Drawing from her personal heritage, Laura Frantz weaves a tale that begins in Scotland and carries the reader to colonial Virginia and Jamaica. The main characters are people who rely on their faith to give them courage to endure, even during the harshest circumstances. They each demonstrate great strength of character, both individually and together. The romance is clean and even appropriate for young adults.

In customary Frantz tradition, A Bound Heart is a lush portal to a historical time period explored with supreme poetic confidence.

The depth of painstaking research is paid off in the immediate immersion of the reader into a world rift with problems of ownership and tradition.


A unique heroine with a fascinating gift and a hero who is binding his life back together intersect at the crux of hope and despair.

The slow burn romance most perfectly suited to a night by the fire: Frantz never creates the same experience twice and, thus, A Bound Heart is wrought by an achingly familiar voice but is a completely unexpected, surprising and wonderfully thematic journey.

A breathtaking, beautiful story! While not my typical genre, I decided to take a chance on it as one of my favorite authors raved about it. She was not mistaken! This book holds it all- a beautiful setting beginning in Scotland, danger on the seas, heartbreak, and young love to name a few.

You quickly become endured to Lark MacDougall. She is a sweet soul her loved her granny and tending the stillroom and her bees. She has a big heart and tries to do what she knows is right even when it is not the popular choice. Her friendship with the laird, Magnus MacLeish, goes back to their childhood as they grew up running the castle crowds together. Even with a difference in social standing, their bond is strong.

Through unfortunate events, Magnus and Lark find themselves indentured and forced to leave their beloved Scotland and Kerrara Castle for American and Jamaica. We follow them as they travel the seas full of exciting and dangerous adventures before they ever set foot upon the new lands and all that awaits.

I found this book difficult to put down as I longed to know what Magnus and Lark were facing next. I found myself rooting for them to see what lies beyond their friendship. They both show that despite all the adversity thrown at them, you can stay true to your faith and believe in God to take care of you.

I loved this book and am a new fan of Laura Frantz! I look forward to reading more of her books. I was given a complimentary copy of this book through Revell and NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Laura Frantz pens and develops such deep and emotionally stirring characters that have flaws and realistic struggles but also become such strong and faith-filled personalities. I liked the backdrop of this book and appreciated the detailed history. Some of the verbiage, true to the historical setting, breaks up the flow of the story, but I think it ends up contributing to the overall novel. I liked the romance, wrought with tension, and the ending was perfectly satisfying. I enjoyed this sweet story and recommend it to those who love historical fiction!

I received an e-copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

A Bound Heart
by Laura Frantz

Revell

Christian

Pub Date 01 Jan 2019

I am reviewing a copy of A Bound Heart through Revell and Netgalley:

Despite the fact that Magnus MacLeish and Lark MacDougal grew up on the same castle grounds, Magnus has now become laird of the great house and the Isle of Kerrera. Lark is now but the keeper of Magnus MacLeish’s bees and the woman he is hoping will provide a tinicture that may help his wife who is unwell conceive and give him an heir.

After his wife dies suddenly, Magnus and Lark find themselves being accused of many things, kicked off their beautiful island and sold as indentured servants all the way across the Atlantic.

Even as all Hope seems dashed against the rocky coastline of the Virgina Colony they discover that maybe the two of them can have a chance at a life together.

I give A Bound Heart five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!

I enjoyed reading this book by a new author (to me) and some of the evocative descriptions of the landscape of the Western Isles of Scotland. I even realized I might have travelled past Kerrara on a holiday years ago.

I also liked the characters especially Karl and appreciated the spiritual messages, genuine without being too heavy handed. The story was also quite on romance.

The reason for the lower rating was that I felt the Scottish characters were a little on the stereotypical side. Red hair for example not just a Scottish 'thing'. Its fairly common in Wales, Ireland and even some parts of England too. Not all Scottish people say 'ken ' meaning ' know ' and some Scottish terms are actually used in northern England too.

