaval and so many innocent refugees seeking safety after the devastating loss of all they know. It was a good reminder to me of the humanness of the experience. Laura Franz has a gift for transporting me back in time, while also opening my eyes to the universal plight of people that are affected by war and greed. While devastating, I loved that the story ended with hope. The courage and resilience of these characters will stay with me.

What a beautiful love story! It starts by taking place in Acadie, a French Colony, which is present day Nova Scotia, all from the viewpoint of Sylvie Galant. It’s the mid 1700’s & the British invade Acadie & remove all the Acadians by putting them on ships. Many don’t make the treacherous trip, but those who do, find themselves in Virginia. There are so many trials & Sylvie finds herself using her seamstress skills to keep moving forward after so much loss. Love conquers all trials & can really change people for the good. I definitely recommend this one to anyone who loves historical fiction!

This book shared details of a time and event I knew nothing about. That’s one reason why I enjoy reading historical so much, so I can learn about history. And reading a book beautifully written makes it even better. The tragedy that happened to the people of Acadia is so sad. The author handled it very well and gave us a story with history, sadness, beauty and hope all within the pages and so much more. I definitely recommend this book, it’s one I found myself reading whenever I had a moment, because I wanted to know their story. And after I was done I find myself wishing there was more pages. I really like when a book gives that feeling. I received a copy of the book from the publisher. All views stated here are my own.

4.5 stars

“But trouble is what we have, mon cher, and it is going to get worse before it gets better.”

In my review for The Rose and the Thistle last year I said, “Nobody captures the setting, the lilt, the romance and heartbreak of history quite like Laura Frantz does” and she has proven me right once again with The Seamstress of Acadie. This novel set both in Nova Scotia and the Virginia colony – places that come alive under Frantz’s direction – is a slow burn story, richly told, with gorgeous gems of wordsmithing like:

“Snowflakes swirled, adorning her garments like exquisite embroidery and turning the near woods into a glittering blur.”

Sylvie Galant is the kind of resilient heroine that makes historical fiction settle around you like both a rallying cry and a warm embrace, one whose inner strength you hope to absorb as you follow her across the pages. I loved her character. Tenderhearted with a love for family and her beloved orchards, Sylvie is also a talented seamstress capable of creating beauty with a needle and thread. I enjoyed watching that God-given talent open doors for her even amid the prejudice in Virginia toward the Acadians.

To my shame, I had never heard of the atrocities committed against the Acadians of Nova Scotia, hard-working & peace-loving people who just wanted to live in the land they so loved and pass down a legacy of both for future generations. As I read about how they were treated by the British and Virginians alike I was again heartbroken at how evil humans can be toward one another. Oh that we would understand how we are all created in the image of God, that our differences make life more colorful and vibrant, and that we can learn far more from each other than we have to fear. I’ve digressed from my original point but I would be remiss to ignore the history that Frantz paints so poignantly for us – or the lessons we can yet learn from Sylvie’s story and those who stood up for the displaced then… and even now.

Here is where I also admit that I was getting a bit twitchy when we didn’t meet the hero until chapter 16 (because I’m shallow & here for the romance lol). But oh mercy Will is worth the wait! He is both rugged and kind, strong and principled, a man of faith, a man capable of great love, and quite swoonworthy once smitten. I adored him from the moment he first encounters Sylvie and – like her – became increasingly besotted with him as the story progressed. His loyal canine companion Bonami was another highlight for me, as was Will’s championing the people of Acadie even to his own detriment.

