Ascent

House of Normandy #1

by Cathie Dunn

A brutal Viking raid heralds the dawn of a new, powerful dynasty – the House of Normandy
Neustria, Kingdom of the West Franks

AD 890

Fourteen-year-old Poppa’s life changes when Northmen land near Bayeux. Count Bérengar, her father, submits to them, and she is handfasted to Hrólfr, the Northmen’s heathen leader, as part of their agreement.

To her relief, Hrólfr leaves immediately in search of further conquest, only returning to claim her years later. In the face of retaliating Franks, they flee to East Anglia, where she gives birth to their son and daughter.

When Hrólfr and Poppa return to reclaim Bayeux, his new campaign strikes at the heart of Frankish power, and King Charles of the West Franks offers him a pact he cannot refuse. In exchange for vast tracts of land in Neustria, Hrólfr must convert to Christianity and accept marriage to Gisela, the king’s illegitimate daughter.

Poppa’s world shatters. She remains in Bayeux, with her daughter, Adela. When Gisela arrives one day, demanding she hand over Adela, to be raised in Rouen, Poppa’s patience is at an end. But Gisela makes for a dangerous enemy, and only one woman will survive their confrontation high up on the cliffs.

Will Poppa live to witness the dawn of a new era?

ASCENT is the first in a new series about the early women of the House of Normandy – women whose stories have been forgotten. Almost!

Readers of Viking and medieval fiction will enjoy ASCENT, a fictional account of the life of Poppa of Bayeux, handfasted wife of Rollo the Viking.

Trigger warning: contains child loss and fighting scenes

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Historical, Fiction, Suspense, Medieval

293 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 8, 2022

About the author

I write historical fiction, mystery and romance. My novels have garnered praise for their authentic descriptions of the past.

I am also a book promoter with The Coffee Pot Book Club. Find out more about blog tours and other book promos at www.thecoffeepotbookclub.blogspot.com!

I'm a member of the Historical Novel Society, the Romantic Novelists’ Association, and the Alliance of Independent Authors.

Reviews

[Emiliya Bozhilova · Rating 3 out of 5]

Нормандия през 10-ти век е доста бурно място, атакувана от викинги от севера, откъдето идва и името на областта. Веднъж уседнали, те стават част от новото кралство на франките. Освен това приемат и християнството.

Историята на едно такова “усядане” чрез сключен брак по старите езически обичаи е доста приятно поднесена. Липсваше ми обаче поглед към мотивите и емоциите на героите в няколко ключови момента, които бяха отметнати само с едно-две изречения.

3,5 звезди

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5/5.0

‘Ascent’ by Cathie Dunn is an extremely well-written retelling of Normandy history and the violence surrounding the time period, as well as the daily hardships all women faced.

Read full review in the 2022 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[thewoollygeek (tea, cake, crochet & books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

ved this story so much , I’m not a massive reader of historical fiction (wether based in reality or not) it’s something I dip into very occasionally, but something in the synopsis of Poppa’s story spoke to me and I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this, because her story is wonderful, such in an interesting character to read about.

I love the fact we get to discover Poppa during different ages of life and watch as she grows and matures, going from a passionate teenager to an intelligent, capable and strong woman. You really go on the journey with her, getting angry, sad, frustrated as she suffers betrayal and neglect then danger, how hard this period of time was for women.

This book is very honest in the harshness of the time period, the raiding, violence and bloodshed, the loss of life in childbirth, child loss, it’s hard reading at times but as was life for them. Most of all I love that Cathie has brought to my attention and to life, a woman I hadn’t heard about before and I love reading about any women in history, good or bad that have previously been hidden from us, so big thank you to Cathie Dunn from me for this.

If you love fiction, historical fiction, feminist history, learning about women in history you may not have been aware of or you just like a really good book this is for you. Cathie Dunn is a fantastic writer, who clearly knows and researches her history, writes wonderful and well rounded relatable characters, but most of all makes you care, can’t recommend this enough.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[M.J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ascent tells the story of how the Duchy of Normandy formed, through the eyes of both Poppa, wed to the man many of us will know as Rollo and Rollo himself.

