About the Book:
The motherless child of an English priest living in ninth-century Mainz, Agnes is a wild and brilliant girl with a deep, visceral love of God. At eighteen, to avoid a future as a wife or nun, Agnes enlists the help of a lovesick Benedictine monk to disguise herself as a man and devote her life to the study she is denied as a woman.
So begins the life of John the Englishman: a matchless scholar and scribe of the revered Fulda monastery, then a charismatic heretic in an Athens commune and, by her middle years, a celebrated teacher in Rome. There, Agnes (as John) dazzles the Church hierarchy with her knowledge and wisdom and finds herself at the heart of political intrigue in a city where gossip is a powerful—and deadly—currency.
And when the only person who knows her identity arrives in Rome, she will risk everything to once again feel what it is to be known—and loved.
Published by Allen & Unwin
Released October 2024
My Thoughts:
Emily Maguire's Rapture is captivating historical fiction that reimagines the legend of Pope Joan, a woman who infiltrated the Vatican and ascended to the papacy. With a powerful feminist narrative that explores themes of resilience, determination, and faith, Maguire delivers a compelling and fearless story of remarkable brilliance. I adored this novel, absolutely loved it. The stunning cover is just the beginning with this beautiful novel.
Agnes, disguised as John, is a woman of extraordinary intellect and ambition. Her dedication to her chosen path and her unwavering faith in God's will were truly inspiring. Maguire's portrayal of Agnes is both nuanced and sympathetic, allowing readers to connect with her on a deep level.
Set in the tumultuous mid-800s, Rapture is meticulously researched and written with a remarkable balance of accessibility and authenticity. Maguire's ability to transport readers to a world in chaos, so far back in history, is truly impressive. The novel is filled with vivid descriptions, historical details, and compelling characters that bring the story to life.
Rapture is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and feminist literature. It is a powerful and thought-provoking novel, one that has stayed with me and that I highly recommend.
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
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