Starred review from May 19, 2014
Award-winning author Hedlund (The Preacher’s Bride) continues to perfect her craft, combining drama, geography, and military strategy into an engaging historical romance. In 1814, Pierre, a voyageur, returns home to British-occupied Mackinac Island in Michigan Territory, only to find his mother in danger and his childhood friend, Angelique, coming to her aid, at the expense of Angelique’s own safety. Even as he is drawn to Angelique, and she to him, the island-loving girl from a troubled home can’t get past his wandering ways. Political intrigue also complicates their budding romance, as does her interrupted engagement to his brother, Jean, who was forced to leave the island when the British invaded. Torn by conflicting loyalties—both political and personal—Pierre and Angelique rely on their faith to direct their difficult decisions. Has Pierre truly changed from the impetuous young man who left in anger five years earlier? Can Angelique’s faith overcome her guilt and bring her through yet another trial? Superbly written romantic tension comes together with rich historical and scenic detail in this third novel in the Michigan Brides Collection that will leave readers eager for a fourth. Agent: Rachelle Gardner, Books & Such Literary Agency.