THE SOLITARY ENVOY

Heirs of Acadia - Book One

T. Davis Bunn & Isabella Bunn

Bethany House

ISBN 0-7642-2857-9

January 2004

Inspirational Historical Fiction

THE SOLITARY ENVOY is the first book in the HEIRS OF ACADIA series. Initially set in Georgetown of the early 1800s, the story is one of the Langstons-a merchant family doing business in an increasingly hostile environment as the newly formed United States deals with British trade embargoes, while France and Britain wage war with each other.

Erica Langston feels more at ease in front of a ledger book rather than sitting among her mother's friends at tea. Her father recognizes Erica's brilliance and grooms his daughter to someday take over the family business. Though Erica's mother would rather see her daughter conform to societal standards, she loves her husband and respects his decisions. A growing menace seeks to destroy the Langston family and they band together to fight. However, it is in the face of overwhelming tragedy that Erica and the Langston family show their true strength and perseverance. Erica takes on the burden of the business but soon realizes that she must travel to England to reclaim that which was stolen from her family.

In the years since the tragedy, Mrs. Langston has developed a profound faith. She counsels her daughter not to fall into the trap of vengeance in which Erica's father became entangled. Erica loves and respects her mother but admits she does not share her faith. With the assistance of a friend, Erica secures a position at the new United States embassy in London. She quickly proves invaluable to the diplomat and his family. Additional challenges lay ahead for Erica; will she choose to face these trials alone?

THE SOLITARY ENVOY is captivating and unforgettable! Fast paced, elegant storytelling enriched by historical detail and infused with messages of faith and a positive voice make THE SOLITARY ENVOY a book simply impossible to put down. In Erica, the authors have created a strong, likeable, complex and yet believable heroine. The hero, Gareth, is equally appealing. Characters in the supporting cast (including the villainous component) are well developed and contribute key elements that help move Erica throughout the story. Faith and friendship are the dominant themes of the story from which love, understanding and justice prevail.

THE SOLITARY ENVOY has certainly earned a spot on this reader's keeper shelf. I look forward to more in the HEIRS OF ACADIA series. Book two, THE INNOCENT LIBERTINE is due out next September-which isn't nearly soon enough for me!