Status
Available
Call number
Collection
Call number
F FRA
Publication
Revell (2019), 416 pages
Description
"Their stations could not have been more different: a Scottish laird and a simple lass. When a tragedy forces both to colonial Virginia as indentured servants, can a love thwarted by tradition come to life in a new land?" --
User reviews
LibraryThing member CoverLoverBookReview
After visiting Scotland a few years ago, I can say this book felt authentic and took me back to this lovely land. The characters were easy to sympathize with and I especially connected with Lark.
An engaging, action-packed historical romance.
I received a complimentary early review copy via
An engaging, action-packed historical romance.
I received a complimentary early review copy via
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LibraryThing member chrirob
Lark wants nothing more than to care for her bees, tend to her herb garden, and create tinctures to heal the people of Kerrera. Little does she know that her simple island-world will come crashing down, when she is accused of being an accessory in the murder of Isla MacLeish, wife of the Laird of
This was a really good book! I read it in 2 days and I can't wait to see if this becomes a series as I REALLY want to know what happens next to all of these characters! Thank you so much LibraryThing for the advanced copy of Ms. Frantz's book!
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Kerrera, Magnus MacLeish. As she stands trial and is accused of horrible crimes, only one person comes to her defense, Magnus. But his defense not only does not save Lark, it also condemns Magnus and both are cast out of Scotland forever as indentured servants bound for the New World. As Lark and Magnus sail across the Atlantic to the Americas, their lives are put in terrible danger and new responsibilities pull at them both...and new feelings. However, as new feelings begin, so must they end as Lark is destined for America and Magnus for the Caribbean. Will their hearts, bound in love survive their bonds of servitude and ultimately separation?This was a really good book! I read it in 2 days and I can't wait to see if this becomes a series as I REALLY want to know what happens next to all of these characters! Thank you so much LibraryThing for the advanced copy of Ms. Frantz's book!
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LibraryThing member caslater83
Laura Frantz is an excellent writer, so I was more than pleased to see that I would be reading one of her newest releases. "
Early Colonial Virginia (and other colonies as well, I imagine!) was kind of a dumping ground for convicts/indentured servants. (I believe Australia and other British holdings
In this story, "A Bound Heart", you'll see that a Scottish lass is accused and convicted of a crime she did not commit. Her master came to her defense in court and is denounced as a kilt-wearing Jacobite." The court declares him a convict and reduces him to the status of a common criminal.
It's an interesting story, but I can't say that it's a favorite. The Scottish language is hard for me to grasp. But I know many other readers will embrace this book.
Early Colonial Virginia (and other colonies as well, I imagine!) was kind of a dumping ground for convicts/indentured servants. (I believe Australia and other British holdings
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were also utilized this way too in its colonial days.) If you had criminals, you didn't want them causing trouble in your home country, so they were simply shipped out.In this story, "A Bound Heart", you'll see that a Scottish lass is accused and convicted of a crime she did not commit. Her master came to her defense in court and is denounced as a kilt-wearing Jacobite." The court declares him a convict and reduces him to the status of a common criminal.
It's an interesting story, but I can't say that it's a favorite. The Scottish language is hard for me to grasp. But I know many other readers will embrace this book.
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LibraryThing member HuberK
A young Scottish miss; a powerful Scottish Laird sent across the ocean as indentured servants. Their lives had not done much to prepare them for their the new lives, thrust upon them.
A great historical novel. Earned a place on my Favorites shelf.
Provided a copy from LibraryThing. Not obligated to
A great historical novel. Earned a place on my Favorites shelf.
Provided a copy from LibraryThing. Not obligated to
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post a review. Show Less
LibraryThing member PhDinHorribleness
I found this book to be a little slow getting started. The cover blurb says that the story is about what happens to Lark and Magnus after they are both sent to Virginia as indentured servants, but the book is half over before you get to that point. I don't like having so much setup to get to the
That being said, it was a very enjoyable read. The romance on top of the historical setting made for an excellent story.
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point where I thought the story was going to start. If the blurb had not implied that to be the beginning of the story, I would have enjoyed the first half of the book more.That being said, it was a very enjoyable read. The romance on top of the historical setting made for an excellent story.
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LibraryThing member terrylynn
I was disappointed in the Bound Heart. It was not only slow starting but the characters were poorly developed. I was also surprised at the amount of faith and scripture that was quoted in the book. I’m not sure I would recommend this book.
LibraryThing member SBMC
An incredible epic tale from a master storyteller!
