The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz - A Book Review

     As soon as I heard about Laura Frantz’s new book, The Lacemaker, I began to search book sites to see when the release date might be or whether or not advanced reader copies might be available. Frantz’s reputation as a stellar author was of course one reason to be interested in this book, but for me the big draw was the setting, Colonial Williamsburg. Having visited there twice in recent months, I am enthralled with the stories of Colonial Williamsburg. The Lacemaker was not a disappointment, but rather a compelling read.

     Elisabeth Anne Lawson, daughter of the lieutenant governor of Virginia Colony, once a close friend of Lady Charlotte, the first lady of the colony, and her daughters, finds herself abandoned by both her father and her fiancé. She must make her own way in the midst of the rumblings of what will become known as the War for Independence. Fortunately, her mother, for whose return she awaits, taught her the skill of lacemaking, and what was once a form of entertainment becomes a vocation alongside her other needle skills. In order to ply her trade Elisabeth must take on a new identity, one apart from her family’s Tory reputation, and apart from the social status and protection she has always known.

     Noble Rynallt, independence man, master of Ty Mawr and Ty Bryn, and cousin to Elisabeth’s former fiancé, is struggling with trials of his own. While still mourning and dealing with guilt associated with his sister’s death, Noble seeks to take his place among those striving for independence from the mother country. Separated from his brother by a vast sea, and from his cousin by a vast difference in character, Noble has no close family with whom to share his joys or his burdens. Now he feels compelled to take Elisabeth under his arm of protection, while she strives to find her own sense of independence.

     Readers who have never visited Colonial Williamsburg will enjoy Frantz’s ability to place them directly on the streets of this town during the birth pains of our nation. For those who have visited, they will enjoy walking the streets once again, enjoying the memories of the Raleigh Tavern, Bruton Parish Church, the Governor’s Palace, and many other Colonial Williamsburg landmarks. I thank Revell Books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of The Lacemaker in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation.