BookBrowse Reviews Holy Fools by Joanne Harris

Novel set in the 17th century by the author of Chocolat

From the book jacket: In the year 1605, a young widow, pregnant and alone, seeks sanctuary at the small Abbey of Sainte Marie-de-la-mer on the island of Noirs Moustiers off the Brittany coast. After the birth of her daughter, she takes up the veil, and a new name, Soeur Auguste. However, her peace is shattered when five years later a new abbess arrives with her 'personal confessor and spiritual guide', a man Soeur Auguste fears more than any other. To protect herself and her beloved child she'll have to perform one last act of dazzling daring more audacious than any she has previously attempted.

"Harris adds spicy characterizations, tart dark humor and seductively pungent prose, and poses some provocative questions...Readers looking for another Chocolat will be disappointed, but those who appreciate Harris's storytelling skills and enjoy fiction with a gothic twist will love this. - Publishers Weekly.

'A cleverly structured drama populated with timelessly colorful characters, this is sure to be a hit with the author's wide community of readers. Highly recommended.' - Library Journal.

This review first ran in the May 18, 2005 issue of BookBrowse Recommends.