OneBook, OneLakeville is a city-wide event that promotes reading, lifelong learning and community by encouraging everyone to read the same book and enjoy related events.
OneBook, OneLakeville: Main Event
Join us for an evening with award-winning author Loretta Ellsworth as she discusses her historical fiction novel “The Jilted Countess." Moderated by best-selling author Lorna Landvik. A ticket is required for this free event. For adults.
Lakeville Area Arts Center
Saturday, April 25, 7:30–9 p.m. Registration begins Feb. 13.
Book overview
Loretta Ellsworth, author of “The French Winemaker's Daughter" delivers “The Jilted Countess." The new novel is based on the true story of a desperate and penniless Hungarian countess. She arrives in Minnesota after WWII to find her GI fiancée already married. With only two weeks to avoid returning to war-torn Europe, she enlists a local newspaperman to help her find a husband in this richly detailed, unforgettable tale.
About the author
Loretta Ellsworth is a former Spanish teacher and the author of a picture book, four young adult novels and three adult novels: “Stars Over Clear Lake," “The French Winemaker's Daughter" and “The Jilted Countess." Her books have been awarded many accolades, including:
- Teen's Top Ten Finalist
- ALA and IRA Notables
- New York Library List of Books for the Teen Age
- Midwest Bookseller's Choice Honor Award
- Midwest Connection's Pick
- BBCB Choice
- NEMBA finalist
- Rebecca Caudill Nominee
- Charlotte Award Nominee
- 2025 Minnesota Book Award finalist
Ellsworth received her master's in writing for children and young adults from Hamline University and lives with her husband and children in Lakeville, Minnesota.
Related events
Curt Brown: Historical Reporting and Research
Join us as author and award-winning journalist Curt Brown discusses his career in researching and writing about Minnesota history, including an article written in the Minnesota Star Tribune seeking information about a Hungarian countess in Minnesota that inspired the book "The Jilted Countess" by Lakeville author Loretta Ellsworth. Registration required. For adults. Sponsored by the Friends of the Heritage Library.
Zoom virtual event
Wednesday, April 8, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Registration begins March 11.
Researching and Writing Historical Fiction
Learn tools for researching past eras, historical archives and artifacts and embed them seamlessly in your story to make your writing feel true to the time, distinct and exciting. Presented by The Loft. Registration required. For adults. Sponsored by the Friends of the Heritage Library.
Heritage
Wednesday, April 15, 8–8:30 p.m. Registration begins March 18.
Heritage Library Evening Book Discussion Group
Discuss a variety of great books with other members of the community. This month's title is "The Jilted Countess" by Loretta Ellsworth. New members are welcome. For adults.
Heritage
Wednesday, April 29, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Heritage Library Afternoon Book Discussion Group
Discuss a variety of great books with other members of the community. This month's title is "The Jilted Countess" by Loretta Ellsworth. New members are welcome. For adults.
Heritage
Thursday, May 7, 12:30–1:30 p.m.
OneBook, One Lakeville is made possible by Dakota County Library, Friends of the Heritage Library and the City of Lakeville.