A Cajun Dream

Emilie Gallant, her mother, and her two sisters have been separated from their father for thirteen long, hard years. The family lived a happy life in Nova Scotia until they and other Acadians living there were forced out by the British in 1755. Now the family has arrived in Louisiana, where Emilie hopes and prays to finally find her father again. On the boat to Louisiana, Emilie and her family were reunited with Lorenz Landry. Emilie and Lorenz had grown up together, the best of friends. Now their feelings have blossomed into live, but Emilie refuses Lorenz's proposal of marriage, fearing she will lose him, the way her mother lost her father. But as Emilie and Lorenz set off into the swampy wilderness in search of her father, Emilie realizes the depths of her feelings for Lorenz. I highly recommend this historical romance. I loved the unusual setting and the way the author made it come alive.

Emilie Gallant is the oldest daugther of Joseph Gallant, a proud family man that is exiled, which leaves his wife and three young daugthers to have no male protection when they are uprooted and shipped to a foreign land. For thirteen years, they live unhappily without a husband and father. As the oldest, Emilie feels she must make up for the loss of her father and bears most of the responsibility of seeing that her younger sisters grow up properly. Emilie never gives up that they will all be reunited with their much loved family member someday. Her childhood friend, Lorenz Landry has been a steady influence on her growing up. He vows to help her locate her father and she refuses to let him do it alone. But emotions run high, as Lorenz is deeply in love with her and has asked for her hand in marriage, only to be turned down. Hurt and angry, Lorenz sets off in search of her father, without her, only to discover the dirty ruffian trailing him is none other than his beloved...Emilie.This couple's struggle between each other will hold you enthralled. The heroine is spirited and determined. The hero is caring and desirable yet still has just the right amount of masterful tendencies to satisfy any woman. I think Ms Claire has a firm grasp of what all women desire most in a man. I love her heroes! And I look forward to reading the other two stories in this exciting trilogy. I have faith it will be resolved in an amazing way. Fantastic story!

Cherie Claire's latest book, Emilie, is the first in a series, The Acadians, that traces a family's struggle to survive separation and exile from the land they love. The story of Emilie and Lorenz is a vibrant tale of friendship catching fire against the realistic setting of the 18th century Louisiana Territory. Ms. Claire's characters are imperfect, but so compelling that you'll cheer for them to come together. Don't miss this unusual setting and this unforgettable family.