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The Displaced #1
The Displaced
Torn between clashing empires and contentious families, Marie Lévesque fights to find a place in the unforgiving frontier of Canada. As a young woman, her life is just beginning. Her friendship with Pierre promises of something more. But their lives and the doomed fortress of Louisbourg are caught in the cross-hairs of the British navy, who promise to annihilate not only them but also their very way of life.
As empires collide, Marie and Pierre are catapulted into a world they do not understand—a world of spies, treason, and revenge. They must fight not only to survive the war, but also to stay together despite the forces that threaten to tear them apart forever.
This beautifully written, epic work of historical literary fiction, with the same feel as Outlander, is a must-read for any lover of historical fiction. The Displaced: Fall of a Fortress tells the story of ordinary people as they try to survive as French rule crumbles in Canada.
Stats, dates, flags, facts...
Don't we see history in such impersonal ways? This book is different. It takes you into the heart of what it would be like to live through the barbaric wars of the colonial era, having your life and dreams torn apart by the tyranny of madmen. Walk the streets of an 18th-century French fortress and fall in love with the interesting characters just long enough to see their world come crashing down like a hailstorm of mortar and cannonfire. It seemed like a great idea to put the inhabitants of a small town inside the walls of Louisbourg, a fortress on the far east coast of what is now Cape Breton Island, Canada, but the presence of civilians and common-folk did not stop the British from unleashing hell over the heads of those unfortunate enough to be trapped there in this work of 18th-century historical fiction.
The Challenge
Will the love of Marie and Pierre endure? Will they hang onto their lives and their friends? Can they suffer every ill-conceived plan and all the bombardment which surrounds them?
Can they survive ... could you?
510 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2018
1197 people are currently reading
568 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
August 6, 2018
My mother picked this up during our recent visit to Louisbourg, Nova Scotia Canada and the replicated Fortress of Louisbourg. I felt that Frieda Watt definitely gives her readers a realistic portrayal of life at the fortress and in Quebec during the years 1744-1758. It's definitely a historical romance as the story is told through the eyes of Pierre Thibault and Marie-Christine Levesque. We see that their story will face seiges, separation, and the loss of French North America. Most of the books written about this time period tend to be based either in New France(Quebec) or Acadia( now Nova Scotia and New Brunswick) so it was refreshing to read a story focused primarily at the fortress and Ile Royale(today's Cape Breton Island). Don't worry because there is plenty of action too! If you cannot get to the fort, I have heard that this book is available on Amazon. Highly recommended!
TW: Scences of domestic violence, rape, and war.
TW: Scences of domestic violence, rape, and war.
April 5, 2018
I guess it's probably not the best to write a review for a book which was written by my wife, Frieda Watt, however, I'd like to take the opportunity to explain why I am supporting her work.
In 2015, Frieda began writing "The Displaced", before it had its title, and shared with me the first parts of her book. It was about a quarter of the current story. I began to read and after only a few pages, I said to myself, "This is actually really good."
I read on, and could see that there was a great story which was waiting to be told. I didn't know how it should proceed, so I contacted a colleague who is a professional editor and she read a little and said the same thing as I had. Our editor, Kathryn, encouraged Frieda to expand on the beginning of the story and various characters. I continued to read and thought that there might be a writing career for my wife.
Two years later, and after so many edits, revisions, proofreading, rewriting, and making finishing touches, the story is finally complete, well at least book one is.
I've read the book about five times in various different versions. I knew that the writing could go somewhere when I found myself so emotionally attached to the characters. Many reviewers have said the same things which I have often thought about the book, that the reader gets connected to the characters and feels like they are living in the story.
The book has made me laugh out loud at some of the humorous parts, and also brought me to tears over some of the hardships that the characters experienced. I'm not an avid reader, but I have enjoyed reading and reviewing this book and also the next book in the series. I can't wait for the rest of that story to be born out of her mind.
As I read "The Displaced", I fell in love with the setting. I was so excited to get the opportunity to go and visit the locations mentioned in the book and see some of the buildings which are still standing from that time period. It was a long road trip of 30 days, but it was great to see that story come to life through the historical sites which remain.
I think there is a good message to the book. In history we often look at the facts as statistics, dates, numbers, places, and not at the moment to moment experiences which one would face while enduring such hardship. This book casts a light on what life might have been like to get moved around by war and all the horrors which surround it, and yet still be able to find love and peace at times.
In 2015, Frieda began writing "The Displaced", before it had its title, and shared with me the first parts of her book. It was about a quarter of the current story. I began to read and after only a few pages, I said to myself, "This is actually really good."
I read on, and could see that there was a great story which was waiting to be told. I didn't know how it should proceed, so I contacted a colleague who is a professional editor and she read a little and said the same thing as I had. Our editor, Kathryn, encouraged Frieda to expand on the beginning of the story and various characters. I continued to read and thought that there might be a writing career for my wife.
Two years later, and after so many edits, revisions, proofreading, rewriting, and making finishing touches, the story is finally complete, well at least book one is.
I've read the book about five times in various different versions. I knew that the writing could go somewhere when I found myself so emotionally attached to the characters. Many reviewers have said the same things which I have often thought about the book, that the reader gets connected to the characters and feels like they are living in the story.
The book has made me laugh out loud at some of the humorous parts, and also brought me to tears over some of the hardships that the characters experienced. I'm not an avid reader, but I have enjoyed reading and reviewing this book and also the next book in the series. I can't wait for the rest of that story to be born out of her mind.
As I read "The Displaced", I fell in love with the setting. I was so excited to get the opportunity to go and visit the locations mentioned in the book and see some of the buildings which are still standing from that time period. It was a long road trip of 30 days, but it was great to see that story come to life through the historical sites which remain.
I think there is a good message to the book. In history we often look at the facts as statistics, dates, numbers, places, and not at the moment to moment experiences which one would face while enduring such hardship. This book casts a light on what life might have been like to get moved around by war and all the horrors which surround it, and yet still be able to find love and peace at times.
