The Rag Princess-the Plot Author Barb Franzen

 The Rag Princess by Barb Franzen

-Hopefully out in January

Plot Aunt  Sylvie, whom Celeste knows nothing about, along with an unscrupulous child worker, Elvira, arrive at the Temple’s ranch and home, unannounced. They have come with “official” adoption papers, announcing that 12 year old Celeste and her younger brother, Howie, will be living in Lincoln with the aunt. The Temples are the family that Celeste’s father worked for as a hired hand. Ginny Temple is her best childhood friend.  Aunt Sylvia, the wife of a pharmacist who owns  two drugstores, gravely abuses Celeste, leading her to believe that those she knew and loved gave her away. A Reverend Evan good assists the wealthy aunt in abusing Celeste. He is more interested in young girl than in God. He injures Celeste along with Sylvie's extreme degradation of the young girl. 
.   Later, following nurses training, Celeste reunites with Will Temple, one of the grown Temple children. As a child Celeste was nothing more than a household figure to him. They develop a close relationship, but unfortunately Celeste carries a secret that prevents her from considering marriage. Eventually, during the evening of a Christmas dinner, a meal that Celeste fixes for Will, something happens.Her confession leads to a turbulent evening. Celeste is forced to reveal her secret to Will. Attend the dinner in  Celeste's Christmas Eatery ,  her dining room el, to learn the conclusion. Tears and a lot of laughter, even though this is a serious topic. .
Book stems from my work as a child therapist and further research on Nebraska history during the 1920's through the 30's. Editors- Ladette Randolph winner of the Virginia Faulkner award . Dawn Garcia- Lincoln