Because of Conscience: Being a Novel Relating to the Adventures of Certain Huguenots in Old New York

A historical novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows the adventures of Alaine Hervieu, a young girl living in New York during a time of religious persecution faced by Huguenots. The narrative explores themes of family loyalty, courage, and faith as Alaine grapples with her identity and the dangers posed by her lineage amidst political turmoil. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Alaine, who enjoys the simple pleasures of life as she spends time with her foster-mother, Michelle. Their peaceful existence is disrupted by the growing tensions related to the Huguenot faith and the looming threat of violence against Protestants. Alaine's life is further complicated by her relationship with her cousin Étienne, who teases her and raises difficult questions about faith and loyalty. The plot thickens when Alaine learns that her father has declared himself a Huguenot and has disappeared, prompting her to make a choice between adhering to her father's beliefs or staying safe with her current family. As she vows to seek her father, the sense of impending danger intensifies, setting the stage for her quest for identity and belonging in a tumultuous world.