The Indigo Heiress

by Laura Frantz

In 1774, Juliet Catesby lives with her father and sister at Royal Vale, the James River plantation founded by her Virginia family over a century before. Indigo cultivation is her foremost concern, though its export tethers her family to the powerful Buchanan clan of Glasgow, Scotland. When the heir of the Buchanan firm arrives on their shores, Juliet discovers that her father has secretly arranged for one of his daughters to marry the Scot as a means of canceling the family's debt. Confident it will be her younger, lovelier sister, Juliet is appalled when Leith Buchanan selects her instead.

Despite her initial refusal of him, an ensuing altercation forces Juliet to flee Virginia. Agreeing to marry, she sails with Leith to Scotland, hopeful of a better match for her sister, who accompanies her. But once in Glasgow and faced with the contentious, powerful Buchanan clan, she realizes that the man who saved her from financial ruin and scandal is the very one she must now save in return.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical, Romance, Christian, Scotland, Fiction

Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2025

About the author

Laura Frantz is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century, and writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Frantz lives and writes in a log cabin in the heart of Kentucky.According to Publishers Weekly, "Frantz has done her historical homework." With her signature attention to historical detail and emotional depth, she is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant, Literary Agent & Founder, Books & Such Literary Agency of Santa Rosa, California.Readers can find Laura Frantz at www.laurafrantz.net.

Reviews

[Southern Lady Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

If ever there was an author who does slow burns right - it's Laura Frantz. Traveling across oceans on ships all while getting to know Leith and Juliet was SUCH a pleasure.

I loved how quickly moving this story was an even more so I love the little hint of mystery / intrgue behind their romance. It felt so real to me and didn't dilly dally on any extraneous detail? I could barely put this down. Masterful character development as well - I wanted to be Juliet with her lovely indigo gowns and brave the fresh wilds of Scotland.

**Content Warnings: The main character Juliet and her sister helps run part of the Underground Railroad. They live on a Virginia plantation and slaves were historically part of that time period. The main characters abhor the practice and actively work to abolish it. Even so - this topic may be sensitive to read about.

Cannot wait to read her next book!

**The Indigo Heiress is Christian Historical Fiction - meaning no spice and some mentions of God and the character's faith in their daily lives. While I appreciated that - even someone who isn't a Christian could read this and enjoy because for the time period - the character's faiths would've played an important role in their lives. If the premise sounds good to you - you're going to love Frantz's writing!

Make sure to enter my GIVEAWAY for this historical fiction romance!Giveaway closed 2-9-2025<3

- Outlander vibes (without the smut/ time travel)
- Marriage of convenience (My favorite romance trope!)
- Slow burn

**Thank you to Revell for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤

Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🦋 || Check out the new Southern Lady Reads YouTube channel!!

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

“We can hardly dwell on the past when the future looms.”

This spectacular story was MORE than I expected.

Miss Juliet Catesby reminded me of the value of living as a ‘true Proverbs 31 woman’. In the wake of grief, her father had set into motion a secret agreement that had the potential to drop Juliet to her knees. Juliet (26) and her sister, Loveday (24), responded with more grace than I think I’d muster and showed me how God works all things for good.

In addition to exhibiting grace, I loved how Juliet always looked for the silver lining in “sudden and precipitous situations”. She had me considering fate versus providence and catalyzed my prayer life when it was written that she “saturated the coming night in prayer.” Not much wonder she’s a true Proverbs 31 woman!

I was intrigued by the exploration of ‘blue gold’ and thought Leith Buchanan was a man I’d like to meet in real life! Frantz effortlessly dropped me in Virginia 1774 and had me speaking with the Scottish accent and thinking about her story long after I’d closed the beautiful cover of her book.

Please tell me this isn’t the last we’ve heard of the Buchanan girls!

