A Tale of Two Maidens: A Novel

by Anne Echols

Fifteen-year-old Felise, an apprentice scribe in medieval France, is in a desperate situation. She yearns to find a way to become a writer and a book shop owner, but in order to achieve her dreams she must first escape from her cruel guardian, who is plotting an arranged marriage for her.

As the Hundred Years’ War rages all around Felise, Joan of Arc blazes into history, claiming God-given powers to set France free from English control. Her courage inspires Felise to run away, but every day of the journey that follows draws the young scribe further into the underbelly of a world she has never known―a world of burning villages and terrified peasants left behind in the path of war. She soon encounters a young man from home who begins to pursue her, and she is drawn to him despite her quest for freedom and distrust of men. But following after the army, she meets Joan face to face, and finds herself torn between her heroine’s single-minded sense of purpose and her own desire for love and personal fulfillment.

A Tale of Two Maidens brings to life the story of an ordinary medieval girl on an extraordinary adventure―one that will require her to dig within herself to claim her own true, independent, and heroic destiny.

Genres: Historical Fiction, France, Young Adult, Medieval, Feminism, Adventure, Historical

256 pages, Paperback

First published March 19, 2013

About the author

Anne Echols has co-authored two non-fiction books about women in the Middle Ages: Between Pit and Pedestal: Women in the Middle Ages and An Annotated Index of Medieval Women. A Tale of Two Maidens is her first historical fiction.
Anne has two grown children, Melissa and Jarrett. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband Russ, her mother Patricia and her muse, grand-dog Toby.

You can contact Anne through her author page on facebook or on twitter @annesechols.

Reviews

[Annette · Rating 3 out of 5]

“After nearly one hundred years of fighting, the English kings had finally achieved their goal of ruling our country, thus combining England and France into one kingdom.” Everyone is talking about this Maid Jeanne de Domremy, who is waiting for the Dauphin’s approval to lead his army into battle.

“Dauphin Charles is the rightful heir to the French throne. The English had placed their own false king on the throne, with the help of their French allies the Burgundians. These nobles were cousins of the royal family, but were estranged from them because of a bloody struggle for power. By joining forces, the English and the Burgundians had captured most of the Dauphin’s lands in the northern part of France.” Everyone is yearning for this Maid to bring victory and end the war.

Trajes, France, 1429: Felsie is 15 years old. She and her sister work at their cloth shop. Felsie is skillful in creating garments and hoping for recommendations to the ladies-in-waiting.

As a child she was taught how to write and she fell in love with coping letter by letter, page by page. She knew then that she wanted to become a scribe. Now she gets a chance and becomes an apprentice at a bookshop. As she copies a book, she learns that it was written by a Lady. Now, she dreams of becoming such person.

The time period is presented fairly interesting, but the prose is pretty simple. I know this book is meant for YA, but I’ve read other books in this genre and the prose could be spiced a bit. Also, the way the story progresses, some events raise an eyebrow, sounding not believable.

@FB/BestHistoricalFiction

[Charlene Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author was Olivia's history/English teacher last year. I really enjoyed the book.

[Kristen McDermott · Rating 3 out of 5]

My review of this book appears in the February 2017 edition of Historical Novels Review:
The history of Jehanne la Pucelle, or Joan of Arc, is often told, but Echols has chosen a fresh perspective in her narrator, a brave apprentice scribe who follows The Maid’s fortunes across France during the two-year rebellion she led against the combined forces of Burgundy and England at the outset of the Hundred Years’ War. After the death of her beloved older sister, Felise struggles to hold on to her commitment to a life as a femme sole, a professional woman making her own way in the world. Her long-absent father’s shady business dealings leave her vulnerable to fortune hunters and extortionists, so she takes on a boy’s disguise and escapes to find shelter as a scribe to Joan and the Dauphin. Joan is rendered compellingly, as Felise’s own romantic illusions about the young visionary come up against the ruthlessness with which The Maid sacrifices men and women to her cause. Most of the remaining characters are thinly drawn, many of Felise’s adventures and escapes rely heavily on coincidence and luck, and her thoughts fit the mold a little too neatly of the “plucky” romantic heroine. However, Echols’ historical details are seamlessly worked into the narrative, and the pace carries the reader along in spite of the less-than-compelling inner lives of the characters.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from Goodreads giveaways. Historical fiction of the Hundred Years' War with Joan of Arc (Jeanne in this book) and a teenage girl and how their lives intertwine. Interesting.

