When colonial Williamsburg explodes like a powder keg on the eve of the American Revolution, Lady Elisabeth “Liberty” Lawson is abandoned by her fiancé and suspected of being a spy for the hated British. No one comes to her aid save the Patriot Noble Rynallt, a man with formidable enemies of his own. Liberty is left with a terrible choice. Will the Virginia belle turned lacemaker side with the … radical revolutionaries, or stay true to her English roots? And at what cost?
Historical romance favorite Laura Frantz is back with a suspenseful story of love, betrayal, and new beginnings. With her meticulous eye for detail and her knack for creating living, breathing characters, Frantz continues to enchant historical fiction readers who long to feel they are a part of the story.
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LOVED this book!! But then I love every Laura Frantz book! As an author, people ask me who I read, and Laura is in my TOP FIVE authors I recommend.
Love this latest book by one of my favorite authors!
The Lacemaker is everything we’ve grown to love about Laura Frantz’s books, with an extra dash of suspense, intrigue, and drama. I was swept from a fine English townhome in Williamsburg to a Welsh estate along the James River, to a colonial tavern, and even to a prison ship. This novel is full of heart and history, demonstrating a wonderful blend of both. Once again, Frantz proves herself to be a master storyteller, using words like a painter uses the brush: lovingly, skillfully, and for the rendering of vivid and complex work of art.
Lyrical, historical, and captivating!
At a time when our nation was trying to find its independence from a dominant English grip, enter Lady Elisabeth “Liberty” Lawson who is torn between allegiance to her family’s British ties and her love for those who seek freedom. As her life turns upside down, she keeps her head on straight, surges ahead in a world that doesn’t like working women, and manages to capture the heart of one of the most notorious Patriots in her city. This story will leave you gripping the edge of your seat and hoping the novel never ends.
Audio Book: For whatever reason, it took me a little bit to get into this story. But once I was in, I was hooked. The narrator, Aimee Lilly did a nice job with the story. She was easy to listen to and reflected the action, tension and suspense of the novel. Laura Frantz creates wonderful characters and delivers a good story which was an enjoyable listen. I was given a copy of this audio book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Rich with impeccable historical detail and filled with unforgettable, colorful characters, The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz brings colonial Williamsburg to life at the beginning of the American Revolution. Elizabeth “Liberty” Lawson is courageous, plucky, and torn between the Tories and the Patriots. Noble Rynallt is a perfect hero—caring, protective, yet ready to help his country gain independence. The interaction between these two characters was entrancing and riveting, and I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow. Frantz is one of my favorite authors, and I learn much about history from reading her books. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Love the history and faith infused into this sweet romance.
This is a great historical fiction book. The location is interesting.
The novella starts in May 1775 as we follow Elisabeth “Liberty” Lawson through the trials and tribulations that were happening in the Virginia Colonies, Colonial Williamsburg. While the main characters are fictitious, the happenings and places they took place could be deemed historical fiction / historical romance along with notables touched on throughout: Patrick Henry, Thomas Gage, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington, the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental “Renegades”.
Elisabeth is abandoned by her fiancé and suspected of being a spy for the British. No one comes to her aid, even her father, except the Patriot, Noble Rynallt, a man with formidable enemies of his own. Picking herself up with poise and humility, she falls back upon her skills as a lace-maker and soon finds herself left with a terrible choice; I felt horrible for her throughout and despised all those who used her. Laura, as always, has done impeccable research and spins quite the tender romance between Elisabeth “Liberty” and Noble Rynallt. I was enraptured by their romance and read as if on pins and needles until the end! I was provided a paperback copy of The Lacemaker for review from Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
This Christian fiction historical romance literally transports its readers into colonial Williamsburg at the onset of the Revolutionary War. Laura Frantz’s characters couldn’t be more lifelike, allowing us to intimately experience every detail. This book is a true page-turner and provokes thoughts about the impact of war, the sacrifices and faith of our country’s founders, and the defining line of politics between society, friends, and families.
The term deep POV (point of view) is given a whole new meaning within The Lacemaker’s pages. Laura Frantz’s sensory details are vivid, with sights ranging from detailed lace and breathtaking scenery to putrid odors and heart wrenching illustrations of war’s misfortunes.
