Sharratt, Mary

Recommended for readers who like the peaks and valleys of nonstop drama and much flowery talk about art, awakenings, seduction, and heartbreak.

In her latest novel (after Illuminations), Sharratt delivers an immersive narrative of doomed romance. Certain plot and character choices may annoy Shakespeare purists though. Readers of Philippa Gregory and the like are sure to enjoy. [For another novel about Shakespeare's famous "Dark Lady," see Sally O'Reilly's Dark Aemilia.—Ed.]

This highly religious audiobook will appeal largely to listeners who wish to learn more about this newly canonized saint as well as those interested in the medieval church. ["Interest in Hildegard will likely increase this year following her long-overdue canonization and receipt of the title "Doctor of the Church…." Sharratt's well-timed and well-written portrait, both admiring and humanizing, should please readers looking for an accessible way to learn more about the life of this fascinating medieval woman," read the review of the Houghton Harcourt hc, LJ 8/12.—Ed.] [See also the review of the DVD Hildegard of Bingen and the Living Light, p. 54.]

Interest in Hildegard will likely increase this year following her long-overdue canonization in May and receipt of the title "Doctor of the Church" this coming October. Sharratt's well-timed and well-written portrait, both admiring and humanizing, should please readers looking for an accessible way to learn more about the life of this fascinating medieval woman. [See Prepub Alert, 4/23/12.]