Proud descendant of Pierre and Marie Cellier Mayeux!
588338
Kenneth Myers has simultaneously written with intelligence and readability! History is about people and place. His book,1729, brings to life not only the harrowing story of our Mayeux ancestors, Pierre and Marie, but the history of Colonial Louisiana and the conditions therein. They simply do not teach this information in 8th grade Louisiana history! Amen! Had GOD not spared their lives and those of their children, we would not be chatting on Facebook today! We descend from their first born and only son, Francois. To say that this is nothing short of miraculous is an understatement! 2020 will mark 300 years since they left Maintenay, France, sailed out of La Rochelle on the ship Le Profond and arrived in French Colonial Louisiana. Amazing! Thank you Ken!
2001193
We are less than a week away from having two new saints in the Church - Louis and Zlie Martin! I have a family of friends who are so excited for their canonization, you'd think they were distant relatives of theirs. For those of you unfamiliar with these two future saints, they are the parents of St. Thrse of Lisieux as well as many other children including four nuns! They were truly a holy family and a model for us all, and I believe we should read more about them, so that we can emulate them. TAN Books is one of the best sources for books about the Martin family, and I'd like to tell you about a few of them today.

The Story of a Family was published in the 1940s, reprinted in 1994 by TAN Books, and now has been reprinted again in 2015 in time for the canonization of Louis and Zlie Martin. The book is only fifteen chapters in length, but it is full of detail as it spans 400+ pages. The book begins by giving us a backstory of the two parents and their early years. We learn that Louis was a watchmaker and Zlie was a lacemaker. It was these two professions that led to their chance meeting. Both felt a call to the religious life, but chose to marry. Interestingly enough, after marriage, Louis Martin wanted to live a celibate married life, like Mary and Joseph, but Zlie had strong maternal instincts. We also learn about the children they had, the children they lost, and a great deal about Thrse.

Chapter 13 - 'The Offering of the Children" was my favorite chapter. In this chapter, we learn of the Martins deep desire to give birth a future priest. They lost two boys, and therefore their hope was lost after this. However, with each girl, they had dreams, which came true, of populating the cloister. "They were not of the number of those pusillanimous parents who dread sacrificing to God what they have no hesitation in handing over to a creature." It was surprising to me to read these words, not because they were so accepting and encouraging of religious vocations, but because even that far in the past, parents were still hesitant to embrace the idea of religious vocations for their children. May the Martins serve as an example for all of us with children!

I have two final observations to leave you with regarding this book. First, the true treasure of this book is found in the images. We as Catholics have a lot of older saints who we see depicted in ancient artwork, but no real actual photographic evidence. Being able to see actual pictures of these recent saints, help demonstrate to us that they were humans just like us, and that we too can be saints if we follow their examples and say Yes to Jesus! Second, the age of the book is reflected in the writing style and language, but that doesn't mean that it is impossible to read. As a fan of classic literature, I personally enjoy that style, but it isn't for everyone. I for one am grateful that this book is back in print, and think it is a very good introduction to the Martin family. After reading this, I plan to read some more books about the Martin family, mainly The Father of the Little Flower, The Mother of the Little Flower, and My Sister Saint Thrse. All of these were written by Sr. Genevieve of the Holy Face (Celine Martin), the sister of St. Thrse and should provide a more personal and intimate look at the Martins.
1221225
My name is Nick Tillman, my wifes name is Apple. First of all, I am a direct descendant of Joseph Robidoux III, and Louis Robidoux. My Grandmother is Juanita Rubidoux, (The spelling changed) daughter of Henry Rubidoux, who is the son of Willard and Lucy Rubidoux, and Willard is the son of Abundo Rubidoux, who is the son of Louis Robidoux. I not only learned a great deal about my family, but also about the beginning and expansion of America. Extremely informative book, well written, and great insight of what went on behind the scenes of the known historical figures that we were/are taught about U.S. history.
4365578
Anjou Province, France 1194 - Christian Dumont, was once known as the Comte de Langier, before treasonous acts against Richard, Coeur de Lion, by his father brought he and his brother Geoffrey close to deaths door. Now he has been summoned by the King and given an offer he cannot refuse.  He is to have his title, wealth, and lands restored if he travels to England and consent to a royal command from Queen Eleanor.  He knew not what the task would be but knew that whatever it was, if it meant saving his beloved brothers life, he would agree.
Arriving in England, weak from months of imprisonment, he cannot help but be impressed by the demesne of Castle Greystone, and more so by the Countess, Emalie Montgomerie whom he finds he is to wed.  Queen Eleanor, has contrived a plan to protect Emalie, from the vile and corrupt  Prince John who is trying his best to wrest control of the valuable lands belonging to her.
Emalie and Christian find themselves as helpless pawns as the feuding royals battle one another over territorial control.  Christian thinks himself lucky to find himself in such a situation, until he finds that the young woman he is married to carries a child of rape, a rape that she refuses to name or remember.  Both hide the truths of the dishonors dealt to them  dishonors that stemmed not from their actions but from the actions of others.  Yet, in spite of this, a love develops between them based upon the honor and goodness they finally discover in one another.
This was an amazing story that I finished in one sitting it was so riveting.  From the political machinations, to the heartbreaking love that was almost torn apart, and to the most surprising ending!  The characters came alive on the pages with vivid historical background, sparkling dialogues and beautiful and very passionate love scenes.  This was indeed a phenomenal read that gets solid GOLD ratings!  Put this on the keeper shelf!
4644991
I was thrilled to be offered a review copy of Anne Bradshaw's newest book True Miracles with Genealogy. Family History is something that is dear to my heart. I have a file with over 48,000 family names my mom compiled prior to her death. I haven't done much with these names lately and was hoping this book would reinspired me to start again on my genealogy.

