Louis Lestarjette, a Frenchman, arrives in Charles Town, South Carolina, in 1772 without purpose or plans. He encounters a society on the brink of revolution and is forced to make decisions that include finding meaning and direction in his carefree life. Who can he trust in his endeavors to prosper? Will he be able to stay neutral in a battle for independence? When decisive events confront him, … him, will he stay or leave? Running from God and commitment is a constant option.
Elizabeth Elliott, daughter of a prominent British citizen, believes God will hold her close in uncertain and changing times. Faced with making difficult decisions about her loyalties, she finds comfort in close friends, a devout sister, and her music. When the mysterious Frenchman with no commitment to God or Charles Town enters her life, her role in the political battle is challenged. Can she trust her heart in volatile situations?
Set in pre-revolution Charles Town, Hold Me Close takes the reader into the lives of immigrants, ordinary citizens, and prominent historical figures at a time in which decisions are made that will change the world.
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This book reminded me of Georgette Heyer with its rich historical detail and a prosaic tone that flows like a classical piano melody. It is ideal for historical fiction fans who relish a well-researched story. The pace is gentle, the plot is layered, and the writing is delicately crafted. Ideal for readers who seek a sweet, clean, inspirational romance.
Marguerite’s first book of the Revolutionary Faith series is the perfect story to begin this saga. She weaves the lives of the characters together seamlessly. I came to adore each character and to identify with their struggles and hope for their successes. The backdrop of the Revolutionary time period brings the reader the sense of calm before the storm, mixed with a sense of urgency to take action. At the end, I was ready for Book 2.
Whether you are a fan of history or just want to learn more you will enjoy this book set in pre-revolution 1772 Charles Town, South Carolina. Family members are taking opposite sides and it’s not always clear who can be trusted. The characters are believable, and just as in day-to-day life some are more likable than others. Ordinary citizens as well as prominent figures make decisions that will change the world. This is a new-to-me author and I found her research was detailed and thorough making the story anything but boring. I look forward to reading the other two books in this series.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The opinions are my own.
This was such a good book! I loved it! It takes place during the Revolutionary War of our country in the colony of South Carolina. It is full of romance, secrets and intrigue. It tells how God holds us close during a difficult time in the hoof our country. This book is a must read! I will definitely be reading the next book in the series!
Hold me close
I loved how the title of the book was based on an bible verse that became a favorite of Elizabeth. She became my favorite character, loved how she really wanted to voice her opinion. At times she did voice her opinion but others time she was able to resist. There was so many other things I loved about her too.
The book is set in 1770’s, which is further back in history than I normally read. Made me want to do some research during that time. I do remember reading in school about the Boston Tea Party. There is the list of References that is author used at the end of the book. I did have a little problem getting into the book, that may been the time period.
Louis comes from France to visit his aunt and uncle. He then meets Elizabeth and also gets involved in a business there. The next book in the series does continue so I look forward to reading it too.
I received an complementary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
I was very fascinated about the time period the story was set in. I’m embarrassed to say that I needed to do some refreshing in order to understand what the Revolutionary War was about. The author did a wonderful job of describing what went on during this time and I loved how I felt like I was sent back in time. When an author can do that, I know it will be a great story.
Charles Town, South Carolina is a perfect setting for this enchanting story about Elizabeth and Louis. Elizabeth is a very proper lady who is very faithful. I loved how the word was shared throughout the story and how much faith she had. I would say she was very loyal to the cause, but something or someone may change her mind. Is she ready to fight for what she believes in? The turmoil she is facing is hard because it could go against what her father believes. The colonies have a hard road ahead and Elizabeth must pick who to follow. I loved this statement in the story which says, ” These are trying times , but the Lord ‘s love holds you close.” Even in our darkest moments, we can rest knowing that God is right there .
Louis was very mysterious to me. Why would he travel so far away from France to a small town in South Carolina? It makes you wonder what his agenda really is. As a big party is coming up, Louis is none to happy to attend. All the goings on is not for him, but he doesn’t want to disappoint his aunt and uncle. The story is very intriguing and I learned so much historical facts. I remember in school reading about the Stamp Act and now here it is in a story. It’s wonderful to read about things I never thought would be important as I grew up, but seeing it in a story makes me appreciate history so much more. I haven’t quite decide if I trust Louis but I think as the story goes, his true mission will be revealed.
There are many secrets surrounding the colony and Elizabeth and Louis both seem to be having a hard time with where their loyalties should lie. The book is a story rich in history and a time were loyalty and trust was everything. I loved the characters and especially Elizabeth. Will she find her voice and speak up for women, or obey her father and fade into the background? I did find it ironic that back then they fought over taxes and goods and today we are still doing the same thing, Did anything get resolved? We all desire freedom and it was important then as it still is today. I am glad to find out there is another book to follow and can’t wait to read it.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
It’s 1772 in Charles Town, South Carolina. The British have been taxing tea for quite some time already and the boycott of tea is still in effect in many households. Louis arrives to seek his fortune, bringing with him wonderful goods from France. As his intention is to remain only until his fortune is secure, he has little interest in what the colonists are dealing with. Before long, however, he finds himself caught between two worlds. Will he join the Sons of Liberty or remain on the side of a king he has absolutely no loyalty to?
I loved the historical detail and was very happy to glean from the historical notes, that several of the main characters really did live during those tumultuous times.
I received this ebook through CelebrateLit for my enjoyment. All impressions and opinions are my own.
The author has placed this story in prerevolutionary times and set us in South Carolina, and we are with both Patriots and Loyalists.
She has also given us a talented young woman who sees joy in nature and her fellow man, she seems to go about life spreading sunshine.
Enter a not really happy man coming from Paris, not sure what he wants, except to earn money, he has been jilted in love, but has family in the Colony.
What is missing in this young man’s life, and what would these two have in common, and where will this young man’s sympathies lean to?
Answers are about to come, and there is another book, thank goodness as we end up in the air, and I would like to know how things turn out!
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.