In 12th century Europe, Marie is clearly a misfit in the court of Eleanore of Aquataine. She is large and awkward and unattractive; the queen doesn't know what to do with her. The problem is solved by sending Marie to head a failing convent in England, where hopefully, no one will have to think of her again.
In Matrix, Marie gradually finds her own determination and skills for leadership, and makes the convent become more and more successful. In this era when females are beneath notice, Marie provides opportunities for the women there to live good lives, as well as to enhance the community surrounding them.
Marie's story is based on an actual historical abbey in 1100's Europe, and I was interested in the comfortably included historical details about that era. In addition to its interesting setting and characters, the book was short and easy to read. And, it was definitely different from things I have read recently, and has stayed with me.
Reviewers are really positive about Groff's writing, and maybe this will be something you may also like. (If I had been author or publisher, I may have looked for a different title, not one with a word that we see used in so many other ways.)
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