I was gifted this copy by Revell and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Indigo Heiress" by Laura Frantz is a lovely historical romance that takes place in 1774. It is set partly in Virginia and the second half of the book takes place in Scotland (which I love to read about). Ms. Frantz always pens novels that are full of fascinating history and expertly woven prose. This book is well researched, and I learned so many new things while being completely engrossed in the story. The love story is a slow burn that will leave readers swooning, especially over the gruff, Scottish lead character, Leith. Leith also has twins who are just adorable! There is a scene that takes place at the ruins of a Scottish castle and is so romantic! It is one I won’t easily forget. The main characters also read and recite poetry to one another! Many readers will love our heroine, Juliet Catesby. I appreciated that she struggled with chronic migraines, and I loved her relationship with her sister. She has a strong faith and prays often. Juliet and her sister help slaves escape and help those less fortunate, no matter what side of the ocean they find themselves on. The faith threads in this story were beautiful! The settings of Virigina and Scotland are so well done. I could especially feel myself in the rainy streets of Scotland and hear the Scottish accents. This book is a must read for fans of clean Scottish romance and historical fiction!

Content: I give this story a PG rating. Some examples of the content: part of the story takes place on a plantation and there are slaves; characters drink alcohol and someone is drunk; mention of gambling; characters smoke cigars; someone curses, but the words aren’t actually written, mention of the mistreatment of slaves; a woman wanted to harm herself in the past; opium and laudanum used for medical purposes; a woman wonders if someone has a mistress; someone struggled with mental health in the past (possibly post-partum depression); su*cide; mention of gambling; speculation of infidelity; very brief insinuation that a married couple slept together.
TW: brief mention of possible self-harm; mental health; su*cide in the past.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leith is a Scottish Tobacco Lord. He is a widower with twins. After the tragic situation of his first wife, he wants his next marriage to not involve feelings. He agrees to marry Juliet in order to cancel her family’s debts to him.
Juliet is the Indigo heiress, American and not happy about this prospective marriage. She had very strong opinions and is working to set slaves free. When her situation changes she has to accept Leith’s proposal.
I think this is my new favorite book by Laura Frantz. I loved it so much! This story is set in 1774, partly in America and partly in Scotland. Juliet is strong, brave and kind. Leith is great too he has a fear of letting himself get close to his wife and children. I love how Juliet is very honest with him and how he learns to open up. I also liked how Juliet takes on his children as her own immediately. There is great Christian content throughout. If you love marriage of convenience, with a bit of tragedy and great romance then this book is for you.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley and the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Laura Frantz pens an extraordinary book! I was enthralled with the blue gold of Virginia, the tobacco pricing meeting, and the parties in Scotland!

The characters are written brilliantly! Juliet is amazing! She is knowledgeable, compassionate, zealous, and loving. She loves her family fiercely, even to the point of sacrificing her future happiness. Loveday is the definition of gentleness and encouragement. Leith, be still my heart! He's intelligent, savvy, almost royalty, and yet not afraid of a brawl. Bella and Cole are precious and adorable!

There's some intrigue that had me completely guessing as to who the perpetrators were. When they were revealed, I was shocked. Juliet and Loveday are involved in helping those less fortunate, and it soon turns dangerous.

There are three romances. Two of love, one of duty. As hearts are mended, duty turns to the sweetest of love.

As with most books, I was sorry to see this one end. I eagerly await with anticipation the next book by this author!

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell via Netgalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

1774 Virginia and Scotland

Lovely tale set during the American Revolution that shows not only the American perspective, but English as well.

Juliet Catesby is the eldest of two sisters and by far more focused on the livelihood of the family business in both tobacco and indigo. She doesn't realize the extent of the debt her father has amassed and this comes to light when she finds out she or her sister is to wed a Scot in exchange for taking away their debt.

Leith Buchanan is glad to leave Scotland in search of a bride in Virginia after the death of his wife. The lively verbal exchanges between the two were a lot of fun.

Another well written novel by the talented Laura Frantz.

[Joy Tiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put it down. I loved it. All of it. And if you’ll excuse me, I’m now moving to Scotland.

[Jocelyn (jocelyn.reads.books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It's now in my top four favorites of the eight books I have read by Frantz. I can genuinely say that I enjoyed everything about this book.

I especially liked that The Indigo Heiress took place in both Virginia and Scotland. I was a little nervous to see how certain aspects of this time period (1774) in Virginia would be handled, but I was relieved and pleased with that storyline. Being in Glasgow during this time period was also fun, and not a setting I've been to before in a book.

I also liked the mystery aspect, and that Frantz made the villain more realistic and less a caricature like some books tend to do.

Another thing I found interesting was getting the perspectives of characters who ended up on the British side of the Revolution.

Last but not least, I loved Leith! Such a great MMC!

I highly recommend this book if you like historical romance, especially in either of these settings.

Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of the book. All opinions are my own.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Laura Frantz has swept me away in an immersive historical saga. I especially adored the sisterly bond between Juliet and Loveday- so heartwarming!

The love between main characters Juliet and Leith is captivating. Think slow burn, but with both characters growing to feel more for one another than even they themselves are aware for a time. We also get two bonus love stories with supporting characters.

Frantz tells a beautiful story that shines with Scriptural truth throughout. This is the perfect book to cozy up with this winter. It’s sure to warm your heart and soul. Highly recommend!

Read if you love:
💙Alternating character perspectives
💙Lush historical settings
💙Georgian Era
💙Clean romance
💙Christian fiction
💙A dash of mystery/suspense

Thank you, Revell for a complimentary review copy of the book! All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful arranged marriage story. I loved the slow burn romance about the characters as well as the light mystery storyline. And the storyline of two sisters finding their way before the onset of the Revolutionary War. I haven't read much during that time period, and I love reading fiction stories set in eras I'm not too familiar with.
4.5⭐

*thank you the author and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book, all thoughts are my own.

[Dana Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to The Indigo Heiress and the narration was so good. The story was captivating and I enjoyed it very much!

[Amanda (The Little Book Spot) · Rating 5 out of 5]

After loving The Frozen River recently, I was excited to dive back into the colonial period with another captivating novel by Laura Frantz! Last year, I read The Seamstress of Acadie and fell in love with her beautiful storytelling, so I knew I was in for a treat!

Frantz’s attention to historical detail is incredible—I learned so much about indigo farming, other trades, and the tensions leading up to the Revolutionary War. Her richly drawn characters bring the era to life— highlighting trust and courage to embrace new beginnings.

One of my favorite aspects was how the story’s message centered on trusting in God’s plans and timing. The faith journey of one character was especially moving!

Read this if you enjoy:

💙Slow-burn romance
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿Marriage of Convenience
💙A strong FMC with deep convictions
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿A complex Scottish MMC
💙A faith-filled message
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿Sisterly relationships
💙A touch of mystery and peril
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿Colonial American and scenic Scotland settings
💙Themes of redemption

Content: Kisses only, implied intimacy between a married couple, death/grief, mention of suicide (off page), and slavery.

Thank you @bethanyhousefiction & @laurafrantzauthor for the complimentary copy—I’m grateful for the chance to review this wonderful book!

[Victoria Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Indigo Heiress was a beautiful tale of romance amidst hard times and against odds! With Pride and Prejudice similarities, Scottish charm, pre-revolutionary war politics, secret missions and life-threatening stakes, this book was one that held my interest and had a beautiful picture of the era. Laura Frantz is one of my favorite “married romance” authors as she knows how to take a couple who struggle and show what it’s like to learn about each other and choose to love one another in marriage. Towards the beginning it was a little slow but that FAST picked up and culminated in a nail-biting ending that had me on the edge of my seat!

There was definitely some violence but very light in my opinion.

Some mentions of a potential poisoning.

Romantic content: The couple is married before any physical intimacy takes place. It was completely closed door and there were some married and impassioned kisses that were lightly described. Sex between a married couple is implied but not shown.

Personally, Laura Frantz does such a good job of showing physical intimacy without it being too much or overly described in a tactful and graceful manner that does not belie real life.

[Joleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

1774
Virginia, prior to the Revolutionary War.

The book begins with two sisters.

Juliet is twenty-six and perfectly fine with never marrying. She is called the Indigo Heiress because she was to inherit her father's business… eventually. The younger sister, Loveday, is beautiful and highly sought after but has no dowry and doesn’t seem interested in the men there anyway.

Miniature portraits are commissioned by their father and sent to a wealthy Scottish businessman (Leith Buchanan). He's to choose between them and pay their father's debts then marry one. Neither were aware of this arrangement until well into his "visit".

This is where my overview ends because too much given away would spoil the story. This is not an unusual story, to be honest. I’ve read a number of books with similar storylines but slightly different details. But, was I fascinated by it still? Yes. Did I want to put it down? No! Did it surprise me often? Well, no, not really. Even though there were critical moments I saw coming, they were still so well done I even bit my nails.

I liked this a lot and of course the addition of faith elements is always such a satisfying one in Laura Frantz books.

