Letzenstein Chronicles

It is 1847, a time of revolutions throughout Europe. Young Catherine Ayre has been called from her quiet home in England by a grandfather she scarcely knows, Grand Duke Edmond of Letzenstein. She becomes a pawn in the political unrest of the small country. Why does her grandfather so hate her uncle, Constant, the rightful heir? And just who is Rafael le Marre? Catherine is swept into exciting adventures before she can feel herself a part of the small but fascinating country of Letzenstein.

The Revolution of February, 1848, has erupted in France. Paul and Christie, both English, and Jeanne d'Estel of Valmay, have concerns of their own to pursue. But when the generous-hearted Rafael is arrested by political enemies, harrowing days follow. Important truths of character come to light, and Rafael's stature emerges: The "Phoenix" arises again from the ashes.

The adventures of Rafael le Marre and his friends continue. Catherine Ayre and her cousin Giles come to Letzenstein in the summer of 1849. Raf is settled in Xandeln with a crowd of orphans-but Giles, at least, is not impressed with his unconventional ways. After a terrorist bombing in which the Grand Duke is thought to be killed, Julius Varenshalt tries to take political control. Catherine, and even Giles, fear for Raf's life-and indeed it has never more precariously hung in the balance.

Melisande, a girl with actors’ blood in her veins, finds life dreary; her family runs a London inn, “The Rose and Crown”. Then, in November 1849, Rafael le Marre arrives, bringing Mel’s lost cousin Toby with him. Unexpected experiences swirl in Rafael’s wake: Mel meets Catherine Ayre and mischievous Charley the sweeper. Meanwhile, Raf stirs up the trouble that is native to his frank character. Several necessary resolutions must occur before Raf and company set out again for Letzenstein.