About This Book
Heart-wrenching historical romance: the untold story of Queen Joanna I of Naples
The year is 1338 and Richilde Benoit and her siblings have set sail to Rome on a family trip.
But when their vessel is captured by pirates, Richilde's family is brutally raped and murdered.
Eleven year old Richilde experiences unimaginable terror but her life is spared.
The young English girl is sold, educated and groomed for the purposes of becoming a playmate and servant to the Duchess of Calabria, Joanna, the heir to the throne of Naples.
Commissioned by Joanna's nurse, governess and foster mother, Donna Filippa, Richilde is thought to be a perfect match for Joanna's needs.
Joanna and Richilde's friendship blossoms; the girls share their secrets and Richilde suffers severe whippings on Joanna's behalf.
She is both loyal to and protects her younger playmate who will inherit the kingdom.
Joanna is betrothed to Prince Andrew of Hungary, younger brother to the future King but unbeknown to both girls, Joanna's foster mother, Donna, begins to hatch a manipulative plan.
In a bid to capture the kingdom for herself, Donna conspires against Joanna and aware of her desires, exposes the future queen to passions that would live on forever…
Stripping Joanna's innocence under the pretence of educating her, Donna initiates a stream of sadistic events which will lead to the young Queen's downfall.
In their struggle for survival, both Joanna and Richilde endure countless attempts on their lives; exposure to several counts of rape and deceit; brutal murders of their loved ones … but, amidst it all, their strength to survive rallies on … as does their friendship …
