A Heart Adrift - by Laura Frantz

I Love Esme and Henri’s story! Beyond the beautiful book cover, this historical romance set in 18th century Virginia is a well written story that steals your heart from beginning to end. With a swoony sea captain, a beautiful chocolatier, and an island lighthouse, this second chance romance embraces all of the elements of a great love story while also including a host of historical details and a beautiful spiritual arc. I read this book with both the ebook and audiobook and thoroughly enjoyed Barbara McCulloh’s interpretation of Henri and the other characters. Although she falls out of character here in there, her intonations and diction added an authentic flair to the story and gave life to a broad cast of characters. This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language.

4.5 stars "I've learned to pray, 'Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.'" "Tis a brave prayer." "Tis the best, most honest prayer." "In the day of my calamity, the Lord was my stay." Was He? Had He been? . . . . from all appearances it seemed that Esmee Shaw's heart had gone adrift for ten long years. . . . . . . simply put, she had lost her anchor. Making the most of her life as an accomplished chocolatier, Esmee also faithfully supported the local almshouse with her time, attention, and gifts of charity. While her father; a highly respected retired admiral, and her sister; a lovely, married, Williamsburg socialite, entreated Esmee to leave the remnants of her past behind, she chose to continue living a rather simple life. Until one day, simple wasn't enough anymore; the captain had returned. Captain Henri Lennox sailed into the quiet waters off the York, Virginia coastline after numerous years at sea, having become a successful privateer with abolitionist loyalties with a private island just waiting on him to re-claim it as his own. However, nothing could have prepared him to see Esmee again, the former love of his life turned elegant, but uncharacteristically reserved and subdued. Where had the lovely creature who had run through the waves with him disappeared to? Better yet, did he even deserve to know? The craftsmanship of this story is nothing short of extraordinary. Every character counts. Tenderly preserving one of the most beautiful love stories written between two covers, it also puts faith and forgiveness on full display, drawing readers ever closer to the one true Light of the world, the true Anchor of our souls. "In Christ and thee my comfort be."

After reading this book, my fascination with chocolate has reached a new level! Author Laura Frantz takes us into the life of a chocolatier in the year 1755 and offers us a fascinating tale that is rich in historical detail and the mention of chocolate. Esmee Shaw operates her family's chocolate shop, and she is a devoted daughter, sister, and friend. She is also a twenty-eight-year woman who still loves the man who left her ten years ago to pursue his love of the sea. Is Captain Henri Lennox a respected privateer, or is he a pirate? Will Esmee ever know the joy that comes from being a wife and mother? I was mesmerized by A Heart Adrift, and my love of history was fed by this story that includes the American colonies becoming involved in a war with France. I felt like I was living in York, Virginia, and I could almost taste those delicious chocolate delicacies. I could feel how torn Esmee was at the return of the man that she had never forgotten, and I also felt Henri's uncertainty when he returned. Watching them reconnect made my own heart flutter, and I truly wanted a happy ending for them! This is a story of love lost, hope regained, and a faith that sustains through the worst of times. I highly recommend A Heart Adrift to all who enjoy historical fiction and clean romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. There was no obligation of a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.

A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz is a stand-alone colonial romance. Esmee Shaw contents herself by working in her chocolate shop after a failed romance. Captain Henri Lennox returns to York after several years at sea. Can Esmee and Henri overcome the past and start anew? Will they get a second chance? What a lovely romance story; throw in chocolate, a lady light keeper, a sea captain, treasure and political intrigue and you have the makings of a great story. Esmee was such a strong woman. She was always helping those less fortunate. The story ended way too soon! I received this book from the publisher for my honest review.

A historically rich slow burn romance, with well researched details that come alive as a love once thought lost is given another chance. Chocolatier Esmee Shaw has contented herself tending to the needs of her family's shop and advocating for those in need. But when the dashing sea captain who once claimed her heart a decade ago, re-emerges into her life she struggles with uncertainty and the ghosts of lost dreams. On the brink of a coming war with France, is an uncertain future enough on which to rekindle an old romance? A thoughtful read, that pays great attention to detail to bring colonial times to life. One of my favorite things about Ms. Frantz is how she does such a wonderful job of rendering authentic patterns of speech and dialect for the time. This book is no different. Esmee is a sensible and compassionate heroine, who knows her own heart. She is a rock for her father and sister, and through her kindness has won a handful of true friends. Henri is honorable, a man of integrity with a natural leadership about him. Overall, this was a absorbing read that I was loathe to put down. A captivating read with characters masterfully created and brought to life. The story reminded me a bit of Persuasion by Jane Austen. I loved how the faith was a natural part of the everyday lives of the characters, and two of the people that surprised me most were Nathaniel and Eliza. A well written novel of love, faith, hope, as richly tempered as the chocolate. Highly recommend. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

