Jude Mason has narrated 24 audiobooks on Listento.it by 6 authors, with an average listener rating of 4.6★ across 40 ratings. The most-rated is The Healer's Apprentice.
The Healer's Apprentice
Summary
A realistic, fast-paced reimagining of the Sleeping Beauty fairytale full of royalty, romance, and danger. This masterful combination of love and heartbreak - combined with the novel’s surprise ending - is everything fans of fantasy, historical, and medieval fiction yearn for. Rose has been appointed as a healer’s apprentice at Hagenheim Castle, a rare opportunity for a woodcutter’s daughter like her. While she often feels uneasy at the sight of blood, Rose is determined to prove herself capable. Failure will mean returning home to marry the aging bachelor her mother has chosen for her - a bloated, disgusting merchant who makes Rose feel ill. When Lord Hamlin, the future duke, is injured, it is Rose who must tend to him. As she works to heal his wound, she begins to understand emotions she’s never felt before and wonders if he feels the same. But falling in love is forbidden, as Lord Hamlin is betrothed to a mysterious young woman in hiding. As Rose’s life spins toward confusion, she must take the first steps on a journey to discover her own destiny. The Healer's Apprentice: An award-winning historical romance - a creative retelling of the Sleeping Beauty fairytale - by author Melanie Dickerson Perfect for listeners ages 13-18 and adults who enjoy historical romances similar to Eva Ibbotson’s A romantic, fast-paced story - sure to entrance fans of fairytale retellings
©2015 Melanie Dickerson (P)2015 Zondervan
The Merchant's Daughter
Summary
An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice. Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff - a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past. Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.
©2015 Melanie Dickerson (P)2015 Zondervan
The Warrior Maiden
Summary
A reimagining of the classic Mulan tale in medieval Europe, where both love and war challenge even the strongest of hearts. When Mulan takes her father’s place in battle against the besieging Teutonic Knights, she realizes she has been preparing for this journey her whole life - and that her life, and her mother’s, depends on her success. As the adopted daughter of poor parents, Mulan has little power in the world. If she can’t prove herself on the battlefield, she could face death - or, perhaps worse, marriage to the village butcher. Disguised as a young man, Mulan meets the German duke’s son, Wolfgang, who is determined to save his people even if it means fighting against his own brother. Wolfgang is exasperated by the new soldier who seems to be one step away from disaster at all times - or showing him up in embarrassing ways. From rivals to reluctant friends, Mulan and Wolfgang begin to share secrets. But war is an uncertain time and dreams can die as quickly as they are born. When Mulan receives word of danger back home, she must make the ultimate choice. Can she be the son her bitter father never had? Or will she become the strong young woman she was created to be? This is a novel in the Hagenheim series by New York Times best-selling author Melanie Dickerson, but it can be listened to as a stand-alone.
©2019 Melanie Dickerson (P)2019 Thomas Nelson
The Fairest Beauty
Summary
A daring rescue. A difficult choice. Sophie desperately wants to get away from her stepmother's jealousy and believes escape is her only chance to be happy. Then a young man named Gabe arrives from Hagenheim Castle, claiming she is betrothed to his older brother, and everything twists upside down. This could be Sophie's one chance at freedom - but can she trust another person to keep her safe? Gabe defied his parents, Rose and Wilhelm, by going to find Sophie, and now he believes they had a right to worry: The girl's inner and outer beauty has enchanted him. Though romance is impossible - she is his brother's future wife, and Gabe is betrothed to someone else - he promises himself he will see the mission through, no matter what. When the pair flee to the Cottage of the Seven, they find help - but also find their feelings for each other have grown. Now both must not only protect each other from the dangers around them - they must also protect their hearts.
