Dark Beginnings — Katrinka Blickle

In turn-of-the century America, a young lady who wanted to be a physician could expect to be looked upon with either amusement, skepticism or shocked disbelief, especially if she happened to be a beautiful Southern belle. But Leslie Ann Bennett was determined to realize her ambitions, breaking down any barrier that stood in her way -- including the conflicts of her own restless heart. Three men would love her. Each would ask her to be his bride.

Drexel Aymes, a cousin to the Vanderbilts and one of the most eligible bachelors among New York City's glamorous “400”. He had no objection to a lady with a career of her own -- until the lady in question had promised to be his wife.

Spencer Adams, an understanding teacher and respected medical colleague. He braved the carnage of the Spanish-American War to join Major Walter Reed in the struggle to conquer the deadly scourage of yellow fever. But Spencer was reserved and patronizing, hardly the man to sweep a young woman off her feet.


Emile Villenuve, a dark, dashing officer in the Cuban Army of Independence. Romantic and passionate, he seemed the storybook hero f every woman's dreams, and yet something about him made Leslie Ann hesitate about joining her life with his -- even when it seemed she had no other choice.

Only one of these men could make Leslie Ann truly happy. But first she had to discover for herself who she really was -- and who she really could be.