I have heard of Laura Frantz's gift as a historical romance author but this is my first book by the celebrated and beloved author. She has certainly found herself another avid fan. I know whose backlist of titles I'll be reading through in 2019. If
Magnus, our Scottish laird, and Lark, the stillroom (kind of like apothecary and herb garden combined) mistress and beekeeper, take the reader back to 1752 Scotland in the midst of ongoing struggle and turmoil between England and Scotland. Magnus is a steadfast, kind, generous and proud leader of the MacLeish, whose loyalty lies wholly with God, his country, and his people. Though admired by his colleagues and people, personal tragedy follows Magnus. Lark whose name means "open hearted, brimming with life and spirit" is true to her namesake and is beloved by all. Due to tragic circumstances upon tragic circumstances, Magnus and Lark find themselves as indentured servants bound for the new colonies - Magnus to Jamaica and Lark to Virginia. Through all the heartbreaks and heartaches, their faithfulness to their Lord and Savior and to each other endures. Even in the midst of unjust justice system and cruelty of slavery, Magnus and Lark find ways to show God's goodness to those they encounter; their desire and action to see God glorified are admirable and completely applicable to all of us today.
My heart is full and completely satisfied after reading this book. I can't wait to delve into Laura Frantz's other books as I impatiently wait for her next novel.
I was given a copy of the book by Revell/Baker Publishing Group via Interviews and Reviews. I was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
I have heard of Laura Frantz's gift as a historical romance author but this is my first book by the celebrated and beloved author. She has certainly found herself another avid fan. I know whose backlist of titles I'll be reading through in 2019. If
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you love well-written historical romance full of adventure and heart-gripping characters, you will thoroughly enjoy this book.Magnus, our Scottish laird, and Lark, the stillroom (kind of like apothecary and herb garden combined) mistress and beekeeper, take the reader back to 1752 Scotland in the midst of ongoing struggle and turmoil between England and Scotland. Magnus is a steadfast, kind, generous and proud leader of the MacLeish, whose loyalty lies wholly with God, his country, and his people. Though admired by his colleagues and people, personal tragedy follows Magnus. Lark whose name means "open hearted, brimming with life and spirit" is true to her namesake and is beloved by all. Due to tragic circumstances upon tragic circumstances, Magnus and Lark find themselves as indentured servants bound for the new colonies - Magnus to Jamaica and Lark to Virginia. Through all the heartbreaks and heartaches, their faithfulness to their Lord and Savior and to each other endures. Even in the midst of unjust justice system and cruelty of slavery, Magnus and Lark find ways to show God's goodness to those they encounter; their desire and action to see God glorified are admirable and completely applicable to all of us today.
My heart is full and completely satisfied after reading this book. I can't wait to delve into Laura Frantz's other books as I impatiently wait for her next novel.
I was given a copy of the book by Revell/Baker Publishing Group via Interviews and Reviews. I was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
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LibraryThing member Meganleigh844
“A Bound Heart” by Laura Frantz was one of my most anticipated reads of 2019. Christian historical fiction that is partly set in Scotland? Sign me up! From the settings to the characters, I fell in love with this book!
Ms. Frantz’s descriptions of the scenery are lyrical and breathtaking
The two main characters, Lark and Magnus, are so likable and well written. Lark instantly became a favorite for me. She is so sweet, innocent and Godly. I love watching Lark’s struggle with her faith when her life is turned upside down. She asks some frank and honest questions of God. I especially love seeing that despite their troubles, both main characters praise God and count their blessings when going through suffering and loss. What a wonderful encouragement and reminder to Christians!
I loved this book and highly recommend it! You won’t be disappointed!
Content: I give this book a PG-13 rating. Some examples of the content are: mention of brandy and smuggling; a man has a reputation for wenching; a man swears but the word isn’t actually written; a person is possibly addicted to opium and may have committed suicide; men smoke; a baby is born out of wedlock; men take women as lovers on a ship; a man attempts to rape a woman but does not get far.
Rating: I give this book 5 stars!
Genre: Christian fiction; Historical fiction; Romance; Scotland
I want to thank Revell and Laura Frantz for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
Ms. Frantz’s descriptions of the scenery are lyrical and breathtaking
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(certainly doing Scotland justice). The first part of the book that is set in Scotland reminds me of Poldark with the smuggling and the rugged coastlines. Ms. Frantz also has an amazing grasp of the Scottish culture. The two main characters, Lark and Magnus, are so likable and well written. Lark instantly became a favorite for me. She is so sweet, innocent and Godly. I love watching Lark’s struggle with her faith when her life is turned upside down. She asks some frank and honest questions of God. I especially love seeing that despite their troubles, both main characters praise God and count their blessings when going through suffering and loss. What a wonderful encouragement and reminder to Christians!