This is a fascinating period, at the end of the ninth century and the beginning of the tenth, when the focus of the Viking raiders had shifted from just trying to plunder, kill and steal to wanting to find new homes for themselves. While some of the story takes places in England, the focus is on the West Frankish lands, and there are familiar names here, Charles III, the king of the West Franks, the most well-known of them all.

Poppa is a strong-willed woman, but her life isn't without hardship and suffering. Rollo, or Hrolfr, is a Viking raider, but with an eye to the future and ambition to match it. The evolving story is well portrayed, focusing on several life-changing moments as the tale progresses as it covers their entire lives after meeting.

I feel the book really comes into its own from about halfway through, and I powered through the remainder of the story. Poppa and Hrolfr are both ambitious and strong-willed, with an eye to the future, and such ambition is well portrayed without us disliking either of them. Their friends and allies also provide moments of intense sorrow and triumph as Dunn weaves a tale of the era, bringing in far-flung places, such as Orkney, which were all closely interconnected to men and women of the sea.

Constructed using incredibly scarce surviving sources (I know, I've studied this period, and it is mind-glowingly confusing), Ascent, the first book in the stories of Normandy, is sure to appeal to those interested in tales of historically strong women, in the formation of Normandy and also in this turbulent period when the Viking raiders - or the Normans as they came to be known - claimed a toe-hold on Frankish soil which was to have far-reaching consequences. I look forward to book 2.

[Juliane Weber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great historical fiction!

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this fictional account of the rise of the Norman dynasty, a historical era I didn't know much about. The author brings the characters and the time period to life and had me eagerly turning the pages until the end. I look forward to the next book in the series!

[Beth Billings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!


Poppa is in church for service when her village is attacked by the Vikings, she refuses to take things lying down. She stands up for her people and tries to save the men that are being taken as slaves. One thing she is absolutely sure of is she will have nothing to do with these Norse heathens no matter what her father the Count of Bayeux insists, she would rather die! Who would or could ever find themselves loving a savage like them?


This is the story of Poppa and although it is fictional it seems to have a lot of depth to what has been written. There are little bits of history weaved within Poppa's tale and it makes it all the more interesting to read. I have enjoyed reading about the life of a count's daughter and how she deals with raids and her friends being taken as well as the life she knew and how she is able to deal with the hardships and tasks that are sent her way. When I first started reading I thought Poppa was a brat and could see us clashing, as I read further into the book I had more compassion for her and she ended up being my favourite. I could see myself reading other books like this by the same author as she has a flare for pulling you into the story and involving you.


Completely recommended


** same worded review will appear elsewhere **



* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

[Jaffareadstoo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Travelling back to the dark days in the latter part of the first millennium takes us right into the heart of Nuestria in the ancient kingdom of the West Franks. There we meet with Hrólfr, the heathen leader of the Northmen, who dares to infiltrate the peace of Bayeux where he lays claim to the town as his own. Hrólfr strengthens this uneasy relationship with a handfasted marriage to Poppa of Bayeux, the young and spirited daughter of Count Bérengar, which adds to the sense of destiny in these early days of the House of Normandy.

Ascent is a well written historical saga which brings to life the uncertainty and danger of living in a time when it was all too easy to get caught up in violence. Back to a time when danger lurked on every corner and brave, and strong, fighting men were constantly having to protect their hearth, and homes, from marauders who wished them harm.

Throughout the story there’s a real sense of history and even though the story moves forward through time quite quickly it never felt rushed or lacking in detail. I enjoyed getting to know more about Poppa of Bayeux who was a real historical figure and uniquely instrumental in forging the House of Normandy. Poppa’s relationship with Hrólfr was not without its challenges and this fictional account of their time together helps to put history into context whilst allowing a sympathetic love story to emerge.

Ascent is the first book in a proposed series about the forgotten women of early history who helped to shape the foundations of the House of Normandy for the coming millennium.

