This engaging novel is centered around a young orphan from France, who is married off to a Canadian coureur de bois. The heroine, Jeanne Chatel, is spunky and determined to succeed in the wilds of 17th century Canada. There is considerable Catholic content in the novel. Jeanne is an orphan, and is raised by Catholic nuns in France. She travels to America with Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys, who went on to found schools and chapels, and started the Congregation of Notre Dame in Montreal, Quebec.
The novel has considerable historical content. We see the dangers faced by settlers in New France from Jeanne's eyes, as she struggles with raising her family and enduring the ever-present possibility of an Indian attack. Jeanne's husband is a coureur de bois, and we learn about this unique lifestyle. The book would be thoroughly enjoyed by girls, twelve and up. The author weaves a bit of romance through the story, and this would have high 'girl appeal'. It has an exciting plot, and would enhance any study of early Canadian history.
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