I really enjoyed this novel by Karen Ullo. It is a story that weaves past and present. Pre and Post revolutionary France as well as the tale of immigrants trying to forge a new life in the Louisiana Territory.
While the view is past and present, I wouldn’t consider this a split time.
It follows the aristocracy pre-French Revolution and some of the drawing room conversations. Our heroine, Alix is unloved by her mother owing to a difficult birth and subsequent birth injury, but much loved by the caretakers family. Until she comes of age and is sent away to a convent for schooling and then into an arranged marriage.
She witnesses life at the French court as a lady in waiting as well as the stirring of the revolution due to her husband’s political leanings.
We watch the revolution rise and fall through her eyes and the effect on her family, friends, and other loved ones, the Royals, as well as the Church.
It is a tale of wrestling with faith and beliefs, sacrifice and loss. Alix eventually comes to terms with her past, acknowledging her inner strength and finding forgiveness and peace in her future.
I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
