title: Silent Heart
author: Youree, Barbara
description: In sixteenth-century Europe, Francoise Chaplain is mourning the loss of her fiance and close family members. She, her mother, and one surviving brother find refuge on a farm, but they must escape war and sickness, and seek safety at a villa in Milan. There she encounters the attentions of the grand duke and the ravages of the plague - and more tragedy. Her only hope is in her relationship with God and the kindness of the man who loves her.
  
  Stefano Marinelli is at once taken with the beautiful Francoise, but he sees deep hurt in her eyes. He professes his love for her and asks her to become his wife.
  
  Could any man win Francoise's silent heart?