This lively historical adventure, based on the real life of a young woman from the village of Kritsa in Crete, depicts her rebellion against Ottoman oppression.

Rodanthe was the feisty daughter of Kritsa’s pappas (priest), who spent her childhood longing for her father’s approval – he always seemed to catch her up to mischief. Her papa had his hands full liaising with the village’s ruling Turks and trying to keep his family safe.

Years later, the region’s governor, called a Pasha, ordered Rodanthe’s kidnap intent on making her his wife. Determined not to yield, Rodanthe tricked the Pasha and fled  to the mountains dressed as a young man. After joining rebels as Spanomanolis (Beardless Manolis), she drews on her unusual experiences and rare education to maintain her disguise throughout daring raids.  

Now, honoured as Kritsotopoula (Girl of Kritsa), villagers celebrate Rodanthe’s exploits annually in front of a poignant stone carving. This monument portrays the moment in 1823 when brave Rodanthe’s secret was exposed – a point mirrored as this story culminates with a twist.

Infused with myths and local flavour this historical adventure gives insight to customs that still shape many lives in Kritsa today.

To buy the paperback or ebook from your ‘local’ Amazon CLICK HERE.

Kritsotopoula, Girl of Kritsa is also available as a paperback in Crete. I’m delighted that Eklektos Bookshop in Elounda has my novel on sale. The shop owner, Lynne will even make you a cuppa while you browse!

Beryl Darby chatting to INCO members

The book is also available in Kritsa’s upper high street, named Kritsotopoula Street. This photo shows me with Nikos outside his gift shop, opposite Arisitidis Cafe.

Beryl Darby,  author of Yannis, set on the leper island of Spinalonga kindly gave this review  of Kritsotopoula, Girl of Kritsa:  ‘Yvonne’s vivid descriptions of village life and the battles, along with her sensitive portrayal of the innermost thoughts of her central character are both moving and believable.’

More importantly, what did you think of the book? I’d love you to leave a comment below, and/ or on Amazon. X