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Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite
Braving the Dawn by Peggy Joque Williams is a multi-layered and nuanced historical romance set on the frontier of French Canada toward the end of the seventeenth century. Sylvienne d’Aubert held a position of some prominence in the French court. As a lady in waiting to the French king’s favorite mistress, she lived in comfort and luxury unknown to most French people. Banished by the king, Sylvienne finds herself aboard a ship undertaking a dangerous voyage to the colonial town of Quebec in New France. She is accompanied by a collection of young Frenchwomen eager to meet and marry husbands on the frontier, as part of a scheme orchestrated by the king. She, however, is determined never to marry again, having suffered at the abusive hands of her late husband, the Duc of Narbonne. She is determined to return to France and reunite with her childhood love and soulmate, Etienne, if he is still alive and still desires her.
Braving the Dawn is a wonderfully readable and exciting historical adventure. Peggy Joque Williams has created a relatable and warm character in Sylvienne. The depiction of the harrowing journey across the sea to New France (Canada) really brings home the dangers and capriciousness of such long voyages across the Atlantic in small sailing vessels. Sylvienne's loving nature and desire to help others shine through every page, but do not overshadow her courage, determination, and commitment to her goals. The author’s descriptive and in-depth style of writing transports readers to the primitive settlement where mere existence was a struggle. Her time in Quebec was filled with exciting adventures, challenging circumstances, and, despite her best intentions, no shortage of romance. The plot is full of twists, turns, and story arcs that give us a real grasp of life on the edge of European civilization in the seventeenth century. This is the second book describing Sylvienne’s life. I hope this author has plans for a third adventure, because I am keen to continue the journey. I loved this story and highly recommend it.