October 24, 2018
Completely enthralled
This book is a fantastic read and keeps you fascinated until the last word. I loved the characters, even if at times I didn't like Pierre.....oh and I hated Claude. I really enjoyed the journey I experienced and am looking forward to rejoining these characters again in the next volume
This book is a fantastic read and keeps you fascinated until the last word. I loved the characters, even if at times I didn't like Pierre.....oh and I hated Claude. I really enjoyed the journey I experienced and am looking forward to rejoining these characters again in the next volume
March 25, 2018
‘The sound of sheep’s hooves thundering against the sun-hardened road was the first sign that something was not right.’
In 1744, Marie-Christine (Marie) Lévesque and her twin brother Nicolas (Nic) lived with their mother’s sister Annette and her husband Claude-Jean des Babineaux in the Fortress of Louisbourg on the Île Royale (now Cape Breton Island in Canada). Marie and Nic, and their friends Elise Sarrazin and Pierre Thibault, are growing into adulthood at a time when the conflict between France and Britain has spread across the Atlantic to North America.
Ms Watt has written an engaging work of historical fiction with a strong romantic component. Will Marie and Pierre ever find happiness together, or are they doomed to live forever apart? Lives are changed by the fortunes of war: some plans are thwarted (at least temporarily) while the conflict brings out both the best in some characters and the worst in others. Ms Watt has developed some interesting characters, and by adding elements of betrayal, conflict, double-dealing, friendship, intrigue, love, tragedy and (occasional) triumph to the mix, has provided a novel which I enjoyed and am likely to reread.
While I have a general understanding of eighteenth century battles between Britain and France, I knew nothing about the Fortress of Louisbourg. I often enjoy reading romance in an historical setting, but it is the historical period usually, rather than the romance, that holds my attention. At times I found the pace slow. This is not a criticism as I found that this served to enrich the story by describing life in Louisbourg and helped to provide sufficient detail and context to bring the characters and the period alive.
I understand that this is the first of a series of three novels planned: I’ll certainly be interested in reading the others.
Note: My thanks to Stuart Watt for providing me with an electronic ARC of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
In 1744, Marie-Christine (Marie) Lévesque and her twin brother Nicolas (Nic) lived with their mother’s sister Annette and her husband Claude-Jean des Babineaux in the Fortress of Louisbourg on the Île Royale (now Cape Breton Island in Canada). Marie and Nic, and their friends Elise Sarrazin and Pierre Thibault, are growing into adulthood at a time when the conflict between France and Britain has spread across the Atlantic to North America.
Ms Watt has written an engaging work of historical fiction with a strong romantic component. Will Marie and Pierre ever find happiness together, or are they doomed to live forever apart? Lives are changed by the fortunes of war: some plans are thwarted (at least temporarily) while the conflict brings out both the best in some characters and the worst in others. Ms Watt has developed some interesting characters, and by adding elements of betrayal, conflict, double-dealing, friendship, intrigue, love, tragedy and (occasional) triumph to the mix, has provided a novel which I enjoyed and am likely to reread.
While I have a general understanding of eighteenth century battles between Britain and France, I knew nothing about the Fortress of Louisbourg. I often enjoy reading romance in an historical setting, but it is the historical period usually, rather than the romance, that holds my attention. At times I found the pace slow. This is not a criticism as I found that this served to enrich the story by describing life in Louisbourg and helped to provide sufficient detail and context to bring the characters and the period alive.
I understand that this is the first of a series of three novels planned: I’ll certainly be interested in reading the others.
Note: My thanks to Stuart Watt for providing me with an electronic ARC of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
March 15, 2018
Outlander fans rejoice there is a book that brings that exact feel but in a different time period. War, love torn apart, and suprisingly realistic detail are all shown throughout the book.
Why the 3 stars? To me this book seemed a tad drawn out. Almost as if the author had read the Bloody Jack series and decided to create a book with less pirates. Love blossoms through distance and strife.
I feel this is the perfect book for Outlander lovers and those who want a realistic romance.
Why the 3 stars? To me this book seemed a tad drawn out. Almost as if the author had read the Bloody Jack series and decided to create a book with less pirates. Love blossoms through distance and strife.
I feel this is the perfect book for Outlander lovers and those who want a realistic romance.
July 19, 2018
Was looking for historical fiction, and it started out that way, about 20% into is I started to suspect it was not. At 40% I gave up as it is a fooking romance novel in disguise!!!!!
March 13, 2018
Marie Levesque and Pierre Thibault are growing up in Louisbourg in the 1740s. Marie and her twin brother Nic are orphans who live with their aunt, Annette, and uncle, Claude. Pierre and Nic enjoy causing trouble together, while Marie tries to stay away from the hijinks. When a romance starts blossoming between Pierre and and Marie, Nic does not approve, but they soon have other things to worry about. In 1744, the fortress at Louisbourg is attacked by the British, and most of the civilians are deported back to France. Pierre narrowly escapes and heads to Quebec to start a new job. Marie and Pierre write to one another and fall more in love as the years pass. Despite their best efforts, they are continually torn apart. Through war, abuse, heartbreak, and tragedy, the lovers attempt to stay together during this tumultuous period.
This book is long, but it is written in such a way that makes is very engaging. It is charming without being dull and boring. It has a similar feeling as the Anne of Green Gables series (and no wonder, since that is also set in Canada), but it also has an epic feel like the Outlander series. This time period is one that I am becoming more and more interested in as I read more historical fiction. This book gives us a good glimpse of what life would be like for a French colonist on what was considered the frontier of Canada at this time. I do not often get to read about the French -- or Canada for that matter -- so this was a very unique book for me.
