Thrown to the Wind

by Amanda M. Cetas

"It would have to be now or never. I took a deep breath, closed my eyes, and jumped!" Based on true events, this story traces one boy's journey from France to America in 1660 as he finds the courage to save himself and those he loves. Etienne Gayneau doesn't understand why the Catholics and Protestants in France can't get along, only that it means he's not allowed to see his cousin and best friend, Nicolas, and why he'll never be a musketeer. But when a bounty is placed on his father's head for being a heretic, he must choose to flee with his family, or to run away and hide out with his Catholic cousin. Etienne must give up everything he has ever known as he faces many dangers along his journey. Along the way, Etienne will befriend a beautiful Dutch girl with a dangerous father, confront his guilt over the death of his brother, and face off against injury, illness, and death. Will Etienne choose to fulfill his family's expectations, or will he plot the course for his own destiny?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Young Adult

246 pages, ebook

Published July 17, 2019

About the author

Amanda M. Cetas is the author of the historical action adventure series, A Country for Castoffs. Thrown to the Wind is the first book in the series. The story is taken from her family history, which she has spent over two decades researching. She recently retired from fourteen years of teaching American, European and World history to middle and high school students, to write full time.

Amanda lives in Tucson, Arizona for most of the year with her husband and two little Yorkie mixes. She escapes to the beach at Rocky Point, Mexico over every break in the school year and to the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon each summer. She has three grown children and two beautiful grandchildren.

Amanda is currently working on the fourth book in the series,.

Reviews

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Entienne, you can’t often control your circumstances, but you can control how you respond to them.”

I really enjoyed this book! Historical fiction isn’t my usual go-to genre, but it was a refreshing change and a really lovely coming-of-age story.

Synopsis: Based on true events, this story traces one boy’s journey from France to America in 1660 as he finds the courage to save himself and those he loves. Etienne Gayneau’s family is fleeing La Rochelle in the dead of night to avoid his father’s certain arrest in the morning, but his cousin has offered him a safe haven. Now he must choose. If he leaves with his family, he will never become a musketeer, but if he stays, he will never see his parents and sisters again. Both choices are fraught with dangers and uncertainty. One thing is sure – his life will never be the same again. Etienne will face many dangers along his journey. Along the way, Etienne will befriend a beautiful Dutch girl with a dangerous father, confront his guilt over the death of his brother, and face off against injury, illness, and death. Will Etienne choose to fulfill his family’s expectations, or will he plot the course for his own destiny?

I adored Etienne’s character and found myself routing for him from start to finish. Despite the hardships he faces, he remains kind, compassionate and resilient throughout the book.

A captivating tale of self-discovery, healing and adventure; Thrown to the Wind is beautifully written, fast-paced and truly fascinating. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical fiction based on true events or adventurous coming-of-age stories!

* This book was gifted to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Thrown to the Wind. It was a pleasant read filled with excitement, emotion and adventure. It was clear Amanda had done her research on all aspects of the story. The story was well detailed and the art work was a nice touch to help the reader envisage elements of the story.

Etienne is a strong main character. He is the epitome of resilience. He is mature for his age due to the trial and tribulations his family endure. He feels he has the responsibility to take care of his family. Also, he has his own hopes and dreams but ultimately his family are his first priority. Etienne’s nemesis is Francois; a nasty young boy but it’s heart warming how Etienne still helps him despite the bullying he has suffered at the hand of Francois and his gang. Highlights the nature of Etienne as a lovely, kind-hearted young man.

The details of how ships navigated in the 1660s was well researched and it brought back many memories for me of when I went sailing on a Tall ship not too dissimilar to the ones Etienne sailed on. I was part of the crew which sailed from
Halifax, Canada to Portsmouth, Britain. Similarly, to Etienne I learned about the workings of a ship and like him I was overwhelmed with information and also exhausted. He certainly had a tougher time than me that’s for sure!

I read most of this book in a day as I couldn’t put it down. I kept wanting to read on to see what happened to Etienne and his family. I didn’t know anything about the war against the Huguenots in 1660 so reading this opened my eyes to a part of history I had never encountered. I really enjoyed this book and eager to read book 2 to see what becomes of Etienne and his family.

