I received a free copy of Illuminations for my honest review from Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours. I received no monetary compensation for this post.
About the Book:
Mariner Books
Paperback; 288p
ISBN-10: 0544106539
About the Author:
My Opinion:
In this truly fascinating tale of Hildegard, a Benedictine nun of the 12th century Ms. Sharratt takes her readers into a world that seems almost unbelievable today, the world of an anchorite. Hildegard was only 8 years old when she and another young woman Jutta were nothing short of entombed in a small area of the monastery. Jutta went willingly but not Hildegard. (One history suggests she might have been 14 but still…)
The novel follows the history of Hildegard’s life but of course is expanded with the author’s imagination.
I was drawn in from the very first page, the writing is so smooth and easy you find yourself immersed in the story and I swear I could feel the claustrophobic rooms of the anchorage. The book starts at the end of Hildegard’s life and then moves forward in time as she remembers how she came to be. She must have been something for her time. It was a time when women really had no control or power; they were subject to the rule of their fathers, brothers or husbands. Hildegard, though found her power as a nun and she found ways to use it.
I read the book in one sitting; it’s not a lengthy tale but I didn’t want to put it down. I was completely enthralled with Hildegard and the way that she was presented by Ms. Sharratt. I must admit to knowing very little about her prior – I had heard of her but that was about the extent of my knowledge. I am now very intrigued and want to know more. This was a fascinating read about a very memorable woman.
Rating:
5
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Disclosure: I received a free copy of Illuminations for my honest review from Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours. I received no monetary compensation for this post.
