Review Detail

Young Margaret lives on an island convent. She doesn’t know who her parents were, but enjoys living among the nuns, who pass the time sewing, gardening, and raising Margaret. Then Queen Eleanor of Albion is banished to the island and with her comes questions. Margaret finds that the nuns are also banished due to the whims of a queen. She finds out who is really is and faces a choice on whether to help the Queen or protect herself.

What worked: I really loved this hybrid novel. From the start readers are sweep away to the small island convert and a young girl who loves being there. There’s also lots of facts about the time period, the many different saints, and the order of Saint Elysia. Plus, how the nuns and Margaret spend their time on the island is fascinating and intriguing. Add to all of this the royal court intrigue and hints of a forbidden romance.
The illustrations lend to the time and emotions of the story line. I did wish that more was revealed on what happened to her young friend William and the fate of Queen Eleanor at the end. It almost felt as if there might be another novel?
The final copy will be illustrated in color, which will add to the colorful majesty of this highly engaging novel. Beautifully crafted hybrid novel that is loosely based on Queen Elizabeth 1’s childhood.