Both the hero and heroine look to God for direction and inspire us to do the same in our lives. In the midst of crisis, they try to see God’s purpose and not just their own–even when they’re terrified for their very lives.
Unyielding strengths and sense of purpose create characters not easily forgotten. This is a must-read.
Thoroughly enjoyed this peek into colonial America that author Laura Frantz gave us through this wonderful story. No wonder it won a Christy award. Very well deserved. I loved the characters and the closing scene (before the epilogue) was perfection. One of those scenes you wish you could read for the first time over and over again. I’ll take a book hangover like this any day!
This is my first Laura Frantz book. I now understand what all the buzz is about surrounding her stories. The Lacemaker is an extraordinary narrative with thrilling intrigue and swoon worthy romance but the most fascinating aspect of the story for me is the rich historical detail surrounding a monumental time in our nations history. The imagery is enthralling even when a couple of things seem implausible. I also appreciate the fact the author chose not to portray Liberty (Lady Elisabeth) as mercurial but instead brought forth a strong independent character who rose to the occasion when faced with harrowing and destitute circumstances. Seeing Liberty’s growth was a fine addition, increasing my overall enjoyment of the story. When it comes to Liberty and Noble’s relationship, Frantz’s ability to write a tension-filled romantic scene without any inappropriateness at all is astounding! One of the best authors I’ve read who writes them with class and sophistication. I highly recommend this book to anyone. I read a library copy and was not required to write a review.
I have never been disappointed by anything Laura Frantz writes and this is no exception. I loved this book and the H Noble Rynallt. His character is such a wonderful one. He is strong, fierce, gentle and, like his name, noble. His love for Liberty is so strong and complete. Every woman should have a man like Noble Rynallt by their side.
Lady Elisabeth “Liberty” Lawson is another strong character. She is a Loyalist in colonial Williamsburg, while Noble is a Patriot. They never really clash because of their strong attraction for each other. Liberty tries to make a living independent from her parents when their home is ransacked by Patriots after her father abandons her while her mother remains in England visiting relatives.
The plot line is believable and the history is pretty accurate as far as I can tell being an amateur history enthusiast. If you like history, romance, and action in a clean story, you can’t go wrong here. Pick up a copy and check it out. Enjoy!
I won a copy of this book and was not required to give a review. I do so voluntarily and these are my honest opinions of The Lacemaker.
I enjoyed the book , never been disappointed by Laura Frantz!
The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz brings to mind words that I don’t use in ordinary conversation – decadent, sumptuous, exhilarating – decadent romance, sumptuous historical detail, and exhilarating events captured my imagination with ease. In previous books, Frantz has proven that she has a strong knowledge of frontier life, with all the dangers and beauty that come with it. In this story, she takes on the time leading up to the American Revolution, bringing readers to colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, an exciting and tumultuous place for would-be patriots. As the daughter of the ousted British Governor, Lady Elisabeth Lawson, abandoned by both family and fiancé, knows that her ties with the British make her suspect to anyone who support revolution – everyone, that is, except for Noble Rynallt. Using her skills as a lacemaker to survive, she comes to realize that not taking a side could pose the greatest risk of all.
Liberty, as Elisabeth comes to call herself, is an endearing character. She feels like a lady of her time, however, as it was such a time of upheaval, she also rises to the occasion. Her actions still felt realistic and in keeping with the time period and what would have been an acceptable trade for a woman at that time. I appreciate the fact that she doesn’t feel like a modern woman placed in a historical setting. She feels organic and is firmly placed in the setting of colonial Virginia, which she clearly feels is her home.
Then there’s Noble Rynallt. Normally, such a name might give me pause, but it truly does fit him. He is both a gentleman and a Patriot, and I love how his character demonstrated the great sacrifice that they made for the revolution. It’s hard to envision men with families and homes, often very near the epicenter of their activities, and how this must have been such conflicting priorities for them. The fact that Welsh endearments are part of the story might also have a little something to do with his appeal. The fact that he and “Libby,” as he calls Elisabeth, both play roles in their sphere of the revolution is one of the most exciting parts of the story. Again, Liberty’s part in it feels realistic; her weapons and be silk dresses and upswept curls, but the consequences of discovery are just as dangerous for her as they would be for any Independence Man.
I truly did feel immersed in the world of this story. The historical details and the time period come to life. The plot is steady, pinpointed by moments of surprises both dangerous and delightful – once I hit the halfway mark, I could hardly put it down. I love how Frantz writes from the perspectives of both Liberty and Noble. It gives the story an added layer of complexity and made their relationship progression that much sweeter. Quietly steadfast and straightforward with his intentions, Noble Rynallt is everything a gentleman could be. Not to be overlooked, the faith element is never preachy but deeply rooted within the words and actions of the characters. Liberty’s decision to trust God no matter how dark the times may seem touched this reader’s heart. As this new year begins, I hope to remember Libby’s words in the face of adversity: “God goes with me. There’s no better escort.”
The Lacemaker is filled to the brim with history and romance and faith-affirming characters. It has earned a place on my favorites list, and I highly recommend it to fans of historical romance.
The Lacemaker (2018) by Laura Frantz is yet another stunning stand-alone novel. Today is release day, and it can be purchased wherever books are sold. This novel is available in all forms including eBook, and is 416 pages in length. With a full-time job and a precocious five-year old at home, this book took me three days to read. I received a review copy of this novel in paperback form from Revell Books. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. I give this book 5+++ STARS. The Lacemaker is a Historical Christian Romance set in 1775 colonial Williamsburg at the cusp of the wars between England and the Revolutionists.
Laura Frantz has done it again! The Lacemaker is a stunning story. From page one, I was hooked and I could not put the book down. The characters are beautifully crafted, the setting is so realistic I felt like I was in 1775 Virginia, the romance is sweet and heartfelt, and the social upheaval of the day is excellently portrayed.
The main characters are Liberty and Noble. I absolutely love their names, and found them to be perfectly fitting.
Liberty is amazing. Her world gets turned upside down in one night, and instead of giving up and whining about her change in circumstances, she picks herself up by her bootstraps and forges through the hard times. She is so resilient and strong! I don’t know if I would have been able to make it like she does (on her own!!!) if I had been in her shoes. Liberty has true grit and tenacity, and she loves God so much. Liberty’s faith is solid, which she falls back on time and time again. What I loved the most about her is that she is able to self-correct her thinking. An exhausted moment will hit her, and she starts to doubt herself, her choices, her circumstances, but by her next thought, will chide herself and shut that line of thinking down and bring it back to God. This is a great example for me. I tend to get stuck in the exhausted, whiny moments a little too long. I need to be more like Liberty!!! I need to “liberate” myself from those bellicose moments that lead to negative, and focus more on God and the positive.
Noble Rynallt is the perfect hero. He, too, is brave. He, too, has a steadfast faith in God, and really sticks to his principals. He is a man’s man who stands up and fights for what is right. Noble knows when to give Liberty the space she needs to grow into the independent woman she wants to become, but he also knows when to warn her of trouble. He is thoughtful of Liberty’s wants and desires. He definitely lives up to his name! And, he is quite swoon-worthy. There is a moment in the story where Noble is frustrated because as just a friend there is very little he can do to protect Liberty the way he wants to protect her. In a very exhausted moment, where he sort of lets his guard down, he confesses to Liberty that he wants to protect her but he doesn’t know how because he isn’t her husband or family member. His admission and his vulnerability in this moment made me fall in love with him!!! He is such a great character. I definitely rooted for his and Liberty’s relationship to blossom into a happily-ever-after.
One aspect that I found really interesting is the similarities between the chaotic political upheaval of 1775 America and modern-day America. There are several moments in the book where the parallels between then and now are staggering. I found myself really relating to Liberty and the sense of foreboding she feels. At one point, she states, “Twas a normal day in Williamsburg, yet [she] sensed an undercurrent of tension, of something tearing at the very fabric of their ordinary lives” (212). I, too, feel this tearing. I feel like America is sitting on a ticking time-bomb that is mere seconds away from exploding. Like Liberty, I fear this explosion is just around the corner, but I don’t know what to do. So, I will do what Liberty does — I will keep praying to God and trusting that He’s got it all under control.