©2015 Melanie Dickerson (P)2015 Zondervan
The Silent Songbird
Summary
Evangeline is gifted with a heavenly voice, but she is trapped in a sinister betrothal - until she embarks on a daring escape and meets brave Westley le Wyse. Can he help her discover the freedom to sing again? Desperate to flee a political marriage to her cousin, King Richard II's closest advisor, Lord Shiveley - a man twice her age, with shadowy motives - Evangeline runs away and joins a small band of servants journeying back to Glynval, their home village. Pretending to be mute, she gets to know Westley le Wyse, their handsome young leader, who is intrigued by the beautiful servant girl. But when the truth comes out, it may shatter any hope that love could grow between them. More than Evangeline's future is at stake as she finds herself entangled in a web of intrigue that threatens England's monarchy. Should she give herself up to protect the only person who cares about her? If she does, who will save the king from a plot to steal his throne?
©2016 Melanie Dickerson (P)2016 Thomas Nelson Publishers
The Golden Braid
Summary
From New York Times best-selling author comes The Golden Braid, a Rapunzel retelling that proves the one who needs rescuing isn’t always the one in the tower. Rapunzel can throw a knife better than any man. She paints beautiful flowering vines on the walls of her plaster houses. She sings so sweetly, she can coax even a beast to sleep. But there are two things she is afraid her mother might never allow her to do: learn to read and marry. Fiercely devoted to Rapunzel, her mother is suspicious of every man who so much as looks at her daughter and warns her that no man can be trusted. After a young village farmer asks for Rapunzel's hand in marriage, Mother decides to move them once again - this time, to the large city of Hagenheim. The journey proves treacherous, and after being rescued by a knight - Sir Gerek - Rapunzel, in turn, rescues him farther down the road. As a result, Sir Gerek agrees to repay his debt to Rapunzel by teaching her to read. Could there be more to him than his arrogance and desire to marry for riches and position? As Rapunzel acclimates to life in a new city, she uncovers a mystery that will forever change her life. In this Rapunzel story unlike any other, a world of secrets and treachery are about to be revealed after 17 years. How will Rapunzel finally take control of her own destiny? And who will prove faithful to a lowly peasant girl with no one to turn to? “The Golden Braid is a delightful, page-turning retelling of the story of Rapunzel. Dickerson brings this familiar fairy tale to life with a fresh and unique plot that is full of complex characters, a sweet romance, and danger at every turn. Rapunzel’s search to understand her place in the medieval world is a timeless identity struggle that modern readers will relate to. Her growing courage and faith are inspirational and will have readers cheering her on and sad to see the story come to an end.” (Jody Hedlund, best-selling author of An Uncertain Choice)
©2015 Melanie Dickerson (P)2015 Zondervan
The Noble Servant
Summary
She lost everything to the scheme of an evil servant. But she might just gain what she's always wanted... if she makes it in time. The impossible was happening. She, Magdalen of Mallin, was to marry the Duke of Wolfberg. Magdalen had dreamed about receiving a proposal ever since she met the duke two years ago. Such a marriage was the only way she could save her people from starvation. But why would a handsome, wealthy duke want to marry her, a poor baron's daughter? It seemed too good to be true. On the journey to Wolfberg Castle, Magdalen's servant forces her to trade places and become her servant, threatening not only Magdalen's life but the lives of those she holds dear. Stripped of her identity and title in Wolfberg, where no one knows her, Magdalen is sentenced to tend geese while she watches her former handmaiden gain all Magdalen had ever dreamed of. When a handsome shepherd befriends her, Magdalen begins to suspect he carries secrets of his own. Together, Magdalen and the shepherd uncover a sinister plot against Wolfberg and the duke. But with no resources, will they be able to find the answers, the hiding places, and the forces they need in time to save both Mallin and Wolfberg? New York Times best-selling author Melanie Dickerson beautifully reimagines "The Goose Girl" by the Brothers Grimm into a medieval tale of adventure, loss, and love.