[Elizabeth John · Rating 4 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed reading this historical fiction novel; once started, I did not want to put it down. Not only did I learn a great deal about a time in history I know little about, I connected immediately with Ms Dunn's lively writing and beautifully drawn characters, and was completely vested in Poppa's and Hrólfr's world.
Undoubtedly of their time and yet completely accessible to modern readers, I recommend this novel as a fascinating and entertaining introduction to the people of the pre-Norman world. Details of pagan hand-fasting and emerging Christianity, political alliances and brutal raids illuminate the highlights and perils of these distant peoples’ day-to-day challenges. Yet, under Ms Dunn's sympathetic and assured hand, these life events bring us closer to Poppa and Hrólfr, showing that no matter what the era, it is the sagas of love and family that are the stories we want to hear. Ascent is one of the best such tales I’ve read in a long time and I’m delighted to know there is a sequel in the works. Highly recommend.

[Nicola Malloch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much Cathie Dunn and Rachel’s random resources for gifting me a digital copy of ‘Ascent’ in exchange for an honest review. Set in the 9th century we follow Poppa at 14 with her whole world set to change when the heathen Northmen raid her land; such a brutal time of history with so much change forced upon people with invasions and wars being thought for control of land and titles as well as religion. This book does not shy away from the brutality of it all with bloodshed, child loss and sickness that takes all ages. At times I found it hard to read those passages but they were so well written I wanted to grieve alongside the women and the hardship they had to suffer through at the will of men. I found Poppa such an interesting character, she has so much courage and strength that I found so admirable and her love for her children shone throughout the book. This was such an interesting book and I am excited to reads more books by Cathie Dunn.

[Cynthie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Poppa is such an admirable woman with so much courage. She is persistent, loving and a leader. Her husband does not match up to her at all.

[ChillwithabookAWARD With · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ascent by Cathie Dunn has received a Chill with a Book Readers' PREMIER Award
www.chillwithabook.com

[Jacqueline M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ascent

I really loved this book it did take me a couple of chapters , but then a fast pace woo hoo .
I loved how you made Hŕofŕ a person with morals as she was only 14yrs when he wed Poppa , but also on not allowing his men to rape womenand children .
This book was well written thank you Cathie Dunn ❤

[Kelly Hudson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is more about the characters and less about historical details. There were also a number of typos.

[Evert · Rating 4 out of 5]

A pleasant read

If you enjoy historical fiction this novel is for you. I found the research and writing engaging. My only disappointment was that the retelling of the viscous Northmen raids were tempered and, some cultural relativism placing Christianity on par with the pagan mythology.

[Sharon Rimmelzwaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical fiction holds a fascination for me. I truly love history. Any time period and country, it doesn't matter. I will read it. This book is set during the 9th century, and, believe me, I was there throughout!


Cathie Dunn has written a spellbinding and immersive historical fiction novel based on Poppa and Hróflr, the founders of the House of Normandy.


We meet Poppa at fourteen, whose life takes a 360-degree turn when Northmen land near Bayeaux. Her father capitulated to them, and she finds herself handfasted to Hróflr, the Northmens leader. To her relief Hróflr leaves to go and conquest other lands and doesn't return to claim her until years later. From here, she has to learn how to be a Viking wife. All the trials and tribulations that come hand in had with her new life are laid bare for us to see in this first book in The House of Normandy series.

I know a bit about the Vikings, but nothing about Hróflr, apart from I know him as Rollo. This book both educated and entertained me. That's what I love, too, the education.

Cathie Dunn has woven a tale that was interesting, horrifying, and emotional too. Horrifying because of the way Poppa is treated by Hróflr, but that's a modern take on how women were treated. I was so behind Poppa that I loved this woman who had to change her way of life for a man she didn't even know, who bore his children, then got thrown aside.

The way Cathie Dunn describes the settings is so detailed, and I couldn't help but feel like I was transported right back in time. The battles were ferocious, and she depicted that so well. Every word I read made it feel so real and almost tangible.

I couldn't read this book quickly enough just because I was always intrigued with what would be next for Poppa. The only issue with that is that I finished it far too soon for my liking! Now, I'm off to add more of Cathie Dunn's books to my tbr pile.
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Cathie Dunn for the gifted copy of the book to give you my honest review.

