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Patty
Rating:
Review
In the 8th century, Amelia is about to take her vows as a nun in the Catholic Church. Unusual for women in that period of time, Amelia has a thirst for knowledge and spends hours studying in the abbey's library. It is her greatest desire to become the next abbess, and to use her knowledge to help the poor. The current abbess, Mother Landrada, assigns Amelia to escort the great and wealthy King Charles (Charlemagne) through the abbey in the hope he will grant assistance. Amelia is disgruntled by her task, preferring to remain in the library. King Charles, who has had several wives and concubines, and a household filled with children and grandchildren, is instantly drawn to Amelia's brilliance, and he pursues her. He calls her, "My little nun." Amelia realizes an attraction is not appropriate for a woman dedicating her life to the church. Mother Landrada recognizes Amelia's struggle and assigns her to a remote district for a year during which Amelia will have to make a decision. This powerful story is rich in carefully researched documentation of Charlemagne's military campaigns, and journals by his scholarly aide, Einhard. It is alternately told from Amelia's viewpoint, and the third person point of view.
Best Line:
when Amelia meets her new host Josep: "I'm not the first Jew you Christians think was sent to save you, but please, don't crucify me."
Kim
Rating:
Review
Spanning two years, this story is mostly Amelia's, a novice nun who was sure of her path until she meets Charles, or King Charlemagne to we commoners. When it becomes obvious to the abbess at Munster-Bilzen Abbey that Amelia is conflicted, she suggests a mission to a poor village might be good for Amelia's indecisiveness. Amelia is one smart cookie too, along with being strong and compassionate. No wonder Charles fell for her. I liked this story, mostly because Amelia is so strong, which, considering the story begins in 793 AD, is huge, yet I disliked the little bit of romance that almost seemed thrown into the story. I did like the fact that the main characters are based on real people, and it seems that Ms. Monroe has done her homework.
Best Line:
"It was obvious to me at that moment that once one gives the devil an opportunity by committing one sin, he can then easily compound it."
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