©2017 Melanie Dickerson (P)2017 Zondervan - Thomas Nelson
The Beautiful Pretender
Summary
After inheriting his title from his brother, the margrave has two weeks to find a noble bride. What will happen when he learns he has fallen for a lovely servant girl in disguise? The Margrave of Thornbeck has to find a bride - fast. He invites 10 noble-born ladies who meet the king's approval to be his guests at Thornbeck Castle for two weeks - a time to test these ladies and reveal their true characters. Avelina has only two instructions: keep her true identity a secret and make sure the margrave doesn't select her as his bride. Since the latter seems unlikely, she concentrates on not getting caught. No one must know she is merely a maidservant sent by the Earl of Plimmwald to stand in for his daughter, Dorothea. Despite Avelina's best attempts at diverting attention from herself, the margrave has taken notice. And try as she might, she can't deny her own growing feelings. But something else is afoot in the castle. Something sinister that could have far worse - far deadlier - consequences.
©2016 Melanie Dickerson (P)2016 Thomas Nelson Publishers
The Captive Maiden
Summary
Happily Ever After...Or Happily Nevermore? Gisela's childhood was filled with laughter and visits from nobles such as the duke and his young son. But since her father's death, each day has been filled with nothing but servitude to her stepmother. So when Gisela learns the duke's son, Valten - the boy she has daydreamed about for years - is throwing a ball in hopes of finding a wife, she vows to find a way to attend, even if it's only for a taste of a life she'll never have. To her surprise, she catches Valten's eye. Though he is rough around the edges, Gisela finds Valten has completely captured her heart. But other forces are bent on keeping the two from falling further in love, putting Gisela in more danger than she ever imagined.
©2015 Melanie Dickerson (P)2015 Zondervan
The Weaver's Daughter
Summary
In this sweet regency romance, two star-crossed lovers must contend with families on either side of the violent clash between progress and tradition. Henry Stockton, heir to the Stockton fortune, returns home from three years at war seeking refuge from his haunting memories. Determined to bury the past, he embraces his grandfather’s plans to modernize the family’s wool mill, ignoring the grumblings from local weavers. When tragedy strikes shortly after his arrival, Henry will have to sort truth from suspicion if he is to protect his family’s livelihood and legacy. Loyalty has been at the heart of the Dearborne family for as long as Kate can remember, but a war is brewing in their small village, one that has the power to rip families asunder - including her own. As misguided actions are brought to light, she learns how deep her father’s pride and bitterness run, and she begins to wonder if her loyalty is well-placed. As unlikely adversaries, Henry and Kate must come together to find a way to create peace for their families, their village, and their souls - even if it means risking their hearts in the process. Praise for The Weaver’s Daughter “A gently unfolding love story set amidst the turmoil of the early industrial revolution. It’s a story of betrayal, love, and redemption, all beautifully rendered in rural England.” (Elizabeth Camden, RITA award-winning author) A stand-alone, clean regency romance Full-length novel at 90,000 words Romeo and Juliet set-up but with a happily-ever-after Includes discussion questions for book clubs
©2018 Sarah E. Ladd (P)2018 Thomas Nelson
The Governess of Penwythe Hall
Summary
Perfect for fans of Poldark and Bridgerton, this Regency romance is rich with family secrets, lingering danger, and the captivating allure of new love, all taking place on the Cornish coast. Cornwall, England, 1811: Blamed for her husband’s death, Cordelia Greythorne fled Cornwall and accepted a governess position to begin a new life. Years later, her employer’s unexpected death and his last request for her to watch over his five children force her to reevaluate. She can’t abandon the children now that they’ve lost both parents, but their new guardian lives at the timeworn Penwythe Hall...back on the Cornish coast she’s tried desperately to forget. Jac Twethewey is determined to revive Penwythe Hall’s once-flourishing apple orchards, and he’ll stop at nothing to see his struggling estate profitable again. He hasn’t heard from his brother in years, so when his nieces, nephews, and their governess arrive