The Blighted Troth: A Historical Novel of New France - Mirella Patzer

Bio:
A true blue Taurean in every way, Mirella Patzer (nee Sichirollo) was born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, but grew up in Calgary, a city famous for the Calgary Stampede, oil companies, and the wild west. She is first generation Italian Canadian who likes a clean house but hates housework, detests winter, and is a mild claustraphobic. She loves books, cooking, writing, and a good helping of tira-mi-su. She lives in Cochrane, Alberta, Canada and is currently at work on a biographical novel of the life of Mathilde of Ringleheim, The First Queen of Germany.

Product description:
A compelling story of love and treachery, faith and loss, forgiveness and triumph. In 18th century New France, a brave young woman must strive to make her own way in life and in love. In the year 1702 in New France, Emilie, a virtuous young woman is betrothed to Robert, the town's handsome miller. On the eve of her wedding, when Emilie spurns the attention of the town's wealthy seigneur, it sets off a catastrophic chain of events that turns her life, and that of her betrothed, into a desperate flight for their lives, sending them straight into the arms of peril. Seigneur Richard de Tonnacour, the town's black-hearted and corrupt overlord, will stop at nothing to claim Emilie for himself. When his abduction attempt of Emilie goes awry, she and Robert are forced to flee their homes. Forcefully separated, the lovers each encounter new troubles including famine, a Quebec bread riot, a death sentence, and the small pox epidemic of 1703. Embroiled in a fateful chase, Emilie learns that not even the devious madness of her adversaries can destroy her love for Robert. Amid heartache and tragedy, Emilie and Robert struggle to overcome adversity until a turn of events reveals Robert's true identity. As destiny draws them back together, they learn the lessons of love, forgiveness, and family. The Blighted Troth is a retelling of the classic novel, The Betrothed (I Promessi Sposi) by Alessandro Manzoni. Inspired by this epic Italian classic novel, the author weaves an entirely new and unqiue captivating tale in a new setting, a new century, and with new plot twists.

Q: What will e-readers like about your book?
Readers will enjoy being swept into Colonial Canada in the year 1702. The characters face numerous challenges. The underlying theme of the novel is forgiveness and each character faces some challenge in this regard, whether it is to forgive someone else or forgive themselves or whether they are willing to change. There are numerous surprises and plot twists that will leave the reader guessing to the very end. For anyone who loves an unusual setting with a tight plot and evocative characters who face continuous adversity, this novel will definitely appeal to them.

Q: Why did you go indie?
Whether to self publish or not is not an easy decision for any author. After several disappointing experiences with small/mid-size presses and agents, the idea of having full control over my own material appealed to me. It turns out that it was the very best decision I have ever made. The rewards have been many, the disappointments few. More and more very talented authors are chosing this route and now I can fully understand why. I find it much more rewarding and exciting. And it has never been easier. I believe Indie publishing will soon challenge traditional publishing in every form. 
Q: Who are your favorite authors in your genre?Two of my very favourite indie authors are N. Gemini Sasson, author of Isabeau, and Lisa J. Yarde, author of Sultana. Both are highly talented writers dedicated to being indie. Their work never disappoints.Links
Author's Website
History and Woman
Amazon