[Joanne | wellreadcoffeeaddict · Rating 4 out of 5]

I look forward to every January/February for Laura Frantz's new releases, so needless to say, this one was highly anticipated.

Many of Frantz's stories feature an independent daughter with a head for business and heart for the less fortunate. Juliet Catesby is no different. I enjoyed getting to know her and Leith. There are many characters and places in this ever-evolving story and as such, there are many interesting things to learn. This is typical for Laura's books and I quite enjoy her historical deep-dives.

I would recommend not reading the blurb, as it gives away the first half of the book, and it's more enjoyable to discover what's going to happen as it happens.

One thing to note: I felt like the 'villain' of the story was kind of out of place. Much of the story builds up tension between Juliet and a certain character, but this character (and the subplot) fades away in the last part of the book. Instead the attention turns in the last third of the book to someone else, which throws off the pacing of the story.

Also, considering the subplot with Juliet's abolitionist views disappears once she's in Scotland, it appears it only served to highlight Juliet (with worthy + sympathetic views) as a character to root for.

Other than that, this is another of Laura's rich, historical novels with a slow burn romance and fascinating story.

[Elizabeth]

I always love getting a new angle on history through reading. I learned about Glasgow merchants, Virginia plantations, and got a sense for the uncertainty on both sides of the Atlantic right before the Revolutionary War began. Surprisingly, I think I enjoyed the Virginia half at the beginning of the novel more than the Scotland half in the second. The action at the end was a bit stressful and really took it right up to the end. Perhaps I would have preferred the second half to be without that and more about Juliet’s adjusting to living in Glasgow and being a part of Leith’s world. Though the action was certainly a catalyst for bringing Leith and Juliet together. They are a great couple. I enjoyed Loveday and Niall so much too, especially Loveday’s expertise with herbal remedies.

[Jeanine Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every January, after a torturous year long wait, a new Laura Frantz novel arrives, and although they are meant to be savored, I devour it in a matter of hours. Each book is expertly crafted, with impeccable historical detail, lush and picturesque prose, and heroines and heroes that you long to befriend (or sometimes shake).

I knew without a doubt The Indigo Heiress would be an immediate favorite. How did I know you ask? Well it’s Laura, but this story takes places during my favorite time period, Colonial America, and then transports the reader to the most magical and dreamed of location, Scotland. You can never go wrong with Scotland and an a Scottish hero.

Juliet and Leith have stolen my heart and will certainly find a place in yours. No in depth review is needed, because Laura’s stories are all must-reads, auto-buys, and timeless classics. If you’ve not joined the Laura Frantz fan club, that needs to be rectified post haste.

And to let you in on a little secret—her books are always discounted when preordered from Revell and normally arrive before the release date. Your welcome!

[Gina · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Laura Frantz’s earlier novels, but her writing style seems to have shifted over the last few years/books. The romances always feel, at first, drawn out and then suddenly rushed. Lots of historical facts but a bit slow and not that satisfying as far as depth.
I’m not sure I’m the target audience for her books anymore. If you like historical fiction with not too much romance, you will enjoy this.

[Suzan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Frantz is a masterful storyteller, and I think this might be one of her finest works yet. The Indigo Heiress is a rich and beautifully told story, penned with the author’s signature lyrical prose.

It captured my heart and imagination from the first chapter. The character development was outstanding, and the vivid descriptions of that time and place made me feel like I was there. I couldn’t put it down and wanted to savor every single page.

The story takes place in Virginia and Scotland on the eve of the Revolutionary War, and it was so interesting having the perspective of both sides of the conflict.

I can’t say enough good about this book. It’s historical fiction at its best, with an absolutely charming and swoony love story, beautiful faith elements, a strong and admirable fmc, emotionally evocative with topics like slavery and the loss of loved ones, and a dash of danger and intrigue. A highlight for me was the sweet bond between Juliet and her sister, and when she becomes a stepmother to Leith’s twins. I also appreciated Leith’s growth and self discovery.

This was a solid five star read for me, and one that I highly recommend for anyone who is a fan of beautifully written Historical Christian fiction.

I received a copy from Revell Publishing and Austenprose PR, but a positive review was not required.

[Rachelle Cobb · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great heroine Juliet makes! Selfless, devoted to the abolitionist cause in the only way she can be, and willing to do anything for her family. Leith took a little longer to warm up to, but I appreciated his strength and devotion to Juliet. That said, I really enjoyed this book but had a couple disappointments about the ending.

