Combine dainty Delphine, who carries a knife in her boot, and Philibert, the dashing smuggler who adores her, cast them among Acadians in the sultry city of New Orleans during the rocky years of the American Revolution, and you have a story that is both charming and rich with history.
When Delphine is summoned to France to inherit her rightful title, Philibert, her father's partner, deems her beyond his reach. Under her grandmother's guidance, Delphine dutifully adopts a noblewoman's responsibilities and grace. But when Philibert finally comes to France for her, she proves his assumptions about her wrong. Still carrying her knife and never forgetting the pirate's rules Philibert taught her, she boards his Louisiana-bound ship, and against the fiery canvas of battle, helps him uncover a traitor in their midst.
Ms. Claire pens "Delphine" with great warmth and a vivid sense of the times. Readers will enjoy the historic detail, as well as a glimpse into a culture about which most of us know very little. Cherie also writes with a well-developed love of family, and for those who enjoy "Delphine," the previous stories of Delphine's family, "Emilie," "Rose," and "Gabrielle," will be welcome treats.

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