“When a heart breaks, it does not break evenly, cleaving in half exactly down the middle.” Surrounded by her large, boisterous family in 1840s Ireland, Lara Flannigan has never known anything but love and belonging—until the day tragedy strikes, leaving her abandoned and forced into indentured servitude.
REMADE IN A NEW WORLD.
Just when all hope seems lost, a childless American couple discovers Lara, while visiting Ireland to aid in the famine-relief effort. With barely a chance to look back, she’s swept away to a bustling new continent—and a dizzying new reality. One of petticoats, opulent townhouses, and the cold reaches of Philadelphia high society. Desperate for a future, Lara works tirelessly to fit into her new life... while still haunted by a past that won’t let her go. Set in a fascinating historical period, Lara’s Story is a gripping young adult novel that explores the strength of the human spirit and the power of forgiveness to heal a broken heart. Lara's Story is a young adult historical fiction read well steeped in the cultures and young challenges of two evolving nations which come together in Lara's immigrant experience. Diane Merrill Wigginton excels at bringing this world's sights, sounds, smells, and texture to life through Lara's eyes, lending a personal touch to historical events that include astute observations of social classes, differences, and struggles. Midwest Book Review Diane Donovan, Senior Reviewer This book is incredibly well-written. Wigginton’s prose is almost lyrical, managing to weave emotions and profoundly touching sentences with immense ease. It reminded me of Arthur Golden’s ‘Memoirs of a Geisha.’ Fuzaila of “Online Book Club”
A Tale of Love, Adventure, and Intrigue
In the bustling streets of 18th-century London, amidst the whispers of unsolved murders and the allure of the open sea, lies a tale of deception, bravery, and the irresistible pull of destiny.
Angelina Stewart, a woman of striking beauty and unwavering independence, returns home from a harrowing sea voyage only to find herself hailed as a hero for her courageous acts against ruthless pirates. But behind her facade of bravery, Angelina harbors a dark secret that threatens to consume her. As her latent psychic abilities grow stronger, she finds herself drawn into a perilous quest to uncover the truth behind London's grisly murders, all while evading the clutches of a relentless killer.
Meanwhile, Captain Jude Deveraux, known to the world as the Duke of Bayonne and to the seas as a feared pirate, navigates the treacherous waters of his double life. With his loyal friend Honore by his side, Jude revels in the thrill of adventure and the spoils of his piratical exploits. Yet, amidst the chaos of his dangerous pursuits, he discovers a desire that transcends mere plunder: the fierce and untamed heart of Angelina Stewart.
As Angelina and Jude's paths intertwine, they find themselves caught in a web of intrigue, betrayal, and undeniable passion. Will Angelina's secrets tear them apart, or will Jude's love prove strong enough to conquer all? In a world where danger lurks at every turn, only time will reveal the true depths of their connection and the price they must pay for love.
"Angelina’s Secret" is a captivating tale of romance and adventure, where the mysteries of the heart collide with the perils of the high seas. Join Angelina and Jude on an unforgettable journey as they navigate the turbulent waters of love, honor, and destiny.
A Tale of Sacrifice, Adventure, and Unlikely Alliances.
In the heart of 18th-century England, amidst the backdrop of societal expectations and familial strife, a tale of love, courage, and sacrifice unfolds, where the bonds of family are tested and the depths of one's convictions are challenged.
Isabella Deveraux, a young woman of unwavering independence and steely determination, finds her world turned upside down when a haunting dream reveals the dire fate of her beloved twin brother, Charlie. With her heart hardened against those who once mattered most, Isabella embarks on a daring mission to rescue Charlie from the clutches of evil, even if it means confronting her own demons and seeking aid from unlikely sources. Enter Captain Aiden Townsend, an enigmatic Irish mercenary whose past is shrouded in shadows and whose heart is guarded by walls of steel. Tasked with saving three privileged schoolboys, Aiden sees in Isabella a kindred spirit—a woman whose fiery spirit matches his own. As they embark on a perilous journey from England to Dublin, Aiden finds himself drawn to Isabella in ways he never thought possible, even as he grapples with the ghosts of his own past.
Together, Isabella and Aiden navigate a treacherous landscape of danger and deception, forging an unlikely alliance born of necessity and fueled by mutual determination. But as they draw closer to their goal, they must confront not only the forces of evil that threaten to tear them apart but also the walls they have built around their own hearts. In"Isabella's Heart,"love and sacrifice collide in a breathtaking tale of resilience and redemption.
In the enchanting backdrop of 19th-century America, where whispers of the supernatural dance on the wind and secrets lurk behind every shadow, a captivating tale of friendship, redemption, and the unseen unfolds.
Lady Olivia Sophia Townsend, a young woman deemed too eccentric for polite society, harbors a unique gift that sets her apart from the rest: the ability to communicate with spirits. Yet, years of rejection have led Olivia to turn her back on her extraordinary talents, until a plea for help from her best friend, Lilly, shatters her resolve. With Lilly's fate hanging in the balance and her memories clouded by mystery, Olivia must confront her inner demons and embrace her true calling to unlock the secrets of the otherworldly realm.
Joined by her younger sister Coco, whose own gift allows her to unveil the darkest truths hidden within others, Olivia embarks on a perilous sea voyage from Ireland to America. Their mission: to unravel the enigma surrounding Lilly's untimely demise and bring closure to a soul trapped between two worlds.
Meanwhile, Brody and Quinton Beaumont, handsome heirs to a southern cotton empire, harbor a dark secret of their own—a secret that binds them to their mother's iron rule from beyond the grave. As the mysteries of their family's past collide with Olivia and Coco's quest for truth, alliances will be tested, and loyalties will be questioned.
Good intentions and a solid moral compass never kept anyone from a compromising position. Newly appointed campaign manager Catherine Lawrence has a plan, and it definitely doesn’t include falling in love with the handsome, free-spirited, blue-eyed surfer from Australia who just moved in next door.
Jake Ryan came to Florida with every intention of surfing, enjoying life, and finding himself. He didn’t plan on getting entangled with the beautiful, green-eyed woman next door. And yet, the best-laid plans and all.
Love can change everything, including a stubborn heart. The chemistry and sparks between Catherine and Jake are red-hot, not to mention how the natural attraction between these two polar opposites will pull them in two different direction to achieve their happily ever after, something will have to give, and someone will have to make the ultimate sacrifice for love.
The Dreaded Pirate Captain
Timmy, Jimmy, and Jade love to fill their summer days with fun.
In this adventure, the three friends will find a treasure chest in the middle of their ship and meet the dreaded pirate captain, One-Eyed Cogburn, who has a very well-kept secret.
But who does the chest truly belong to?
Will the three adventurous youth be able to keep the treasure for themselves?
Will One-Eyed Cogburn let them escape unharmed?
Join Timmy and his friends in this fabulous quest full of mysteries, secrets, and laughter to find out!
Copyright © 2025 Diane Merrill Wigginton - All Rights Reserved.