Noela reviews SAVING THE MARQUISE'S GRANDDAUGHTER by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter

Saving The Marquise’s Granddaughter

by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Pelican Book Group (July 1, 2016)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

A beautifully written Historical Romance

Set in 1742 during yet another wave of brutal religious persecution in France and the Palatinate, ‘Saving the Marquise’s Granddaughter’ vividly portrays the tale of an aristocrat’s granddaughter’s arduous survival of both body and heart as she flees from tremendous danger and terrible betrayal.

Suzanne and Guillame Richelieu’s parents were Huguenots (French Protestants) and therefore needed to keep their family beliefs a closely guarded secret, but when their father was captured, the remainder of the family needed to immediately flee. Suzanne winds up alone and it is the handsome German peasant Johan Rousch, who comes to her rescue by bringing her to his family’s farm. Danger surrounds them as Suzanne is hunted. Johan must take her to the American colonies but will they even make it to the ship, let alone survive the horrendous conditions in the dark and fetid belly of the vessel?

Having lost his heart to his charming companion, Johan is compelled to marry Suzanne when she becomes gravely ill during their journey. He prays she will recover but wonders how this beautiful woman from a noble family can endure being no more than a slave while paying off their indenture for their voyage? How can he even stomach that his beloved is to be purchased?! When they reach Philadelphia and it becomes apparent that Suzanne has temporary amnesia, Johann is distressed to realize she can’t recall the wedding vows and that the priest on the ship may only be a surveyor. When the past catches up with them, will Johann lose Suzanne forever? Will Suzanne ever have her freedom, faith, and a family ever again?

The exquisite descriptive prose in this novel was such a joy to read; the imagery projecting hues, sights, and sounds. Likewise, the author’s adept way with words was wonderfully inspiring, as exhibited in this quote: “Why couldn’t she be like that? Betrayal; that was why—its offspring devoured her trust in others.” Not only was this story beautifully written, but the author has brought to life an era long past, replete with fascinating historical detail. The reader is left with a stirring message of trusting God when all seems bleak and a reminder for all to seek that personal relationship with the Lord. A gorgeous story, Carrie Fancett Pagels!

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'Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter' may be purchased from here:
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GIVEAWAY: Winner's choice of ebook or paperback (releasing in July) format.