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Defying the Crown #1
Daughter of the King
La Rochelle France, 1661. Fierce Protestant Isabelle is desperate to escape persecution by the Catholic King. Isabelle is tortured and harassed, her people forced to convert to the religion that rules the land. She risks her life by helping her fellow Protestants, which is forbidden by the powers of France. She accepts her fate - until she meets a handsome Catholic soldier who makes her question everything.
She fights off an attack by a nobleman, and the only way to save herself is to flee to the colony of Canada as a Daughter of the King. She can have money, protection, and a new life - if she adopts the religion she's spent a lifetime fighting. She must leave her homeland and the promises of her past. In the wild land of Canada, Isabelle finds that her search for love and faith has just begun.
Based on the incredible true story of the French orphans who settled Canada, Daughter of the King is a sweeping tale of one young woman's fight for true freedom. Kerry Chaput brings the past to life, expertly weaving a gripping saga with vivid historical details. Jump back in time on a thrilling adventure with an unforgettable heroine.
She fights off an attack by a nobleman, and the only way to save herself is to flee to the colony of Canada as a Daughter of the King. She can have money, protection, and a new life - if she adopts the religion she's spent a lifetime fighting. She must leave her homeland and the promises of her past. In the wild land of Canada, Isabelle finds that her search for love and faith has just begun.
Based on the incredible true story of the French orphans who settled Canada, Daughter of the King is a sweeping tale of one young woman's fight for true freedom. Kerry Chaput brings the past to life, expertly weaving a gripping saga with vivid historical details. Jump back in time on a thrilling adventure with an unforgettable heroine.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 16, 2021
947 people are currently reading
5057 people want to read
About the author
Kerry Chaput
10 books359 followersKerry Chaput is a multi-award-winning historical fiction author who writes of daring women with loads of adventure and a splash of magic. Born in California, she now calls the Pacific Northwest home, where she spends her days hitting the trails, chasing historical rabbit holes, and feeding her addiction to espresso and doggy cuddles. Explore her books at www.kerrywrites.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
September 10, 2022
It’s 1661 La Rochelle, France. The Protestant Huguenots are being persecuted and forced to convert to the Catholic religion. Life is fraught with danger and fear for those who refuse. Just going about ones daily tasks can lead to beatings and far worse. Their religious rites must be preformed in secret deep in the woods surrounding the town.
It is in this world that our protagonist, Isabelle is born and raised. As a young woman it is she who must venture out into town to obtain her mothers and her own daily staples. As a strong, courageous woman she is well suited to the task. That is until a decree comes down declaring all property of the Huguenots forfeit and that they should leave town or face the consequences. I don’t want to tell too much of the story here since it’s a wonderful tale best told by the author. Suffice it to say she and her mother flee their home and thus Isabelle takes her first step on a journey that will take her from her small French town to the NewWorld.
Overall this is a well written novel. There is a Nice even pace throughout the book. Each scene advances the plot and reinforces our understanding of Isabelle’s situation and shows the untenable position the Huguenots were forced into. Ms Chaput has done an admirable job with her character development. The main character, Isabelle is fully fleshed out. We know her strengths and weaknesses and the motivations behind her actions though not always agreed with by this reader. At first I thought her outspokenness and fierce strength was out of place in 17th century France and Canada but as I thought about it I realized that it would take just the qualities she possesses to accept the kings offer, to leave ones homeland all alone and sail off into a unknown and alien world. It would take a woman possessed of Incredible inner strength and courage. Each of the women who travel with her possess these qualities, most just don’t know it. Isabelle wants to use her voice to help them find theirs.
For the most part the book is filled with wonderful historic details. I have one small complaint here, I wish there had been more description of New France’s physical surroundings and what the daily life for it’s inhabitants was like.
All in all the novel is an engaging read that I whole heartedly recommend for fans of historical fiction.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, Black Rose Writing and NetGalley. This fact in no way influenced my review.
It is in this world that our protagonist, Isabelle is born and raised. As a young woman it is she who must venture out into town to obtain her mothers and her own daily staples. As a strong, courageous woman she is well suited to the task. That is until a decree comes down declaring all property of the Huguenots forfeit and that they should leave town or face the consequences. I don’t want to tell too much of the story here since it’s a wonderful tale best told by the author. Suffice it to say she and her mother flee their home and thus Isabelle takes her first step on a journey that will take her from her small French town to the NewWorld.
Overall this is a well written novel. There is a Nice even pace throughout the book. Each scene advances the plot and reinforces our understanding of Isabelle’s situation and shows the untenable position the Huguenots were forced into. Ms Chaput has done an admirable job with her character development. The main character, Isabelle is fully fleshed out. We know her strengths and weaknesses and the motivations behind her actions though not always agreed with by this reader. At first I thought her outspokenness and fierce strength was out of place in 17th century France and Canada but as I thought about it I realized that it would take just the qualities she possesses to accept the kings offer, to leave ones homeland all alone and sail off into a unknown and alien world. It would take a woman possessed of Incredible inner strength and courage. Each of the women who travel with her possess these qualities, most just don’t know it. Isabelle wants to use her voice to help them find theirs.
For the most part the book is filled with wonderful historic details. I have one small complaint here, I wish there had been more description of New France’s physical surroundings and what the daily life for it’s inhabitants was like.
All in all the novel is an engaging read that I whole heartedly recommend for fans of historical fiction.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, Black Rose Writing and NetGalley. This fact in no way influenced my review.
January 11, 2022
A few centuries ago, stating your religion had strong repercussions- it meant your life if the state religion was not your own. I have always been fascinated by this part of history involving religious war, war over the New World colonies, and life on the frontier. I was eager to take up this start of a new series by a new to me author and follow along a young woman’s stormy adventuresome life that will take her far from everything she has ever known and push her beyond what most people could endure.
In eighteenth century France, the Protestant Huguenots were now being driven out and tortured. A fiercely courageous young woman has seen atrocities happen on a daily basis, lived with severe poverty, and seen everyone she loves die and usually horrifically. Her faith is dear to her, but she is tired of running, of being hunted. Isobelle swallows her pride and takes help from one Catholic soldier and refuge from a Catholic priest. Her bid for freedom and peaceful existence takes several twists and turns that were suspenseful and never seemed to let up. There is romance, friendship, suffering and loss, lessons learned and growth throughout for Isobelle.
