“You should be grateful, my girl. You have no dowry, and I am doing everything I can to get you settled. You are hardly any man’s dream.” Alina’s brother, Milos, pulled his face into a perfect copy of Aunt Marci’s sour expression, primly pursing his mouth. He had got her querulous tone just right.

I pinched my lips together, trying not to laugh. But it was true; Aunt Marci had already introduced me to several suitors. So far I had managed to decline their suits politely.

Maybe Alina’s aunt was right. How could she possibly hope to become a musician, a trobairitz, as impoverished as she was and without the status of a good marriage?

But fourteen-year-old Alina refuses to accept the oppressing life her strict aunt wants to impose upon her. When the perfect opportunity comes along for her to escape, she and her brother embark on a journey through the Byzantine Empire all the way to Jerusalem.

Alina soon finds herself embroiled in the political intrigue of noble courts as she fights to realize her dream of becoming a female troubadour.

Of special interest to librarians and booksellers:

This unique historical coming-of-age novel introduces readers to the vibrant, short-lived period of trobairitz, women troubadours in the 12th century, and to the complex historical times of Jerusalem during the age of the crusades. The narrative incorporates true historical facts and details of Count Stephen de Sancerre and his planned marriage to Sibylla.

This story of a young woman from Provence will empower and encourage girls to follow their passion and dreams. Written in the timeless style of Anne of Green Gables and Little Women, Alina’s story is destined to become a beloved classic and can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.