I loved this book and highly recommend it! You won’t be disappointed!
Content: I give this book a PG-13 rating. Some examples of the content are: mention of brandy and smuggling; a man has a reputation for wenching; a man swears but the word isn’t actually written; a person is possibly addicted to opium and may have committed suicide; men smoke; a baby is born out of wedlock; men take women as lovers on a ship; a man attempts to rape a woman but does not get far.
Rating: I give this book 5 stars!
Genre: Christian fiction; Historical fiction; Romance; Scotland
I want to thank Revell and Laura Frantz for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
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LibraryThing member BeautyintheBinding
A Bound Heart by Laura Frantz captured my attention instantly with its setting, the foreign words, the underhanded activities, and the subtle attraction between Magnus and Lark. Descriptive imagery brought the places and characters to life in my mind. As the story unfolded, several issues began to
Overall, I liked A Bound Heart by Laura Frantz even though it wasn't quite what I expected. It has a permanent home on my bookshelf and I'll read it again. I recommend it as a faith-filled love story to fans of historical romances.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
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play out: slavery, smuggling, adoption, a personal relationship with God. These matters added a pleasing depth to the story and induced character development. The action and romantic tension carried the story along until sometime after they landed in Virginia. At that point, the momentum and my interest waned a bit. However, Laura Frantz writes beautifully and the satisfying ending more than made up for the slowing pace. Overall, I liked A Bound Heart by Laura Frantz even though it wasn't quite what I expected. It has a permanent home on my bookshelf and I'll read it again. I recommend it as a faith-filled love story to fans of historical romances.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
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LibraryThing member Becky_L
Laura Frantz is truly a master of vivid descriptions of beautiful landscapes and sea/skyscapes as she lyrically composes the lives and times of her historical characters. A Bound Heart is set in Scotland. While Ms. Frantz is such a romantic writer, she could probably make Antarctica sound like a
Smugglers, fighting against unjust taxes, a corrupt court, an ocean voyage of horrors, several love triangles; all make for a very tightly woven story. Frantz’s characters are full of life, passion, and pride in their heritage. When these freedoms are removed, what will remain behind?
It was very interesting to learn about the Scots’ way of life in the 1750s. I must admit, I had a hard time with a love triangle involving a married person. While no wrong actions occurred, I would have preferred to see one party or the other take steps to put physical distance between them. The glossary was a huge help, as was the context in which Frantz used the unfamiliar words. A few wonderful quotes:
On the horrid ship: “Lord, all I have is Ye. Make that enough.”
“Fear had a terrible taste.”
This is a good book, but it will not be my favorite Frantz book. To each his own. Anxiously awaiting the next Frantz novel.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. All opinions expressed here are solely my own and no positive review was required.
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vacation spot, I had to wonder if I would like the island of Kerrera any more than Isla did. Smugglers, fighting against unjust taxes, a corrupt court, an ocean voyage of horrors, several love triangles; all make for a very tightly woven story. Frantz’s characters are full of life, passion, and pride in their heritage. When these freedoms are removed, what will remain behind?
It was very interesting to learn about the Scots’ way of life in the 1750s. I must admit, I had a hard time with a love triangle involving a married person. While no wrong actions occurred, I would have preferred to see one party or the other take steps to put physical distance between them. The glossary was a huge help, as was the context in which Frantz used the unfamiliar words. A few wonderful quotes:
On the horrid ship: “Lord, all I have is Ye. Make that enough.”
“Fear had a terrible taste.”
This is a good book, but it will not be my favorite Frantz book. To each his own. Anxiously awaiting the next Frantz novel.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. All opinions expressed here are solely my own and no positive review was required.