The Lacemaker is a phenomenal story — one that will stick with me long after I’ve finished reading. I am very sad that my time with Liberty and Noble is over, but I am so very blessed to have had the opportunity to read this book. I truly cannot recommend this book enough. Ms. Frantz, you are an amazing writer, and I pray God blesses you with many more fabulous story lines.
If you enjoy historical fiction, you’ll love The Lacemaker. Rich in detail, this book held me from beginning to end. The time period was well researched and I could picture the town, the clothing, everything about the time period. The story came to life for me.
Because of the time setting there is a lot of political tension, but there is also a lot of tension between characters. Full of suspense, twists and turns, it becomes a challenge to know who to trust. There are characters to love, and characters to strongly dislike. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
From the very first chapter, I felt transported back in time. I enjoyed a fancy ball in colonial America with a handsome gentleman who spun me around the dance floor in a kaleidoscope of beautiful colors. I rubbed shoulders with those who were on a first name basis with George Washington, Patrick Henry, and other patriots. I felt like I had an intimate, behind the scenes look at what the history books only hint at.
I loved every moment of this book, and I really didn’t want it to end. I felt the emotional turmoil with Elizabeth, as her family fell apart. My heart ached as she lost the only life she knew. I cheered for her as she learned to stand on her own two feet and make a new life for herself out of the ashes that remained.
I felt so many feelings and emotions; even two days after having finished reading the story. The euphoria of words leaves me speechless. This story is simply stunning and one that you will want to own for your collection!
If you enjoy historical fiction, then do yourself a favor, and pick up a copy of this book! I give The Lacemaker 5 stars and I eagerly look forward to reading more from Laura in the future.
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz takes readers back to 1775 in the Virginia Colony. Lady Elisabeth Lawson is the only child of the Earl of Stirling who is the lieutenant governor for the area. Lady Elisabeth is betrothed to Miles Cullen Roth which was arranged by her father. Lady Elisabeth has led a privileged and sheltered life with her path laid out before her by her dictatorial father. The night before her wedding, she wakes up to glass breaking and a crowd of men (rebels) in her home. The revolution has started, and her father has fled along with the Lord Dunsmore (his wife, children, and their servants). The one bright spot is Miles calls of their engagement (the cad). Elisabeth must now find a way to make it on her own. Patriot Noble Rynallt takes Elisabeth into his home while she decides on her next move. She changes her name to Liberty and obtains a position as seamstress at the Raleigh while selling her handmade lace at the local market. When an opportunity to aid the war effort presents itself, Liberty must make a decision. Will she stay loyal to the British or will she side the Patriots? How will Liberty fare during these tumultuous times?
The Lacemaker is nicely written and the author captures the time-period with her descriptions of the town, clothing, mannerisms, attitudes and speech. You can tell that Ms. Frantz did her research for The Lacemaker. The author provides vivid and detailed descriptions. It allows me to picture the scenes in my head. While I enjoy the historical details, it does slow down the pace of the novel (she needed to find a balance). I was happy to see the pace pick up in the second half of the book. I thought the characters were realistic and well-developed. I liked how the author incorporated her fictional characters with famous historical figures (Patrick Henry, George Washington). Liberty found herself in a difficult position. She is caught between two worlds. One wrong move and Liberty could have found herself in jail (or much worse). The romance between Liberty and Noble does not progress beyond friendship until later in the book. The attraction between them is visible from the moment they meet, but circumstances prevent them from moving forward until later in the story. The romance between the pair is heavily featured in the latter half of the novel. The ending felt incomplete and rushed. We live through each day with Liberty and then in the end months go by. Also, the historical details are missing. I found it deficient. It seemed like the author ran out of steam. The end did not live up to the rest of the book. The cover for The Lacemaker is just lovely. It caught my attention right away which led me to read the excerpt and ultimately, the book. Readers who enjoy historical romance novels will be delighted with The Lacemaker.