The Mirror of Simple Souls

By Aline Kiner, Susan Emanuel (translator),

Book cover of The Mirror of Simple Souls

Book description

'A rich, surprising and devastating story of a female institution long-forgotten' Marj Charlier, author of The Rebel Nun

A heretical text, a vengeful husband, a forbidden love...

It's 1310 and Paris is alive with talk of the trial of the Templars. Religious repression is on the rise, and the smoke…

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Why read it?

1 author picked The Mirror of Simple Souls as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Set in a beguinage in 1310 Paris, which is churning with palace intrigue and the pyres of the Inquisition. I felt drawn into the lives of these beguines as they strive to hold their place in society with strong political forces set against their independent lifestyle.

I felt the smells, sights, and sounds of medieval Paris. An innocent Maheut arrives, unintentionally stirring up life among the beguines as they and the girl try to outwit the Inquisitors. Maheut is hunted, but the beguines are not sure by whom, and she won’t talk. A great resolution.

From Laura's list on reveal the hidden history of women.

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Brighter Than Her Fears By Lisa Ard,

The 19th century women's rights movement and the rise of public education intertwine with one woman's story of struggle, perseverance, and love.

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