Author: Ann Finnin
Publication Date: June 1, 2010
Genre: YA Historical Fantasy
Copy provided by: Publisher
Summary (via Goodreads):I was only an apprentice. I swear it. By all the angels in Heaven.
Fourteen-year-old Michael de Lorraine has been condemned to death by the Holy Office for sorcery. But just as the flames threaten to consume him, Michael is saved by Abbot Francis and granted refuge at the Benedictine monastery of Sainte Felice. Michael learns that this strange and wonderful place, famous for its healing wine, harbors renegade monk-sorcerers, enchanted gargoyles, and a closely guarded secret: Abbot Francis is the great Seratois, exiled Grand Master of the Fratres Illuminati.
As the church intensifies its cruel efforts at justice, Abbot Francis and the brotherhood are in grave danger. Michael will do anything to protect his mentor, but are his powers great enough to save the monastery from the merciless, bloodthirsty Inquisition?
Blending together magic, miracles, and historical details of life in fifteenth-century France, this unique fantasy offers a vibrant portrayal of one boy's journey of faith.
Why I read this: The novel is a bit different from what I had been reading lately - 1500s, monks, and magic. Also, it is a debut novel and I just love reading new authors.
Plot: When Michael is saved from being burned at the stake, he must decide whether or not he wishes to join in the service of God. Abbot Francis and the brothers are part of an abnormal abbey - where sorcery is taught and used with good intention to help the people. Michael must make a choice on whether he wishes to use sorcery for the glory of God, or for the glory of his own want. A fantastic tale of magic and spirituality in a time period not often explored.
Characters: Michael is a great male character, he has some growing to do but I just love how he turns out during the book. He starts a bit cocky and then realizes that the spirituality around him is infectious and life-changing. Abbot Francis is another great character and really ends up the epitome of a reformed man.
Relatability: I think this will be a great book for guys. It's refreshingly female-less in major characters and it's interesting to see inside what it is like to live in a monastery and still practice sorcery.
Cover Commentary: Absolutely love it - definitely goes with the theme of the novel.
Rating: 5/5 Roses 
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Never heard of this book before but it looks interesting. It's been a long time since I read some fantasy!
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of this one before. Sounds great. Love your review :)
ReplyDeleteThis one sounds really good.
ReplyDeleteGreat review! I'll add it on my list!
ReplyDeleteAwesome review! I'm adding to my list, both my hubby, my son and myself would like this book!
ReplyDeleteThis is such a great idea. Nice review.
ReplyDeleteVery interesting. Will pick up a copy for my eighth-grade son. Thanks for the review!
ReplyDeleteSounds really interesting. I also love discover new authors so the fact that this is a debut novel really only makes this book even more intriguing.
ReplyDeleteThis book sounds very different and good so I added to my GR wishlist :) Great review!
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