unannounced, he battles both grief at his brother’s death and bewilderment over this sudden responsibility. Jac’s priorities shift as the children take up residence in the ancient halls, but their secretive governess - and the mystery shrouding her past - proves to be a disruption to his carefully laid plans. Praise for The Governess of Penwythe Hall: "Brimming with dangerous secrets, rich characters, and the hauntingly beautiful descriptions Sarah Ladd handles so well, 1800s Cornwall is brought vividly to life in this well-crafted tale that kept me glued to the pages. What a brilliant start to a new series!" (Abigail Wilson, author of Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey) "Absolutely captivating! Once I started reading, I couldn’t put down The Governess of Penwythe Hall. This blend of Jane Eyre, Jane Austen, and Jamaica Inn has it all. Intrigue. Danger. Poignant moments. And best of all a sweet, sweet love story. This is by far my favorite Sarah Ladd book. Don’t hesitate to snatch up this title!" (Michelle Griep, Christy Award-winning author) "The Governess of Penwythe Hall is a delightful and emotionally gripping tale that will tick all the boxes for any Regency lover: romance, history, and enough unpredictable intrigue to keep you up past your bedtime." (Kristi Ann Hunter, author of A Defense of Honor) "Lovers of sweet and Christian romance alike will fall in love with Delia’s strength amid the haunting backdrop of her tragic past and the Cornish coast. Throw in a handsome leading man willing to turn his life upside down for the children in Delia’s charge, and you have a story you can’t put down." (Josi S. Kilpack, Whitney Award-winning author) Sweet, full-length Regency romance First book in the Cornwall novels (The Governess of Penwythe Hall, The Thief of Lanwyn Manor, and The Light at Wyndcliff), but can be listened to as a stand-alone story Book length: 94,000 words Includes discussion questions for book clubs
©2019 Sarah E. Ladd (P)2019 Thomas Nelson
The Orphan's Wish
Summary
A reimagining of the beloved folktale, Aladdin, set in medieval Germany. Orphaned and alone, Aladdin travels from the streets of his Arab homeland to a strange, faraway place. Growing up in an orphanage, he meets young Lady Kirstyn, whose father is the powerful Duke of Hagenheim. Despite the difference in their stations, Aladdin quickly becomes Kirstyn’s favorite companion, and their childhood friendship grows into a bond that time and opposition cannot break. Even as a child, Aladdin works hard, learning all he can from his teachers. Through his integrity, intelligence, and sheer tenacity, he earns a position serving as the duke’s steward. But that isn’t enough to erase the shame of being forced to steal as a small child - or the fact that he’s an orphan with no status. If he ever wants to feel equal to his beautiful and generous friend Kirstyn, he must leave Hagenheim and seek his fortune. Yet once Aladdin departs, Lady Kirstyn becomes a pawn in a terrible plot. Now, Aladdin and Kirstyn must rely on their bond to save Kirstyn from unexpected danger. But will saving Kirstyn cost Aladdin his newfound status and everything he’s worked so hard to obtain? An enchanting new version of the well-known fairy tale, The Orphan’s Wish tells a story of courage and loyalty, friendship and love, and reminds us what “family” really means. Full length clean fairy tale reimagining Includes discussion questions for book clubs
©2018 Melanie Dickerson (P)2018 Thomas Nelson
The Princess Spy
Summary
Margaretha has always been a romantic and hopes her newest suitor, Lord Claybrook, is destined to be her one true love. But then an injured man is brought to Hagenheim Castle, claiming to be an English lord who was attacked by Claybrook and left for dead. And only Margaretha - one of the few who speaks his language - understands the wild story. Margaretha finds herself unable to pass Colin's message along to her father, the duke, and convinces herself Lord Colin is just an addled stranger. Then Colin retrieves an heirloom she lost in a well,and asks her to spy on Claybrook as repayment. Margaretha knows she could never be a spy - not only is she unable to keep anything secret, she's sure Colin is completely wrong about her potential betrothed. Though when Margaretha overhears Claybrook one day, she discovers her romantic notions may have been clouding her judgment about not only Colin but Claybrook as well. It is up to her to save her father and Hagenheim itself from Claybrook's wicked plot.