[Mary Yarde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holding his axe aloft, he let out a roar. It echoed across the beach as men around him raised their weapons.
He grinned as he strode up a narrow path that led to the top of the cliffs rising from the shore. Once at the top, they saw the thatched roofs of Bayeux in the distance ahead.
Ripe for the picking.
The runes told him it was his destiny to conquer Neustria. Hrólfr only had to seize it.

Easter Sunday, April 12th, AD 890, was a day Lady Poppa of Bayeux would never forget. For it was the day Hrólfr and his raiders came to Bayeux. But this was no typical raid, because once they had taken everything worth taking, they stayed.

Poppa was determined to remain aloof to Hrólfr, even when she was forced to marry him by her own father. But Hrólfr is a restless warrior and he had grander plans than Bayeux. He would leave his young wife at Bayeux and carry on with his plan. But as the years rolled on and Hrólfr stayed away, Poppa could not help but feel a little abandoned.

When Hrólfr finally returns to Bayeux he finds Poppa has grown into a beautiful woman and one he would be proud to call his wife. But as they wait for their first born to arrive, war once again comes calling Hrólfr's name...

Ascent, the first book in the House of Normandy series by Cathie Dunn, depicts the mesmerising untold tale of Lady Poppa from Bayeux.

The beauty as well as the austerity of this era has been painstakingly portrayed. The harsh landscape, where the ocean meets the land, is utterly captivating. The portrayal of the climate, illness, war, peace, love, hate, and the passage of time conveys a strong sense of realism throughout this book. The backdrop of Danish raiding parties, a king's capriciousness, and the dominant presence of the Church add depth to the characters whom the readers meet in this novel. Dunn's ability to capture historical authenticity in her novels is evident in her writing, and this book is no exception. This novel is truly captivating because of its meticulous attention to historical detail.

The reader meets Lady Poppa of Bayeux when she is just fourteen years old. As the daughter of Count Bérengar of Bayeux, she has grown up in privilege but she still has the commoner's touch. Unfortunately, her youthful days are left far behind her the day the Norsemen come calling. Her fear of what will happen to not only herself but her people is palpable. It is a fear that Dunn has cleverly exploited to make the reader share the emotion as well. Even though she is young, and is facing such insurmountable odds, Poppa is determined to protect the people of Bayeux as best she can, and if that means submitting to Hrólfr rule, then so be it. But, she is no pushover, neither does she let Hrólfr dictate to her. She accepts her situation for what it is, but she does not become bitter or angry as others in this novel do. Poppa is an exceedingly likeable character who is brave, honest and unfailingly kind.

Although much of Lady Poppa's life has been lost to history, she finally has a voice. Dunn has breathed new life into this almost forgotten heroine and she has done so in such a way that is deserving of recognition. Dunn reminds her readers that although history primarily focuses on the men of this era, the women were just as formidable, just as brave, and just as deserving of having their stories told.

Anyone who knows Viking history will recognise the name of Hrólfr, or Rollo as he is now commonly known. In life, he was a man who secured a permanent foothold on Frankish soil and went on to become a Count. In this novel, he is both of those things, but he is also a man who understands both love and hate. The brutality and lack of mercy of the Norse invaders have been well documented in both historical accounts and fiction alike, and thanks to the popularity of Michael Hirst’s Emmy Award-winning television series, Vikings, there has been a renewed interest in Hrólfr's life. Dunn’s Hrólfr is an undoubtedly brave warrior and a respected leader. He honours tradition, dividing the treasure and people taken between his men, but in Dunn's depiction, he does not condone rape. Dunn's Hrólfr is extremely likeable, much like Hirst's Ragnar. He is ambitious, he wants to make a name for himself, but he is also a kind lover and considerate father. There are moments in this novel where Hrólfr's desperation to carve his name in history seemingly overrides his common sense, but as is the way with some rash decisions, Hrólfr pays a heavy price. But, the reader cannot truly dislike him, even when he does not deserve the reader's respect!