The historical backdrop was researched carefully and painted in well. The atrocities done in the beginning turned my stomach and the author doesn’t hold back on the descriptions. At different times, I know both sides of this religious struggle were guilty of horrid acts, but I am always one who cheers on the underdog and, in this situation, it was Isobelle and her fellow Huguenots as well as other lower class women seeking a chance in the New World. The author delivered a fair history of the indigenous history with the European encroachers. She gave faces and personalities to all the peoples involved.
The author brought the sorrow, desperation, and other human emotions to vivid life, but I appreciated that she gave Isobelle a strong hope and desire to keep going even when she can’t make sense of her life. I appreciated seeing Isobelle form friendships with the other women who took the King’s offer to go to New France (Canada) as wives of the colonists. And, there, some of the colonists and soldiers became part of the story. Also, there is her enemy from childhood, a young woman of a wealthy Catholic trading family, who turns out to be a complex personality in shades of gray. There is something of a romance triangle and it turns out to be complicated and will carry over into the next book.
The ending wrapped up some plot threads and introduced a new one that will develop a further adventure for Isobelle. She has come a long way and learned so much so I am glad there is a further story for her. Daughter of the King was fabulous and tore so many emotions from me. It was a compelling story that I recommend to those who love vibrant historical fiction.
I rec'd a print copy the the publicist to read in exchange for an honest review.
In eighteenth century France, the Protestant Huguenots were now being driven out and tortured. A fiercely courageous young woman has seen atrocities happen on a daily basis, lived with severe poverty, and seen everyone she loves die and usually horrifically. Her faith is dear to her, but she is tired of running, of being hunted. Isobelle swallows her pride and takes help from one Catholic soldier and refuge from a Catholic priest. Her bid for freedom and peaceful existence takes several twists and turns that were suspenseful and never seemed to let up. There is romance, friendship, suffering and loss, lessons learned and growth throughout for Isobelle.
The historical backdrop was researched carefully and painted in well. The atrocities done in the beginning turned my stomach and the author doesn’t hold back on the descriptions. At different times, I know both sides of this religious struggle were guilty of horrid acts, but I am always one who cheers on the underdog and, in this situation, it was Isobelle and her fellow Huguenots as well as other lower class women seeking a chance in the New World. The author delivered a fair history of the indigenous history with the European encroachers. She gave faces and personalities to all the peoples involved.
The author brought the sorrow, desperation, and other human emotions to vivid life, but I appreciated that she gave Isobelle a strong hope and desire to keep going even when she can’t make sense of her life. I appreciated seeing Isobelle form friendships with the other women who took the King’s offer to go to New France (Canada) as wives of the colonists. And, there, some of the colonists and soldiers became part of the story. Also, there is her enemy from childhood, a young woman of a wealthy Catholic trading family, who turns out to be a complex personality in shades of gray. There is something of a romance triangle and it turns out to be complicated and will carry over into the next book.
The ending wrapped up some plot threads and introduced a new one that will develop a further adventure for Isobelle. She has come a long way and learned so much so I am glad there is a further story for her. Daughter of the King was fabulous and tore so many emotions from me. It was a compelling story that I recommend to those who love vibrant historical fiction.
I rec'd a print copy the the publicist to read in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2021
Thank you to the author for giving me a free copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
Reader Warnings:
Violence: Yes. Torture, murder
Sex: Yes, sexual abuse
The Plot in Brief: Isabelle, a young Huguenot woman living in LaRochelle, watches as her community cowers in fear and is torn apart by violence at the hands of the King’s soldiers. Determined to hold to her faith, she finds a new life only to be brutalized at the hands of a nobleman. Forced to choose between prison, or worse, and conversion to the Catholic, she becomes a Filles du Roi, a Daughter of the King. New life awaits her in Canada.
The characters: The character of Isabelle is well drawn, we feel her pain as she tries to protect herself, her mother and her friends and neighbors. I enjoyed the portrayal of her companions as well as her enemies and the fact that the author creates multidimensional characters. No one is all good or all bad. Their actions seem entirely appropriate for the time period, 1661. Isabelle’s story is painful to read as she moves from one heart-breaking chapter to another.
The history: I was really intrigued by the historical setting for this book. As a genealogy buff I was aware of the Filles du Roi but did not have an understanding of who and what they were. As most of my early ancestors were English, it was a treat to learn more about the settlement of French Canada. The author clearly did her research and the setting feels authentic with great period details.
The Writing: Isabelle’s story is dark, very dark and the writing style mirrors this. The narrative is highly descriptive and occasionally felt a bit melodramatic. The pace picks up speed in the second half of the book as Isabelle leaves the old world for the unknown wilds of the new. The ending left me hopeful that there is a sequel in the works.
Recommendation: Lovers of historical fiction are bound to enjoy this heartrending story of a determined young woman. This is not an HEA romance, but a gritty tough read, backed by a powerful message of determination and survival.
A gritty tough read, backed by a powerful message of determination and survival. The best in historical fiction. Highly recommend. Jean M. Roberts author of The Heron.
Reader Warnings:
Violence: Yes. Torture, murder
Sex: Yes, sexual abuse
The Plot in Brief: Isabelle, a young Huguenot woman living in LaRochelle, watches as her community cowers in fear and is torn apart by violence at the hands of the King’s soldiers. Determined to hold to her faith, she finds a new life only to be brutalized at the hands of a nobleman. Forced to choose between prison, or worse, and conversion to the Catholic, she becomes a Filles du Roi, a Daughter of the King. New life awaits her in Canada.
The characters: The character of Isabelle is well drawn, we feel her pain as she tries to protect herself, her mother and her friends and neighbors. I enjoyed the portrayal of her companions as well as her enemies and the fact that the author creates multidimensional characters. No one is all good or all bad. Their actions seem entirely appropriate for the time period, 1661. Isabelle’s story is painful to read as she moves from one heart-breaking chapter to another.
The history: I was really intrigued by the historical setting for this book. As a genealogy buff I was aware of the Filles du Roi but did not have an understanding of who and what they were. As most of my early ancestors were English, it was a treat to learn more about the settlement of French Canada. The author clearly did her research and the setting feels authentic with great period details.
The Writing: Isabelle’s story is dark, very dark and the writing style mirrors this. The narrative is highly descriptive and occasionally felt a bit melodramatic. The pace picks up speed in the second half of the book as Isabelle leaves the old world for the unknown wilds of the new. The ending left me hopeful that there is a sequel in the works.
Recommendation: Lovers of historical fiction are bound to enjoy this heartrending story of a determined young woman. This is not an HEA romance, but a gritty tough read, backed by a powerful message of determination and survival.