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LibraryThing member ecataldi
Lark may not be wealthy or high class but she's a well thought of, beautiful lass. Set in beautiful 18th century, Scotland; Lark's world is filled with sea breeze and gardens. She works in the laird's castle making tonics and other herbal remedies catching the eye of both the laird and the local
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captain. After an unfortunate tragedy, she is sent to Virginia to be an indentured servant. It will take all her faith and strength to survive the voyage and the years of hard labor awaiting her. To further complicate matters she adopts a young baby whose kin have all perished on the ship and she discovers that both her admirers, the laird and the captain are also aboard. Lark is nurturing, good hearted, and always tries to look at the positive, her only downfall is that she is quite naive. She's been handed an awful lot and she doesn't know if she'll ever get to see Scotland or her beloved grandmother again, but she handles it darn well. A bit unbelievable at times (every single male character throws themselves at Lark, EVERY ONE) and the ending was a bit anti-climactic; but overall still a good cozy historical read. Show Less
LibraryThing member JaymeWill
Laura Frantz is one of my favorite Christian fiction authors. I love how she takes an interesting moment in history, and makes it come to life in the eyes of her characters. That said, I had a hard time getting into A Bound Heart. I found myself picking other titles to read instead. But I had to
The plot centers around Lark, keeper of the Laird's herbs and bees on the island of Kerrera, in Scotland. One day, a dreadful mix up of Lark's tonics, causes the death of Magnus' wife. Though Lark is innocent, she becomes the scapegoat for the family of the dead Lady. Around the same time, Magnus comes to her trial wearing a kilt, which is the King of England has outlawed. Both Lark and Magnus are banished as indentured servants. The rest of the story becomes their fight to survive and keep tabs on each other while being shipped to different places.
If you are a fan of Laura Frantz, or enjoy clean Christian fiction, I encourage you to read A Bound Heart. While the story is slow in places, it is a satisfying read.
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review the book, so I dutifully sat down to read it through. I'm glad I did. It turned out to be a good book. A Bound Heart seems to lack the richness I've come to expect from her stories. But, overall the characters and settings are good. I like the character of Lark; she is someone I want to be friends with. Her attachment and loyalty to an orphan baby is commendable. Her steadfastness to her childhood friends Magnus is sweet.The plot centers around Lark, keeper of the Laird's herbs and bees on the island of Kerrera, in Scotland. One day, a dreadful mix up of Lark's tonics, causes the death of Magnus' wife. Though Lark is innocent, she becomes the scapegoat for the family of the dead Lady. Around the same time, Magnus comes to her trial wearing a kilt, which is the King of England has outlawed. Both Lark and Magnus are banished as indentured servants. The rest of the story becomes their fight to survive and keep tabs on each other while being shipped to different places.
If you are a fan of Laura Frantz, or enjoy clean Christian fiction, I encourage you to read A Bound Heart. While the story is slow in places, it is a satisfying read.
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LibraryThing member lamb521
Title: A Bound Heart
Author: Laura Frantz
Pages: 407 (ARC)
Year: 2019
Publisher: Revell
My rating is 4 out of 5 stars.
Lark MacDougall is descended from Scottish aristocracy, but over time her clan has been assimilated or killed so there are few left. She serves as the apothecary for clan MacLeish, whose
Due to dire circumstances Lark, Rory and Magnus are arrested and sent to Virginia as indentured servants, with Magnus making a further journey to Jamaica. Lark boards the ship and within days becomes mother to an infant when his caretaker dies. Now, Lark is headed for a new country, in a new job, indentured for two years with an infant. Lark adjusts well to plantation life. She remains in the role of apothecary and tends to her herbs and plants and bees. She gives what help she can to the slaves, which sets her against the factor. Magnus does well in his job as manager of a sugar, tobacco and cocoa plantation in Jamaica. What purpose does God have in separating them from their homeland and each other? Will they ever see each other again?
When I want to read historical fiction, Laura Frantz is one of my go-to authors. Her characters are written with depth and are ones I can identify with. The scenes of Scotland were so vivid I could smell the heather and peat fire. Lark and Magnus had such reliance on the Lord in every day of their lives and were able to surrender to His will in the face of terrible circumstances. I can’t wait to see where and when her next novel will take place!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Author: Laura Frantz
Pages: 407 (ARC)
Year: 2019
Publisher: Revell
My rating is 4 out of 5 stars.