One of the things I enjoyed about this book was that it shows the tragedy of war without being preachy. The story really speaks for itself about how it affects normal, everyday citizens. It touches on some of the class issues and cultural issues that occurred during this time period (how women essentially had to do what they were told and marry who their father/guardian arranged for them), but the main characters were very easy to relate to.
The pace of the book was very fast. Many times, the book would skip ahead by four of five years at a time. This was a little difficult to adjust to, but I think *overall* it was a good choice. The excitement and the plot were kept moving by keeping the pace going at a good rate. I would actually not have minded reading a little more about those years in-between. This story could have even been made into a trilogy or something like that so that more of the "fun" aspects could be included. For example, I love the part about sterilizing instruments in the hospital. Marie scoffs at it and feels that it is unnecessary. Hygiene and sterilization in medicine were new concepts then, and I thought it was an interesting way to point that out in a very organic and fun way. I wish more of those types of things had been included.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable book. While it does bring about some feelings of sadness because of the setting and tragic events of wartime, the interaction and love between Pierre and Marie made me feel very happy and peaceful as I was reading.
This book is long, but it is written in such a way that makes is very engaging. It is charming without being dull and boring. It has a similar feeling as the Anne of Green Gables series (and no wonder, since that is also set in Canada), but it also has an epic feel like the Outlander series. This time period is one that I am becoming more and more interested in as I read more historical fiction. This book gives us a good glimpse of what life would be like for a French colonist on what was considered the frontier of Canada at this time. I do not often get to read about the French -- or Canada for that matter -- so this was a very unique book for me.
One of the things I enjoyed about this book was that it shows the tragedy of war without being preachy. The story really speaks for itself about how it affects normal, everyday citizens. It touches on some of the class issues and cultural issues that occurred during this time period (how women essentially had to do what they were told and marry who their father/guardian arranged for them), but the main characters were very easy to relate to.
The pace of the book was very fast. Many times, the book would skip ahead by four of five years at a time. This was a little difficult to adjust to, but I think *overall* it was a good choice. The excitement and the plot were kept moving by keeping the pace going at a good rate. I would actually not have minded reading a little more about those years in-between. This story could have even been made into a trilogy or something like that so that more of the "fun" aspects could be included. For example, I love the part about sterilizing instruments in the hospital. Marie scoffs at it and feels that it is unnecessary. Hygiene and sterilization in medicine were new concepts then, and I thought it was an interesting way to point that out in a very organic and fun way. I wish more of those types of things had been included.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable book. While it does bring about some feelings of sadness because of the setting and tragic events of wartime, the interaction and love between Pierre and Marie made me feel very happy and peaceful as I was reading.
September 22, 2018
This engaging tale tells the story of life inside the fortress of Louisbourg. The fate of New France indeed hung on whether the British or French fleet made it to America in any given year. You can as have I visit the rebuilt Fortress, or the third restored on its original site, from the 20,000 scale architectural plans stored in Quebec and Paris. Detail oriented those French. The Fortress was captured twice after the French won it back through diplomacy and totally leveled the second time to ensure there would be nothing to return to. The bell from the chapel you read of hangs to the left of the chancel in Zion Lutheran Church in Lunenburg where my German ancestors arrived in 1753 settled here and in Halifax to counteract the threat of Acadians still residing in the province.
Keeping the fortress residents supplied was indeed a challenge as its strategic location was not chosen for its agricultural potential. Arable land was at considerable distance. Ile St-Jean is present day Prince Edward Island or Spud Island if you like. Cape Breton Island, Isle-Royale, at whose tip was Louisbourg is connected to mainland Nova Scotia by a causeway threatened in modern times by rising sea levels due to global warming.
Over-fishing and warming ocean waters have made the cod that was the mainstay of Louisbourg an endangered species.
Before the fall of Louisbourg Pierre escapes to Quebec and after Marie is transported to France while her twin, Nicolas, as an officer in the citadel is sent to a British prison in Boston. Given our knowledge of history it is interesting to read of Quebec as being considered impregnable, though General Mountcalm sealed his fate by leaving the relative safety of his fort to meet the enemy on the field of battle. Also a matter of some amusement to read that a young man prone to michief becomes understudy to a chief prosecutor.
Although this is a work of historical fiction the places and officials cited are historically accurate. As the book progresses it becomes clear that the tale encompasses both attacks on Louisbourg and will go on to cover the fate fo New France in general following the travails of these young people. Since this is labeled book 1 of 3 it appears likely that the intent is to cover the fate of both Quebec and Montreal as well.
In our age of instant telecommunication online it seems hard to comprehend that writing someone and getting a response could take an entire year. At that rate a single chess match by mail could take an entire lifetime rather than a few online hours.
Keeping the fortress residents supplied was indeed a challenge as its strategic location was not chosen for its agricultural potential. Arable land was at considerable distance. Ile St-Jean is present day Prince Edward Island or Spud Island if you like. Cape Breton Island, Isle-Royale, at whose tip was Louisbourg is connected to mainland Nova Scotia by a causeway threatened in modern times by rising sea levels due to global warming.
Over-fishing and warming ocean waters have made the cod that was the mainstay of Louisbourg an endangered species.
Before the fall of Louisbourg Pierre escapes to Quebec and after Marie is transported to France while her twin, Nicolas, as an officer in the citadel is sent to a British prison in Boston. Given our knowledge of history it is interesting to read of Quebec as being considered impregnable, though General Mountcalm sealed his fate by leaving the relative safety of his fort to meet the enemy on the field of battle. Also a matter of some amusement to read that a young man prone to michief becomes understudy to a chief prosecutor.
Although this is a work of historical fiction the places and officials cited are historically accurate. As the book progresses it becomes clear that the tale encompasses both attacks on Louisbourg and will go on to cover the fate fo New France in general following the travails of these young people. Since this is labeled book 1 of 3 it appears likely that the intent is to cover the fate of both Quebec and Montreal as well.
