Verity by Marian E Keen

In medieval Europe, a young maiden, Verity, suffers the manipulation of a power-hungry Duchess. Determined to improve her daughter Violet's status, the Duchess incessantly belittles and insults Verity, wearing away her self-esteem. One by one, the Duchess removes those who provide protection, but she is unaware of Rothko, Verity's black-feathered guardian who sees everything. Using her black magic, the Duchess seems all-powerful. But she overlooks the strong bond of friendship the two girls share. And Verity has magic of her own, in her integrity, her loving heart, and ultimately, her own truth.