Bottom Line: The Seamstress of Acadie is another beautifully rendered story by Laura Frantz, one that is in turns heartbreaking and heart-lifting but always heartfelt. The faith thread is so tender, pointing us to God’s presence even in the darkest of times while also not ignoring the pain of those times, and a specific scene involving the 23rd Psalm touched me deeply. Readers will fall in love with Sylvie, Will, and Bonami as well as the host of other vividly-drawn characters I haven’t even touched on yet – not the least of which is Sylvie’s brother Bleu whom I hope we see more of in a future book by this author. These beloved new fictional friends will take you through a range of intense emotions, and Frantz’s exquisite storytelling will keep you holding your breath as you eagerly turn the pages one after another to learn of their fates. Grab some chocolate and/or cider and immerse yourself in this gorgeous story post haste!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

“The Seamstress of Acadie” is historical fiction at its finest! I was blown away by both the storytelling and the storyline. Laura Franz took a part of history that I knew nothing about and wove a stunning tale that I hope to revisit again.

The character and relationship development was perfection throughout the book. I loved Sylvie and Will. Sylvie is determined and strong. Will is kind and thoughtful. Both have faced difficulties and come out stronger. I loved the relatability of both these characters.

The storytelling was beautiful. I loved the way history was woven into the characters' lives. The author chose to tell a piece of history that was difficult, and did so in a way that took me as a reader through the highs and the lows.

“The Seamstress of Acadie” was a breathtaking read. It is perfect for anyone who loves Christian and historical fiction with romance.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy. These thoughts are my own.

I loved the combination of realistic historic premise and compelling challenges the characters faced in this book. The characters were deep and human and I quickly became absorbed in their plight. There were many challenges, but an underlying strength through faith buoyed them throughout. It kept the difficulties light enough to bear. I also enjoyed seeing characters from A Heart Adrift, though this book can stand alone.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

The language of this book stick out to me from the beginning. It is so deep and rich. In the writing, in the nuances of the tone, in the background, in the setting up of the story. You don't just have a short history of where the characters of have been. You see their life, the big and small details written out to feel surrounded by who they are. You feel like you're immersed in their world from the very beginning. Such depth in every aspect explained.

This story gives a lot to the setting. The corner of utopia and the unsteadiness of its beautiful consistency. And when you are reading it, you anticipate something strong and fierce is about to shift through the story at several points. The detailed description of the lands that Sylvie has grew up in. Her world is vividly described and expounded upon. Her family, not just a few, but a clan of people, a community, a unit knit together tightly in one working body. The love of a trade that Sylvie has as a seamstress. Not just a job, but something that throughout the story gives her purpose and meaning in even the worst of times. A man that is a warrior, like her brother that she adores, and she compares and contrasts throughout the story to him sometimes unknowingly but oddly comforting at the same time. Losses of life and despair.. Heartbreak and then heartbreak again. A rollercoaster of twists and turns of a life that your not sure where the destination will reveal. Slow page turning, soaking up the story but anticipating what will happen next. A love that is intangible, but gradually manifests in a deep, and fierce way. Umm...the best kind.
Definitely had a few plot twists and directions of the story that I didn't anticipate on this one.
I want to already read it again and relish the passages.

I love this author's books; she is an automatic read author. I have read all but one of her books. She has written on so many subjects, all equally well that I've enjoyed. Her books are such a pleasure to read. I love the fact that I learn so much from reading her books and have to look up the meaning of a few words when I read her books. I didn't understand any of the French while reading this, it's okay though as I did get the gist of what was being said.
Canada's Acadia, now known as Nova Scotia, which is a fact I found interesting to learn.
Acadian woman Seamstress Sylvie Galant and her family--French-speaking Acadians wish to remain neutral to the tensions between the French and the British.
A heartbreaking banishment means the Acadians are adrift in a forced ocean voyage with circumstances that force families apart. Surely the shore will bring some relief. How do you manage a whole new way of life forced upon you with unknown customs, foods and rules?
I was drawn into the book and eagerly followed how Sylvie adapted to her new home and makes a life for herself working and using her sewing skills to help others. I was pleased to see how she found Wiliam again in Virginia. They must work through the complexities of life to forge a beautiful life together. Faith based and uplifting read.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

I do enjoy a book which teaches me something, preferably from another period of history, & this one does not disappoint. As soon as I saw the author’s name, my immediate thought was “This is going to be good!” – I didn’t even need to know what it was about. Although I have read about the Acadians before, this book has brought them more to life for me. The descriptions are so well done that I could imagine myself right there amongst them. This is a top quality book, with an engrossing story matched with well-drawn characters. Definitely one to be recommended!