Thank you to Amanda M Cetas for entrusting me eith her work and also thank you to Olivine Publicity for managing to get the book to me.

[Fleur · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a copy from the author for an honest review*

I was hesitant to start reading this book, because I normally don't read historical fiction. But I wanted to give it a try because Etienne traveled to my country. And I'm glad I gave it a chance. For me it started of not so great, as I'm not big in religion and there was a big focus on that. But as soon as Etienne left on his journey, I was captivated by the story. I didn't expect to love it so much but I could not stop reading. I loved reading about his journey and the things that he did and learned while on the boat. But it wasn't only just a fun story, but Amanda managed to learn us something too about life. This book is well written, fast pace, has a great plot line, is captivating, and written with love.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves some action, a book that is fast pace and likes character development.

[Jennifer Purcell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really good book! I think children and adults alike will love this book. It definitely made me appreciate the freedom of religion we enjoy in America and made me think about what our ancestors went through. I thought Cetas did a great job writing in Etienne's voice, and I like the detail she included about the ships and the ports. I can tell she did her research. I hope she follows up with more stories of Etienne and his experiences in the New World.

[Erika Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful imagery and so telling for the times

I really enjoyed reading this book. This is such an easy read, and totally immerses you in the times. I loved Etienne’s story, he persevered so much. Can’t wait for the sequel.

[Heretherearebooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

|| Thrown to the Wind || Amanda M. Cetas || Book Review 4.5⭐️ || •

Promise, adventure, history. •

It follows Etienne Gayneau in 1660 France, forced to flee with his Protestant family when a bounty is put upon his fathers head. This sets in motion a number of events that will force them to flee from France to the Netherlands, and eventually to New Amsterdam (America). He finds friendship, hardship, courage and new skills in new locations, encountering many dangers along the way. Can they make it to safety? •

This book was fast paced, adventurous and utterly fascinating. I loved Etienne’s character, and to think he is based upon the author’s own family history, makes the story all the more satisfying to read. It had me rooting for the Gayneau family throughout. I can’t wait for the next instalment to see where life has taken them. •
One for the historical fiction lovers! 🌊 •

Thank you to @amandamcetasauthor for the gifted copy of your amazing book, in exchange for an honest review. •

[Jenny Knipfer · Rating 5 out of 5]

High Adventure

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thrown to the Wind, by Amanda M. Cetes

In Thrown to the Wind, I found myself immersed in swashbuckling adventure on par with Stevenson’s Treasure Island. Etienne and his family, French Huguenots, flee from religious persecution, taking refuge in the Netherlands for awhile. Amidst the flight Etienne must escape the ensnarement of pirates and rescue his father from thugs.

They settle into life in their new home, but a time comes when they must escape the clutches of a crooked man. They book passage on a ship and set sail for New Netherlands across the Atlantic. But will they elude pirates, survive the storms, and endure sickness on the open ocean to arrive in the new country?

Thrown to the Wind taught me much about 17th century ships, their rigging, and operation, and I felt deeply caught-up several times in the well-written, suspenseful, and adventurous novel.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thrown to the Wind by Amanda M. Cetas transports young adult readers to 1660s France, introducing us to Etienne Gayneau, a young boy whose aspirations soar beyond his father's wishes for him to continue the family stove-making business. Set against a backdrop of religious persecution, this historical fiction novel traces Etienne and his family’s harrowing exodus from France to Amsterdam and finally to America. Etienne, grappling with familial expectations and the loss of his brother, discovers strength in the steadfast love of his relatives. This emotional support becomes his anchor as they endure the hardships of their journey. Along the way, Etienne encounters numerous perils that test his fortitude, compelling him to either conform to family expectations or forge his own destiny.

