Narcissa, or the Road to Rome; In Verona

"Narcissa, or the Road to Rome; In Verona" by Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards is a story about a young woman named Narcissa White who lives a modest life but dreams of something grander. The book explores themes of innocence and the desire for connection, and it all starts when a young man named Romulus Patten shows up unexpectedly. Narcissa is first seen as a simple, charming girl who spends her time feeding turkeys and daydreaming about fancy dresses. However, she thinks of herself as plain, especially compared to her neighbor, without recognizing her own beauty. When Romulus asks her about directions to Rome, she shares her longing for beauty and adventure as he shows her pictures of beautiful roses. Their quick connection hints at a growing friendship and the challenges to come as they both seek something more than their current lives.