Lark MacDougall is descended from Scottish aristocracy, but over time her clan has been assimilated or killed so there are few left. She serves as the apothecary for clan MacLeish, whose
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laird she grew up with. Magnus MacLeish is a lawyer as well as head of his clan of over 300 people. They depend on him to settle disputes and provide leadership. He is aware of the smuggling that is going on but does nothing about it as he knows his clan needs the supplies. These goods are needed for them to survive as they supplement what can’t be produced themselves. Most of the islanders are involved in unloading the smuggled goods and must always be on the watch of the authorities. Rory MacPherson is the captain of the smuggling ship and thinks he and Lark should marry, then head to America.Due to dire circumstances Lark, Rory and Magnus are arrested and sent to Virginia as indentured servants, with Magnus making a further journey to Jamaica. Lark boards the ship and within days becomes mother to an infant when his caretaker dies. Now, Lark is headed for a new country, in a new job, indentured for two years with an infant. Lark adjusts well to plantation life. She remains in the role of apothecary and tends to her herbs and plants and bees. She gives what help she can to the slaves, which sets her against the factor. Magnus does well in his job as manager of a sugar, tobacco and cocoa plantation in Jamaica. What purpose does God have in separating them from their homeland and each other? Will they ever see each other again?
When I want to read historical fiction, Laura Frantz is one of my go-to authors. Her characters are written with depth and are ones I can identify with. The scenes of Scotland were so vivid I could smell the heather and peat fire. Lark and Magnus had such reliance on the Lord in every day of their lives and were able to surrender to His will in the face of terrible circumstances. I can’t wait to see where and when her next novel will take place!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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LibraryThing member Mizroady
Scotland and its history is not something I am familiar with. I recently found out through DNA testing that a large part of my ancestors are from there! Lark McDougall and Magnus McLeish were raised together as children, on equal footing as nobility. Lark’s father lost his title through false
Lark had the job of maintaining the gardens and bees, also formulating herbal remedies for the castle. She loved her doing it and being in touch with nature. Magnus becomes Laird of Kerrera Island. He is a loving and kind ruler that truly cares about the people. Both have always been in love with each other but due to Larks’ family scandal, never married. Magnus married a whimpering, selfish, sickly woman whom desires to produce an heir. When his wife dies suddenly, Lark is accused. Magnus attempts to protect her and they both end up on prison. As their punishment they are sent to Virginia and Jamaica as indentured servants! Talk about bad going to worse!
The story is fast paced and exciting, with lots of surprises. I enjoyed this book on many levels. Ms. Frantz’s picturesque description of the island painted breathtaking pictures in my mind. I almost felt the wind blowing in my hair and I could smell the sea! I saw Lark’s and Granny’s poverty, seeing the desolation of their small home. There were times I found myself standing there looking around and observing.
The author’s remarkable accounts of the prison and slave ship were incredible! It is hard to fathom that thousands of people really experienced such horrid conditions and treatment! They were ripped from their families and homes, probably never to see them again. How frightening to face an appalling voyage and if you survived only to find yourself in a severely abusive living situation to where there was no escape!
What shone even brighter in all of this tragedy was Lark and Magnus’s solid faith in God and reliance upon Him. Their desire to follow Him no matter what the situation or cost was inspiring! They trusted the Lord explicitly. What a great read!
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accusations. Lark and her grandmother were left in desperate poverty. Lark had the job of maintaining the gardens and bees, also formulating herbal remedies for the castle. She loved her doing it and being in touch with nature. Magnus becomes Laird of Kerrera Island. He is a loving and kind ruler that truly cares about the people. Both have always been in love with each other but due to Larks’ family scandal, never married. Magnus married a whimpering, selfish, sickly woman whom desires to produce an heir. When his wife dies suddenly, Lark is accused. Magnus attempts to protect her and they both end up on prison. As their punishment they are sent to Virginia and Jamaica as indentured servants! Talk about bad going to worse!
The story is fast paced and exciting, with lots of surprises. I enjoyed this book on many levels. Ms. Frantz’s picturesque description of the island painted breathtaking pictures in my mind. I almost felt the wind blowing in my hair and I could smell the sea! I saw Lark’s and Granny’s poverty, seeing the desolation of their small home. There were times I found myself standing there looking around and observing.
The author’s remarkable accounts of the prison and slave ship were incredible! It is hard to fathom that thousands of people really experienced such horrid conditions and treatment! They were ripped from their families and homes, probably never to see them again. How frightening to face an appalling voyage and if you survived only to find yourself in a severely abusive living situation to where there was no escape!
What shone even brighter in all of this tragedy was Lark and Magnus’s solid faith in God and reliance upon Him. Their desire to follow Him no matter what the situation or cost was inspiring! They trusted the Lord explicitly. What a great read!