©2015 Melanie Dickerson (P)2015 Zondervan
Court of Swans
Summary
Where there is wealth and power, there's always someone willing to do anything to take it. England, 1381: Delia’s idyllic life as daughter of an earl is shattered when her father dies and his wife accuses Delia’s seven brothers of treason and murder. The youngest is only 10 years old, but this doesn’t stop the guards from hauling them off to the Tower of London. There they await a grim fate, as child-King Richard II is executing anyone who poses a threat to his throne. Delia is their only hope for pardon and freedom. Sir Geoffrey did not expect his first assignment as captain of the guard to be the arrest of boys so young. He dutifully imprisons the brothers, but he can’t ignore the sense, rooted in personal experience, that injustice and treachery are at work. Determined to rescue her brothers, Delia secures a position as a seamstress for the queen. Her quest is all but impossible as the executions continue. Sir Geoffrey offers to be her ally, but should she trust him in a court where everyone has an agenda? From New York Times best-selling author Melanie Dickerson comes a tender retelling of The Wild Swans, where the virtues of loyalty and love face a harrowing showdown with power and fear. “Set in the harsh society of fourteenth century England, Court of Swans tells a powerful story of forgiveness, love, and choosing joy amid trials. Dickerson continues to impress with her masterful balance of plot and message, capturing attention with a strong heroine and tugging at heartstrings with themes of trusting God when life seems to fall apart. A book perfect for teen and adult readers alike.” (Caroline George, author of Dearest Josephine) First in a brand-new series set in England: The Dericott Tales Full-length clean fairy-tale reimagining
©2021 Melanie Dickerson (P)2021 Thomas Nelson
The Thief of Lanwyn Manor
Summary
In Regency England, an advantageous match could set up a lady for life. Julia knows Matthew Blake, copper mine owner and very eligible bachelor, is the gentleman she should set her eyes upon. But why can’t she steal her gaze away from his younger brother, Isaac? Cornwall, England, 1818 Julia Twethewey needs a diversion to mend her broken heart, so when her cousin invites her to Lanwyn Manor, Julia eagerly accepts. The manor is located at the heart of Cornwall’s mining industry, and as a guest, Julia is swept into its intricate world. It’s not long, though, before she realizes something dark lurks within the home’s ancient halls. As a respected mine owner’s younger son, Isaac Blake is determined to keep his late father’s legacy alive through the family business, despite his brother’s careless attitude. In order to save their livelihood - and that of the people around them - the brothers approach the master of Lanwyn Manor with plans to bolster the floundering local industry. Isaac can’t deny his attraction to the man’s charming niece, but his brother has made clear his intentions to court the lovely visitor. And Isaac knows his place. When tragedy strikes, mysteries arise, and valuables go missing, Julia and Isaac find they are pulled together in a swirl of strange circumstances, but despite their best efforts to bow to social expectations, their hearts aren’t so keen to surrender. Sweet Regency romance Full-length novel, approximately 90,000 words Second in the Cornwall series, but can stand alone Praise for The Thief of Lanwyn Manor "Northanger Abbey meets Poldark against the resplendent and beautifully realized landscape of Cornwall." (Rachel McMillan, author of The London Restoration) "Cornwall’s iconic sea cliffs are on display in The Thief of Lanwyn Manor, but it’s the lyrical prose, rich historical detail, and layered characters that truly shine. The story anchors the foray into Cornwall’s copper mining legacy with historical accuracy and brilliant heart. Fans of Regency romance will be instantly drawn in and happily lost within the pages - this is Sarah E. Ladd at her best!" (Kristy Cambron, best-selling author of the Lost Castle series)
©2020 Sarah E. Ladd (P)2020 Thomas Nelson
The Curiosity Keeper
Summary