You had me at Williamsburg, the water and chocolate! Esmee Shaw is a confident chocolatier in York, Virigina (present day Yorktown) but not quite confident about her feelings for her past love until he walks back into her life. Oh but Henri with his French ways, makes her think twice. Not without a little cat and mouse game though. While reading I could just imagine the waterfront vistas and couldn't help but ponder what it ACTUALLY looked like back then. Being a lover of the beach and water and oh the lighthouses, I love that this novel had one in it! Some of the themes were very timely as well. I loved Laura's Courting Morrow Little, The Lacemaker and The Colonel's Lady but this one, this novel has my heart...no pun intended. If you are looking for a cozy winter read or a summer beach read...look no further, get this one!

A Heart Adrift is among one of the best pre Revolutionary War novels I have read to date. I loved being transported back in time to Colonial Virginia. I adored Esmée’s story and getting to know her. The historical details made me feel as though I was living among her inner circle and watching her in real time. I loved the chemistry she had with Henri. Such a beautiful story. I loved every single page. I am giving A Heart Adrift a very well deserved five plus stars. Readers who enjoy reading clean historical fiction, particularly those set during the American colonial time period. It is definitely not one to be missed. I believe it is going to be among my favorites I have read in 2022. I received a paperback copy of A Heart Adrift from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

I read A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz twice before writing this review. I enjoyed the novel more the second time and came away with the same conclusions. Laura Frantz is a master wordsmith. The lyrical narrative amazed me with its beauty and had me adding words like “mayhap” and “ken” to my daily vocabulary. The plot in A Heart Adrift held my attention, even as it meandered. Chapters 69-73 felt like a set up for another book featuring certain characters from this novel (rumored to be a 2024 release). With excellent historical details of Colonial Virginia, I learned much about this time in history and felt immersed in the setting. A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz rekindled my love for hot chocolate. Almost every day since reading this book, I’ve had a cup. Though my chocolate comes out of a pack, I enjoyed reading about Esmée’s chocolate confections and preferred hot cocoa recipe. Like Captain Lennox’s weakness for chocolate, a good romance can make me melt and the romantic tension in A Heart Adrift had me flipping pages to see how the romance would unfurl. The way the reunion came about disappointed me a bit, but Henri and Esmée still made a lovely couple. A Heart Adrift is not my favorite novel by Laura Frantz, but I’m still a fan of this author and I’m glad I gave it a try. Clean romance readers with a taste for chocolate, beautiful writing, and historical settings will likely enjoy A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz. Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

Esmée Shaw has harbored feelings for Henri Lennox for ten years. After her mother’s death, Esmée has taken over her work at the almshouse and at her chocolate shop. And although she is content, she still longs for something worthwhile to do with her life. When Henri returns from the sea, Esmée’s sister plans a reunion between he and Esmée. The meeting is awkward but as they continue to run in to each other, a friendship develops. And Esmée boldly steps forward to capture a past dream. I thought this was a well written and captivating story. I was immediately drawn into the tension of the feelings between Esmée and Henri. They both really cared for one another but were reluctant and fearful to express those feelings. And the author was good at using words and circumstances to convey those feelings and that uncertainty. I really liked both main characters, they were confident in themselves and strong in their convictions. The year in which the story takes places, 1755 (during the threat of war between England and France), was a good back drop for this romance. The author seemed to have researched the era well and had a lot of historical details woven into the story, which I enjoyed. There were interesting plot twists, but it certainly was not high action and there were parts that progressed slowly. Overall, I thought this was an excellent story and one I would recommend reading if you like historical romance.

A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz is the tale of Esmee and her former love, Henri. However, with Henri's love for the sea and a variety of circumstances, their love was not meant to be. Until...Henri has returned and crosses path with Esmee. They both have deep concern for others but do they have concern for each other? This story is written in the mid 1700's. The language is reflective of that time. I did find the language a little difficult to read, but the story more than makes up for it. You will be captivated by Henri and Esmee's relationship. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do.