Thrown to the Wind is an enthralling narrative of endurance, love, and the relentless pursuit of one’s future. It skillfully combines historical richness with the essence of human resilience. The tale is a testament to hope, with Etienne navigating the storms of fate in his quest for redemption and a new beginning. As a devotee of historical fiction, I approached this book with high expectations, which were not only met but exceeded. The author’s meticulous research enriches the narrative, blending historical precision with engaging storytelling. The vivid descriptions and dynamic pacing make it difficult to put the book down. Etienne’s evolution from a hesitant boy into a cornerstone of strength for his family is profoundly moving, illustrating the power of human connections formed under the most challenging circumstances. The relationships Etienne forms—whether with his cousin, a girl he bonds with, or comrades on a ship—highlight the significance of interpersonal connections across life’s tumultuous journey. His sacrifices and the poignant moments of relinquishing personal dreams for family resonate deeply, enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative. The recurring motif, "Everything will look better in the morning," poignantly underscores the family's daily struggles with a sense of enduring hope.

Thrown to the Wind is a captivating exploration of historical events through the lens of personal struggle and growth. It not only entertains but enlightens, leaving readers more connected to the past and reflective of the human condition.

[Jasmine Pulley · Rating 5 out of 5]

An impressive piece of historical fiction written for kids, that we read aloud for fourth grade world history, covering our time period from 1600 to 1850.

The story begins in 1627 with the seize of La Rochelle under King Louis XIII and Cardinal Richelieu, who strip the Protestants of their right to practice freely in the land.
The main character, Etienne, is a young boy whose family begins their journey fleeing France for this reason. They first embark on the Netherlands for a short period, before eventually cross the ocean for New Amsterdam (eventually New York).

There are not a lot of distinct historical names of people in the story, aside from Cardinal Richelieu, and some places, but I felt that the author paints a very accurate picture of this time period through significant historical themes. We hear of the slave trade and slave ships, the very real fear of pirates who roam the seas looking for ships to attack, as well as the settling of the new land and the mix of cultures present at the time of Europeans and native Americans.

One surprising note-there was a scene where a bad man who Etienne is hiding from apparently comes to find him in a slaves quarters, but it turns out he was “meeting” his slave in her room. Etienne is in another room and does not know what is happening behind closed doors, but any adult reading would know. I don’t expect kids to pick up on that, it was very subtle, but then I did wonder why it was included.

Overall, I loved the story! I was so pulled in I read ahead to finish on my own and plan on reading the rest of the series!

[Alaina Ramey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Based on true events, this historical fiction follows the story of Etienne Gayneau and his families’ journey from France to Amsterdam to America back in the 1660s. This adventurous book dives into the many dangers that come to Etienne’s family during their voyage to a better life (and away from persecution as Protestants in a Catholic community). Etienne has big hopes for his future and wants to be more than just a stove-maker like his father, but he also believes in “family first,” which ultimately guides his every decision and overall pursuit. This book packs in Amanda M. Cetas thorough research of her family history and is done so in such an exciting way that I was interested throughout the whole novel.

I was a little nervous to begin reading this novel because I have not picked up a whole lot of historical fiction in my life. However, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed Thrown to the Wind. I was captivated by this boy’s coming-of-age story and his journey to one day have a better life. I was rooting for him the whole way and loved feeling a part of his journey. It was also just insane to me how much work and effort the author, Amanda M Cetas, put into finding out her family history. Such a beautiful way of passing on the story of her ancestors!

A big thank you to the author for gifting me with a copy of this novel (with the cutest little inscription) in exchange for an honest review - I LOVED IT! Cannot wait for Book #2.

[Billy Buttons · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
25th October 2023
TITLE: Thrown to the Wind: A Country for Castoffs, Book 1
AUTHOR: Amanda M. Cetas, narrated by Daniel Kay
Star Rating: 5

‘A skillfully plotted, coming-of-age story with a memorable cast of characters. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf

REVIEW
I must say, I very much enjoyed this AUDIOBOOK of Thrown to the Wind. The author, Amanda M. Cetas, is a talented writer who knows how to tell a suspense-filled adventure middle graders and YA will love. The narrator is also talented, adding a lot of energy to the story.
So, what’s it about? Well, in a nutshell, it’s the story of Etienne Gayneau who, along with his family, must escape France to Amsterdam then on to America. Set in the 1660s, it’s a twisting, suspense-filled, highly accessible tale as the young boy attempts to protect his family from the many dangers they face.
So, who is this book for. Well, I suspect it will go down well with 9 – 12 year olds, possibly even older. They’ll love rooting for the likable Etienne, the fast-pacing, and the fact there’s plenty happening – ALL OF THE TIME! Also, I think they’ll enjoy the history lesson hidden within the story. The 1600s is not commonly looked at in UK schools and, I think, for many young readers, the setting will be a bit of an eye opener!
All in all, a bit of a gem!