There were also some inaccuracies. One which bothered me was the talk of Magnus and his father fighting on the Jacobite side at the battle of Culloden. Magnus and Mark were meant to be Presbyterian, and as such would have been unlikely to support the Catholic Bonnie Prince Charlie and his cause.

I like a good book with a Scottish setting and characters. Laura Frantz penned both. The story of Magnus and Lark spans two continents. The Isle of Kerrera seems like a beautiful place that fairy tales are set in. While the ship ride across the Atlantic is filled with danger, excitement, and a few unseemly characters. Then to the land of hope, America in its early stages. As beekeeper and botanist on the Isle, Lark is quite content. But as her world is turned upside down, she not only depends on what she knows, but Who she knows. The story is filled with twists and turns. I felt like a few ends needed tied up a bit neater. But overall, I enjoyed Lark's story. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Digging into a Laura Franz book is always a treat. From her use of language and colloquialisms to her depth of historical research, I always come away enriched and feeling as though I have journeyed to long ago and far away. A Bound Heart is no exception. I love pretty much anything set in Scotland so I was drawn into the setting right away. Looking forward to the next one!

So finely crafted. The heart is a complex being. It's myriad facets are bold yet nuanced, so intricately detailed. Laura Frantz seems to actually capture these complexities. Her characters lift from the page living and breathing. Magnus, Lark, Rory, Mistress Flowerdew, and more become people I can see in my mind's eye. More, they become people whose hearts I can feel. I become transported to walking the cliffs above a beloved Scottish shore, navigating life aboard an immense sailing ship, or stepping in the rhythm of paths at a plantation in Virginia or Jamaica. The immersion is complete. I love Lark and Magnus' story. I do hope we get to learn more of their story.

Ms. Frantz’s books are always a delight to read. She creates a perfect balance between romance and an intriguing plot line with a perfect amount of history thrown in. I always learn something about history I didn’t know when I read her books. A Bound Heart is a must-read for fans of Poldark, as some elements at the start of the story are similar. I enjoyed Lark’s profession and her beekeeping, and learning how many of the insects and plants we have in America today came from other countries. I also enjoyed how not every element of the plot was tied up with a pretty bow, as it was written realistic to the time period. I look forward to this author’s next book.

Laura Frantz writes historical fiction that compels the reader into the book and doesn't let the reader go until the book is finished. Any time I see Laura Frantz's name as the author, the book goes into my TBR pile. So when I saw that A Bound Heart was available to read and review, I applied to get the galley.

Lark was an employee of Magnus as keeper of the bees and the gardens. She knew the medicinal properties of herbs and was trying to help Magnus' wife conceive and carry a child to term. Somehow an extra added ingredient got added to the mixture and Isla wandered to the cliffs and fell to her death. Lark was charged with accessory to murder and when Magnus showed up to defend Lark, he was charged with wearing his kilt. The sentence for both of them was transportation and indenture. Lark's term was three years and Magnus' was two. Magnus was sent to Jamaica and Lark to Virginia. The real adventure begins when they cross the ocean.

Laura's writing is impeccable, compelling, engaging, and completely entertaining. Her descriptions of her settings are inspiring, especially with the heathers covering the countryside and the gardens that Lark tended. Her characters are fully developed to be the fulfillment of Laura's ideas for them.

Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, and a tour through the palace gardens.

My thanks to Revell Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book.

I loved this book. Laura Frantz did not disappoint me with this story. It was beautifully written and I loved every word. As always the romance in her stories is swoon worthy. I would highly recommend this book if you are looking for a bit of adventure and romance., a beautiful heroine and eye catching hero.

Magnus and Lark grew up together, but life goes awry when Magnus’ wife is unable to bear a child. When the unthinkable happens, Lark and Magnus find themselves sold as indentured servants bound for America. Will they be able to stay together and find love in a new world?

