Finding The Tree

by Nikki Broadwell

Sylvie lives in a village with no name, run by nine elders. She has no concept of time other than the phases of the moon and the changing seasons. Lives are circumscribed, with rules to keep everyone in check. When the girls reach a certain age they are required to participate in what is known as 'the ritual', when God's divine presence comes through one of the elders to usher in a new life. The sacred ceremony takes place in the square and is attended by all. Sylvie has managed to avoid this disturbing practice. Until now.

A stately marble library is the only building in the village left standing from a bygone era. No one but the elders is allowed inside. Her day in the square is coming, the moment when her life will be changed forever. But her grandfather has taught her to read and filled her head with ideas. Before her fate is sealed she must discover the books that have been hidden away.

What happens inside that library will decide her future.

254 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 21, 2023

About the author

I graduated with a BA in art and English from Sonoma State University in California. I've been an avid reader since I first learned how and a writer from my early teenage years on. I've had several art related businesses, including greeting cards and more recently a silk painting business. When I began to write in earnest I put aside the art, concentrating only on the writing.

I've traveled a lot over the years, finding inspiration wherever I go. Scotland holds a special place in my heart, hence the setting for "The Moonstone". I had to make a 4th trip there to do research as I was putting the book together!