Captured by Love - A Review

Published - Bethany House Publishers, June, 2014
Author - Jody Hedlund
Title - Captured by Love
Format - ebook, paper

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Angelique MacKenzie has struggled to survive a harsh winter on Michilimackinac Island. With spring comes not only a fresh beginning but also much needed supplies when the voyagers arrive on the shores. Pierre Durant and island native is one of those returning. As a fur trader, he has not sworn loyalty to either the United States or Great Britain, and that allows him more freedom than most. As he spends the summer caring for his widowed mother, he encounters Angelique more than once. Angelique is promised to Pierre's brother, Jean, a soldier fighting for the Americans. Angelique has always loved Pierre from the time they were children. The more time she spends with him now, the more she falls in love with him, yet she strives to remain loyal to the man she's promised to. When the war turns towards the island, will Angelique and Pierre be torn apart forever?

As I've come to expect from a Jody Hedlund book, Captured By Love is rich in historical detail and full of engaging characters. I was easily drawn into the story. I've never been to Michigan, and I don't know much about the war of 1812. But I didn't let that stop me.

I found Pierre to be a little too much of a heart-throb. I mean, he knew Angelique was promised to his brother, and he realized that he could easily win her. Still, through all of the difficulties that he had in capturing her heart, I did find myself rooting for him. I wanted to see him grow and I was pleased when he did.

For Angelique, I found her situation to be heart wrenching. She was stuck with a stepfather who was abusive. Yet her hope and her overall sense of making the best out of the situation endeared her to me. I was also pleased that while others tried to change her, she was determined to remain who she was.

Overall, I'd have to say that this was a very rich read. It's not my favorite one by Hedlund. That honor rests with Noble Groom. But it's not my least favorite one either. Is it one I'd reread? Definitely! I'll even pass it on to my mom and cousin to borrow.

I received this book for free from the author for the purpose of reviewing and promoting. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Julie Lessman

Rating - 4 stars