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A Novel
by Elizabeth DeLozier
Rich with unforgettable characters, gorgeously drawn, 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.
Provence, 1347. Eleanore (Elea) Blanchet 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. She attends patients in her home city of Avignon, spends time with her father and twin sister, gathers herbs in the surrounding woods, and dreams of the freedom to pursue her calling without fear.
In a chance encounter, Elea meets Guigo de Chauliac, the enigmatic personal physician to the powerful Pope Clement, and strikes a deal with him to take her on as his apprentice. Under Chauliac's tutelage she hones her skills as a healer, combining her knowledge of folk medicine with anatomy, astrology, and surgical techniques.
Then, two pieces of earth-shattering news: the Black Death has made landfall in Europe, and the disgraced Queen Joanna is coming to Avignon to stand trial for her husband's murder. She is pregnant and in need of a midwife, a role only Elea can fill.
The queen's childbirth approaches as the plague spreads like wildfire, leaving half the city dead in its wake. The people of Avignon grow desperate for a scapegoat and a group of religious heretics launch a witch hunt, one that could cost Elea—an intelligent, talented, unwed woman—everything.
"A powerful 14th-century pope dropping trou in front of an unknown teenage girl more than strains credibility, and the plot takes more improbable twists as it progresses. There are some interesting minor characters and somber parallels between the effects of the plague and the violent social fractures it provokes in the 14th century and today, but the unlikely plot weakens the book. An implausible plot and main character keep this historical novel from taking off." —Kirkus Reviews
"Eleanore of Avignon is an ambitious historical novel, but debut novelist Elizabeth DeLozier gives the impression she's been at this for years. I found myself highlighting certain passages, studying the way DeLozier crafted her characters and their relationships with one another. The story's protagonist, Elea, immediately drew me in. She's tender yet fiercely loyal, and although the story takes place in another era, her perspective felt relatable and her struggles relevant to women today. Eleanore of Avignon is an impressive debut, sure to be loved by readers who also enjoy Maggie O'Farrell and Sarah Dunant." —Sarah Penner, New York Times bestselling author of The Lost Apothecary
"Emotionally riveting and exquisitely told, Eleanore of Avignon is an unforgettable exploration in story form of who we become when all that we love most hangs in the balance. A powerful and compelling debut. I loved it!" —Susan Meissner, USA Today bestselling author of Only the Beautiful
"A medieval French city. A terrible plague. And a woman born to heal against all odds. In her sumptuous debut novel author Elizabeth DeLozier's riveting and brilliant young hero is haunted by the beloved lives she could not save, and the many who turn to her in desperate need. With a twin sister whose heart is shattered, and forbidden knowledge and desires of her own, Eleanore of Avignon works alongside the most powerful doctor in all of France in a race against time and a battle against an invincible foe. Twenty-first century readers will be astounded at how little has changed since the Bubonic Plague spread fear, suspicion, political battles, and scientific doubts more than six hundred years ago. We will not soon forget the mysteries and heartfelt bonds that thread through this book, nor the terrible threats that Eleanore strains beneath and works to hide. To be a healer, Eleanore of Avignon risks her own life and the lives of those she loves. Hers is spellbinding story for the ages." —Laurie Lico Albanese, author of Hester
This information about Eleanore of Avignon was first featured
in "The BookBrowse Review" - BookBrowse's membership magazine, and in our weekly "Publishing This Week" newsletter. Publication information is for the USA, and (unless stated otherwise) represents the first print edition. The reviews are necessarily limited to those that were available to us ahead of publication. If you are the publisher or author and feel that they do not properly reflect the range of media opinion now available, send us a message with the mainstream reviews that you would like to see added.
Any "Author Information" displayed below reflects the author's biography at the time this particular book was published.
Elizabeth DeLozier holds a BA in Spanish literature, a BS in biological anthropology, and a doctorate in physical therapy. An avid traveler, animal lover, and history nerd, she lives in Southern California with her husband, twin sons, and rescue dogs. Eleanore of Avignon is her debut novel.
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