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.
The Healer's Apprentice
When destiny sleeps, it can only be awakened by true love's kiss.
In this historical romance loosely based on the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale, a woodcutter's daughter becomes the town healer's apprentice. Rose's job is to care for the sick and injured in Hagenheim Castle. But she gets sick at the sight of blood and is more suited to making up stories than sewing up wounds. She is determined to overcome her weakness and prove herself a competent healer, or she faces marrying a disgusting old merchant her mother has picked out for her.
Lord Hamlin, the future ruler of the region, is injured and Rose must overcome her squeamishness to save him. He is everything that is noble and good, but loving him is forbidden. He is already betrothed to a mysterious woman in hiding.
With two noble-born brothers vying for her affections, Rose learns that the people of Hagenheim are not always who they seem.
The Reviews Are In!
"Alternating between the two protagonists' viewpoints, the plot unfolds at a satisfying clip with zesty supporting characters (the healer, the duke's younger son), which add intrigue. A light-handed Christian subtext weaves seamlessly through the novel: illness, injury, and malevolence are all combated 'in the name of Jesus.' Dickerson combines fairy tale ambiance (an unkind stepmother, a rat-filled dungeon, a caricature of a bad guy) with historical touches like herbal remedies, musical instruments, and architectural details to create a colorful and convincing atmosphere in this strong debut." --Publisher's Weekly
"The medieval German setting and fastidious details of period clothing, food, music and dance provide an ideal context... Female readers should savor this romantic fare."--Kirkus Reviews
"In her debut, Dickerson spins a magical tale... Laced with plenty of romance, action, faith and fantasy, it's a perfectly romantic and well-told tale."--Romantic Times
"…fabulous. Love, love, love, love, love. That's really all I can say."--Teen blogger/reviewer Carman
"The Healer's Apprentice was like being transported to a world of castles and kings, knights and curses, love and danger. I absolutely loved it. I can't wait for more from Dickerson."--Mary Connealy, author of Cowboy Christmas