A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thrown to the Wind was a captivating story. Full of adventure and action. Definitely one of those books that you can't put down because you want to know what happens next. Amanda Cetas does an incredible job at capturing the era and transporting you there. At times I felt that I was alongside Etienne on the ship! You can tell that this story is part of her and she not only has done her research but her heart is in this story as well.

Etienne is such a strong main character. At times you forget that he is only a young boy. The hardship he had to endure and the work he did alongside his father and on his own was incredible. Definitely puts things in perspective at how different times where then compared to now and how children in a sense "grew" up so much faster. A lot is put on poor Etienne and he being just a boy also struggles with a lot of things. He wants to be his own person and do his own thing. Although he looks up to his father he does not want the same job his father has. He wants to be his own person. He struggles with the death of his younger brother and blames himself for it. He also has a bully that is constantly putting him down and treating him inferior just because of his social class. You can't help but cheer for him throughout the book.

It will be interesting to see how she continues the story and where it will go. I for one can't wait to read it. As a homeschool mom I thought this book was perfect for a family read aloud or an assigned book for a middle schooler who could do some more research to go with the history of it all.

(I received this book from the author for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own!)

[Craig Hipkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those rare instances where I read a book in two sittings. I read a lot of historical novels in the YA category (being a YA author myself) and I can truly say that this is one of the two best I have read this year, along with Malve Von Hassell's "The Falconer's Apprentice." The story takes place in the 17th century during the time when the Huguenot's were being persecuted by the French Catholics under King Louis XIV.
The hero of the story is young Etienne Gayneau, a stove maker's son. Etienne has dreams of becoming a musketeer, but those dreams are dashed suddenly when he and his family are forced to flee France for Holland. The story is full of adventure and Etienne, though young, proves to be brave, strong willed and ambitious. It is refreshing to read a book like this without all the unnecessary edits that publisher's these days force their authors to adhere to. In this book, the creativity of the author is left intact. I wish I had known about this book a few years ago when my son was younger as I would have required him to read it. It is a good book for Home Schooling.
I ordered the paperback version of the next two books in the series and look forward to reading those. If you enjoy reading the historical YA works of Avi, you will want to read "A Country for Castoffs: Thrown to the Wind" by Amanda M. Cetas. You won't be disappointed!

[Paula Dyches · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical Fiction - 1660 France

Parents- PG- 3rd-4th Grade and up
Language- Not that I remember, at least not directly said but alluded to
Violence- PG- normal to genre nothing too graphic
Sexual Content- nothing to warn of

This is set in France 1660 and is about an 11-12-year-old boy and his family. It shows the struggles of this family in a country arresting and killing Protestant citizens but is very much a coming-of-age story as well. He wanted to be a Musketeer but they were forced to flee in the night. That is just the start of their adventure. This is not a pushy religious story, but one that shows a family in the middle of the political turmoil and injustice of the time. I really enjoyed this one and recommend it to anyone curious about the time and/or historical fiction fans.

Narrator- He did great with the differentiations, did pretty well with the French accent, and was easy to listen to. I did notice a few repeated lines and pauses that were missed in the edit, but not so bad to take away from the story. I did prefer listening at 1.35x speed.

—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is for Thrown to the Wind (A Country for Castoffs Book 1) by Amanda M. Cetas.

The first thing I notice is the cover art; great curb appeal.

As a family genealogist I love the idea that this story is based on real events discovered thru the author's researching of her own family history. I enjoyed this story very much. The author was able to draw me in to the life of Etienne as he makes choices that will determine not only his future, but the future of his family. I highly recommend with a solid 4 stars.

Full Disclaimer: I was provided a complimentary copy of this book as a Goodreads giveaway winner; received in Kindle format; in exchange for an honest review.

My Rating System:
* not worth finishing, ** would not recommend, *** would recommend, **** would highly recommend, ***** have/would read again.