A gritty tough read, backed by a powerful message of determination and survival. The best in historical fiction. Highly recommend. Jean M. Roberts author of The Heron.
August 14, 2021
I loved this book. Kerry Chaput's Daughter of the King was fast-paced and the characters endearing. I loved learning about the 17th-century Huguenots and this story illustrates that possessing beliefs at odds with the larger community is as current an issue in the 17th century as the 21st century. I was sad to find myself at the end of the book...I was invested in the daily lives and struggles of these special characters. When not reading the book, the characters and their struggles crept into my thoughts...well done. Rick L. Campise, PhD
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August 13, 2021The Defying the Crown series begins with Isabelle’s resistance to the rules of France. Her adventure starts in 1661, but her fight for freedom will carry on. Daughter of the King is book one, and this brave heroine is about to take you on a wild ride.
December 31, 2021
Isabelle Colette is a Huguenot in 17th century France. Life has not been kind to her and other Protestants – they face starvation, torture and death. Living a life of fear and secrecy, they are cast from their homes and villages. When faced with the same, Isabelle is saved by James, a Catholic soldier. Questioning everything she has ever known, she eventually finds herself on a ship as a Fille du Roi – a Daughter of the King. Landing in Canada, Isabelle is given opportunities she never thought would be in her reach. But she soon learns that only those with fire burning in them will survive in the wild and hostile land.
Even though I’m Canadian, I really only knew about the Filles du Roi in passing. I read a Dear Canada book about them, but we never learned anything about these amazing young women in school. This book really put into light what they went through and how, for the very first time, these women had a say in their own lives and futures.
This book is heart wrenching. The descriptions of how the Huguenots lived and how they were treated are brought to life and show the horrible realities thousands of people had to face. Isabelle sees it in her everyday life and experiences it first-hand, but her spirit never dies. She’s an incredibly strong character, though not without her faults.
I enjoyed the bittersweetness of this novel. It kept me on my toes and even at 90% read, I couldn’t guess how it would end. It’s left open to a sequel and from the author’s site, it looks as though this will be a series. I can’t wait to read the rest of the books.
Thank you to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for the opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Even though I’m Canadian, I really only knew about the Filles du Roi in passing. I read a Dear Canada book about them, but we never learned anything about these amazing young women in school. This book really put into light what they went through and how, for the very first time, these women had a say in their own lives and futures.
This book is heart wrenching. The descriptions of how the Huguenots lived and how they were treated are brought to life and show the horrible realities thousands of people had to face. Isabelle sees it in her everyday life and experiences it first-hand, but her spirit never dies. She’s an incredibly strong character, though not without her faults.
I enjoyed the bittersweetness of this novel. It kept me on my toes and even at 90% read, I couldn’t guess how it would end. It’s left open to a sequel and from the author’s site, it looks as though this will be a series. I can’t wait to read the rest of the books.
Thank you to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for the opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
December 10, 2022
Beautiful and rebellious Isabelle lives a life of persecution and poverty in pre-revolutionary France. Dedicated to her Protestant faith, her family and her community, she fights back with quiet resistance in the face of the tyrannical Catholic regime who rule her beloved city of La Rochelle.
When the Protestants are driven out of their homes by Catholic militia, Isabelle thinks she has lost everything. But when she is offered the opportunity for a life in the New World, she must decide between a promising new start or continuing to fight for her faith, her family and everything she cherishes.
I loved learning about this fascinating period in history, where the Daughters of the King were sent to Canada with a generous dowry, a parcel of land and the right to choose any husband they wanted. Like Isabelle, these women were chosen from the ranks of the poor and powerless, as they were best equipped to deal with life in a harsh new land.
If you enjoy adventure, romance and stories set in exciting and dangerous times, then you’re going to love Daughter of the King. Isabelle is a thrilling heroine who can’t stay out of trouble, and her daring exploits carry the story along at a cracking pace. Kerry Chaput’s sumptuous descriptions bring the beauty and brutality of pre-revolutionary France and the new world of Canada to life. I can thoroughly recommend this novel to lovers of historical fiction and anyone who loves stories of triumph over adversity.
When the Protestants are driven out of their homes by Catholic militia, Isabelle thinks she has lost everything. But when she is offered the opportunity for a life in the New World, she must decide between a promising new start or continuing to fight for her faith, her family and everything she cherishes.
I loved learning about this fascinating period in history, where the Daughters of the King were sent to Canada with a generous dowry, a parcel of land and the right to choose any husband they wanted. Like Isabelle, these women were chosen from the ranks of the poor and powerless, as they were best equipped to deal with life in a harsh new land.
If you enjoy adventure, romance and stories set in exciting and dangerous times, then you’re going to love Daughter of the King. Isabelle is a thrilling heroine who can’t stay out of trouble, and her daring exploits carry the story along at a cracking pace. Kerry Chaput’s sumptuous descriptions bring the beauty and brutality of pre-revolutionary France and the new world of Canada to life. I can thoroughly recommend this novel to lovers of historical fiction and anyone who loves stories of triumph over adversity.
August 13, 2021
Daughter of the King by Kerry Chaput is a well-written story set in a time in history of which I knew next to nothing. Isabelle Colette is a young woman living a secret life as a French Protestant. Renouncing her faith goes against all of her principles but survival requires her to convert to Catholicism. When life in her small town of La Rochelle becomes too risky, she escapes and leaves behind her love- Monsieur Beaumont, a Catholic soldier who risks his life to save her. Isabelle soon finds her life as a domestic in a wealthy Catholic household to be equally dangerous.
She is recruited into the special group of young women known as Fille du Roi, Daughters of the King and travels to Quebec, aka New France, with the goal of choosing a husband from among the settlers there and giving birth to increase the population. She is drawn to Andre, a fur trader, but can she leave the memory of her first love behind and start again?
Daughter of the King is the first in a series and I will be anxiously awaiting the release of the next installment. The story was fast-paced, the characters were well-developed and as far as could tell, the history of the era is spot on.
She is recruited into the special group of young women known as Fille du Roi, Daughters of the King and travels to Quebec, aka New France, with the goal of choosing a husband from among the settlers there and giving birth to increase the population. She is drawn to Andre, a fur trader, but can she leave the memory of her first love behind and start again?
Daughter of the King is the first in a series and I will be anxiously awaiting the release of the next installment. The story was fast-paced, the characters were well-developed and as far as could tell, the history of the era is spot on.
