Between The Pages - Betrayed

Betrayed
Hebby Roman
September 2019

Mariel Mendoza wants to marry her beloved childhood sweetheart, Enrique Salazar. As the only child of a prosperous planter, her father is determined she marry a wealthy and respected businessman, Antonio Aguilar. She yearns to elope with Enrique, but he’s involved with the revolutionary movement against Spain. 

Stricken by the suffering the revolution brings to her island home, Mariel betrays Antonio by stealing documents that will help the revolution while planning to run away with Enrique. Their plans are foiled by Antonio, and Mariel must face the wrath of her betrayed husband. 

Mariel confronts the bleak future of an unwanted wife. She learns to run her husband’s plantation, nurses her father back to health, and saves his plantation from an unscrupulous overseer. With each accomplishment, she grows as a woman and realizes her heart lies with her estranged husband. Separated by betrayal and distrust, can they overcome their past and fashion a future together? 

Between The Pages 
I will admit, I was a bit hesitant to read this story due to the age difference between Mariel and Antonio, but I then saw that the story takes place in 1867 when arranged marriages between a younger woman and an older man was a common occurrence. I am very happy I gave this story a chance because it was well worth the read and I was sold on the beautiful cover. The author places the reader in the captivating historical settings with a skillful descriptive voice. The characters are neatly developed from the main characters to the secondary cast. Betrayal is the story’s theme, but there is a good mixture of suspense and action, which propels the plot forward and keeps you turning the pages. You’ll root for Mariel and Antonio while many obstacles are placed in their path. Will their unmistakable chemistry reunite them in the end? I recommend picking up a copy of this book to follow the emotional journey.

Rating 
4.5 Stars