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LibraryThing member Mizroady
A Bound Heart
By Laura Frantz
Scotland and its history is not something I am familiar with. I recently found out through DNA testing that a large part of my ancestors are from there! Lark McDougall and Magnus McLeish were raised together as children, on equal footing as nobility. Lark’s father lost
Lark had the job of maintaining the gardens and bees, also formulating herbal remedies for the castle. She loved her doing it and being in touch with nature. Magnus becomes Laird of Kerrera Island. He is a loving and kind ruler that truly cares about the people. Both have always been in love with each other but due to Larks’ family scandal, never married. Magnus married a whimpering, selfish, sickly woman whom desires to produce an heir. When his wife dies suddenly, Lark is accused. Magnus attempts to protect her and they both end up on prison. As their punishment they are sent to Virginia and Jamaica as indentured servants! Talk about bad going to worse!
The story is fast paced and exciting, with lots of surprises. I enjoyed this book on many levels. Ms. Frantz’s picturesque description of the island painted breathtaking pictures in my mind. I almost felt the wind blowing in my hair and I could smell the sea! I saw Lark’s and Granny’s poverty, seeing the desolation of their small home. There were times I found myself standing there looking around and observing.
The author’s remarkable accounts of the prison and slave ship were incredible! It is hard to fathom that thousands of people really experienced such horrid conditions and treatment! They were ripped from their families and homes, probably never to see them again. How frightening to face an appalling voyage and if you survived only to find yourself in a severely abusive living situation to where there was no escape!
What shone even brighter in all of this tragedy was Lark and Magnus’s solid faith in God and reliance upon Him. Their desire to follow Him no matter what the situation or cost was inspiring! They trusted the Lord explicitly. What a great read!
By Laura Frantz
Scotland and its history is not something I am familiar with. I recently found out through DNA testing that a large part of my ancestors are from there! Lark McDougall and Magnus McLeish were raised together as children, on equal footing as nobility. Lark’s father lost
Show More
his title through false accusations. Lark and her grandmother were left in desperate poverty. Lark had the job of maintaining the gardens and bees, also formulating herbal remedies for the castle. She loved her doing it and being in touch with nature. Magnus becomes Laird of Kerrera Island. He is a loving and kind ruler that truly cares about the people. Both have always been in love with each other but due to Larks’ family scandal, never married. Magnus married a whimpering, selfish, sickly woman whom desires to produce an heir. When his wife dies suddenly, Lark is accused. Magnus attempts to protect her and they both end up on prison. As their punishment they are sent to Virginia and Jamaica as indentured servants! Talk about bad going to worse!
The story is fast paced and exciting, with lots of surprises. I enjoyed this book on many levels. Ms. Frantz’s picturesque description of the island painted breathtaking pictures in my mind. I almost felt the wind blowing in my hair and I could smell the sea! I saw Lark’s and Granny’s poverty, seeing the desolation of their small home. There were times I found myself standing there looking around and observing.
The author’s remarkable accounts of the prison and slave ship were incredible! It is hard to fathom that thousands of people really experienced such horrid conditions and treatment! They were ripped from their families and homes, probably never to see them again. How frightening to face an appalling voyage and if you survived only to find yourself in a severely abusive living situation to where there was no escape!
What shone even brighter in all of this tragedy was Lark and Magnus’s solid faith in God and reliance upon Him. Their desire to follow Him no matter what the situation or cost was inspiring! They trusted the Lord explicitly. What a great read!
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LibraryThing member hes7
A Bound Heart is another stunning, captivating story from Laura Frantz, and at this point, having read most of her books, I expect nothing less.
The plot centers on the friendship between Magnus MacLeish and Lark MacDougall. Though they have been friends since childhood, Scottish societal
A Bound Heart is a sweeping tale with lush historical descriptions, strong characterizations, and faith and danger aplenty. There is a lot to keep Magnus and Lark apart, and while reading, I turned pages anxious for reunion and hope, yet never sure what would happen next. Their story kept me completely engaged, and I loved it. Highly, highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
The plot centers on the friendship between Magnus MacLeish and Lark MacDougall. Though they have been friends since childhood, Scottish societal
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expectations limit their interactions, as well as the possibility of romance growing between them. Tragedy strikes, and scandal soon follows to disrupt life as they know it, sending them to begin again in the New World.A Bound Heart is a sweeping tale with lush historical descriptions, strong characterizations, and faith and danger aplenty. There is a lot to keep Magnus and Lark apart, and while reading, I turned pages anxious for reunion and hope, yet never sure what would happen next. Their story kept me completely engaged, and I loved it. Highly, highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
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Awards
INSPY (Winner — Historical Romance — 2020)
Language
Physical description
8.5 inches
ISBN
0800726642 / 9780800726645