Deserts of the Heart — Sandy Sheehy

Richly romantic, Sheehy's saga weaves a detailed tapestry of another time and place, a forgotten culture, and reminds us of what is profoundly universal: that love—whether for the good or bad—has the power to change lives forever.—Kathryn Casey, bestselling author of the Clara Jefferies and Sarah Armstrong mystery seriesA closely researched, compelling love story set in the Spanish Colonial Southwest in 1798. This is a touching, engaging romance, enhanced by the way the author brings old New Mexico alive on the page. —Rosina Lippi (aka Sara Donati), author of the Into the Wilderness Series and of Homestead, winner of the 1999 PEN/Hemingway AwardLife on the ranch is rich and complex, interwoven with beautiful scenes from the old culture, as well as ingrained prejudices, jealousies, and finally tragedy. A stunning read.—Ute Carson, author of Gypsy Spirit and Save the Last KissLosing her fiancé and soulmate, as well as her parents, in the 1797 Veracruz Yellow Fever Epidemic, 21-year-old Sofia vows privately that she will never open her heart again. With no prospects at home, she and her beautiful, impetuous sister Valeria, 14, accept positions as governesses to the children on a prosperous but rustic ranch 1600 miles north near the frontier outpost of Santa Fe. As Sofia struggles to adjust to the foreign and culturally complex environment, she uncovers layers of dark family secrets. She also finds herself drawn to the ranch's half Pueblo manager, who considers romantic love a singularly destructive form of madness.