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The Bookmark
The legendary Marquis de Lafayette,
A forgotten Moravian woman who became his nurse,
And a bookmark with a secret...
1777. After being wounded at the Battle of Brandywine, the Marquis de Lafayette is taken to the isolated religious community of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where he is cared for by a Moravian Single Sister named Liesl Boeckel who has little patience with the arrogant Frenchman and his unwelcome curiosity about her life.
2005. When Abbey Prescott inherits her grandmother’s house in Bethlehem, she discovers an eighteenth-century bookmark, which may reveal a romance between Liesl and Lafayette, and she becomes determined to solve the mystery. However, her quest is complicated by the aftershocks of a failed love affair and a possible romantic entanglement of her own.
The Bookmark is an immersive romantic mystery that illuminates a little-known piece of American history through the lives of two women, separated by the centuries but alike in their determination to confront the past and find a way forward.
Praise for The Bookmark:
“Written with an impressive level of historical detail, this dual storyline does not disappoint, and the characters in each era make turning the page worthwhile. That said, the reader might not need a bookmark after all; this page-turner is hard to put down!” -- Thomas McCullough, Assistant Archivist at the Moravian Archives
"Weaving historical facts with fiction, Ms. Supsic has written a truly remarkable book." -- Amazon review
A forgotten Moravian woman who became his nurse,
And a bookmark with a secret...
1777. After being wounded at the Battle of Brandywine, the Marquis de Lafayette is taken to the isolated religious community of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where he is cared for by a Moravian Single Sister named Liesl Boeckel who has little patience with the arrogant Frenchman and his unwelcome curiosity about her life.
2005. When Abbey Prescott inherits her grandmother’s house in Bethlehem, she discovers an eighteenth-century bookmark, which may reveal a romance between Liesl and Lafayette, and she becomes determined to solve the mystery. However, her quest is complicated by the aftershocks of a failed love affair and a possible romantic entanglement of her own.
The Bookmark is an immersive romantic mystery that illuminates a little-known piece of American history through the lives of two women, separated by the centuries but alike in their determination to confront the past and find a way forward.
Praise for The Bookmark:
“Written with an impressive level of historical detail, this dual storyline does not disappoint, and the characters in each era make turning the page worthwhile. That said, the reader might not need a bookmark after all; this page-turner is hard to put down!” -- Thomas McCullough, Assistant Archivist at the Moravian Archives
"Weaving historical facts with fiction, Ms. Supsic has written a truly remarkable book." -- Amazon review
390 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2022
156 people are currently reading
4329 people want to read
About the author
Anne Supsic
2 books48 followersAnne Supsic is a docent at the Moravian Museum in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a dedicated Francophile, and a bookmark collector. When she first learned about a possible romantic relationship between the Marquis de Lafayette and a Moravian Single Sister named Liesl Boeckel, she knew she had found the story she was meant to tell.
When she’s not at home, Anne is traveling the world with her husband (seventy countries and counting), exploring other cultures, and of course, searching for bookmarks.
To learn more, you can visit her online at annesupsic.com.
When she’s not at home, Anne is traveling the world with her husband (seventy countries and counting), exploring other cultures, and of course, searching for bookmarks.
To learn more, you can visit her online at annesupsic.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 25, 2023
I picked this book up on whim at the Moravian Museum gift shop after visiting Bethlehem. Unknown to me until I began reading the book, our tour guide happened to be the author - her love of history and interest in the Moravians was clear during our tour. You might even say it was infectious as I was very excited to dig into the book based on its description.
I enjoyed the historicity of the book immensely and credit the author with doing a fine job of weaving the Moravian history and culture into the book through Lisel's thoughts and how she told her story.
My reason for giving 3 stars is largely for 2 reasons.