Hrólfr's struggle with religion was an interesting side story in this novel. He is religious when it suits him, and although he holds fast to the Gods of his birth, he sees the political merit in worshipping the Christian God. He does draw on the strength of the Gods from time to time, and he does often wonder if he has upset them in some way, but then he begins to consider if perhaps the Christian God is stronger. This internal religious struggle is very telling of his character as he is often conflicted in this novel. As in life, Dunn's Hrólfr is a fascinating character and his depiction in this story is utterly sublime.

Whether a historical or legendary character, Gisela of France certainly makes her presence in this story known. Gisela may be the daughter of a king but she is very easy to dislike for Dunn has made it so. Her spoilt princess attitude, her longing for Paris, and her violence towards her servants is in stark contrast to Poppa's gentle ways. But in truth, she is but a pawn in this medieval game of thrones. Dunn has given her readers an antagonist in Gisela. She is a character that is very easy to despise as she has no redeemable qualities.

Ascent (House of Normandy Book 1) by Cathie Dunn is the type of book you must recommend to everyone you know so you can have lengthy discussions about it over coffee. This novel is perfect for book club groups and will definitely interest fans of high-quality historical fiction set in the Viking era.

I Highly Recommend.

[Miriam Drori · Rating 5 out of 5]

How do you turn back the clock more than a thousand years, and write a story that's meaningful to modern readers? Cathie Dunn has accomplished that task brilliantly in this novel. Employing the eternal emotions of love, heartbreak, grief and more, she brings the times to life with fascinating descriptions and well-rounded main characters, kind and considerate but flawed. I particularly liked her descriptions of death.

I highly recommend this novel and look forward to reading the rest of the series.

[Adriana Kraft · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since I wish to focus my next spate of Book Reviews on women across the ages who’ve had an impact on the history of the British Empire, where better to start than the hand-fasted first wife of Rollo, the Viking invader of Rouen, whose great-great-grandson conquered England in 1066?

Historical fiction author Cathie Dunn has penned a moving account of what could have been this important forebearer’s experience and influence in the decades immediately following Rollo’s late ninth century invasion and ultimate victory over what is now Normandy, France. Reliable records of Rollo’s life and actions are scarce, and those of his handfasted wife Poppa of Bayeux even more elusive. But weaving together what is known with what might be reasonably conjectured, Dunn has given us a brave, determined and hard working early French noblewoman who, given in marriage to the pagan invader against her will to secure advantages for her father, rose above hatred and prejudice and formed at least a tolerable relationship that surely impacted the course of history. It is the offspring of this union who form the foundation of what became the Duchy of Normandy and ultimately the House of Normandy in England.

I love reading about bold, impetuous women who none-the-less show good judgment when necessary and have their wits about them. This is who author Cathie Dunn has given us in fleshing out the bare bones of Poppa’s story. A mere fourteen year old upon Rollo’s arrival, Poppa is handfasted to him as wife but, in Dunn’s account, is left behind for several years as he moves further up the river valley, to Rouen, which he conquers. In the interim she develops skills in managing her father’s estate – skills that will be especially helpful when she must manage Rollo’s ever increasing dominions.

It required considerable boldness and dedication in that era for a Christian woman to consent to remain in what her church viewed as a non-sanctioned marriage to a pagan; yet there is no evidence that a Christian wedding ceremony ever took place between Poppa and Rollo. Many of the details Dunn has created in this highly engaging story are pure conjecture, but they surely fit with such boldness, and as such, seem at least plausible. And, as any novelist hopes, they make for a story that will have readers rooting for Poppy. I highly recommend this novel.

This book is the first in a projected series about the first three Norman brides. I eagerly await the second installment, promised for sometime in 2023.

[Patricia Furstenberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ascent by Cathie Dunn is a historical romance novel that carries the reader into the fractured world of the late ninth century. The coasts of Francia is exposed to the advances of Northmen; the fragile authority of the West Franks trembles under the weight of invasion.

The story opens with the Viking raid on Bayeux. It is here that Poppa’s world is torn apart and, with it, any illusion of safety. From this moment Dunn deliberately traces not only the path of conquest, but the complex shaping of identity, allegiances, and (of course) survival.

