Debra Borchert’s book Her Own Legacy (Château de Verzat) tells the tale of a woman who must fight for her legacy just as the French Revolution begins…
Headstrong Countess Joliette de Verzat prefers secretly managing her family’s Loire Valley château and vineyards to the cut-throat politics of Versailles. For nearly three centuries, generations of families have toiled to produce Château de Verzat wines, and their homes and livelihoods depend upon Joliette. But ancient laws block her from inheriting property – unless she is widowed.
Revolution erupts. Thousands of women march on Versailles. Caught in the battle, Joliette risks her own life to save her lover’s. She flees to Paris, blazing with hatred for aristocrats, where she discovers her illegitimate half-brother, Henri – the secret rightful heir who disdains the nobility to which he unknowingly belongs.
As insurrection mounts, Joliette faces heart-breaking choices. She must risk all that she loves and trust the people she has saved to save her.
Review
A wonderfully written story. Easy going to start with, then out of nowhere it picks up a fast pace and becomes a mixed bag of emotions, suspense, romance, loyalty and determination all vying for top spot attention.
Debra’s attention to detail shines through in her writing. It puts you down in the underground tunnels of Paris. It takes you out into the vineyards under the beating sun. You’ll imagine yourself walking with the other ladies-in-waiting behind the Queen, and wondering how people must have really felt back then. Her descriptions of situations left me on tenterhooks wondering where the story would go next, all while hoping I don’t have to wait too long for the next book – I wasn’t ready for this one to end! Great characters, and great insight into their lives at a fascinating time of French history.
Steeped in history, Her Own Legacy is a hidden history lesson as well as a beautiful read. Perfect for those who love history, romance and and well written stories. My only criticism is that it doesn’t come with its own bottle of Verzat wine to enjoy while reading it! This is the first of three books in the series – and I can’t wait for the next one.
Available on Amazon and at all good book shops.
