A debut novel of passion, regret, unrequited love and a country caught up in the throes of World War I make up author Theresa Chevalier's absorbing Shameful Innocence.In 1914, Russia is suffering through the ravages of war. Sixteen-year-old Sarah is a beautiful free spirit born into a highly respected and very conservative Mennonite family. Sarah longs for another life, but born on a farm in a small village in Russia seems to be her plight. Everything changes when a Russian peasant family is employed by her father to work on their farm. Nicholas is the handsome young son, and from their first meeting, both knew they were destined to be together. They begin a passionate love affair, hiding their feelings from their families. Suddenly, Nicholas and his family are ordered to leave.Sarah's world collapses and she discovers that the repercussions from her love affair is certain to bring shame upon her family. Will she ever see Nicholas again? Where do her loyalties lie-with her family or with the love of her life?Newcomer Chevalier has written a novel with brilliant and introspective compassion about war, forbidden love, and survival. Her voice is unique, her characters richly drawn, and her narration, spellbinding.Author Bio:Theresa Chevalier is a writer and works in management. Ms. Chevalier is currently writing the sequel to her novel and a nonfiction book. She lives with her children in British Columbia, Canada. Shameful Innocence is her first book.