June 5, 2023
** This was my historical fiction zoom book club's bonus pick for June 2023 **
France, 17th Century. Historical fiction author Kerry Chaput's debut novel Daughter of the King tells a tale of an unforgettable female heroine in Isabelle Collette. More than just a heroine, Isabelle is a French Protestant (Hugenot) who are oppressed by the King, who happens to be Catholic.
Not only does the author tell the story of religious persecution, but also about the Filles Du Roi (King's Daughters), and the settlement of New France. Being Canadian, I have been to Quebec City, but after reading this novel, I can now say I have knowledge and understanding of 17th Century France.
As this is Book 1 of a planned three-book series, I'll have to check the rest out to continue on Isabelle's adventures and see how the Filles Du Roi progressed.
⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️
France, 17th Century. Historical fiction author Kerry Chaput's debut novel Daughter of the King tells a tale of an unforgettable female heroine in Isabelle Collette. More than just a heroine, Isabelle is a French Protestant (Hugenot) who are oppressed by the King, who happens to be Catholic.
Not only does the author tell the story of religious persecution, but also about the Filles Du Roi (King's Daughters), and the settlement of New France. Being Canadian, I have been to Quebec City, but after reading this novel, I can now say I have knowledge and understanding of 17th Century France.
As this is Book 1 of a planned three-book series, I'll have to check the rest out to continue on Isabelle's adventures and see how the Filles Du Roi progressed.
⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️
November 19, 2021
This is an intriguing story. I love history and I love a book that can take me into the action. I really enjoyed this story but I definitely wanted more. I wanted the narrator to slow down and give more details of the every day life. This is a fast paced book and I eventually settled into the pace. I definitely want more details of Isabelle's life and interactions with other characters. I really liked so many of the characters. One of my favorite characters is Naira. Her scene with the wolves is one of my favorites of the whole book.
December 13, 2021
Special Thanks to Mindbuck Media and Black Rose Writing for the digital Advance Reader Copy. All opinions are my own.
Let me begin by counting the ways Daughter of the King by Kerry Chaput ticks my readerly boxes: historical fiction, based on a part of French history that was BRAND NEW to me (for how big of a deal this historical information was for me check out the extended blog review at www.heartwantsbooks.com), centered around French politics, and those of New France, featuring a heroine who is on her coming-of-age journey, and includes some romance, with bonus points for a new author.
Isabelle and her mother are on their own in La Rochelle, where they are among the struggling Protestant community, trying to live and practice their faith under the thumb of the dragoons (French military), their informants, and ultimately le Roi Soleil. Isabelle is trying to navigate being of marriageable age, and all that means in the 17th century, with caring for her ailing, fearful, alcoholic mother, and being a person amidst the perpetual religious persecution of the day. Drama ensues, and eventually (yes, I’m skipping a lot, and I’m not sorry) Isabelle finds herself as a Filles du Roi - a daughter of the king who is compensated for going to New France to marry the settler of her choice and help populate the area. As you’d expect, more drama ensues, and Isabelle faces a whole host of challenges, some old and familiar, and others new and unforeseen (at least by Isabelle).
What I really loved about Isabelle's coming of age story in Daughter of the King is that she learns who she is and what she really wants and does find those things in New France, but only when she feels safe within her own capabilities. Not everyone ever realizes their own strength, nor are we all able to use that strength to accomplish what we want. Sometimes we don’t know what we actually want until we realize we can’t have it anymore, just as Isabelle did at a later part of the book. And, I am oh so ready for book two! A rounded up four star read from me and I hope to get advanced copies of the rest of the Defying the Crown series as they are released, because I don’t want to have to wait so long to get them!
Let me begin by counting the ways Daughter of the King by Kerry Chaput ticks my readerly boxes: historical fiction, based on a part of French history that was BRAND NEW to me (for how big of a deal this historical information was for me check out the extended blog review at www.heartwantsbooks.com), centered around French politics, and those of New France, featuring a heroine who is on her coming-of-age journey, and includes some romance, with bonus points for a new author.
Isabelle and her mother are on their own in La Rochelle, where they are among the struggling Protestant community, trying to live and practice their faith under the thumb of the dragoons (French military), their informants, and ultimately le Roi Soleil. Isabelle is trying to navigate being of marriageable age, and all that means in the 17th century, with caring for her ailing, fearful, alcoholic mother, and being a person amidst the perpetual religious persecution of the day. Drama ensues, and eventually (yes, I’m skipping a lot, and I’m not sorry) Isabelle finds herself as a Filles du Roi - a daughter of the king who is compensated for going to New France to marry the settler of her choice and help populate the area. As you’d expect, more drama ensues, and Isabelle faces a whole host of challenges, some old and familiar, and others new and unforeseen (at least by Isabelle).
What I really loved about Isabelle's coming of age story in Daughter of the King is that she learns who she is and what she really wants and does find those things in New France, but only when she feels safe within her own capabilities. Not everyone ever realizes their own strength, nor are we all able to use that strength to accomplish what we want. Sometimes we don’t know what we actually want until we realize we can’t have it anymore, just as Isabelle did at a later part of the book. And, I am oh so ready for book two! A rounded up four star read from me and I hope to get advanced copies of the rest of the Defying the Crown series as they are released, because I don’t want to have to wait so long to get them!
December 2, 2021
Do you love adventure stories based on true events? Historical fiction? Woman-centered story? With a bit of romance? Can you handle reading about torture?
I loved escaping to 17th century France and learning about the plight of the Huguenots. History unfolded through the eyes of a loyal and fierce 19-year-old, Isabelle Colette from La Rochelle and I eagerly soaked it up! Protestant Isabelle has been harassed, tortured, and intimidated because of her religious beliefs and is desperate to escape persecution by the Catholic King. When a chance comes, it’s an impossible choice: she’ll have to adopt the religion that killed her family and branded her an outcast.
Betraying everything she believes in, Isabelle flees to Canada as a Daughter of the King and reluctantly accepts money, protection and a fresh start. In short, to populate the colony of New France, orphans and poor single women like Isabelle were sent to marry trappers/settlers/soldiers. It isn’t an easy life and Isabelle’s angst over difficult choices continues to plague her in the new world.
I loved the theme of triumph over adversity running through this novel as well as the focus on Canadian history. Canadian Grade 10 Social Studies students learn about the settlement and Les Filles Du Roi but are not educated about the previous life the orphans faced. I was shocked. It’s interesting to think that the French Canadians today are descendants of these 800 brave women!