The beginning of this story moved rather slowly, but I especially enjoyed the ending. Lark and Magnus are sweet characters, and I loved reading about Larkin. I can’t say I know much about indentured servitude, and it was an interesting aspect of American history to read about.

Laura Frantz is a must read author for me...and anxiously await her next masterpiece. A BOUND HEART is a beautifully written novel w/ characters that you will stay w/ you long after the final chapter. Treat yourself to this classic novel.

A Bound Heart by Laura Frantz

Rating: 2 out of 5 stars

______________________________________________________________________________

Story Notes

Laura Frantz presents her readers with a story that has a very good plot but becomes a bit scattered in the fleshing out of the plot.

I love stories that take place on the British Isles – there is a certain romance to the area that makes it a perfect setting. And as this story takes place on the isle of Kerrera, I was excited to read Laura Frantz latest release. It began pretty well by building the story and the background but as the story went on it seemed like there were many insertions of information that explained thoughts or happenings that were not very well written. It was like Ms. Frantz was writing her story and then thought of something she wanted to explain further and just tossed in an explanation in random places. She began her story with Lark MacDougall, a stillroom keeper who was in charge of the medicinal garden and the bee skeps at Kerrera Castle. Her heart is attracted to Captain Rory MacPherson, a smuggler who is doing his best to bring much needed supplies to the island. But his reckless behavior and lack of commitment to one girl make Lark wary of possible relationship. Going about her work fills Lark’s days with contentment and purpose, even if it means the constant reminder of what might have been. Laird of the castle, Magnus MacLeish is a former beau of Lark, one she had once hoped to marry. But in recent years Magnus married the wealthy daughter of a Glasgow man, although she has not been able to provide him with an heir. Heartsick over the six losses of babies, Magnus and Isla are growing further apart in their relationship as their desperation grows. A vain attempt by Isla to increase fertility brings tragedy and sets into motion a future of uncertainly and loss for Magnus and Lark. She is accused of causing the death of Isla through herbal remedies and he is accused of treason for his chosen mode of dress in public. The handed down sentence for each is transportation and indentured service in the Americas. Struggling to keep faith in the midst of continued hardship, Lark and Magnus are drawn closer together with every happening. The love they both thought lost forever, blooms again, and this time its stronger for all its struggles. Now if they can only survive “the seasoning” of their new homes and the miles of separation before they can be together forever. As one can see, this is a wonderful plot, with plenty of twists and turns to ensure situations do not become boring or repetitive. But the actually writing of the story was too scattered for my liking. The plot would go along very well and then there would be what I call a “rabbit trail” that was added to try to explain a character’s thoughts or actions. I believe it would have been better to have a “flashback” type instance rather than a quick insertion of information. Or perhaps, mix it up to include both uses of explanation. I also did not care for the rushed feeling of the plot in the latter half of the story. It seemed like Ms. Frantz was in a hurry to finish the story and eliminated characters or problems in the most expedient way, regardless of its affect on the story. I would also have liked to see a bit more of a look at the future for Mangus and Lark. Ms. Frantz just left them looking towards the future and with Lark still doubting the wisdom of Mangus’s decisions. I would have expected this type of ending had it been the first in a series, but there is no indication that this is the case. I did enjoy the history and the experiences that were described throughout the story. Scotland has incredible history to learn and it was interesting to read of their way of dealing with the laws/orders that came from England. And although I have read other stories about indentured service participants, I enjoyed seeing how that process happened from start to finish, rather that just reading of what happened after arrival in America. So while this is not my most favorite book of late, I did enjoy the overall story. Hopefully, Ms. Frantz will take a little more time with the next story and ensure it is better constructed.

I received this E-book free of charge from Revell Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

A fascinating journey from the Scottish Isles to the Americas.

My rating is 4.5 stars

A fascinating journey from the Scottish Isles to the Americas.

Lark and Magnus are intricate characters with the kind of faith that withstands the strongest storms. I loved how at the beginning of the story, before Magnus’ wife died, despite her petulant nature, he continued to remind himself of the Scriptural admonition “husbands, love your wives.”

Magnus, though laird of the castle, didn’t find it beneath him to help watch the sheep and he cared deeply for the people of his island. His was the kind of nobility that is truly noble, based on his deep love the of Lord and desire to obey Him.

I loved Lark’s occupation as the keeper of the stillroom and the bees! The way she was able to surround herself with plants and her knowledge of herbal remedies was fun to read about. She was truly humble and never thought more highly of herself than she should. Her thoughts were almost always of others and how she could help them. And similarly, as I am prone to do at times, despite her strong faith, she sometimes questioned God’s love and will for her life.

This is a very sweet story with some surprises along the way. Lovers of historical fiction will want to be sure to grab a copy.


Read with a Preview at AmongTheReads.net


I was given a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.

This is a sweeping, epic story that begins in Scotland in 1752.
Lark and Magnus are raised and educated together on the estate that is held by Magnus’ father. Best friends as children, they are torn apart by social standing as young adults, as Lark is an employee of the estate and Magnus takes his place as the laird of the manor. Even though it’s hampered by society’s standards, their friendship remains strong, even after Magnus returns home with a new, suitable bride. But a tragedy occurs and both Magnus and Lark find themselves as endentured servants bound for Virginia and Jamaica to fulfill the terms of their servitude. The storyline details the trials they face and their struggle to remain connected to one another. I liked both of these characters, especially Lark. She is a resourceful woman of courage and loyalty. Her faith is strong through all she endures, and I loved following her story.

Those readers that love Scottish fiction will delight in this book. The first few chapters are filled with Scottish dialect, and that could make it slow reading for those who aren’t quite into this type of fiction. However, I’d urge those readers to keep reading the story because as the scene shifts to America, this is not quite so pronounced. I was glad that I persevered through that section.

The only thing that I disliked about this book is that I felt the storyline with a major character was suddenly dropped and we didn’t get his full story. Otherwise, this was wonderful reading.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

A Bound Heart
Jody Hedlund

A Bound Heart by Jody Hedlund is a must read! I was kind of in an adult book drought. I teach school so I have been swamped with reading children’s books, which I love. However, I was desiring a ME book. While meal prepping I started listening to this book on my Kindle. I was hooked! A Bound Heart is the story of Magnus MacLeish and Lark MacDougall. Magnus and Lark spent their childhood together on the Isle of Kerrera. Magnus grew up, married and became the laird; Lark kept the stillroom and helped her grandmother. I don’t want to give away what happens next, but you will go down a road of twists and turns.
I loved this book! Read it!

It took me a couple of chapters into A Bound Heart to get past the Scottish brogue; I found it a bit difficult to read at first. But it became quite an endearing story, and it’s evident that a lot of historical research went into writing this book. The landscape details are so well vibrantly described that one feels you’re right there with the characters. The descriptive accounts of the treacherous life on board ship, the Colonial life in Virginia, and the perilous life in the West Indies add spark to the storyline. Lark captured my heart immediately, as did the precious babe Larkin. And poor Magnus, Lord of the castle in Scotland, sent into indentured status for wearing a kilt. Several plot twists and unique characters keep the story moving quickly; however I was a bit disappointed with the ending as I felt it could have been expanded on and left me wondering.

Another Laura Frantz masterpiece!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A tender love story wrought with uncertainty and hardship.

The setting of this book is at once gorgeous and heartbreaking. You can practically feel the ocean breeze as you read of Lark traipsing about the island. Yet my heartstrings were continually tugged as I read of the struggles of this little isle in the midst of poverty.

I love how tender the tale of Lark and Magnus’s unrequited love story was portrayed. Lark was a really sweet heroine and I hoped for the best for her. And while Magnus had his flaws, I thought that he mostly wanted what was best for those around him.

A Bound Heart is a beautifully written historical that I think most fans of Christian fiction will enjoy.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.