The first book in the beloved Regency romance series, The Treasure of Surrey. “Regency romantic suspense at its page-turning best.” -- RT Book Reviews “It is not just a ruby, as you say. It is large as a quail’s egg, still untouched and unpolished. And it is rumored to either bless or curse whoever possesses it.” Camille Iverness can take care of herself. She’s done so since the day her mother abandoned the family and left Camille to run their shabby curiosity shop. But when a violent betrayal leaves her injured with no place to hide, Camille must allow a mysterious stranger to come to her aid. Jonathan Gilchrist never wanted to inherit Kettering Hall. As a second son, he was content to work as the village apothecary. But when his brother’s death made him heir just as his father’s foolish decisions put the estate at risk, only the sale of a priceless possession -- a ruby called the Bevoy -- can save the family from ruin. But the gem has disappeared. And all trails lead to Iverness Curiosity Shop -- and the beautiful shop girl who may be the answer to his many questions. Caught at the intersection of blessings and curses, greed and deceit, these two determined souls must unite to protect what they hold dear. But when a passion that shines far brighter than any gem is ignited, they will have to decide how much they are willing to risk for their future, love, and happiness. “An engaging Regency with a richly detailed setting and an unpredictable suspenseful plot.” -- Library Journal “A delightful read, rich with period details.” -- Sarah M. Eden, best-selling author of For Elise
©2015 Sarah Ladd (P)2015 Thomas Nelson Publishers
A Timeless Christmas
Summary
Delight in the most wonderful time of the year with a collection of heartwarming and heartfelt Christmas classics. From O. Henry’s iconic story “The Gift of the Magi” to L. Frank Baum’s quaint and clever history of Santa Claus and his reindeer, the pieces gathered in A Timeless Christmas honor the yuletide tales and traditions passed down through generations. The beloved stories, poems, and reflections in this collection have been carefully curated to bring cheer and merriment to listeners who appreciate the simple gifts of hope and peace. Christina Rossetti’s beautiful poetry, L. M. Montgomery’s charming short stories, and many other classic works will bring warmth to the fireside this season and remind us all that Christmas is a time for joy. With additional pieces from Louisa May Alcott, George MacDonald, and more, A Timeless Christmas will become a cherished keepsake for friends and family to enjoy this year and for years to come. Stories and Sketches: O. Henry: “The Gift of the Magi” L. M. Montgomery: “The Josephs’ Christmas” “The Osbornes’ Christmas” Elizabeth Harrison: “Little Gretchen and the Wooden Shoe” “The Legend of the Christ Child: A Story for Christmas Eve” L. Frank Baum: The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus Louisa May Alcott: “A Christmas Turkey, and How It Came” “What the Bells Saw and Said” Poems: Christina Rossetti: “Epiphany” “The Shepherds Had an Angel” Nahum Tate: “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night” William Cullen Bryant: “The Star of Bethlehem” “Christmas in 1875” Margaret Deland: “The Christmas Silence” George MacDonald: “Mary’s Song”
Public Domain (P)2020 Thomas Nelson
The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest
Summary
In the Robin Hood reimagining, a beautiful maiden poaches to feed the poor, while a handsome forester is on a mission to catch her. The margrave owns the finest hunting grounds for miles around - and she teaches children to read, but by night this young beauty has become the secret lifeline to the poorest of the poor. For Jorgen Hartman, the margrave’s forester, tracking down a poacher is a duty he is all too willing to perform. Jorgen inherited his post from the man who raised him...a man who was murdered at the hands of a poacher. When Jorgen and Odette meet at the Midsummer festival and share a connection during a dance, neither has any idea that they are already adversaries. The one man she wants is bound by duty to capture her; the one woman he loves is his cunning target.... What becomes of a forester who protects a notorious poacher? What becomes of a poacher when she is finally discovered? From New York Times best-selling author Melanie Dickerson, The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest is a story of danger and love. Praise for The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest: “The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest reminds me of why adults should read fairy tales. Author Melanie Dickerson shoots straight to the heart with a cast of compelling characters, an enchanting story world, and romance and suspense in spades. Reaching The End was regrettable - but oh, what an ending!” (Laura Frantz, best-selling author of The Lacemaker) “Melanie Dickerson does it again! Full of danger, intrigue, and romance, this beautifully crafted story will transport you to another place and time.” (Sarah E. Ladd, best-selling author of The Governess of Penwythe Hall) “Melanie Dickerson’s The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest is a lovely, romantic