Poppa, rendered with depth, is neither a passive figure nor an anachronistic heroine. Instead she evolves — child, wife, mother — each role placing her under another kind of pressure. Her union with Hrólfr, the Norse warlord remembered in history as Rollo, is not softened into easy romance. It is political and uncertain. Trust is not given but rather slowly built, across tension and reluctant understanding.

Hrólfr himself emerges as something more complex than a historical figure. He is brutal when required, yet capable of strategy and adaptation becoming both conqueror and founder. His acceptance of land and his alignment with Frankish power mark not just personal ambition, but the early formation of what will become known as Normandy, a space where cultures do not collide but merge.

What gives the novel its strength is its attention to transition. Dunn does not present the Norse and Christian worlds as opposites, but as forces in uneasy negotiation. Belief, identity, and loyalty are molded by necessity as much as conviction. As such, the story line is not simplified, rather offers something closer to a believable form of truth.

The world itself is richly textured. From the tension beneath ritual to the ever-present threat of violence there is a constant awareness that stability is fragile. Even moments of peace feel temporary, held together by forces that may soon fall apart.

Ascent is not merely the story of a dynasty’s rise. It is the story of those who lived within its making; those who adapted, endured, and carried forward the weight of change. Through Poppa, especially, Dunn reminds us that history is not only weaved by those who conquer, but by those who survive it – and in equal measure.

[Brook Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Planned as the first novel in a trilogy on the kingdom of Normandy, this book was full of pleasant and readable surprises. For me, the first was that Vikings were given more than just their usual nod for being barbaric and bloody brutes. Instead, they were integral, fascinating characters whose European odyssey was both impressive and in part, driven by the desire to settle in new lands. Hrolfr, the principal male character is hungry to accrue lands to settle with his own future dynasty in mind.

Of course, the book starts with the typical Viking raid, but Dunn does an admirable job of rounding out characters who usually have violent characteristics. In part, she did this through Poppa--her protagonist--and a worthy one. Poppa rapidly develops from the stunned and horrified girl-child who witnesses a Viking raid to the promised, if not stubborn bride of the Viking chief! And Dunn is able to logically create a tenderness between Poppa and Hrolfr that is both endearing and plausible. Poppa becomes a mother, a loyal wife cast aside, and caregiver throughout the story, never losing her appeal by becoming "pathetic", but instead giving this Dark-Age tale a sense of reality that moves the plot along smoothly.

Dunn's strength is certainly breathing life into names and people who have been dead over a thousand years and making them relatable to today's audience. Also, she's able to introduce characters to the story who are believable, yet completely fictitious--using them in those gray areas the blend fiction and fact. Ranulf and his sister, were good examples of this. Also, toward the end of the novel were two of the most moving death scenes I've ever read in historical fiction.

Both touching and deeply human, Ascent is a book worth reading to experience a more complete Dark Age tale that sheds light on the human condition. It's a story that certainly merits telling.

[Niki · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really love a great journey through an Historical Novel. My mind conjures up all sorts of imagery and drama and Ascent is one of those books that brings the history to life brilliantly.

This is a gripping tale of a young girl who finds herself bound to her fathers enemy and she hates it. However as time moves on she has two children and is fiercely protective of them. Her worst nightmare is about to begin when her husband becomes wed to another and Gisela wants Poppa’s daughter as her own. For Poppa the fight begins against her worst enemy. There is tension abounds throughout Ascent and the descriptive writing just draws you right in. The characters are superbly crafted and bring the Normandy era to life in such a way that you can almost hear them marauding through your living room.

An enchanting and enjoyable read that absolutely heralds a new era for Normandy and Poppa. You feel sucked right in to the adventure and I can not wait for the next instalment.

[Jennifer Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this historical romance between Hrólfr (Rollo) and Poppa of Bayeux!

The author has intricately woven real historical events and characters into her fiction, making them come alive through impressive world building that recreates 9th century Normandy and the conflict between the Norse invaders and the ruling Frankish kings.

Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction and medieval romance!

[Joyce King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful thought provoking historical tale!

I was so caught up in this story of Vikings and their story of conquered land and people, that I stayed awake far into the night. Several times I dreamed that I was part of this incredible tale! Poppa is indeed the heroine and her story will leave you wanting more.