In our age of instant telecommunication online it seems hard to comprehend that writing someone and getting a response could take an entire year. At that rate a single chess match by mail could take an entire lifetime rather than a few online hours.
March 19, 2018
I don't normally read historical romances, but I must admit to enjoying this one. The Displaced offers a look into the daily lives of Marie and Pierre as they grow up and learn to survive through the atrocities of war and other torments that I won't spoil here in this review. I honestly didn't mind the slow paced scenes that were scattered throughout the story, never really finding them to be too drawn out. There were a few times where I felt some areas in time jumps could be expanded further upon, but it wasn't enough to distance me from the story at all. I felt the author gave a good look into what life was like. Unnecessary action wasn't forced on us all the time. It was quite a nice break from the fantasy and urban fantasy stories I generally read. And the details in everything from the attacks and treatments of injuries were quite good in my opinion.
There were several times I worried for Marie and Pierre as well as times I wanted to reach into the story and help them deal justice against certain other characters. I grew attached to Marie's brother Nic as the story progressed. At the end of the story, I truly wanted to see how they thrived with their new lives. Maybe one day I will be delighted with a look into how everything turned out for them, perhaps from the perspective of someone close to them. All in all, I enjoyed the book.
There were several times I worried for Marie and Pierre as well as times I wanted to reach into the story and help them deal justice against certain other characters. I grew attached to Marie's brother Nic as the story progressed. At the end of the story, I truly wanted to see how they thrived with their new lives. Maybe one day I will be delighted with a look into how everything turned out for them, perhaps from the perspective of someone close to them. All in all, I enjoyed the book.
April 4, 2018
Set in mid-1700 in New France, Canada, this is a sweet story of love between childhood friends. It seems they will never be together. I love historical fictions however I know very little of Canadian history so I can't say if this was accurate or not. But what little I do know this seems to be (other than the fictional characters of course) accurate. I was given this book as an advance readers copy for my honest review. Even though this was an unedited copy I loved the story. However, I hated the ending. Well, there wasn't an end. It just ended. No resolution to the story. Perhaps there will be a sequel, but if so, there still was no resolution to this portion of the story. That drove me nuts.
March 10, 2018
I loved reading the beautiful, historical romance, 'The Displaced'. Frieda Watt transports you to the Fortress of Louisbourg in the eighteenth century. I really felt like I was there and could place myself in the fort. I was thrilled to learn so much about the time period and the political and social struggles the characters faced. Watt certainly did her homework and the historical details are incomparable. I immediately felt a connection to the characters. I am always reading historical romance novels and often they become mixed in my memory, or it's hard to remember them at all weeks later. This book is a stand-alone and has stuck with me weeks after finishing. I find myself still thinking about Marie and Pierre. Truly a heart-wrenching, extraordinary love story and certainly a must-read.
April 2, 2018
I found it to be beautifully written and her style reminded me of some of my favorite authors. Namely Ken Follett and Jeffrey Archer...
The horrors of war are upstaged by this everlasting love story... A writing style with twists and turns throughout keep you on the edge of your seat wondering/hoping for a happy conclusion. The characters (both the "good & bad)" come to life with great intensity. I look forward to seeing what the author has up her sleeve for her next project. I am a fan!!
The horrors of war are upstaged by this everlasting love story... A writing style with twists and turns throughout keep you on the edge of your seat wondering/hoping for a happy conclusion. The characters (both the "good & bad)" come to life with great intensity. I look forward to seeing what the author has up her sleeve for her next project. I am a fan!!
March 30, 2018
This is one of the few historical fiction books that I have read that manage to get down into the hardships and realities of life on the frontier. Having traveled the area of Canada where the story is set added to my enjoyment of the book. The details of life on the frontier and what it took to survive both physically and politically are sharp and focused. The ease of removing someone's freedom in that time frame is a jaring touch that helps understand why both Canada and the United States protect the rights of individuals so jealously today.
October 24, 2018
Great Historical Read
I throughly enjoyed reading this novel. I enjoyed the intrigue and the enduring love in this novel. There is many turns in this book that kept me on my toes. This is a love story, a Historical story, a story of real families and there dysfunctions and life long love. Then there is the gossip that is thrown in the story to make things complicated.
I throughly enjoyed reading this novel. I enjoyed the intrigue and the enduring love in this novel. There is many turns in this book that kept me on my toes. This is a love story, a Historical story, a story of real families and there dysfunctions and life long love. Then there is the gossip that is thrown in the story to make things complicated.
December 21, 2019
While reading the "Displaced" I felt transported to the reality of how difficult life was in those years. I thoroughly enjoyed this historical romance as the story unfolded about Pierre Thibault and Marie Levesque. I couldn't put my Kindle down, and can't wait to read the next one "Underneath the Broken Sky".
October 15, 2018
A Very Good Book
I'm a Canadian who grew up in Atlantic Canada, spending a few years in Nova Scotia. I've been to Cape Breton often. It was the fact that this book is about a fort and a history that is very familiar to me. Both the story and the history are great.
I'm a Canadian who grew up in Atlantic Canada, spending a few years in Nova Scotia. I've been to Cape Breton often. It was the fact that this book is about a fort and a history that is very familiar to me. Both the story and the history are great.
April 7, 2018
This was a well-written book that I . The attention to detail transported me to that time and place and I was imbeded in the story. Yes, there is a love story and there is much information about the rigors of life in that time period. The parental abuse was abhorrent and it supported the fact that women were considered property first by their father and then by their husband at that time. The details of the seiges of the town were such that I could hear and feel the bombs as they persistently destroyed homes and businesses. My heart palpitated exceedingly with the oncoming British invasion, much as I'm sure did those off the inhabitants of the quaint coastal town. The frustration and anxiety of the forced separation between the young lovebirds caused me to eagerly keep turning pages in the hopes that they would somehow overcome all obstacles and finally be together. Now you should read it to see if that is actually what happened. This book has something for everyone and I definitely recommend it!!
