Tidewater Bride

Tidewater Bride by Laura Frantz is a fascinating historical novel. It is well-written with developed characters. The pace starts off a little slow, but it soon picks up. I soon found myself engrossed in the story. It is rich with historical details. It is obvious that the author did her research. I found myself wanting to know more about the time-period and area after reading Tidewater Bride. It was interesting learning about the Powhatan people. The romance between Selah Hopewell and Xander Renick developed slowly which I appreciated. I enjoyed the interactions between Selah and Xander. Tidewater Bride is more than a historical romance. The story has the tobacco brides searching for husbands, illness in the area, merchandise being arriving and being sold, Powhatan nations concerns, a man determined to win Selah’s hand, and much more. I thought it was interesting when colonist children and Powhatan children were exchanged (a peace gesture). The Hopewell family took in an adorable girl named Watseka while Selah’s brother went to life with the Powhatan’s. One little incident could have caused an uprising. The descriptive writing brought the story to life. Christian elements are beautifully woven into the story. Laura Frantz crafted a multifaceted, engaging story. The story has history, romance, suspense, and intrigue. I look forward to reading her next enriching novel. Tidewater Bride is a fascinating historical tale with a bevy of brides, Indian injustices, swamp sickness, a missing moppet, and a rare romance.

This is only the second Laura Frantz novel I've read, but I think she's becoming one of my favorite authors because holy cow, she can tell a story. I love a book that makes you feel like you're living and breathing right alongside the characters, experiencing every moment they are experiencing. Tidewater Bride is one of those books. Each heartwrenching moment and each tender display of affection felt tangible, as if they were happening right in front of my eyes. This book has such rich historical detail, but never at the expense of the storytelling. Frantz isn't just dropping readers into a past world and throwing history at them; instead, she's skillfully leading readers into a community of characters who make their home in the history. There are so many layers to this book and I would be here all day if I addressed them all. Just know that fans of historical romances will adore this one. It's a fantastic read and I highly recommend it. (Also, Xander is good from the soul out and makes for an excellent book boyfriend.) I received a complimentary copy of this book. All expressed opinions belong to me.

Take a journey back in time to 1634 James Towne! This novel was just beautiful! The language, the atmosphere...everything was sewn seamlessly to transport and completely immerse me into another time. Never have I ever read a book that so totally captured an era and location that, with every sentence consumed, it left me with no doubts as to where and when I was in the story. Incredible! I loved Xander and Selah, along with all of the supporting characters. (I believe I was repeating Powhatan names in my mind even in my dreams because I loved the sound of them so much, lol!) The tensions between the Naturals and the Settlers felt so palpable and added background anxiety into every decision to be made. And then, right when you have settled into the routine of colony life, BAM! Everything happens at once and sets you in a tailspin! (Or, in the world of story, is it a talespin?) Author Laura Frantz has created an amazing novel here with her Tidewater Bride. The setting, the cast...everything is alive and tangible and REAL! The story is begging to be devoured, the romance is waiting patiently to bring a satisfied smile to your face, the danger has come calling and is waiting at your door... Will you answer? (p.s. This is my first novel by this author. My sister loves her books and has been telling me I ought to read them. I should’ve heeded her advice sooner!) I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine alone.