This first in the Defying the Crown series is a must for historical fiction lovers. A slight warning for those who are queasy about torture or find a ‘foot in the door’ romance uncomfortable.
Drafted in 2017, shelved for 2 years, and finally resurrected, Kerry Chaput’s five-star debut was worth the wait. Isabelle has been patient in waiting to tell her story. I can’t wait for book 2.
Publishes December 16, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Kerry Chaput, Black Rose Writing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I loved escaping to 17th century France and learning about the plight of the Huguenots. History unfolded through the eyes of a loyal and fierce 19-year-old, Isabelle Colette from La Rochelle and I eagerly soaked it up! Protestant Isabelle has been harassed, tortured, and intimidated because of her religious beliefs and is desperate to escape persecution by the Catholic King. When a chance comes, it’s an impossible choice: she’ll have to adopt the religion that killed her family and branded her an outcast.
Betraying everything she believes in, Isabelle flees to Canada as a Daughter of the King and reluctantly accepts money, protection and a fresh start. In short, to populate the colony of New France, orphans and poor single women like Isabelle were sent to marry trappers/settlers/soldiers. It isn’t an easy life and Isabelle’s angst over difficult choices continues to plague her in the new world.
I loved the theme of triumph over adversity running through this novel as well as the focus on Canadian history. Canadian Grade 10 Social Studies students learn about the settlement and Les Filles Du Roi but are not educated about the previous life the orphans faced. I was shocked. It’s interesting to think that the French Canadians today are descendants of these 800 brave women!
This first in the Defying the Crown series is a must for historical fiction lovers. A slight warning for those who are queasy about torture or find a ‘foot in the door’ romance uncomfortable.
Drafted in 2017, shelved for 2 years, and finally resurrected, Kerry Chaput’s five-star debut was worth the wait. Isabelle has been patient in waiting to tell her story. I can’t wait for book 2.
Publishes December 16, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Kerry Chaput, Black Rose Writing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
December 15, 2021
Daughter of the King is historical fiction at its best. It is full of important history that is delivered in an entirely readable package with characters who have immense depth.
When we meet Isabelle she is a peasant teen living with her ailing mother in France. The Catholic King is persecuting the Protestant Huguenots, taking their property and torturing them trying to force them to convert or be killed. Isabelle's mother is staunch in her beliefs and Isabelle is fiercely loyal to her mother and her people. She runs the streets trying to find food and often finds herself intervening when she sees people being persecuted or women being taken advantage of. She gets a bit of a reputation and is forced to flee. Her love interest tries to convince her to covert to survive but when she refuses he helps her find a place where she can be somewhat safer. She lives as a servant there hiding her identity until circumstances force her to flee again. This time she is chosen as a Daughter of the King, selected to travel to the new colony in Canada to marry and help stabilize the colony. There she crosses paths with some old acquaintances and the natives and finds herself really advocating for the women she traveled with and the betterment of the colony.
I always love stories of the colonies and the adventure and romance of starting something new, but I haven't read a lot of the Canadian colonial era. I was really intrigued by the Daughter of the King concept and how women who weren't previously empowered were suddenly in a position of choice. As always, that is daunting to some and downright terrifying for others. I was quite intrigued by how much Isabelle grew during the years and yet often still made a choice that was safe or to please someone else rather than herself. There comes a time where fulfillment and living an authentic life is equal to survival and we see each character reach that point in their own time.
Thanks to Netgalley for access to this novel. All opinions above are my own.
When we meet Isabelle she is a peasant teen living with her ailing mother in France. The Catholic King is persecuting the Protestant Huguenots, taking their property and torturing them trying to force them to convert or be killed. Isabelle's mother is staunch in her beliefs and Isabelle is fiercely loyal to her mother and her people. She runs the streets trying to find food and often finds herself intervening when she sees people being persecuted or women being taken advantage of. She gets a bit of a reputation and is forced to flee. Her love interest tries to convince her to covert to survive but when she refuses he helps her find a place where she can be somewhat safer. She lives as a servant there hiding her identity until circumstances force her to flee again. This time she is chosen as a Daughter of the King, selected to travel to the new colony in Canada to marry and help stabilize the colony. There she crosses paths with some old acquaintances and the natives and finds herself really advocating for the women she traveled with and the betterment of the colony.
I always love stories of the colonies and the adventure and romance of starting something new, but I haven't read a lot of the Canadian colonial era. I was really intrigued by the Daughter of the King concept and how women who weren't previously empowered were suddenly in a position of choice. As always, that is daunting to some and downright terrifying for others. I was quite intrigued by how much Isabelle grew during the years and yet often still made a choice that was safe or to please someone else rather than herself. There comes a time where fulfillment and living an authentic life is equal to survival and we see each character reach that point in their own time.
Thanks to Netgalley for access to this novel. All opinions above are my own.
November 7, 2021
I racked my brain to recall the history of the Huguenots. Apparently, thirteen years spent studying French came up short. Lucky for me, I received an ARC of Daughter of the King by debut novelist Kerry Chaput, a rich historical fiction exposing the struggles of the French Protestants (the Huguenots) against the Catholic Church in late 17th century France. The story unfolds the desires of the main character, Isabelle Colette, a young woman seeking refuge from the unspeakable brutality of Catholic soldiers in the Royal Army. Isabelle’s hopes to remain true to her religious beliefs and keep her family and friends safe become more dangerous than her fears. Exiled from her home in La Rochelle, she travels to Rouen, facing more loss and peril along the way, until an ultimate sacrifice presents herself. Choosing to live sends her to New France as a Filles du Roi, a daughter of the king, the 17th century version of a mail-order bride. In Quebec City, Isabelle summons her strength, buried as deep as her Protestant bible, to battle new political struggles in a new land. Chaput places her reader in each unique setting. From poverty-stricken, wine-imbued hovels of La Rochelle, to the bowels of a ship crossing the Atlantic, to forests in the wilds of Canada, readers walk, run, and flee with Isabelle as she continually hunts down her fears to triumph in purpose. I envision a sequel. I hope so. Isabelle has much more to teach us about life in New France, interactions with the Native Americans and the fates of other Filles du Roi.
I received an ARC of Daughter of the King in exchange for my honest review.
I received an ARC of Daughter of the King in exchange for my honest review.
December 15, 2021
4.5 🌟
This sweeping tale is a story ripped right from the pages of the history books.
Set in France, 1661, we follow young, bold Isabelle Colette, a Protestant striving to stand firm in her belief under the horrible persecution of the Catholic Sun King.