December 20, 2019
I received the book from the author for an honest review.
At first I struggled to get into this book, not sure what this was about or where it was going. It felt more like a documentary than a story but as I continued to read I became interested in the life-story of Marie and Pierre, and their life on the Island of Louisburg. As children they were full of daily sports but as they grew older life changed.
The story started in 1744 and continued on after the second siege under British rule. These were the times that shaped them as adults and the influences of others were noticeably changing them.
Survival became the critical thread when food were scarce and life were fragile.
With an uncle that tried to keep them apart all they had was the overpowering believe of their love. Not sure if they would have any future together. Few people acknowledged the feelings of these two and they faced a lot of resentment from family and friends. For a single woman still dependent on an uncle it was difficult to follow her heart but her backbone finally came through when he tried to force her into an unwanted marriage.
It was a love that began at the tender age of thirteen, growing amidst adversary, lies and the continued fear of war. When Pierre ends up in Montreal as a deserter and convict the story really started to touch my heart. This was where you truly could sense a turn and you become aware of Pierre and Marie's struggles under the dictatorship of her uncle. Nic, her twin brother also tried to kept them apart, protecting her in his own odd way.
Each supportive character's role was detrimental to the outcome of the plot, a love-hate relationship that evoked all kinds of emotions within. Annette and Augustus for instance were silent spectators but yet very important to the turn of events.
The author's clever way of writing helped with the guessing work and only at the end you could really put everything together.
It is a touching story, written with empathy and sincerity that takes you back to a time when life was hard but still simple enough to understand the ebs and flows it has to offer.
Thanks for the opportunity.
At first I struggled to get into this book, not sure what this was about or where it was going. It felt more like a documentary than a story but as I continued to read I became interested in the life-story of Marie and Pierre, and their life on the Island of Louisburg. As children they were full of daily sports but as they grew older life changed.
The story started in 1744 and continued on after the second siege under British rule. These were the times that shaped them as adults and the influences of others were noticeably changing them.
Survival became the critical thread when food were scarce and life were fragile.
With an uncle that tried to keep them apart all they had was the overpowering believe of their love. Not sure if they would have any future together. Few people acknowledged the feelings of these two and they faced a lot of resentment from family and friends. For a single woman still dependent on an uncle it was difficult to follow her heart but her backbone finally came through when he tried to force her into an unwanted marriage.
It was a love that began at the tender age of thirteen, growing amidst adversary, lies and the continued fear of war. When Pierre ends up in Montreal as a deserter and convict the story really started to touch my heart. This was where you truly could sense a turn and you become aware of Pierre and Marie's struggles under the dictatorship of her uncle. Nic, her twin brother also tried to kept them apart, protecting her in his own odd way.
Each supportive character's role was detrimental to the outcome of the plot, a love-hate relationship that evoked all kinds of emotions within. Annette and Augustus for instance were silent spectators but yet very important to the turn of events.
The author's clever way of writing helped with the guessing work and only at the end you could really put everything together.
It is a touching story, written with empathy and sincerity that takes you back to a time when life was hard but still simple enough to understand the ebs and flows it has to offer.
Thanks for the opportunity.
April 17, 2019
Extremely boring!
I don't know how I got through this overlong story. It's mid 18th century in then French Canada as the setting.
Although the history is accurate, the characters are very one-dimensional and colorless. The story begins when four of the main characters are in their teens and progresses over an approximate 14-year period over which time they don't appear to mature at all. There is too much melodrama as well. Another detracter is the dialogue which was too modern for this era.....much too modern.
The story drags on and on and I skimmed several times to get to the point.
This one took great effort on my part to finish. It isn't one I plan to read Book II on and not one I'd recommend to fellow readers.
I don't know how I got through this overlong story. It's mid 18th century in then French Canada as the setting.
Although the history is accurate, the characters are very one-dimensional and colorless. The story begins when four of the main characters are in their teens and progresses over an approximate 14-year period over which time they don't appear to mature at all. There is too much melodrama as well. Another detracter is the dialogue which was too modern for this era.....much too modern.
The story drags on and on and I skimmed several times to get to the point.
This one took great effort on my part to finish. It isn't one I plan to read Book II on and not one I'd recommend to fellow readers.
November 14, 2018
Some of the storyline feels too “adventurous”. Even if it is fiction, it would be nice to think that it could have happened. Often in these historical novels, as is the case here, main characters feel too modern. Most of secondary characters are not fleshed out but are like puppets on the scene.
April 25, 2019
I have no idea why this book got so many 4 and 5 star rating. Must be friends and family!
April 23, 2019
1744, Louisbourg fortress Île-Royale, France (Atlantic Ocean). Marie Lévesque (14, daughter/sister) had gotten run over by a herd of ewe’s.
Pierre Thibault (16, son) was quite embarrassed.
Marie Lévesque (twin sister), Nicolas “Nic” Lévesque (14, Marie’s twin/brother), & Elise Sarrazin (Marie’s BFF) had managed to help Pierre round up his sheep.
Augustus Thibault (widower, father, The Jonas ship) ran his shipping business with an iron fist.
Claude-Jean des Babineaux (Uncle) was hosting a going-away party for Nic.
90 British warships had arrived at the harbor entrance.
Marie & Elise didn’t know what to think.
The Royal Battery & lighthouse only maned 30 cannons.
5/11/1745, Louisbourg fortress Île-Royale, France (Atlantic Ocean). The British wasted no time in taking everything over.
Small French attacks were made to kill the British.
Father Allard words were not too much avail.
5/26/1745, Quebec, Canada. Pierre (asst.-apprentice) was bailing out. He was going to work for Dominique Renault (50+, Procurator General; investigation/prosecution of crime, lawyer). He said goodbye to Marie.
Dominique would interview Pierre.
