Is true purity found in the laws of religion or in the hearts of the faithful?

With the return of the exiled king to his rightful throne, Kate Sinclair’s world of black and white now offers the hope of color. But where does color-loving Kate fit? In the bakery as the daughter of a Puritan or in the palace garden among God’s myriad hues? Certainly not within the palace walls of an immoral court with new friends.

Exiled with King Charles II on the continent, Peter Reresby claims unwavering support of his friend’s regained crown. While fighting for the monarchy against his family’s wishes, his sister disappears, and Peter is determined to find her.

When their opposing beliefs collide, Kate and Peter witness a true test of faith in the ability of mankind to shed the past in order to preserve the future . . . and perhaps learn that the “greatest of these” truly is love.

Research for Promise of Purity:

Hampton Court Palace must have stolen a piece of my heart when I was a child. My sisters and I ran through the gardens and puzzled our way out of the maze. I walked the halls where kings and queens of England had played out their schemes and royal lives.

As an adult I’ve returned to Hampton Court Palace and Gardens outside of London many times. I chose the reign of Charles II with his revitalization and expansion of the gardens. This palace along the Thames River attracts history buffs and admirers of its magnificent architectural beauty and vast gardens.

Kate, the heroine of Promise of Purity, has an awesome role of bringing herbs, flowers, and shrubbery back to life for the health and pleasure of the court. In June 2022, I followed Kate’s footsteps as I roamed the gardens and kitchens of the palace again.

Enjoy the journey!