The first: Historical fiction often demands liberties be taken, that is well understood. However, I felt the author's choice in how she paints Lisel's actions at end of the book with the Marquis de Lafayette to border on slander. It's one thing to imagine the young lady fell in love with the Marquis, was tempted by him, was attracted to him, even corresponded with him in secret. Perhaps he even tempted her to take a second look at the life she lived and question whether or not the world held more for her than her extreme Moravian upbringing. It was the author's decision to depict her as having a one-night stand and affair (the Marquis was married, after all) that left me with something to be desired. Not necessarily because it's unbelievable but because we aren't talking about a made-up person. This is someone who actually lived, who kept a journal of her faith and her life. Who can't defend herself from the grave but can only have her reputation drug through the proverbial mud. All the elements of this story could have remained the same - the tension, the forbidden nature of their supposed love - because it is after all just supposed. To paint Lisel as having acted on it without knowing that aspect for sure feels especially irresponsible because of how deeply religious the Moravians were. This would have been an extreme departure from her faith and what she held dear. If the author wanted to write such a book and fantasize about an affair with the Marquis, I would have been able to abide it more had she not supposed it of a real person. A person who would likely be horrified and offended at what would have been a defamation of her character and the morals she arguably held very dear based on her actual journal entries included by the author in the book.
I want to be clear- my argument isn't just loose morals. Those are well represented in Abbey, the other character in the book but because she is entirely fictional it was of little consequence to me.
The second, the appearance of the F word. I am never a fan of expletives in a book but especially so when the entirety of the book is clean but for that one time. Such a waste of what could have otherwise been intelligent word usage.
I often decide if a book is 5 stars or not based on whether I'd hand it to my adult daughter to read. The use of the F word and the defamation of the character of an actual historical Moravian Sister has me unable to feel good about handing this book out to others. It really is a shame because it is probably one of the most engaging books written about the history of the Moravians.
I enjoyed the historicity of the book immensely and credit the author with doing a fine job of weaving the Moravian history and culture into the book through Lisel's thoughts and how she told her story.
My reason for giving 3 stars is largely for 2 reasons.
The first: Historical fiction often demands liberties be taken, that is well understood. However, I felt the author's choice in how she paints Lisel's actions at end of the book with the Marquis de Lafayette to border on slander. It's one thing to imagine the young lady fell in love with the Marquis, was tempted by him, was attracted to him, even corresponded with him in secret. Perhaps he even tempted her to take a second look at the life she lived and question whether or not the world held more for her than her extreme Moravian upbringing. It was the author's decision to depict her as having a one-night stand and affair (the Marquis was married, after all) that left me with something to be desired. Not necessarily because it's unbelievable but because we aren't talking about a made-up person. This is someone who actually lived, who kept a journal of her faith and her life. Who can't defend herself from the grave but can only have her reputation drug through the proverbial mud. All the elements of this story could have remained the same - the tension, the forbidden nature of their supposed love - because it is after all just supposed. To paint Lisel as having acted on it without knowing that aspect for sure feels especially irresponsible because of how deeply religious the Moravians were. This would have been an extreme departure from her faith and what she held dear. If the author wanted to write such a book and fantasize about an affair with the Marquis, I would have been able to abide it more had she not supposed it of a real person. A person who would likely be horrified and offended at what would have been a defamation of her character and the morals she arguably held very dear based on her actual journal entries included by the author in the book.
I want to be clear- my argument isn't just loose morals. Those are well represented in Abbey, the other character in the book but because she is entirely fictional it was of little consequence to me.
The second, the appearance of the F word. I am never a fan of expletives in a book but especially so when the entirety of the book is clean but for that one time. Such a waste of what could have otherwise been intelligent word usage.
I often decide if a book is 5 stars or not based on whether I'd hand it to my adult daughter to read. The use of the F word and the defamation of the character of an actual historical Moravian Sister has me unable to feel good about handing this book out to others. It really is a shame because it is probably one of the most engaging books written about the history of the Moravians.
July 26, 2024
For Anne Supsic, writing “The Bookmark” was something that was meant to happen. Almost like the stars aligning.
Supsic is a docent at the Moravian Museum in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a dedicated Francophile (meaning she loves France and all things French), and a bookmark collector. There couldn’t be a more perfect background for writing this work of historical fiction.