He was introduced to Fortin (clerk), Gagné (clerk), & Gilles Hocquart (administrator).
Vivienne Renault (Dominique’s wife) had invited Pierre for dinner.
Émile was on trial for stabbing Madame Claire Girat (wife), she had survived.
Nic took Marie to Augustus’ house.
Pierre was arrested for Canadian military deserter.
He was now aboard the Implacable (ship) headed back to Montreal, Canada.
Augustus could find no trace of him in the log book or his whereabouts.
Dominique Renault, Jean, & Tomas were helping with the search.
Marie applied to the Frères de Saint-Jean-de-Dieu (hospital).
Sister Agatha (Ursuline nun), Sister Miriam (Ursuline nun), & Father Maneau greeted her.
Most of the patients were sailors who were ill/injured.
11/1756, Marie was now Jacques-Xavier de Charlevoix fiancé.
The Meriette (ship) carried Marie to Montreal, Canada in hopes of her finding Charles Geroux (Pierre, colonial French soldier).
She found out he was somewhere in the Ohio Valley.
How will that turn out?
Claude (lawyer, French Duke’s nephew) had found Marie before, will he find her again?
Warning: This book contains adult content, violence, &/or sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written 18th century historical fiction book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great 18th century French/Canadian movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; EBookStage; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Pierre Thibault (16, son) was quite embarrassed.
Marie Lévesque (twin sister), Nicolas “Nic” Lévesque (14, Marie’s twin/brother), & Elise Sarrazin (Marie’s BFF) had managed to help Pierre round up his sheep.
Augustus Thibault (widower, father, The Jonas ship) ran his shipping business with an iron fist.
Claude-Jean des Babineaux (Uncle) was hosting a going-away party for Nic.
90 British warships had arrived at the harbor entrance.
Marie & Elise didn’t know what to think.
The Royal Battery & lighthouse only maned 30 cannons.
5/11/1745, Louisbourg fortress Île-Royale, France (Atlantic Ocean). The British wasted no time in taking everything over.
Small French attacks were made to kill the British.
Father Allard words were not too much avail.
5/26/1745, Quebec, Canada. Pierre (asst.-apprentice) was bailing out. He was going to work for Dominique Renault (50+, Procurator General; investigation/prosecution of crime, lawyer). He said goodbye to Marie.
Dominique would interview Pierre.
He was introduced to Fortin (clerk), Gagné (clerk), & Gilles Hocquart (administrator).
Vivienne Renault (Dominique’s wife) had invited Pierre for dinner.
Émile was on trial for stabbing Madame Claire Girat (wife), she had survived.
Nic took Marie to Augustus’ house.
Pierre was arrested for Canadian military deserter.
He was now aboard the Implacable (ship) headed back to Montreal, Canada.
Augustus could find no trace of him in the log book or his whereabouts.
Dominique Renault, Jean, & Tomas were helping with the search.
Marie applied to the Frères de Saint-Jean-de-Dieu (hospital).
Sister Agatha (Ursuline nun), Sister Miriam (Ursuline nun), & Father Maneau greeted her.
Most of the patients were sailors who were ill/injured.
11/1756, Marie was now Jacques-Xavier de Charlevoix fiancé.
The Meriette (ship) carried Marie to Montreal, Canada in hopes of her finding Charles Geroux (Pierre, colonial French soldier).
She found out he was somewhere in the Ohio Valley.
How will that turn out?
Claude (lawyer, French Duke’s nephew) had found Marie before, will he find her again?
Warning: This book contains adult content, violence, &/or sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written 18th century historical fiction book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great 18th century French/Canadian movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; EBookStage; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
May 7, 2018
‘People walked among the ruins of their homes and businesses, trying to salvage what they could from the wreckage.’
Canadian author Frieda Watt studied Fashion Arts at Seneca College and now devotes her time to writing books. Passionate about history she creates fictional history that seems so real that we wonder about the validity of other accounts of the period of history she incorporates into this her first novel – THE DISPLACED!
Too few authors address Canadian history and particularly that era where France stepped full force into Canada. Frieda captures this era will skill and with a sense of mystery thriller that enhances the historical aspect as well as enhancing the major romance story she has crafted.
Frieda’s own synopsis of this complex plot distills the book’s message well – ‘Marie Levesque is a young woman growing up on the shores of Ile Royale as the French Empire collapses on the battlefields. Britain and France are once again at war. The conflict has spilled over into the North America of 1744. With the threat of war looming on the horizon, Marie struggles to find her place. As a young woman, her life is just beginning. But the British promise not only to defeat them but annihilate their very way of life. Torn between clashing empires and contentious families, Marie Lévesque fights to find a place in the unforgiving frontier of Canada. As a young woman, her life is just beginning. Her friendship with Pierre promises of something more. But their lives and the doomed fortress of Louisbourg, an 18th century French colonial fortress which is now part of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia Canada, are caught in the cross-hairs of the British navy, who promise to annihilate not only them but also their very way of life. As empires collide, Marie and Pierre are catapulted into a world they do not understand—a world of spies, treason, and revenge. They must fight not only to survive the war, but also to stay together despite the forces that threaten to tear them apart forever. The Displaced: Fall of a Fortress tells the story of ordinary people as they try to survive as French rule crumbles in Canada.’
A taste of the flavor is evident early in the story – ‘The island fortress that housed the city of Louisbourg saw many interesting characters enter its port, but panicked sheep surging through the wide main street on a June afternoon was unheard of. The fortress of Louisbourg sat on the eastern edge of Île-Royale, the last vestige of the French Empire on the east coast of the continent. The guardian of the mighty Gulf of the Saint-Laurent, the massive structure was an intimidating reminder to anyone who travelled the North Atlantic to Quebec, the centre of France’s power in North America. Though cut off from the rest of the French Empire by the ocean and by British lands, the fortress’s stone walls rose proudly above the stormy Atlantic. A bustling city second only to the capital, Louisbourg provided all the modern comforts for its citizens and garrison, and as an international port, it played host to ships from all over the globe.’