- without giving too much away, the man who I thought was the villain does not reappear, despite his being an ominous presence most of the book
- there is no final confrontation with the real villain, as that courtroom scene happens off-stage

Overlooking this, I thought the marriage-of-convenience trope worked well. Frantz is always an auto-read author for me, and this historically accurate look at colonial Virginia and Glasgow was heartfelt and lovely!

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always appreciate the historical education I receive from a Laura Frantz book! I had no idea that Scottish businessmen were so invested in the Southern plantations pre-Revolutionary War. Juliet is the one holding her father's plantation together, while also continuing her mother's work with the early version of the Underground Railroad. The dilemma of slave-holding is at the forefront of the story, as well as the imminent war with England. The story takes us on a journey from the colonies to Glasgow, and the rich descriptions make it easy to envision the settings and era. Leith is a strong, influential man, needing a marriage of convenience, but immediately drawn to Juliet for her goodness and determination. Their beginning is rocky, but shared experiences bind them together, with loyalty and devotion soon following. Leith and Juliet admirably overcome the worst kind of treachery, relying on their faith in God and love for each other.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really great read for me. I liked the characters and the story was very well done. Laura’s books never disappoint!

[Emily Waits (emilylovesreading_) · Rating 5 out of 5]

[Thank you to @revellfiction, @netgalley, and @laurafrantzauthor for my gifted copies of this title in exchange for an honest review.]

What an incredible story! I discovered Laura Frantz as an author last year, and I have absolutely loved catching up on her backlist titles! The Indigo Heiress has been a book I’ve long looked forward to now, and it was every bit as amazing as I expected it to be.

The Indigo Heiress is a story about Juliette Catesby, the eldest daughter of a Virginia plantation owner in the Georgian Era. When her father arranges for her to marry a wealthy Scottish tobacco merchant in order to have his debts cleared, Juliette is faced with many decisions and a handsome but mysterious Scotsman, Leith Buchanan.

The story takes place partly in Virginia and partly in Scotland and shines a light on the plight of slaves as well as aspects of the indigo and tobacco businesses of the day. I loved the perspective that this book offers as a book set during the early days of the Revolution but not taking place in that action. It was interesting to me to hear various Scottish perspectives on the forming conflict and to get a view of the war from a very different perspective than we usually do.

There is so much to love about The Indigo Heiress! Read this if you’re in the mood for:

-Closed-door historical romance
-Georgian Era
-Some suspense/mystery
-Christian fiction with light faith themes
-Dual POV
-Williamsburg & Scotland setting

I absolutely loved this book. Highly recommend The Indigo Heiress!

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whoever is writing the back covers/book descriptions for Frantz's book is really doing her no favors at all!! I frequently struggle with the pacing of Frantz's books, but this time the pacing isn't the problem (and I'm starting to wonder if maybe it's never been). This time, I just knew too much of the plot before I started because I had read the book description. That blurb, which you'd expect to be a hook, gives away the plot of the first half of the novel. I was expecting the details in the blurb to be established in the first chapter or two. But no, that's fully 1/2 of the novel. Consequently, it was hard not to be impatient throughout that first half. I knew where things were headed, and the lack of tension made it hard to get invested. I really love Frantz's writing and the messages in her books--and I love the worlds she builds--and I think my philosophy from now on is going to be to just start her books blind. No more reading blurbs about them first.

3.5 rounded up because I think if I'd read this blind, it'd have been a 4 or more

[Abigail G. Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book, but I just couldn’t. I was so bored the entire time I was reading. Frantz’s writing was superb as always which is why the rating is as high as it is, but the plot and the characters simply did not do it for me. Perhaps because I have never loved the Mr. Darcy type or arranged marriages, but this book was so painfully drawn out.

Oh, and the other star is for Loveday and Niall — I kind of wish they were the main characters — and the stunning cover!

[Heather Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfectly elegant.

I loved how gracious and capable Juliet and Loveday were. Ladies through and through.

[Liz Mannegren · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a teen, the historical romance genre was one of the great influences in my love for reading. And while it's not a genre I gravitate towards as frequently anymore, every once in a while, a story will come along that I simply can't resist.

