It wasn't that long ago that the world we live in was run differently. Some of the past still surrounds us, but is much less prevalent. The world of which I speak was controlled by money and power. Those who had it suppressed the weak and poor. The suppressed had no choice but to abide by the suppression. This show of power existed in every aspect of life, from love to war. During this time, bias and prejudice were ways of life. The wealthy did as they pleased. They married to keep status. This still happens today, but not to the same extent. Many were forced to learn to love, rather than be free to find it as were the poor. The poor could find their mate, rather than be forced into an arranged marriage. Love and life were very much dependent on the class into which you were born. This book is the story of a man, who wished to be his own man. He knew his place in this world wasn't what was given or laid out before him. Jacque wished to make his own way. During his exploits, he found himself on foreign and biased soil. This is where his life would change; it would begin. He fell in love with a woman he was forbidden to marry. Their love for each other carried them to places neither of them thought possible, both good and bad. This is a story not just about love, but life. Unfortunately, it is honest and true, for life is filled with as much happiness as it is pain. Here is Jacque, a Frenchman, who loved Elizabeth, an Englishwoman, and their story.
About the Author: I was born in a small town in New Jersey, with humble beginnings. My upbringing taught me to work for everything I have and to embrace what life gives me. To be honest, I couldn't wait to spread my wings, as they say, and break myself free from the confines of small town living. Once able, I left for college in North Carolina. My time there was brief, but memorable. Still not feeling free, I moved out west and spent a few years there, exploring all that I could. Once I was ready to settle down, I moved back to North Carolina and did just that. This is where my son was born and I met the most wonderful woman in the world. Yes, she is my second wife, the one I was meant to be with. Even though I needed to break free from my beginnings, I now know it was a wonderful place to grow up. This is why I have settled in a small town, much like the one I knew in my childhood. I thoroughly enjoy raising my son here, where he can play in the yard, without worry. I love the fact that everyone knows everyone and that there is a sense of community. This is why I work here, as a teacher, and coach the youth. I believe that it does take a village to raise a child. This is my village and I do what I can to make it the best that it can be. Though my life now isn't much different than my own beginnings, I wouldn't want it any other way. I am not a Harvard graduate, but I have spent my life studying at the University of Hard Knocks. I am just like many of you and I wouldn't have it any other way. Whether it is watching a ball game, hanging out with friends, spending quality time with family or mowing the grass, I have learned to enjoy it all. Every day I wake up it is a blessing. As far as writing goes, I have been doing it as long as I can remember. I find purity in it. I find peace, no matter how chaotic life may be. I write about all that I see, hear, feel, taste, encounter, and find within my mind and soul. I believe we are made up of all that we allow ourselves to do, whether it be right or wrong, and that without testing new waters and trying new things, we become a shell. This is our makeup, for better or worse. Because of this, the honesty from the written word is like no other. I believe that is what you will find from mine especially. I don't believe in pulling punches in general, but especially when writing. I say it how I see it. This may not be for everyone, but I think everyone can get something out of it. It is just pure honest thoughts, from an average man.