Isabelle watches as her friends and loved ones are tortured and killed by the king’s dragoons. They say convert to Catholicism or be punished as a heretic. Isabelle and her mother are able to flee their village with the help of one kind-hearted Catholic soldier, but her mother does not survive.
Isabelle’s only chance is to hide among a kindly Catholic family, but even here, she is brutalized by a nobleman who believes he can have his way with her.
When she is offered a chance to go to one of the king’s colonies in New France, or Canada, her heart is torn. She would be leaving her homeland, but she would have an honorary title as one of the king’s daughters, and they would pay her to marry and have children.
Could this be an opportunity to escape persecution and start anew? Or is she treading on dangerous ground masquerading behind lies as a 𝐃𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠?
This is an intense setup for what will surely be an excellent historical series. If you love history, romance and adventure, I urge you to pick up this book.
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @kerrywrites for a spot on tour and a gifted copy.
This sweeping tale is a story ripped right from the pages of the history books.
Set in France, 1661, we follow young, bold Isabelle Colette, a Protestant striving to stand firm in her belief under the horrible persecution of the Catholic Sun King.
Isabelle watches as her friends and loved ones are tortured and killed by the king’s dragoons. They say convert to Catholicism or be punished as a heretic. Isabelle and her mother are able to flee their village with the help of one kind-hearted Catholic soldier, but her mother does not survive.
Isabelle’s only chance is to hide among a kindly Catholic family, but even here, she is brutalized by a nobleman who believes he can have his way with her.
When she is offered a chance to go to one of the king’s colonies in New France, or Canada, her heart is torn. She would be leaving her homeland, but she would have an honorary title as one of the king’s daughters, and they would pay her to marry and have children.
Could this be an opportunity to escape persecution and start anew? Or is she treading on dangerous ground masquerading behind lies as a 𝐃𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠?
This is an intense setup for what will surely be an excellent historical series. If you love history, romance and adventure, I urge you to pick up this book.
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @kerrywrites for a spot on tour and a gifted copy.
December 12, 2021
This is book one in a new series and is based on the true story of the French orphans who settled Canada. This takes place in 1661 France and then Canada. We meet Isabelle who is a Protestant that is strong in her beliefs. She is fearce and rebellious against converting to a Catholic. To save herself she must leave her family and homeland. Isabelle becomes part of the Fille du Roi, Daughters of the King and is sent to Canada to marry and have children and increase the population in the new colony. This isn't a fluffy read, it's a gritty and dark look into the past with violence and abuse. I really liked this story and I will read every book coming in this series. A must read for historical fans.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
December 24, 2023
Book #1 in the Defying The Crown series by Kerry Chaput. Historical fiction based on the true story of the women who would leave their homelands to become wives to the frontiersmen of Canada. In the mid 1800s, France was fiercely Catholic. To believe anything else was considered treason. Members of the Protestant Church were forced to convert or face torture and death. Many of the women who would emigragte to New France in the Canadian territories were Protestants escaping their persecution. This book, while fiction, sticks to the facts found in many a family document of the era. Some chapters are hard to read but the overall story is inspiring and a wonderful foundation for the books to follow.
January 8, 2023
3.5
It was good, just not a genre I’d typically read
It was good, just not a genre I’d typically read
March 11, 2022
I am descended from French Canadians through Acadia and know much of the history of the settlement of New France, but I discovered something that I did not know in Kerry Chaput's new novel Daughter of the King - the story of the Filles du Roi. As the French settled in Canada, making their mark in the new world and engaging in the fur trade, men were plentiful, but women were not. What woman would want to make the treacherous trek across the Atlantic Ocean to start anew in a wild and dangerous land full of peril? Not many, as it were, which is where the Filles du Roi came in. The Filles du Roi (Daughters of the King) were often girls and women who were down on their luck - orphaned, penniless, "ruined," persecuted - who were given a second chance at life through this program. They were made honorary "daughters of the King," and were given respect, power, and privilege in exchange for moving to the New World, marrying, starting a family, and helping France gain a foothold in North America.
Daughter of the King, the first novel in the Defying the Crown series, follows Isabelle Colette, a French Protestant who is finding herself persecuted in the Sun King, Louis XIV's, rule over France. "Huguenots" are being tortured, maimed, and killed for their beliefs. So far, Isabelle has resisted the pressure to convert to Catholicism, but she feels she is running out of choices, which is why she agrees to become a Filles du Roi. As a Catholic convert (who secretly holds on to her Protestant beliefs), Isabelle travels to the Quebec colony, where she is expected to make a match. But life in New France holds its own host of problems, which Isabelle soon discovers, including matters of the heart.
One part historical fiction, one part romance, Daughter of the King is a sweeping, adventurous novel of a not often talked about piece of history. I loved learning about the Filles du Roi through Isabelle's story, and I also found my eyes opened to the plight of the Huguenots, with which I was also not familiar. Chaput writes of the persecution that the Huguenots faced with such raw and unflinching heartbreak, and brings to life the tension that was felt throughout France in the 1600s. Isabelle's time spent as a Filles du Roi and her life in New France is not written as vividly as that of her Huguenot storyline, but is still intriguing; for those who enjoy love stories, this is where the story takes on a more romantic tone as Isabelle tries to choose between two men.
Daughter of the King is a strong start to the Defy the Crown series. Readers should know that the end of the book is very much-so set up for a sequel, so don't expect things to be tied up at the end of this richly detailed read.
Daughter of the King, the first novel in the Defying the Crown series, follows Isabelle Colette, a French Protestant who is finding herself persecuted in the Sun King, Louis XIV's, rule over France. "Huguenots" are being tortured, maimed, and killed for their beliefs. So far, Isabelle has resisted the pressure to convert to Catholicism, but she feels she is running out of choices, which is why she agrees to become a Filles du Roi. As a Catholic convert (who secretly holds on to her Protestant beliefs), Isabelle travels to the Quebec colony, where she is expected to make a match. But life in New France holds its own host of problems, which Isabelle soon discovers, including matters of the heart.
One part historical fiction, one part romance, Daughter of the King is a sweeping, adventurous novel of a not often talked about piece of history. I loved learning about the Filles du Roi through Isabelle's story, and I also found my eyes opened to the plight of the Huguenots, with which I was also not familiar. Chaput writes of the persecution that the Huguenots faced with such raw and unflinching heartbreak, and brings to life the tension that was felt throughout France in the 1600s. Isabelle's time spent as a Filles du Roi and her life in New France is not written as vividly as that of her Huguenot storyline, but is still intriguing; for those who enjoy love stories, this is where the story takes on a more romantic tone as Isabelle tries to choose between two men.