[M.K. Tufft · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast-pasted historical middle grade adventure inspired by a true story

Amanda Cetas has crafted an immersive, fast-paced tale based on a meticulously researched true family history told from the point of view of 10-year old Etienne.
Follow his struggles and adventures as his family (French Huguenots from New Rochelle) flee for their lives to Amsterdam then New Amsterdam.
Parts of the story may remind you of Treasure Island… there are pirates and many dangers to escape from, plus there are two major sea voyages where Etienne learns the craft of sailors. Throughout, Etienne perseveres and finds a way to protect his family even as he learns to make his way in the world.

[Janet Ashmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing tale for all who love historical fiction! I would recommend it for anyone 12 years old and up through adulthood. It is fast paced, true to the time period and culture, and has special meaning to me because some of my ancestors, including the first window glassmakers, emigrated to New Amsterdam! The story is fascinating and educational as well as relating to Christian theology without being preachy. I literally sat down to read it and didn't stop until I had finished. I will be gifting this book to others for sure! 5 Stars!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook: This was my first experience with Amanda M. Cetas' work, and I was amazed at the amount of historical information and wealth of details found throughout the story. The story was fascinating and kept me glued to the audiobook as the story unfolded. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. Daniel Kay's narration was absorbing and kept my attention. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.

[Havebooks Willread · Rating 4 out of 5]

The children enjoyed this story of Etienne and his journey to America. There was lots of depth to his character as a young boy who felt guilt for his brother's death, who had to work to help his family, and grew in character through his many travels. The children liked it well enough that as soon as we finished and they saw that there was a sequel recording his life in the wilderness, they immediately asked me to get it so they could see what happens to Etienne next.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

He has dreams of becoming a musketeer and he is waiting for his cousin ship to come in. He will be given a chose between his dreams or fleeing into the night. What will he do? Will he stay? Will he flee? See how he gets on in this story based on true events
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book one in a YA series about a French Huguenot family settling in the ‘New World’ to escape religious persecution. It’s based on a true story. The young hero, Etienne Gayneau, is an engaging young man. The story is well told. I’m giving my copy to a young 13 year old. I hope he enjoys it.

[Malory · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably more 4.5 but it was a well done book! I was reading it with my 4th and 7th grade daughters. The writing and event kept all of us hooked to see what happened next. But I also learned a lot about Huguenots, Amsterdam, and what went into being on a ship. I will continue the series with my oldest daughter.

[Jennifer Loschiavo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful coming of age story that had me on an emotional rollercoaster the whole time. This book was a page turner and i really enjoyed this authors writing style.

[Kaycee Owens · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful living book to teach the history of this time. The boys are reading it for school and I pre-read to follow narrations 🌿

[Katy Lovejoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

reminds me of something...can't think of what plot but it feels familiar. it'd a good one though

[Jenifer Kanin · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exciting tale of the sea and a glimpse into history, a very enjoyable read.

I loved this book! The writers passion shines through on every page. You quickly become emotionally attached to the family and the lead character - a boy named Etienne. It was no surprise to read in the biography the the author is an educator, as the details around sailing and the ships were beautifully explained. Just enough to be interesting, but not some much that you lose interest (I am talking to you - unabridged Mobley Dick). If you are a fan of historical fiction, I highly recommend this enjoyable read.

[Katharine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book gave me chills, kept me captivated, and reminded me of the wonderful and painful struggles our ancestors went through to give us the life we have now.
I was deeply moved by Thrown to the Wind and I’m excited for Book 2.
Thrown to the Wind would be wonderful as adapted for the screen. I kept imagining Etienne in each situation so vividly, I would love to see it expand to the movies.
Highly recommend Thrown to the Wind.

[Heirloom Book Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

A French boy and his family are forced to escape the rising tensions of religious persecution in 17th century Europe. For French Huguenots fleeing the Catholic Church, safe havens are hard to come by, especially for poor laborers like young Etienne.

But Etienne is a resourceful youth, using the merits of his character as something to trade. He quickly earns himself a spot as cabin boy on a ship to Amsterdam. Captain wants to further the promising youth with a career at sea, but disagreeable Papa won’t have it. Papa has his eyes set on the New World for a chance at a better tomorrow, and he’ll need all of Etienne's sweat to carve out a living. Thus, it’s the penniless life for Etienne, and his misfortunes have only just begun.