Another beautifully poignant book by master author Laura Frantz! It is the mid 1700’s and war is about to ensue between the French and British in Canada. Sylvie Galant and her family, who are Acadian are caught in the crosshairs of this ever-growing tension. When war does come and Sylvie and her family are forcibly removed from their land, Sylvie must find the strength to survive. William Blackburn, a British Army Ranger, has caused chaos across North America. When he realizes what will happen to the people of Acadia when war comes to them, he resigns his commission. Sylvie and Will’s paths have crossed more than once. When they see each other again in Virginia, can they work together to salvage what remains of Sylvie’s People or will their differences be too much to overcome? I have long admired Ms. Frantz as an author. I learned many things that I previously did not know, when reading this novel. I appreciate the complexity of the characters, the historical facts, and the threads of faith woven into each page. Rich in historical detail and emotion, Ms. Frantz has written a novel that comes to life and will ultimately leave an indelible mark on the soul of the reader. I thank NetGalley and Revell for an ARC of this book. I am not required to give a positive a review. All opinions within this review are my own.

Laura Frantz never disappoints. Her research is impeccable and her stories draw you in with rich dialogue and characters. Sylvie and Bleu Galant as well as the Scottish Will Blackburn endure trials and even tragedies on their unexpected journey from Acadie (Nova Scotia) to the early colonies. Their lives intertwine as they struggle to feel God’s presence, while simultaneously clinging to His promises wondering if forgiveness and redemption are possible. I’m already excited for Frantz’ next tale of adventure!

Thank you very much, Laura Frantz, Revell Books, and Austen Prose PR for sending me a copy of The Seamstress of Acadie to read and review. All thoughts expressed in this review reflect only my honest opinion.

As an avid reader of historical fiction, I always love reading books that teach me about a part of history that I haven't yet encountered. The Seamstress of Acadie did exactly that, with an adventure mingling tragedy, endurance, faith, and love.

The cruelty of the British towards the inhabitants of Acadie shocked me - especially since it all really happened. It baffles me how thoroughly and quickly they were able to clear modern-day Nova Scotia of its civilians, essentially giving the land a clean slate for their own settlers. It gave me a better understanding of the urgency to resist that the American colonists felt when the British turned their attention to their American colonies and began to exert more control there. Through the eyes of Sylvie, the reader gets a personal view of the tragic experience of the Acadian people, as well as their strength and endurance as they tried to build new lives in a society that often viewed them with hostility and suspicion.

The characters in this book are so vibrant. Sylvie is easy to love and her resilience through the many tragedies she experiences is remarkable. I also admired how she never allowed her heart to grow cold and kept it open to love, whether it be love for family and friends, or romantic love. I thought that she and Will were very well-suited for each other and enjoyed reading about the progression of their relationship. I do wish that Will's own character development had been a little more detailed - his change in loyalty, though explained in a way that makes sense, still comes off as abrupt. I would have liked to have seen a little more turmoil from him as his priorities changed. That said, I liked his quiet faith and patience with Sylvie as she grieved the loss of her former life and began to build a new one. I especially liked the frequent reflections on Psalm 23 in the second half of the book.

The Seamstress of Acadie is a book that's going to sit with me for quite some time. I really enjoyed reading it and it's one I'll definitely recommend to family and friends who enjoy historical fiction. If you also like well developed stories about lesser-known historical events with a bit of faith and romance mixed into the plot, you won't want to miss this book!

This book was exactly what I have come to expect from Laura Frantz....amazing! I enjoyed Sylvie and Will's story so much! This was a well researched novel of the Acadian people. So much heartbreak, yet so much hope!! I have added the physical copy to my shelf to be treasured!