The Betrothal by Mirella Sichirollo Patzer

From the dangerous wilds of New France, to the opportunities offered by the unexplored new lands; from a world steeped in corruption, to a simple culture where hard work is paramount to survival, this multi-layered novel is about a simple betrothal gone awry and of the lives, loves, secrets and strivings of a young couple who must learn the true meaning of forgiveness.

When an unscrupulous overlord attempts to kidnap Emilie and prevent her betrothal and marriage to Robert, the act sends her fleeing for her life, straight into the path of danger and tragedy that exposes the worst and best in the people she encounters. A catastrophic chain of events turns her life into a desperate flight from home, thrusting her straight into peril. As dark secrets emerge, Emilie must reconcile her past and her love for each Robert. From taverns to convents, food riots to epidemics, Emilie and Robert must find their paths back to each other while learning the true meaning of love and forgiveness.

The Betrothal is a retelling of the classic novel, The Betrothed (I Promessi Sposi) by Alessandro Manzoni. Inspired by this epic Italian classic novel; a new and captivating tale in a new setting, a new century, and with new plot twists while remaining faithful to key story elements.