The story is set in alternating timelines: 1777, and 2005. In the former, after being wounded in battle during the American Revolution, the Marquis de Lafayette is taken to the religious community of Bethlehem where a Moravian Single Sister named Liesl Boeckel cares for him.
In 2005, when Abbey Prescott inherits her grandmother’s house in Bethlehem, she discovers an eighteenth-century embroidered bookmark originally crafted by Liesl. A hidden slot in the bookmark contains messages on slips of paper; messages sent between Lafayette and Liesl. When translated (they were written in French) they indicate a romance may have existed between them.
Abbey, of course, becomes determined to solve this mystery, especially as she learns of a family connection with Liesl.
Supsic alternates between the two timelines seamlessly. We come to learn there are striking similarities between Liesl and Abbey. Both are recovering, or running away, from relationship loss and close themselves off for fear of again being hurt. Yet both are also tempted by men who come into their lives.
Though centuries apart, the women’s respective storylines mirror one another. And that juxtaposition makes for a fun, page-turning experience.
The narrative also contains interesting historical information about little known events during the American Revolution, as well as exposure to Bethlehem both past and present. The characters are believable, their emotional struggles real. And Supsic’s writing is refreshing to read.
There are customs revealed in the book, particularly during the 1777 timeline, which can be frustrating to read, especially as we have grown up during a completely different time period. But such was the way of life in Bethlehem’s Moravian community during the early years of our nation.
I highly recommend “The Bookmark.” It was first published two years ago, but the story is ageless. It’s a fun, light and informative read.
Supsic is a docent at the Moravian Museum in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a dedicated Francophile (meaning she loves France and all things French), and a bookmark collector. There couldn’t be a more perfect background for writing this work of historical fiction.
The story is set in alternating timelines: 1777, and 2005. In the former, after being wounded in battle during the American Revolution, the Marquis de Lafayette is taken to the religious community of Bethlehem where a Moravian Single Sister named Liesl Boeckel cares for him.
In 2005, when Abbey Prescott inherits her grandmother’s house in Bethlehem, she discovers an eighteenth-century embroidered bookmark originally crafted by Liesl. A hidden slot in the bookmark contains messages on slips of paper; messages sent between Lafayette and Liesl. When translated (they were written in French) they indicate a romance may have existed between them.
Abbey, of course, becomes determined to solve this mystery, especially as she learns of a family connection with Liesl.
Supsic alternates between the two timelines seamlessly. We come to learn there are striking similarities between Liesl and Abbey. Both are recovering, or running away, from relationship loss and close themselves off for fear of again being hurt. Yet both are also tempted by men who come into their lives.
Though centuries apart, the women’s respective storylines mirror one another. And that juxtaposition makes for a fun, page-turning experience.
The narrative also contains interesting historical information about little known events during the American Revolution, as well as exposure to Bethlehem both past and present. The characters are believable, their emotional struggles real. And Supsic’s writing is refreshing to read.
There are customs revealed in the book, particularly during the 1777 timeline, which can be frustrating to read, especially as we have grown up during a completely different time period. But such was the way of life in Bethlehem’s Moravian community during the early years of our nation.
I highly recommend “The Bookmark.” It was first published two years ago, but the story is ageless. It’s a fun, light and informative read.
March 21, 2023
I loved how the story is woven around two women in two different centuries. The family tie is one of interest and mystery. I loved how we got a different view of Lafayette more of his personal story not war hero story. War brings people together in mysterious ways. Learning about this religious sector during the revolution was also quite interesting. I loved her writing style revealing more and more as you read between to two time periods. The book is a fun read as it is interesting.
October 26, 2024
I picked this up at the Visitors Center on Main Street in Historic Bethlehem and wasn't sure what to expect, but I really enjoyed it. The dual timeline story kept my interest from the beginning and it was neat to see how she intertwined them. Being local, it was also fun to connect with the locations mentioned in the book.
