Pearl and Garridan: A Roma Love Story

Just Published!
Pearl and Garridan: A Roma Love Story

Two stories come together in one book about a family of Roma Travelers set in Romania in 1871.

Part One, “The Heart of Romani Pearl” is a romance between a young girl named Pearl who travels in a vardo wagon with her family. She meets Garridan who lives in the ancient Hoia Baciu Forest of northwestern Romania. He shows her many wonders, and before they know it, love comes to the fore and they become trapped in the forest. Together, they must deal with a mysterious overlord, Spiridon Ardelean, who has complete control over all souls living and dead, and his overseer Varujan who does his best to do the lord’s bidding. There is only one way to break the spell and escape the forest, but it cannot be achieved without the talents of Pearl’s family, a precise number of local townspeople, and the strength of Pearl and Garridan’s love.

Part Two, “The Soul of Garridan Searle” begins after they are set free. It tells of Garridan’s exceptional talents as a wood carver. Garridan makes a new sign for a cobbler in the next village. This starts a slew of new carving in the town. In the evenings, he is called by spirits to visit their elemental domains. The Zânespirits seek to lure him, but Garridan is able to capture their power into the wood he carves. Each carving brings a spirit’s gift to one who needs it, and harm to those who don’t. The mayor, the miller, the fisherman, and the blacksmith have one thing in common, a two-faced gift. A plea is sent for help and four sacred dancers heed the call to work their magic. A heart-warming story about Romanian culture, a secret carried by Pearl’s family, and how the town rewards them all.

Now Available in Paperback:
Published 2022 by Templar Media | 357 pages | ISBN-13: 979-8986984803