Well developed characters and an intensely fascinating historical account make this a book to not only absorb but to also await the next volume of this series. Recommended.
Canadian author Frieda Watt studied Fashion Arts at Seneca College and now devotes her time to writing books. Passionate about history she creates fictional history that seems so real that we wonder about the validity of other accounts of the period of history she incorporates into this her first novel – THE DISPLACED!
Too few authors address Canadian history and particularly that era where France stepped full force into Canada. Frieda captures this era will skill and with a sense of mystery thriller that enhances the historical aspect as well as enhancing the major romance story she has crafted.
Frieda’s own synopsis of this complex plot distills the book’s message well – ‘Marie Levesque is a young woman growing up on the shores of Ile Royale as the French Empire collapses on the battlefields. Britain and France are once again at war. The conflict has spilled over into the North America of 1744. With the threat of war looming on the horizon, Marie struggles to find her place. As a young woman, her life is just beginning. But the British promise not only to defeat them but annihilate their very way of life. Torn between clashing empires and contentious families, Marie Lévesque fights to find a place in the unforgiving frontier of Canada. As a young woman, her life is just beginning. Her friendship with Pierre promises of something more. But their lives and the doomed fortress of Louisbourg, an 18th century French colonial fortress which is now part of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia Canada, are caught in the cross-hairs of the British navy, who promise to annihilate not only them but also their very way of life. As empires collide, Marie and Pierre are catapulted into a world they do not understand—a world of spies, treason, and revenge. They must fight not only to survive the war, but also to stay together despite the forces that threaten to tear them apart forever. The Displaced: Fall of a Fortress tells the story of ordinary people as they try to survive as French rule crumbles in Canada.’
A taste of the flavor is evident early in the story – ‘The island fortress that housed the city of Louisbourg saw many interesting characters enter its port, but panicked sheep surging through the wide main street on a June afternoon was unheard of. The fortress of Louisbourg sat on the eastern edge of Île-Royale, the last vestige of the French Empire on the east coast of the continent. The guardian of the mighty Gulf of the Saint-Laurent, the massive structure was an intimidating reminder to anyone who travelled the North Atlantic to Quebec, the centre of France’s power in North America. Though cut off from the rest of the French Empire by the ocean and by British lands, the fortress’s stone walls rose proudly above the stormy Atlantic. A bustling city second only to the capital, Louisbourg provided all the modern comforts for its citizens and garrison, and as an international port, it played host to ships from all over the globe.’
Well developed characters and an intensely fascinating historical account make this a book to not only absorb but to also await the next volume of this series. Recommended.
February 19, 2019
Set in the 18th century New France, this is one long, unsatisfying love story.
The British and French are at it again. They are fighting for the economic rights of the New world-Canada and to a small degree the British colonies. Yep, not the United States yet.
The main characters, Elsie, Nic-brother and sister and Marie and Pierre are living on the wonderful island of Ile-Royale in the town of Louisburg.
Our four youth have grown up together and as time plods on begin to look at each other differently, especially Marie and Pierre.
With the coming of War, 1745, Nic joins up, marries Elsie, Pierre hightails it to Quebec under his father’s orders and Marie starts working at the hospital.
I’d like to say that with all the moving pieces a good sharp story should surface, but it doesn’t. At times I couldn’t tell the difference between the male and female characters. They acted the same-juvenile most of the time. I found this especially annoying with Pierre who was unjustly imprisoned, then forced to join the French army. He fought many battles in the Ohio region and killed many men. For him to come back and wilt like a un-watered flower was appalling.
Another problem with the story was the repetition of the same thoughts over and over. Lost count how many times Marie’s character kept repeating the same phrases and thoughts, and there was also too much telling through the story. Again, lost count how many times the narration described the upcoming dialogue instead of letting the dialogue carry the story.
Now, one of the best parts of the story is the author’s ability to describe the absolutely horrible climate in this area. Makes one wonder, why would anyone want to live there? Rain, cold, snow, overcast except for maybe three months our of the year-pass.
The ending was at best, rushed and unfulfilling.
Who will like this? Women all the way.
Four stars
March 9, 2019
A local reading group selected The Displaced as its February/March book selection, and I am finding it as much a struggle to rate as it was for me to read. The setting is 18th-Century Louisbourg: a French fortress in modern day Nova Scotia, near the mouth of the St. Lawrence River, the gateway to New France. Across the globe, France is locked in a perpetual struggle with Great Britain and The Displaced follows the twists and turns of a group of young adults, primarily Marie and Pierre, through the fall of Louisbourg in the first years of what we now call the French and Indian War.
I found the premise of a historical fiction narrative told from a French perspective during this time of change potentially engaging. At the outset of the war, France had barely 100,000 settlers laying claim to vast swathes of wilderness compared to nearly 2 million living in the 13 colonies. However, instead of the historical fiction genre, The Displaced would be more accurately typed as a "yearning romance." Marie and Pierre face one tragedy after another -- injuries, death, and kidnappings abound -- and too much of the tale is comprised of woe-is-me soliloquies that frankly I found grinding and taxed my patience as a reader. It was simply too much and adversely affected my concern for either Marie or Pierre.
On the plus side, The Displaced introduced me to Louisbourg and some of the struggles that settlers in New France encountered in the 1700s.
I found the premise of a historical fiction narrative told from a French perspective during this time of change potentially engaging. At the outset of the war, France had barely 100,000 settlers laying claim to vast swathes of wilderness compared to nearly 2 million living in the 13 colonies. However, instead of the historical fiction genre, The Displaced would be more accurately typed as a "yearning romance." Marie and Pierre face one tragedy after another -- injuries, death, and kidnappings abound -- and too much of the tale is comprised of woe-is-me soliloquies that frankly I found grinding and taxed my patience as a reader. It was simply too much and adversely affected my concern for either Marie or Pierre.