read set during one of the most fascinating time periods. Featuring a feisty, big-hearted heroine and a hero to root for, this sweet medieval tale is wrapped in a beautiful journey of faith that had me flipping pages well after my bedtime. Delightful!” (Tamara Leigh, USA Today best-selling author of Baron of Godsmere) “Melanie Dickerson weaves a tantalizing Robin Hood plot in a medieval setting in The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest. She pits a brave heroine with unique talents against a strong, gentle hero whose occupation makes it dangerous to know him. Add the moral dilemma and this tale makes a compelling read for any age.” (Ruth Axtell, author of She Shall Be Praised and The Rogue's Redemption) “For stories laden with relatable heroines, romantically adventurous plots, once-upon-a-time settings, and engaging writing, Melanie Dickerson is your go-to author. Her books are on my never-to-be-missed list.” (Kim Vogel Sawyer, author of When Mercy Rains)
©2015 Melanie Dickerson (P)2021 Thomas Nelson
Castle of Refuge
Summary
To live an unforgettable life, she would defy all expectations - including her own. Ever since she was a child, Audrey wanted her life to be extraordinary. But as the daughter of a viscount born in late 14th-century England, the only thing expected of her was to marry - until an act of malice by her sister, Maris, four years ago damaged her prospects even further. Though Maris was sent away, 20-year-old Audrey is still suffering the scars of her sister’s cruelty. So when her father announces his plans to marry off his damaged daughter and bring Maris back home, Audrey decides to flee in search of her true destiny. However, life outside her home is dangerous, and she soon finds herself attacked, sick, and in dire straits. She is taken in at Dericott Castle to be nursed back to health. While there, she decides to keep her identity a secret and work as a servant in the castle. But she doesn’t count on falling in love with the young and handsome Lord Dericott, who lost his arm several months earlier and bears scars of his own. Meanwhile, Edwin - Lord Dericott - is curious about the new, well-educated servant’s identity. When the man Audrey’s father wanted her to marry comes looking for her, each must make a life-changing decision about what to believe and whether or not love is truly worth trusting. In this Ugly Duckling retelling, New York Times best-selling author Melanie Dickerson brilliantly crafts a highstakes, encouraging tale about the power of love. “When it comes to happily-ever-afters, Melanie Dickerson is the undisputed queen.” (Julie Lessman, award-winning author) “Set in the harsh society of 14th-century England, Court of Swans tells a powerful story of forgiveness, love, and choosing joy amidst trials. Dickerson continues to impress with her masterful balance of plot and message, capturing attention with a strong heroine and tugging at heartstrings with themes of trusting God when life seems to fall apart. A book perfect for teen and adult readers alike.” (Caroline George, author of Dearest Josephine, on Court of Swans)
©2021 Melanie Dickerson (P)2021 Thomas Nelson
The Piper's Pursuit
Summary
A fairy-tale journey of intrigue and romance that reimagines the classic Pied Piper story. A plague of rats. A giant beast outside the village walls. A host of missing children. And one young woman determined to save her people. In 1424 Hamlin, Katerina faces threats from all sides. An outbreak of rats has overtaken the village, a mysterious beast is on a killing rampage of the village’s children, and Katerina’s evil stepfather is a dark presence inside the walls of her own home. Katerina is determined to hunt and kill the Beast of Hamlin herself before more lives are lost. When Steffan, the handsome but brash duke’s son, comes to town seeking glory and reward, Katerina decides he might be the ally she’s been looking for - even though the only gentle thing about him seems to be the sweet music he plays on his pipe. But there’s more to Steffan than she suspects, and she finds herself drawn to him despite her misgivings. Together, Katerina and Steffan must stop the enemy from stealing the children of Hamlin. But their interference might create an even worse fate for the entire village. Praise for The Piper’s Pursuit: “The Piper’s Pursuit is a lovely tale of adventure, romance, and redemption. Kat and Steffan’s righteous quest will have you rooting them on until the very satisfying end!” (Lorie Langdon, author of Olivia Twist and the Doon series) Full length clean fairy tale reimagining Includes discussion questions for book clubs
©2019 Melanie Dickerson (P)2019 Thomas Nelson