Daughter of the King is a strong start to the Defy the Crown series. Readers should know that the end of the book is very much-so set up for a sequel, so don't expect things to be tied up at the end of this richly detailed read.
January 21, 2022
Historical fiction is rapidly becoming my favorite genre. Daughter of the King takes place in the 1600’s in France and then in Canada and covers an event that I really knew next to nothing about.
At this same time, France is trying to colonize Canada. It needs women to become wives of the rugged settlers in New France (Quebec.) The King of France has the idea to send peasant girls who can withstand the harsh conditions and aren’t afraid of hard work. They are called The Filles du Roi and there were about 800 of them sent to Canada.
The story begins in France where the protestants are being prosecuted, tortured and killed by the catholics. The only way to save yourself is to convert to catholicism, which is what our main character, Isabelle Collette does. But it is a conversion in name only, she remains a protestant at heart. However, she is one of those chosen to become a Filles du Roi.
What I liked and disliked about the book:
This was a time in history that I know little about and I was afraid it would be bogged down with dates and timelines and lots of names and facts. It’s not. It tells you enough of what’s going on so that you do learn about the settling in Canada, the treatment of Huguenots and the perils of the early settlers, but it doesn’t go into extreme detail.
The characters were a bit stereotypical, but still relatable.
There was a love story carried throughout with plenty of longing and anguish.
I enjoyed the book and since it says “Defying the Crown Book 1” I am assuming there will be more in this series. I will definitely read them.
At this same time, France is trying to colonize Canada. It needs women to become wives of the rugged settlers in New France (Quebec.) The King of France has the idea to send peasant girls who can withstand the harsh conditions and aren’t afraid of hard work. They are called The Filles du Roi and there were about 800 of them sent to Canada.
The story begins in France where the protestants are being prosecuted, tortured and killed by the catholics. The only way to save yourself is to convert to catholicism, which is what our main character, Isabelle Collette does. But it is a conversion in name only, she remains a protestant at heart. However, she is one of those chosen to become a Filles du Roi.
What I liked and disliked about the book:
This was a time in history that I know little about and I was afraid it would be bogged down with dates and timelines and lots of names and facts. It’s not. It tells you enough of what’s going on so that you do learn about the settling in Canada, the treatment of Huguenots and the perils of the early settlers, but it doesn’t go into extreme detail.
The characters were a bit stereotypical, but still relatable.
There was a love story carried throughout with plenty of longing and anguish.
I enjoyed the book and since it says “Defying the Crown Book 1” I am assuming there will be more in this series. I will definitely read them.
December 12, 2021
Based off true events, we dive into a story set in 1661 when the Catholic king of France is persecuting Protestants. The king has declared that either they convert to Catholicism or be tortured and murdered. Even through the threat of all that could happen to her for being a Protestant, Isabelle will risk her life time and again to save others. She meets a Catholic soldier, ex Huguenot, that will have her questioning everything she once believed.
When her home in La Rochelle is raided and many murdered, she must flee for safety. Isabelle ends up alone and empty handed, saved by a Catholic priest. She is given a job as a servant to a noble family. When the son of the house tried to rape her, she fights back. Now Isabelle has to choose: guillotine for her crimes or convert and be sent to New France as a Filles du Roi (Daughter of the King).
New France, or Quebec Canada, is still a land with persecution and Injustice. Isabelle discovers those that are corrupt and plotting against the local tribes, as well as the King of France and her new town. Learning to live in a wild new land, Isabelle is learning how to be herself; to live with faith, find love, and stand up for what is right and just.
Well to say I was surprise by this book would be an understatement. I was raised Catholic and this book made me angry through out. I wanted to join in and protest the corruptness and evil hidden behind the religion. I loved Isabelle and I hope the author writes a story that gives Andre more attention.
When her home in La Rochelle is raided and many murdered, she must flee for safety. Isabelle ends up alone and empty handed, saved by a Catholic priest. She is given a job as a servant to a noble family. When the son of the house tried to rape her, she fights back. Now Isabelle has to choose: guillotine for her crimes or convert and be sent to New France as a Filles du Roi (Daughter of the King).
New France, or Quebec Canada, is still a land with persecution and Injustice. Isabelle discovers those that are corrupt and plotting against the local tribes, as well as the King of France and her new town. Learning to live in a wild new land, Isabelle is learning how to be herself; to live with faith, find love, and stand up for what is right and just.
Well to say I was surprise by this book would be an understatement. I was raised Catholic and this book made me angry through out. I wanted to join in and protest the corruptness and evil hidden behind the religion. I loved Isabelle and I hope the author writes a story that gives Andre more attention.
January 20, 2022
It was a time of religious persecution in France as the Catholics are forcing everyone to convert yet some do so only under duress. They pretend so as to stay alive and maintain their religious practices in secret. But Isabelle finds herself in a difficult situation as she sacrifices herself to save others.
She finds herself on a ship heading to Canada to be a bride – a daughter of the King with all that entails except for all that entails. What she will have though is a new life. What she doesn’t expect is the warm friendship of a Catholic officer whose affections confuse her and whose eyes entice her.
I found myself turning the pages on this book as it was a very compelling read and it’s a topic that I haven’t found very often in my historical fiction reading which is always nice. I of course, knew of the persecution of the Huguenots but have only read a few books with that as the theme and I do believe this is the first one with immigration to Canada as the main story driver.
It was a fascinating look at a piece of history that was pretty much unknown to me and I love stories that send me off to learn more. The characters were interesting and well crafted and the story was very satisfying.
She finds herself on a ship heading to Canada to be a bride – a daughter of the King with all that entails except for all that entails. What she will have though is a new life. What she doesn’t expect is the warm friendship of a Catholic officer whose affections confuse her and whose eyes entice her.
I found myself turning the pages on this book as it was a very compelling read and it’s a topic that I haven’t found very often in my historical fiction reading which is always nice. I of course, knew of the persecution of the Huguenots but have only read a few books with that as the theme and I do believe this is the first one with immigration to Canada as the main story driver.
It was a fascinating look at a piece of history that was pretty much unknown to me and I love stories that send me off to learn more. The characters were interesting and well crafted and the story was very satisfying.