Kidnapped, chased by pirates, beaten, and not to mentioned bullied by his own peers on account of his poverty are just a few of the struggles author Amanda M. Cetas has in store for young Etienne. She overlays the boy’s plight with a strong faith in God, often finding comfort in the Biblical story of Job to cope with different situations.

It can be heartbreaking to follow Etienne through each missed opportunity—never by his own hand but chewed up and spat out, nonetheless. Adding to the weight, Etienne is constantly reminded of a past mistake that cost another their life.

As he learns to forgive himself and finds friendship with the Natives in America, Etienne realizes his journey is not just the worst part of Job’s story but the victory at the end as well. This is an adventure story after all, and Cetas’ pen is always quick to remind her readers of it too, never leaving them to wallow for long. There's more life to live around every corner, and Etienne doesn’t have to stop being poor to be rich.

There are things to learn from every page as well. Cetas, a history teacher, proves to be an unequaled wealth of knowledge. She brings the 17th century to life with engaging lessons hidden within the narrative. Constellations, sailing, and sword-fighting to name a few—each are presented tactfully within Etienne’s story. Meanwhile, Cetas sprinkles her work with helpful illustrations that show how different objects worked.

Readers will want to linger in this captivating world, and they’ll get the chance. “Thrown to the Wind,” though it stands on its own, is also the first part of a trilogy detailing the life of young Etienne, who also happens to be the author’s ancestor.

Everything Cetas packs into the boy’s story really happened and is the product of thirty years of research. But for every treasure put behind the scenes, Cetas has matched it on page with her fluid prose and a knack for storytelling. Her writing is without flaw, and her plotting never misses a step. Stirred from the passion Cetas poured into her family history, “Thrown to the Wind,” pulls off the perfect storm.

Every generation has a piece of historical fiction that comes without rival, stays a while in our hands for its unique glance at a world come before, and gets passed to the next generation as a classic. This is that book. Parents, teachers—make this one required reading in your next unit study. It's an invaluable resource for students of American History, the Age of Discovery, and the Protestant Reformation. A work that honors the everyday people who gave it all to build the United States. “Thrown to the Wind” by Amanda M. Cetas earns our highest recommendation.

[Theoden Humphrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Etienne Gayneau would be proud.

He was a real boy, who fled with his family from France when Louis XIV began his war against the Huguenots in 1660. The family left everything behind but the bare necessities and their faith, and took ship for Holland – where Etienne's father was robbed while looking for work, and then the Gayneaus had nothing but their faith. But they worked, and saved, and found a way to survive – until a pirate captain found out that Etienne was spending far too much time with the pirate's beautiful young daughter; and so the pirate –

But I don't mean to spoil the entire story. Because you should read it yourself. I will say that there are sea voyages, with storms and scurvy and more pirates; the family makes both allies and enemies, as Etienne does himself, and they end up in an entirely new place, where the story ends just to leave you eager to read the second book (which the author is currently at work on, and I hope she finishes it soon!).

Amanda Cetas has pulled together an excellent story, here: one that is sparking with adventure and excitement, and rich with historical details. Etienne is an excellent hero, for all that he is 9 years old; he is, as was common in his era, far more mature and responsible than most children his age would be today – he had to be, so he could help take care of his family through their trials and tribulations. He does it and does it well, though he also dreams his own dreams and even pursues them, when he can; but at the same time, Etienne does the right thing, and the reader appreciates him for it. Cetas portrays perfectly the life and times of a family of French Huguenots in the 17th century; her research was clearly extensive and deep, to find this many pieces of the puzzle to put together into this interesting portrait. And the best piece of all – though I loved the depiction of the father as a stove-maker merchant, with Etienne as his unwilling apprentice, and the details of how ships navigated in the 1660s, and the way that Etienne drew inspiration and guidance from the Bible and his faith, along with a hundred other specific details that make this history so true to life and so tangible – is this: that Etienne Gayneau, the historical boy, is Amanda Cetas's ancestor.

I think Etienne would be very proud of how his descendant has treated his story. And for anyone looking for a middle grade/YA novel that brings history to life, I would highly recommend Etienne's story, as well.