Fast paced, exciting historical drama with surprise ending... When the charming but penniless Pierre Dupres departs 17th-century France in pursuit of fortune, heartbroken Clare resigns herself to marrying his dull elder brother Jacques. Descended from a long line of midwives, she must bear a daughter to carry on her rewarding ancestral profession with its many secrets. Jacques reluctantly allows Clare to restore Maison Dupres, a crumbling chateau rumoured to be haunted, as their family home but clearly disapproves his wife's decision to continue pursuing her career, even after the birth of their two children.

As Huguenots face escalating persecution under King Louis XIV, including a new royal edict which precludes Clare from continuing midwifery, she urges Jacques to emigrate to England. He adamantly refuses. Desperate, Clare reaches out to Pierre, and together they concoct a secret plan to transport her family to London on one of his company's merchant ships. But as they prepare to flee, the King's dreaded Dragonnade soldiers, led by a lecherous officer, storm Maison Dupres with an arrest warrant. Clare's daring plan to escape the clutches of the officer and save her family triggers an electrifying pursuit that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the riveting conclusion.
EDITORIAL REVIEWS
"After several hairbreadth escapes, the story proceeds to a rip-roaring conclusion as an armed merchant ship from England pushes off from the pier in Dieppe. Over the course of this novel, Penfield shows a talent for storytelling and a clear knack for drama... " Kirkus Reviews

"... a beautiful and flowing story with elements of history, romance, and storytelling brought together by a colourful cast of characters. Clare is a strong female lead dealing with issues that are timeless." Literary Titan

"A gripping historical novel. A finalist and highly recommended." The Wishing Shelf Book Awards

"... well-written, well-paced, with a story that carries you along." The Coffee Pot Book Club

" Clare Dupres' story is completely entertaining. And there is subtle humor. I like that. " Mike Bove, author of The Bruce DelReno Mysteries.

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