From 18th Century France to 20th Century San Francisco, the Promise of the Rose Crystal both empowered and mystified Grace Moreau and her daughter Rose Wyndham.

They fought for women’s rights, suffered prejudice and conspiracy theorists, and blazed their way through a male-dominated world to define their own roles in society. Through it all they poignantly resisted romantic desire, for if they fell in love the power of the Rose Crystal would be impotent and they - and their lovers - would die.

A romantic adventure spanning 250 years, B. Roman's 'The Immortal Rose Wyndham' is a story where the power of music, and the belief in a purpose greater than oneself, provide the mystery and magic that creates miracles.

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The Wager

While gambling was a way for aristocrats to advertise a healthy surplus of disposable income, and an indication of status, wealth, and class, it was also a family affair. Children honed their math skills by counting cards, reading the dice, and tallying the score. Girls of Grace’s station found gambling exhilarating and quickly picked up the basics.

Grace grew to be a math prodigy whose card-counting skills resulted in her coming out the winner in most of the social games. Unlike her frivolous friends who gifted themselves with new elaborate hats, shoes with high curved-heels, or colorful riding habits, Grace spent her newly won 2,000 gold louis coins on books.

Much to her mother’s chagrin.

“Where will this end? No well-positioned Lord will marry a woman who is seen reading every day. We’ll have to whisk her off to a convent if we cannot marry her off soon.”

“My dear, she is only twenty,” Louis objected.

“Well past the time to be an acceptable marriage choice. Most girls her age are at least betrothed by now.”

“In loveless, pointless unions, mostly.”

“Louis! Is that how you think of our marriage?” Gabrielle’s fragile emotions boiled to the surface. “I was twenty when we wed.”

“Gabrielle, you were the loveliest and most enchanting creature,” Louis soothed her. “I married you because of that, not because your time was running out. You make me very happy. Our daughter has other interests, and she should be permitted to nurture her dreams.”

“Louis, we may not have the luxury of letting Grace chart her own destiny. We are running out of money. My trust is almost exhausted.”

“Not to worry, Dear. I promised to always take care of you and Grace, and I will not let you down.”

B. Roman