Book Review: A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz A Heart Adrift is an historical romance novel, although I would wish it were a series. I think its story could have continued on in one or two more books instead of just one novel. The book opens with a Prologue on the Virginia Coast in April 1745, yet the main story continues ten years later in York, Virginia 1755. The story centers around two main characters Esmee Shaw and Henri Lennox who fell in love in 1745, yet because of circumstances were separated by the sea. Both heartsick and hurt, they each went their separate ways, trying to live purposeful lives, yet neither ever forgetting the other as the flame of their love never went out. Now, ten years later Captain Henri Lennox returns to York with his sailing vessel to perhaps revive a long-lost dream on his Indigo Island, not even imagining that he might rekindle a relationship with Esmee Shaw, but upon seeing her he can't help but wish he could. Esmee now an independent single woman, chocolatier and proprietor of Shaw's Chocolate Shop, outwardly wants nothing to do with Captain Lennox and tries to avoid him at all costs, yet inwardly she has to admit she is still attracted to him. This book seemed to start out slow, focusing on past events, taking the reader on a leisurely walk about York to view its seaport town and Chocolate Shop. Tempting the reader to imagine the sights and smells of the delicious chocolate treats and the smells of the sea. It also takes the reader into the politics and culture of the day, transporting him/her to Williamsburg, PA for a historical tour of the city life of that time and the events surrounding the threat of war between the colonies and France. Once lured halfway into its pages this novel captures the reader and pulls him/her into drama, suspense and action. No longer a leisurely walk, the reader is propelled to run, hide, gasp, fret, sorrow, cry, and wonder what will happen next, as he/she becomes so much a part of its pages it is hard to stop reading. This book had so many wonderful words used in the time of Old English and French culture, that I very frequently did have to stop reading and go to the dictionary to look up their meaning. In my mind, that makes it a quite unique story and one that made me love it more, as I love words and their meanings. So, in conclusion, I would say I really enjoyed reading this novel and I do wish it was a series, so its story could continue. I was given a copy of this novel by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.

Laura Frantz proves once again her mastery of early American romance. Her ability to wrap a beautiful romantic story with accurate, vivid history is unique and so incredibly enjoyable! And this story, one of second chance love, forgiveness, and perseverance is just lovely. I received a complimentary copy of this story through Revell. All opinions expressed are my own.

Whew! I got down to nearly the very last page there and wasn’t sure how things could possibly wrap up satisfactorily! I enjoyed this book immensely. With its slow build, it was a very enjoyable change of pace from the last few books I’ve read recently. And did I mention I’m in love with lighthouses?!? So, win-win, lol! Author Laura Frantz has an extraordinary knack for taking historical settings and breathing life into them. Her stories really make the past come alive in a way that I’ve seldom experienced. I loved the captain and I loved Esmée, along with a whole slew of fun side characters! The colonial seaside and island settings had me enraptured and the storytelling and attention to detail in wording was almost poetic, it was so pretty! I look forward to Ms. Frantz’s next release extremely enthusiastically!

After reading A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz, how can I be so disloyal to Esmée and Henri as to start another book? I read this novel as slowly as I could, savoring every poetic turn of phrase and lyrical word picture! A Heart Adrift has left my heart undone!! Replete with romance, intrigue, faith, and history, Laura Frantz has created another enduring masterpiece. The evils of slavery, both for those captured and those who fought it are presented. Trust in God and constant reliance on His Word and communion with Him permeate the lives of both Esmée and Henri, even through harrowing times. Set against the capriciousness of the sea and early colonial politics (1745-1755) mixed with the delicious smells of a chocolatier’s shop and difficult family dynamics, this is one historical romance that will bring the early colonial struggles to vivid life. I received a copy of the book from the author and Revell through NetGalley. I also bought myself and a loved one a paperback copy to treasure. Notable Quotables: “He chose the sea—his captaincy and ship—over me.” “And I could not conscience being left behind onshore.” “And then, much like a courtship, as wooing as a siren’s song, the sea had finally won him over.” Her fervent prayers went the way of her hopes and became floating wreckage. “How can you possibly provide all these items, Miss Shaw?” “I shan’t provide them,” Esmée said with a confident smile, pocketing the paper. “The Almighty shall.” “…the island suddenly felt a tad hollow, as did his cottage. To say nothing of his heart.” “ 'Tis never amiss to hope . . . dream.” “I don’t believe in accidents, nor coincidences, but rather divine instances,”… "Especially in matters of the heart.” “As for myself, I am in the prime of senility.” "The only certainty about life was its uncertainty. Only God stayed steadfast. Only the Almighty could walk her through life’s many changes. And when she felt overwhelmed, like now, she simply had to look back to see how faithful God had been, did she not? The heartaches and closed doors of the past had made the present more beloved." “Those for whom God has mercy in store He first brings into a wilderness.”