The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz is a marriage-of-convenience romance between Juliet Catesby, the eldest daughter of a Virginian plantation owner, and the wealthy widower of the powerful Glaswegian merchant, Leith Buchanan. (Give me a book set in Scotland and I'm all in!)

This isn't my first book by Laura Frantz and it definitely won't be my last. The Indigo Heiress is beautifully written and it's clear that a lot of research has been done into the time period, details about indigo cultivation, and the legacy of the Tobacco Lords of Scotland. A lot of the historical facts regarding the trading happening in Glasgow at the time was new to me, and I found it fascinating.

In addition to a really well-set story, the romance was sweet. It was slow-building but had that spark of chemistry right from the start, and tackled marriage-of-convenience, miscommunication, and he-falls-first tropes. (And while I don't generally love the miscommunication trope, I think it did make sense within the context of this story.)

The last sixty pages is where the book fell apart for me a little. There was a lot more "action" and a little bit of mystery, but it just didn't seem to fit the pace or the feel of the story that had been told up until then. While these elements had been hinted at earlier, I wish it would have been woven throughout the entire story more to make it feel less abrupt of a transition.

Still, overall, I found this to be a feel-good romance with strong characters and transportive historical details. For readers looking for a clean, slow-burn historical romance with Christian faith elements, The Indigo Heiress was a sweet read.

[Alison (readinginazaleawoods) · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.” – George Washington
 
“The woman was made of a rib out of the side of Adam; not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be beloved.” – Matthew Henry
 
“There is nor more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage.” – Martin Luther
 
💭 MY THOUGHTS: Wow, what an incredible story! This was my first Laura Frantz novel, and it will not be my last! I loved the quotes at the beginning of each chapter, especially the three above and how in The Indigo Heiress we see:
 
the love and fight for liberty. Despite great risks, Juliet and her sister stand by their convictions and carry on their late mother’s secret work to try and break the chains of slavery and usher those within their care towards freedom.  
 
Through prayer, humility, and gentleness, we see Juliet fight for Leith’s freedom as he battles against the strong grips of grief, scandal, and the wounds of a lonely childhood so that he may abound in his role as husband and father.
 
And though Juliet and Leith’s relationship is one of convenience, we see truth in Martin Luther’s view on marriage. We see the fruit of a true Proverbs 31 woman and a man whose heart becomes one after God’s.
 
Overall this is a beautifully written story with rich themes of love, loss, and liberty with a bit of mystery and suspense nicely woven in.
 
🩵 READ IF YOU LIKE:
* Christian Fiction
* The Georgian Era
* Virginia and Scotland setting
* Well-developed characters
* Light faith themes
* Dual POV
* Clean, closed-door historical romance


▫️CONTENT TO CONSIDER:
* Slavery
* Mention of possible self-harm; mental health

🌟 Highly recommend!
 
Thank you, Revell Books and Baker House Publishing, for my copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite eras to read about is Colonial America. Ms Frantz always educates me to the time and customs of America in its formative years. I learned about Indigo plantations and what other crops they grew. This story also traveled across the ocean to Scotland and told of the rich businessmen who traded and had interests in the Americas. This perspective from Scotland was very eye opening.
Juliet has hostile thoughts about Leith and the arranged marriage her father wants but eventually comes to appreciate his character.
This is a vibrant story with people who grow in their faith. It is a story to be savored and pondered over. It has elements of romance, suspense, danger, compassion, charity and selflessness. All wrapped up in the atmospheric settings of Virginia and Scotland.
I am always glad to step into the historical stories of Laura Frantz.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell on behalf of the author and a NetGalley copy through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

[Beauty in the Binding · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz. This story hooked my attention from the start, and I didn’t want to put the book down. Frantz crafted beautifully authentic characters in Juliet and Leith. Then, she tied them together in a romance that I adored. Their romantic tension shifted a bit once the couple arrived in Scotland and settled into a daily routine, but I rooted for them until the end.

Other story elements I liked in The Indigo Heiress included the sibling relationship between Juliet and Loveday, Leith’s turn to God (which felt genuine, not too fast or convenient), and a plot twist I didn’t see coming (which I can’t expound on without giving spoilers). I expected the indigo plants to feature more in the story, but I enjoyed what I did learn about the plants.

The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz was my first five star read of 2025. I recommend this beautiful novel to Christian readers who enjoy stories rich in romance and history. The story has lingered in my mind, and I could happily reread it now.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.