June 3, 2023
About half way thru after starting it on Friday before Memorial Day and I’m loving it so far.finished last night. I loved this book.
August 6, 2022
The Bookmark is a great read. I was invested in the characters and their journeys from the start. There is wonderful history of the Moravians in Bethlehem, PA. The author, Anne Supsic, a docent at the Moravian museum brought the history, and culture of the Moravians in the late 18th century to life vividly. There are 2 parallel stories:one concerns the Marquis de Lafayette and the Moravian young
woman who nursed him to health in Bethlehem after he was wounded in the Battle of Brandywine.The other story concerns a young woman from Philadelphia who moves to Bethlehem when she inherits her grandmother's home in 2005. I'll be heading to Bethlehem to explore the history and current vibes of this vibrant city. After reading, The Bookmark, I have a new fondness and appreciation for the bookmarks I have collected over the years and the stories they tell.
woman who nursed him to health in Bethlehem after he was wounded in the Battle of Brandywine.The other story concerns a young woman from Philadelphia who moves to Bethlehem when she inherits her grandmother's home in 2005. I'll be heading to Bethlehem to explore the history and current vibes of this vibrant city. After reading, The Bookmark, I have a new fondness and appreciation for the bookmarks I have collected over the years and the stories they tell.
July 3, 2024
I wonder if I would have enjoyed this book if I wasn’t from Bethlehem? I did love the idea of the bookmark and the connection between Liesl and Lafayette. Was not a fan of Abbey. What WAS fun was being familiar with every Bethlehem reference past and present. Lots of Moravian history. The Bethlehem Steel, The Moravian Bookshop and even Martin Tower get a shout out!
March 24, 2023
A very interesting, and clever story by a first time author. The characters are believable and the reader will enjoy a look at the city of Bethlehem PA . According to the authors notes, she has first hand knowledge of Bethlehem and was drawn to this story when she worked at the Moravian Museum. Why some readers have criticized this novel is baffling to me. It's a lovely story, based on Historical fact, the author of course took some liberties in the development of characters, that's what they do.
February 3, 2023
What if you get pregnant? That was my thought. Her father would have killed her. She would have needed to run away.
I wonder how her young brother grew up. I know his life would be under his father's thumb, working on the farm, never allowed any fun, work and prayer and beatings if he didn't. Did he grow up to conform or did he rebel and leave to live his own life.
Maybe she married when her father passed away. I doubt it, but it is a nice thought.
I wonder how her young brother grew up. I know his life would be under his father's thumb, working on the farm, never allowed any fun, work and prayer and beatings if he didn't. Did he grow up to conform or did he rebel and leave to live his own life.
Maybe she married when her father passed away. I doubt it, but it is a nice thought.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2023
I enjoyed reading these well written and researched characters. The new information of what happened to Lafayette and what may have been was so interesting. I like the photo of the tombstone (proof). I recommend this wonderful book to all who want to know more of Lafayette. Thank you so much to an author I am now following. I'm looking forward to her next book. "I received a free copy of this book via The History Quill Book Club"
May 14, 2023
I enjoyed this book very much. The story of the Moravians is new to me. The author explains their history well. I would love to go to the museum now to explore more. Lafayette is portrayed in an interesting light in his meetings with the Moravian community.
There are two time periods in this story that mix well and keep the reader intrigued and wanting to learn more.
I am grateful to Anne for this book.
There are two time periods in this story that mix well and keep the reader intrigued and wanting to learn more.
I am grateful to Anne for this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2023
Early Bethlehem and an Nurse and her famous patient.
Bethlehem played an important part in the fight for independence. Little is known about how the community sheltered General Lafayette as he recovered from wounds sustained at Brandywine. The book artfully switches between 1777and 2005. It is an important read for those who want to study the Revolutionary War and for those interested in the living breathing Moravian community as it now stands.
Bethlehem played an important part in the fight for independence. Little is known about how the community sheltered General Lafayette as he recovered from wounds sustained at Brandywine. The book artfully switches between 1777and 2005. It is an important read for those who want to study the Revolutionary War and for those interested in the living breathing Moravian community as it now stands.