On the plus side, The Displaced introduced me to Louisbourg and some of the struggles that settlers in New France encountered in the 1700s.
October 21, 2024
I liked this book in an okay sort of way. I knew nothing of the conflicts between the British and the French at the fortress of Louisbourg, Canada in 1744 and again in 1758. The British and the French in Europe had a warring history that kept spilling over to Canada, as the desire for more North American land and resources promised a greater reach of power for the British. The French fought back for the same reasons. So I learned a lot about all of this, but it wasn't easy. The book's treatment of the politics of all of this was often confusing.
It's the people of the fortress that keep the storyline together, but that wasn't easy either. There's a central love story, a sadistic father, illegitimate children between two central families, lots of lying and deceit, dramatic pursuits, imprisionments, bombardments, and death. Nearly all of these situations were intertwined.
All of the plot elements are resolved satisfactorily, while the reader is left with the awareness that for those characters who escaped the fortress by going to Quebec, the war would followed them. They were displaced once, only to realize that it would likely happen again.
We see so often from history, no matter what continent, that wars never truly end. Something always seems to refan the flame. Innocent people, like those in this book, become displaced over and over again. Ruin just keeps following them.
It's the people of the fortress that keep the storyline together, but that wasn't easy either. There's a central love story, a sadistic father, illegitimate children between two central families, lots of lying and deceit, dramatic pursuits, imprisionments, bombardments, and death. Nearly all of these situations were intertwined.
All of the plot elements are resolved satisfactorily, while the reader is left with the awareness that for those characters who escaped the fortress by going to Quebec, the war would followed them. They were displaced once, only to realize that it would likely happen again.
We see so often from history, no matter what continent, that wars never truly end. Something always seems to refan the flame. Innocent people, like those in this book, become displaced over and over again. Ruin just keeps following them.
July 17, 2019
Brilliant!
When I first started reading this book, I did not have high hopes. I was browsing the amazon website after I became aware that as a prime member I was entitled to borrow ten books for free at a time from a list of books available. So I picked ten books and this was just one of them. However, once I started reading I realized that I had hit the jackpot. I am an avid reader of historical fictions, however I am more into medieval history and this author was unknown to me. So unless I stumbled upon this book by chance, it was unlikely that I would have found this gem so easily.
The author narrated the story with a beautiful flow, there was thrill, there was adventure, and of course there was love. The book never got boring and I enjoyed every sentence till the end. I came to Canada last year as an immigrant, so my knowledge about this beautiful country is still at a very cursory level. This book taught me history, and reminded me yet again the follies of war. Looking forward to future books by this author.
When I first started reading this book, I did not have high hopes. I was browsing the amazon website after I became aware that as a prime member I was entitled to borrow ten books for free at a time from a list of books available. So I picked ten books and this was just one of them. However, once I started reading I realized that I had hit the jackpot. I am an avid reader of historical fictions, however I am more into medieval history and this author was unknown to me. So unless I stumbled upon this book by chance, it was unlikely that I would have found this gem so easily.
The author narrated the story with a beautiful flow, there was thrill, there was adventure, and of course there was love. The book never got boring and I enjoyed every sentence till the end. I came to Canada last year as an immigrant, so my knowledge about this beautiful country is still at a very cursory level. This book taught me history, and reminded me yet again the follies of war. Looking forward to future books by this author.
December 19, 2019
This is a very engaging historical fiction. Some people shy away from historical fiction because they think it is dry, boring or just lectures too much. Those people need to pick up this book. From the first chapter, I was pulled into this, not just the history, but the story. The characters are what makes this really shine. The way their lives are woven together, against the years and through numerous hardships and distances made this just a page turner for me. I'm not a huge fan of romance but this was a book that I couldn't put down because it just tugged at my heart in all the right way. The author's writing style is fantastic, with a myriad of small details that makes the story just come alive. If you are a fan out Outlander, you will love this book. I know I did.
July 4, 2024
Quite an enjoyable diversion, this tale is at its heart a love story, most interesting to this reader for its historicity. As an American, the perspective of the colonial-era Canadians of New France on the various conflicts between Mother France and Great Britain was intriguing.
Pierre and Marie, as well as his father and her brother (Augustus and Nic), lead a cast of characters who make up the perpetually doomed fort at the tip of New France. Due to their location, the settlement ends up an early target in both of the conflicts featured in the story. These sieges form the canvas upon which the tapestry of the tale is woven
Any reader of historical fiction should enjoy this read. It is highly recommended.
Pierre and Marie, as well as his father and her brother (Augustus and Nic), lead a cast of characters who make up the perpetually doomed fort at the tip of New France. Due to their location, the settlement ends up an early target in both of the conflicts featured in the story. These sieges form the canvas upon which the tapestry of the tale is woven
Any reader of historical fiction should enjoy this read. It is highly recommended.
May 6, 2018
An epic historical adventure
I love historical fiction. Especially when it's really well written and I find myself absorbed by the characters. This book doesn't disappoint. The language is so relatable I feel like experienced life through their eyes with the turn of every page.
I loved how the characters matured and grew with the storyline of Canada's history as the backdrop. I had never known the story of Louisburg and Cape Breton and found it interesting...and a compelling novel.
It ended on a great note, but I'd love to hear what happened next for Marie and Pierre in this epic historical adventure.
I love historical fiction. Especially when it's really well written and I find myself absorbed by the characters. This book doesn't disappoint. The language is so relatable I feel like experienced life through their eyes with the turn of every page.
I loved how the characters matured and grew with the storyline of Canada's history as the backdrop. I had never known the story of Louisburg and Cape Breton and found it interesting...and a compelling novel.
It ended on a great note, but I'd love to hear what happened next for Marie and Pierre in this epic historical adventure.
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