Publisher: Bethany House, August 31st 2021

Format: ebook

Pages: 320

Rating: 4/5 stars

Synopsis (from Goodreads):

Brielle Durand is a key defender and hunter for her people’s peace-loving French settlement in the Canadian mountains. When a foreigner wanders too near to their secret homes, she has no choice but to disarm and capture him. She won’t allow another massacre like the one that killed her mother a dozen years before. But now, what to do with this man who looks at her in a strange way?

Evan MacManus was on assignment to find among the caves the mineral pitchblende that might help America win the War of 1812. Despite being taken prisoner, Evan is determined to complete his mission. But when that assignment becomes at odds with his growing appreciation of the villagers and Brielle, does he follow through on the promise he’s made to his government or take a risk on the path his heart tells him is right? Either choice will spell death for someone.

My Review:

Thank you Bethany House for the copy of this book!
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Read if you like: Canadian history, war of 1812.
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This book was really fun! Brielle and her village were French settlers that moved into caves and basically cut themselves off from the world for a century.
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Brielle wants to protect her people because the last time their village was found there were negative consequences. So when Evan stumbles upon the village, he is taken prisoner.
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I really love how Beller took Canadian history and created her own story within history, which was really fun! I loved Brielle and how strong she was. She really wants to do what’s best for her people!
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CW: sexism and misogyny, violence, death of a parent, sexual harassment.