December 16, 2021
According to Wikipedia, the King's Daughters is a term used to refer to the approximately 800 young unmarried French women who immigrated to New France between 1663 and 1673 as part of a program sponsored by King Louis XIV to help establish the colonies. Isn’t that interesting!? The protagonist of this book becomes one of these women, (around half-way through the book) fleeing to the New World (Canada) with the early settlers. She does this to escape persecution by the Catholics, as she is merely “a protestant peasant”.
The book gives a good sense of the lowly powerless status of women at that time, but provides little detail on the way of life, which I would have been interested in. The scenes aren’t really described, and the characters are one-dimensional, especially the main male character, who only seems to say the same thing over and over. I found the writing was choppy (from being unevenly paced) and melodramatic, at times reading like what I imagine a Harlequin romance is like.
In summary, I loved the concept of the storyline, but the book failed to meet its potential.
Thanks to the author for a free advanced reader copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
The book gives a good sense of the lowly powerless status of women at that time, but provides little detail on the way of life, which I would have been interested in. The scenes aren’t really described, and the characters are one-dimensional, especially the main male character, who only seems to say the same thing over and over. I found the writing was choppy (from being unevenly paced) and melodramatic, at times reading like what I imagine a Harlequin romance is like.
In summary, I loved the concept of the storyline, but the book failed to meet its potential.
Thanks to the author for a free advanced reader copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
April 22, 2025
This is a complicated book because Isabelle Colette is a complicated character making choices in a complicated world, and those choices complicate her own life. Complication #1: Isabelle is a Hugenot living in a Roman Catholic country. She is one of the disadvantaged and persecuted. Complication #2: She is a free spirit, someone who lives on the wild side and takes chances, but society is ordered and doesn't like it. Complication #3: She is young and pretty and alone without a protector in a world where such girls are prey and often treated as chattel by those with power and influence. Complication #4; she has a conscience but has to deal with folks who have little or no conscience and are pragmatists. Complication #5: she has a relationship with Antoinette, a girl about her age but a Roman Catholic from a higher station in life. There are other complications, but I am not going to ruin the story by bringing them out here.
The story begins in La Rochelle, France but ends in Quebec, Canada. The title comes from Filles du Roi, the French term for girls/young women who were transported to Quebec to become brides of the male settlers already there. They were offered a little money, free passage, some clothes, and above all, hope for a better life. Hundreds of these folks made the choice to go. Isabelle was one of them. I did not know this piece of history, but it was enlightening and made sense as a way for the French to get New France populated.
It's an interesting story. Isabelle is torn in her mind at times about what to do. The author lets the reader know what Isabelle is thinking quite a bit, almost overmuch in my opinion, but it does reveal Isabelle's character. There are four main settings: La Rochelle, Rouen, the ship and finally Quebec; each has its own challenges for Isabelle. A few things are highly coincidental; they stretch belief. I did enjoy the book generally.
The story begins in La Rochelle, France but ends in Quebec, Canada. The title comes from Filles du Roi, the French term for girls/young women who were transported to Quebec to become brides of the male settlers already there. They were offered a little money, free passage, some clothes, and above all, hope for a better life. Hundreds of these folks made the choice to go. Isabelle was one of them. I did not know this piece of history, but it was enlightening and made sense as a way for the French to get New France populated.
It's an interesting story. Isabelle is torn in her mind at times about what to do. The author lets the reader know what Isabelle is thinking quite a bit, almost overmuch in my opinion, but it does reveal Isabelle's character. There are four main settings: La Rochelle, Rouen, the ship and finally Quebec; each has its own challenges for Isabelle. A few things are highly coincidental; they stretch belief. I did enjoy the book generally.
February 5, 2025
I got this book because the main character is a strong woman.
It starts with the persecution of the Protestants by the French Catholic. Knowing that this really happened, I thought the events might be too difficult for a “cradle” Catholic to read.
The horrors of that time left me in tears, as did the bravery of the Huguenots.
I will be continuing this series
It starts with the persecution of the Protestants by the French Catholic. Knowing that this really happened, I thought the events might be too difficult for a “cradle” Catholic to read.
The horrors of that time left me in tears, as did the bravery of the Huguenots.
I will be continuing this series
December 29, 2021
Page Turner
I finished this book in two days! I was hooked from the first few pages and couldn't put it down. I love how the author brings each character in and out of the story in meaningful ways. I eagerly await Book 2!
I finished this book in two days! I was hooked from the first few pages and couldn't put it down. I love how the author brings each character in and out of the story in meaningful ways. I eagerly await Book 2!
August 13, 2021
I did not know this bit of history before, which I found interesting. The story itself was told beautifully with compelling details, drawing me into the character’s lives. I wanted a bit more wrapped up at the end, but I understand the story will continue. I can't wait for the sequel. A wonderful read.
December 22, 2023
The first half of this book is a tough read with lots of violence, torture, and death, involving the persecution of the Huguenots in France in the 18th century. The second half gets more interesting, when dozens of French girls were sent to Quebec to marry the trappers and traders there, so that the men would be more willing to stay in Canada. A continuing story line tells of a strange rivalry between our heroine, Isabelle, and a snobbish rich girl who were both in love with James, who became a soldier.
June 6, 2023
I don't usually read books set this far back in history, but I absolutely loved this story. Set in France, 1661, Isabelle is an amazingly strong character and has to learn to survive as a proud Huguenot against the Catholics that were riled up by the King. After escaping her home, she finds a safety in another town and with the protection of the Catholic priest. Unfortunately, she is attacked by a son of a nobleman and has to flee again, but this time as a Daughter of the King. In this way, she is given money and passage to New France across the ocean. The King provides the means to survive in this new land so that these young women will select a husband, marry, and provide children for France. In this new land, she finds new challenges and obstacles to overcome.
The Daughters of the King were a real group in history and the author found this nugget while researching her husband's French Canadian roots. I love when author's find little pieces of history to create a wonderful tale to read.
I've read Daughter of the Shadows - Defying the Crown #2 (oops read it first) and can't wait for the third book in the trilogy.
The Daughters of the King were a real group in history and the author found this nugget while researching her husband's French Canadian roots. I love when author's find little pieces of history to create a wonderful tale to read.
I've read Daughter of the Shadows - Defying the Crown #2 (oops read it first) and can't wait for the third book in the trilogy.
Read
November 15, 2021I cannot wait until the next book is out in the series. This one definitely got me out of a LONG, pandemic reading slump. It's go the most furious pacing, and when you put it down, you just want to know what happens next. Kerry Chaput is a thrilling writer, particularly in the historical fiction space.
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