A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz is another spectacular historical novel by this author. It took a mere chapter to be completely captivated by Esmée and Henri’s story. The historical detail and landscape was painted seamlessly along with the story–from the warmth and glorious scents of Esmée’s chocolatier shop to Henri’s salty, seascaped island, I was completely immersed in the detailed backdrop of 1700s Virginia. It’s a perfect escape. I don’t need much convincing to fall for a handsome, sea-faring captain, but Henri is irresistible. The French endearments. His generous heart. His stalwart courage. His roguish winks. Sigh. But Esmée held her own in the story. I loved her old soul view of the world, how she spent years grieving her mother by honoring her work, and how she was willing to step out of the world’s expectations to follow the path God prepared for her. I almost felt her a kindred spirit in that we both turn to Psalms when dealing with trials in life. Overall, my heart was captured by the beautiful love story on these pages. Fans of historical fiction/historical romance will adore this book! I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Ahh, what a lovely way to usher in the New Year—with another beautifully written book by author Laura Frantz and a cup of hot chocolate (definitely must have chocolate on hand!)—in her typically haunting, poetic prose. My heart is still raw from the poignancy of an innocent, precious love found...then lost, complex characters who quickly wrap themselves around your heart, and a war laced with tragedy. Warning: Our heroine, Esmée Shaw is a chocolatier, so reading of said book may induce cravings for chocolate and other delectable sweet treats. I craved carbs throughout the entire book! Although quite vulnerable to Captain Lennox's many charms (who wouldn't be?), I found Esmée to be quite courageous and strong in the face of many hardships and loss—yet still remaining a beacon to many. I dearly delighted in the colonial setting—the balls, the seaside island, the lighthouse, and betimes a certain gothic aura permeated throughout. There is simply not a thing about Laura Frantz's books that I don't thoroughly enjoy and 'A Heart Adrift' was no exception...as I totally immersed myself in the lives and loves of each character. And as always I'm loath to say goodbye to good friends. "In the day of my calamity, the Lord was my stay." (Quote taken from A Heart Adrift) I received an early copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to write a review. Therefore all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I have no adequate words to compliment this beautiful book. A masterpiece, as all of these author’s books always seem to me. The way she writes is so lyrical and enchanting, and her vocabulary and historical details are so ample and well researched that I truly felt as if I’m in Virginia, during the colonial era, in 1771, when a war with France seemed imminent. Esmée Shaw, a talented Chocolatier in York, has always wondered what could’ve been, ten years ago, if she hadn’t rejected Captain’s Henri Lenox marriage proposal because she didn’t want to end like her deceased mother, with a husband that spent more time at the sea than at home. She never saw Henri again after that. And a decade later, her heart is still adrift, has never found a home like it did with Henri. Even though she fills her life with purpose, working at the Chocolate Shop her mother left her, and helping in the almhouse, where the destitute live. So, when she encounters Captain Lenox, when he returns to port after so many years of absence, she tries to hide her feelings and feign indifference. She hasn’t forgiven him, and she can’t risk having her heart broken again. But, after more -maybe not so fortuitous- encounters, even she cannot deny the desires of her own heart. Captain Henri Lenox hasn’t forgotten Esmée either, but when they meet again, he finds she’s not the same joyful woman he loved. She has erected high walls, and he feels guilty for being the reason. Will she ever forgive him? His heart is wary of the coming and goings of the sea and longs for a stable life. But his heart only beats for Esmée, always has, and just when a spark of hope ignites between them, he receives a dangerous mission that could mean everything for the war efforts against France. Will he have to give up his dream for duty to his country? I can’t praise this book highly enough. The plot was intricate and complex, full of emotion and drama. It felt so realistic because of the many historical details surrounding the characters, the scenery, the customs of colonial America, the deepness of the characters development and feelings. I fell in love with Esmée and Henri. Esmée is a very strong and independent woman, with a heart of gold that aches with the less fortunate suffering and pain, and not only she feels their pain but does what she can to better their lives. She’s not one to be swayed by society expectation, as her sister Eliza. Henri is a wonderful hero. I loved his gentleness, in spite of having lived a rough life and many adventures at the sea. His integrity and honesty, he was a godly man, but not in an unrealistic way, but totally relatable. He was charming. His love for Esmée was a sight to behold, their romance the kind that can overcome time and space. My heart ached for all the obstacles that came their way until they could be happily united. Ms. Frantz weaves a magnificent story, a delight to read. There were moments that were slower paced, especially at the beginning, but I found that every part of the story was equally enjoyable, be it a sweet moment, a tragic one, an ordinary one, because of the way it was narrated from the main characters point of view. I felt so close to them, to their struggles and feelings, that I got immersed in the story as if I was transported almost four centuries ago. I especially loved the detailed scenes at the chocolate shop (it gave me such cravings that I just had to satisfy) and at the Island and the lighthouse. Everything was so vividly described! This is definitely another winner for this author. As always, I find myself wishing I didn’t have to wait so long for a new book of hers to come out, but there’s no doubt the wait is definitely worth it! Highly recommended to Historical Romance lovers! A book that will captivate you and enchant you!