April 22, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I liked its historically based story line with specific details about a religious community. It seemed so unlikely and yet was based on a real event! I enjoyed the alternating chapters between our two heroines; it was entertaining and kept me more engrossed with the book.
January 28, 2025
This was a soft, slow read. I had a lot of difficulty engaging with Abbey and her dealings with Adam and Michael rang to pat for me. I enjoyed the story of Liesl much more and learning a bit of Moravian history was interesting and the Bookmark was intriguing.
Good read that I would recommend if you just want to idle away some time.
Good read that I would recommend if you just want to idle away some time.
October 20, 2025
I have been to Bethlehem, PE and visited the Moravian Church and museum. I enjoyed the fusion of history and fiction in this novel. I found the character of Liesl more convincing than Abbey and generally enjoyed the historical parts of the novel more than the current day storyline which I didn’t find convincing - it was a little too contrived for me.
February 3, 2023
Perception
This book lies strictly in the readers perception of events. It has an interesting story that plays out. Go into this book with an open mind and you'll be sure to find the same likeable qualities that I have.
This book lies strictly in the readers perception of events. It has an interesting story that plays out. Go into this book with an open mind and you'll be sure to find the same likeable qualities that I have.
February 6, 2023
Engaging, Informative, Must-Read
What a wonderfully written historical love story. Anne Supsic wove together the present and the past as beautifully as I imagine the embroidery was done on the bookmark. The perfect book for anyone that loves history and a love story.
What a wonderfully written historical love story. Anne Supsic wove together the present and the past as beautifully as I imagine the embroidery was done on the bookmark. The perfect book for anyone that loves history and a love story.
February 10, 2023
I enjoyed this story about Lafayette and Liesl.It was also very interesting to read about the Moravians and Bethlehem-a city I am somewhat familiar with.It makes me want to return there to explore the places mentioned in the book further.
September 4, 2023
I loved the Bookmark! This historical fiction by this new author Anne Supsic, mixes the past and the present with well researched details, and a great story! Really good book that made you wish it were all real! Now I need to have that bookmark!
October 22, 2023
A different view of Lafayette
What a beautiful story. Two timelines, with a different historical perspective. I have read the history of both Lafayette and his wife, so this ties it all together.
What a beautiful story. Two timelines, with a different historical perspective. I have read the history of both Lafayette and his wife, so this ties it all together.
June 24, 2024
I liked it. Good writing and nice historical additions. I much preferred Liesl’s story to Abbey’s, but both were good. I am still so unclear on the Moravian belief structure, but weirdly this explained it better than other references I’ve read.
January 28, 2025
The story stayed very near the surface with cliched characters and some disappointing language that didn't need to be there. While the historical aspect was interesting, learning more about the Moravian way of life, the rest of the book left a lot to be desired.
September 15, 2025
I usually don’t enjoy multiple storylines going on but this was easy to follow as it only alternated between two timelines and characters. Understanding that this is not all factual, I still found it an easy and enjoyable read.
August 2, 2022
This book was riveting. Besides educating me about the Moravians, it was a wonderful look into Lafayette’s personality.
January 15, 2024
Interesting Mystery
The story of Liesl and
Lafayette is very interesting, but the sad treatment of women in this time frame is heartbreaking.
The story of Liesl and
Lafayette is very interesting, but the sad treatment of women in this time frame is heartbreaking.
March 13, 2024
Being familiar with the area depicted in the story brought an element of interest to the story I don’t often experience. Enjoyed the book.
March 14, 2024
MBBCBCMN
July 13, 2024
Page turner. Despite my not normally being a romance reader. Liked learning about Bethlehem abs the Moravians.
September 19, 2024
Excellent story about Lafayette and his time in Bethlehem, a bit of a love story with modern twist!
May 4, 2025
Round up to 3.5 stars. I enjoyed the dual timeline and the story within a story. Very well researched and enjoyed the history.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews