"A Bound Heart" by Laura Frantz

In a time when oppression is so hard that an entire island must rely on smuggled goods to survive, Lark MacDougall, beekeeper and stillroom maid to the laird Magnus MacLeish, finds her conscience torn. She knows the needs of her fellow islanders, but also feels the need to live an honest life. When an accident occurs and the blame lands on Lark, she is taken from her home and sentenced far across the sea, not anticipating just who will be exiled with her. Will she ever be able to return to her home, or will she find a place for her heart in this new land?

One thing I've found about Laura Frantz's books is the back cover copy never does the book justice. There is always so much more to the story, such different turns than the blurb would lead one to expect. It would be too easy to spoil the surprises of the story, so suffice to say, it took me far more places than I anticipated, in ways I couldn't have guessed.

The history of the time period is integral to the story--both in Scotland and across the sea. I forget what a dark time the 18th century was. Oppression wasn't limited to slaves on plantations; it's hard to believe that in Scotland wearing one's clan's plaid was a prison-worthy offense, and smuggling something so basic as salt worth a hanging. In spite of the very Scottish beginning, there were moments I wondered if the plot would go in the way of Captain Blood--we already had the next thing to a pirate, unjust sentencing, and transportation. But as aforementioned, the author has a delightful way of turning my expectations on their head.

It's a beautiful, captivating tale. Unjust, yet faith-filled, even in such dark circumstances. Above all, hopeful, even when it seems there is no hope to be had. Highly recommended!