Laura Frantz has the unparalleled ability to combine history, romance, and faith to create stunning masterpieces of the written word, and she has once again delivered a magnificent story with A Heart Adrift. Laura has deep insight into the human spirit and Christian faith, and her characters always overcome trials by the grace of God and with strong spiritual lessons learned along the way. It is what makes her work so undoubtedly encouraging to those who enjoy inspirational fiction. Laura Frantz excels in using imagery to set a scene, and A Heart Adrift was no exception. I could smell the richness of the cocoa in the chocolate shop. I could see the fall foliage and hustle and bustle of Williamsburg as if I were right in the middle of it all. And the island……ah, the island. I could hear the waves, smell the salt in the air, and see the sea unfolding before me from the windy lighthouse tower. Laura painted each scene with such lyrical descriptions that I felt like I was standing right next to Esmee to experience it all. Best of all, A Heart Adrift features a second chance relationship with a strong heroine, dreamy hero, and romantic chemistry that could make a reader weak in the knees! With a wonderful cast of side characters that make the story all the more exciting, Esmee and Henri journey from being estranged lovers to having their own happily ever after with plenty of adventure in between. I simply cannot give this book any higher esteem, and words do not adequately describe how it captivated me. Do not miss this breathtaking adventure with romance, faith, suspense… and a bit of chocolate. I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher for review purposes. My thoughts are my own. I truly adored it!

Set in the Virginia Colony in the 1750s, A Heart Adrift tells the love story of Captain Henri Lennox and chocolatier Esmée Shaw. This is no simple love story as the novel delves into the themes of the value of human life, the worth of all no matter the station of life, and the importance of a life well-lived. Themes our culture would do well to consider. As always Frantz's research is evident, placing readers securely in the time and place alongside memorable characters. Her writing evokes deep empathy and compassion. She has inspired me to want to once again visit Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown once this pandemic is under greater control. For now, I will sit down with a cup of hot chocolate and a good book. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of A Heart Adrift from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Such an enchanting and beautiful story steeped in history and sprinkled with chocolate. Totally my kind of book! I enjoyed every moment of A Heart Adrift by Author Laura Frantz. Her skilled pen, impeccable research, and authentic characters always make for a delightful experience. For that's what reading Laura Frantz books are, an experience; a moment in time when all else falls away and the story comes alive. This deeply layered and moving story touches on themes of uncertainty, bravery, second chances, illness, loss, family, friendship, integrity, growth in faith, also so sweet and romantic. Also the issues of slavery, freedmen, and indentured servants are present at this time in colonial history. "The twelve days of Christmas leading to Epiphany in January were treasured by them all. " (Exactly when I was reading this, on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th day of Christmas!) "The only certainty about life was it's uncertainty. Only God stayed steadfast." Come to York, and Williamsburg, Virginia and meet Chocolatier Esmee Shaw and her father Admiral Barnabas Shaw, her sister Eliza , and brother-in-law Quinn Cheverton (Lord & Lady Drysdale). Come meet dashing Captain Henri Lennox, recently returned with his loyal crew and ship, the Relentless, after many years and a failed relationship with Esmee. I highly recommend A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz. Fans of historical fiction will LOVE this! One of the many historical things I enjoyed learning about were Posey rings and their inscriptions. Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own. P.S. Let me just say "Well Done Eliza!" (After you read this, you will know what I mean.)