The Captive Maiden by Melanie Dickerson

The Captive Maiden by Melanie Dickerson

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.

Melanie Dickerson has a bachelor's degree from the University of Alabama and has worked as a special education teacher in Georgia and Tennessee. She's also had the opportunity to teach English in Germany and Ukraine. Dickerson earned the Carol Award for young adult fiction in 2012, as well as the National Readers' Choice Award for best debut novel in 2010. Both The Merchant's Daughter and The Healer's Apprentice were Christy Award finalists. She resides near Huntsville, Alabama, with her husband and two daughters. Visit www.MelanieDickerson.com for additional information.