The Amaranth Enchantment — Julie Berry

"What is an amaranth?" She smiled faintly. "A mythical flower that never dies."

Lucinda Chapdelaine's story begins with a royal ball -- but not in a dancing-and-glass-slippers sort of way. Her parents stepped into a coach, went to the ball, and never returned. As a young orphan, Lucinda was sent to live with her uncle and evil stepaunt in their lonely jewelry shop. Now, years later, a single magical moment is about to change her life once again.

On an ordinary day in the shop, Lucinda encounters a handsome young gentleman, a mysterious woman, and an unusual gem. The gem has unbelievable powers and the gentleman is a prince, but it is the mysterious woman who will prove most valuable. She is none other than the Amaranth Witch, and she has a daring task for Lucinda. If she succeeds, Lucinda will reclaim what is rightfully hers, find a true friend, and perhaps discover her own happily ever after.