I'm inspired!

This book if filled with dozens of personal accounts of individuals who have received divine help while researching their family history.

This quote from the books summed things up perfectly:

These incidents could be attributed to sheer coincidence. Personally, I find it impossible to dismiss such consistencies as anything less than inspired. They are too many, too often, too consistent, and too remarkable to be mere serendipity.

Anyone interested in Family History is sure to enjoy this wonderful book.
237042
This is a wonderfully detailed and well-documented account of Denham Springs in pictures.  I highly recommend this if your family is from the south Louisiana area and you're doing genealogy.  Being from nearby Port Vincent, I was fascinated to see many of my relatives included in this book.  A must-have if you're a Denham Springs resident; this also makes a great gift for anyone from this area.
4288497
Well, my mother was descended from the Sutton Dudleys (which she didn't know) and always bragged about her brother's genealogy research on the family when he was stationed in England during WW! (before he was killed in France) Now, she was so darn stuck on the idea he had shared with her that she was descended from Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, (who really was only a distant cousin) that I couldn't persuade her that the real excitement was her direct line from a bunch of KINGS! I am still doing research and LOVED this book for the rather obscure meanderings of which I had known naught! And I'm rather sorry Mom is gone, or I would have shared this book with her too....not that she would deign to read it. In my experience, family history research explains a lot. Plenty of oddballs in lots of families. Cant get enough of it! Enjoy.
1412917
A beautiful story of accomplishments and survival after such a tragic happening in the life of Marie Monville and her children.  I truly believe her faith brought her through her difficult time.  I'm so happy that she was able to move past everything and is enjoying her life today with a wonderful husband and new family!
1062180
This ornament is absolutely precious! My daughter and son-in-law will have this ornament to hang on their tree to remember this huge step in their lives. Thanks Calliope for doing such a fantastic job personalizing! Will order more from you in the future!!
463977
Mayuko Karasawa has not only resurrected songs either composed or sung by Queen Marie-Antoinette, she has somehow also managed - and this is so much more difficult! - to transport us to the delicate world of the Petit Trianon.  As a French correspondant has so admirably put it, "...en coutant ces diffrentes chansons, on se trouve d'emble dans l'ambiance lgre et feutre du Trianon..."
Mayuko has created a 'concert' of historical importance but also of great charm.  I just wish that the CDs were available on Amazon.
3816335
Again, Tim is proving that his family name is not undeserved ! This is a charming book, full of empathy and, yes, love for his fellow babyboomers. Many a time, as a good advertising man, Tim holds the mirror to the reader and you can't help thinking, boy, do I relate to that.
Even a Frenchman as myself can believe that "Tim is talking to me personally".
The writing is direct, yet charming and elegant.
En conclusion, un bon bouquin, Tim.
3395330
I am one of the descendants of this family and have a page devoted to my own family.  Of interest to any wanting information on a Dutch / Portuguese ancestry from Portugal to Europe and North America.  I reside in Ottawa ON Canada and am the only living descendant mentioned in this book in Canada, to date.  My two sons live in Winnipeg and California, respectively.
The book would be of interest primarily to those with this unique last name;- or relation by marriage.  Fred Miller lives in the USA.  There are many throughout the world today.
review: by Martin Bueno -de- Mesquita  author of 'the Rainbow Alchemist'  FriesenPress
4015618
Kyoko says she enjoyed the description of the dinner meal.

My daughter Joy says she likes the dedication.

Liberty enjoyed hearing about Grandpa on his riding mower, as it reminded her of what her own father did for her, many a time. Great memories there.

Victoria and Josiah says they enjoyed the entire read.

What an inspirational first e-product from Franicia! It's is good to be reminded about honor due to grand parents by investing time with them.
Congratulations for stepping out and producing this work. We look forward to more excellent resources from the White family!
4641365
Regine Pernoud, the renowned French archivist/historian has written rather extensively on the Middle Ages,the Knights Templar,the Crusades and at least 2 books concerning the famous story of Jeanned'Arc. One advantage in this book (and in the same author's The Retrial of Joan of Arc) is that Ms. Pernoud uses original source materials and also, with her expert knowledge of the times and places, gives an unsurpassed portrait of the besainted young French maid who ended the longest war in history and saved France from being relegated to a small Mediterranean nation or merely a footnote in British history. Brilliant scholarship !
1415914
This was an excellent account of the life of an heiress. Spanning over 100 years, the detail and mental imagery created are exquisite! I highly recommend this book.
2215269
We met the Schenkel family in 1947 after they arrived in Ulm.  Susi was just a tiny little girl, a toddler, and I was a young teenager whose awareness of the world at large was just beginning.  Now, 70 years later, the vivid memories I have of that time together are brought to life again in Susi's book.  The difficulty and struggle, the pain endured by Siddi and Leon could not extinguish their kindness and caring, their zest for life!  The enormity of their hearts is reflected in Susi's wonderful tribute to her parents.
This book means so much to me and taught me even more about Siddi and Leon, and about my own mother Maria Blumenstock, who is known in the book as Mrs. B., and her decision to take in Susi during such a difficult time in Germany's history.  My own children and grandchildren have read this book, and I hope you do too.
1004878
This sweet book is a testament to a beautiful couple who had a vision and followed through with a dream!  One will drift into the life of a village of friendly, welcoming people who worked together as a team to see a massive goal realized.  One of the most touching aspects of Cos de Paris, is the close relationship displayed by the author  as she shares her daily trials, triumphs and humor with her adult children.