Eleanore of Avignon

By Elizabeth DeLozier

Book Overview

A Library Reads Pick

An Aardvark Book Club Pick

Rich with unforgettable characters and full of captivating historical drama, Eleanore of Avignon is the story of a healer who risks her life, her freedom, and everything she holds dear to protect her beloved city from the encroaching Black Death.

Avignon, 1347. Eleanore is a young midwife and herbalist with remarkable skills. But as she learned the day her mother died, the most dangerous thing a woman can do is draw attention to herself.

In a chance encounter, Eleanore meets the enigmatic personal physician to the powerful Pope Clement, and strikes a deal with him to take her on as his apprentice.

Then, two pieces of earth-shattering news: the Black Death has made landfall in Europe, and the disgraced Queen Joanna is coming to Avignon. She is pregnant and in need of a midwife, a role only Eleanore can fill.

The plague spreads like wildfire, leaving half the city dead in its wake. Desperate for a scapegoat, the people of Avignon follow a group of religious fanatics on a witch-hunt, one that could cost Eleanore--an intelligent, unwed woman; a talented healer--everything.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0593475038
• ISBN13: 9780593475034
• Release Date: November 2024
• Publisher: Dutton
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 1.21 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.4" x 6.3" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

Great story with even greater details! 🌿🍄🕷️ herbalist girl steps up for her community dying of …

I admit - I tend to read non-fiction, nature books or mythological / women’s studies… My friend chose this for book club, finally a book I have read start to finish (and liked)! (Don’t tell my friends). This novel was enjoyable for me! Elea succeeds incredible challenges despite enduring much tragedy. As an herbal, ‘witchy,’ holistic caretaker, and a woman, this was such a great read! I gave it 4/5 stars because I felt the ending was a little rushed, though it was overall a good ending. I recommend this book if you like anything I’ve mentioned. Cheers!