[Maya · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5 stars. 15 year old Felise lives alone in her home in Troyes, France with her sister Ameline and her aunt Charlotte. Her father has left them to fend for themselves, laden with his debt from gambling. Felise quickly learns she must find her own way in the world as she sets out to escape the moneylenders. She runs into Jeanne (Joan of Arc) and her army marching to retake France in the name of Charles the Dauphin. Anne Echols has written a wonderful story of a young girl growing into womanhood and attempting to claim independence at the same time. I loved Felise’s dedication to becoming a Femme Sole and staying true to her calling as a scribe. The pure dedication Echols put into the creation of this novel is absolutely shown through her attention to detail and historical accuracy. I felt I learned so much about the war, Joan of Arc, and life in 1429 France. The hidden gem of this novel is the disability representation through Felise and Charlotte’s relationship. It moved me to tears several times. I also felt the creation of Jeanne’s character past her identity as an historical figure was masterfully put together. The cracks in her strong foundation resonated quite a bit with me. Although Felise and the tanner’s relationship had a satisfying ending, the middle was a bit tedious at times. Some of the character arcs also left a bit to be desired. I was also frustrated by the quick forgiveness Felise grants her father despite him being unworthy of it. All in all, I liked the book and feel Anne Echols has created something to be proud of.

[Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great first novel!

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book. Felt like I was right there beside the girls! Inspirational! Adventuresome! Intriguing! Emotional! Took me back to a time that I haven't explored...and now I want more.

[RjS · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author’s depth of knowledge of this period is artfully shown and is interwoven into the story with a light touch that is interesting but doesn’t interrupt the flow. I loved that aspect of the book.

The story itself was engaging, it had pace and some suspense, but the delineation of the characters seemed rather flat. Even the main female character, who has the biggest development arc, seemed stereotyped.

Edit: Having read other reviews I’ve learnt it is a book aimed at the YA audience so I can see it being an interesting gateway to medieval times for them.

[Kaylee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anne Echols has created a book that makes you wish that all the characters were real and that you could go back to the hundred years' war. I loved reading this book because I find that I can sometimes relate to both Felise and Jeanne. I was transported into the middle ages and the hundred years' war. Anne's writing has taught me that anything can happen and when something does happen its for the better. I loved everything about this book and can't wait for more. Like Felise says "I've been ready for a long time." I have read this book far more times then I have counted and I will rereading this book for however long it takes me to stop. Anne Echols makes me want to read more books on France and England. This is a good book for everyone of all ages (many people who love history and adventure). So Anne Echols keep writing books like these and I'll keep reading them.

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delightful characters surround the historic tale of Joan of Arc from the perspective of Felise, a courageous and adventurous young woman determined to remain a 'femme sole'. She finds her courage as she leaves home and family to find her place in the periphery of the battles of the One Hundred Years wars. Wonderfully written compelling storyline.

[Vickie Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Anne Echols may have written “A Tale of Two Maidens” for young people, her writing style makes her an author for all ages. Echols knows how to put a fearless, fictional character within an historical tale about Joan of Arc, and make both stories come to life. Her engaging sentences shine a light on the period’s political factions, places and passionate events. Echols also delights with her historical knowledge of the smallest of details, as her young character is forced to deal with larger complexities and decisions beyond her years. Memorable book.

I’m so looking forward to Anne’s sequel, “Labyrinth of the Spirit”!

[Nancy Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book by Anne Echols is a richly textured historical novel that immerses the reader in a compelling story that reveals what life must have been like for many women and girls in medieval France during the Hundred Years' War between England and France over succession to the French throne. In this coming-of-age story, we see young Felise rise to meet challenge after challenge after she loses cherished family members and home during the tumult of war. We also see how Felise is influenced by the people and political forces around her, including the charismatic Joan of Arc. I look forward to following Felise's life journey in the sequel.

[Heather-nicole Craven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forget page turner; "A Tale of Two Maidens" is a chapter turner. Repeatedly, I told myself that I would read just one more chapter before I went on about my day. Things did not turn out as I had planned. From the moment I was introduced to the book's lovable and courageous heroine Felise, I was hooked. I was dying for answers to questions I dare not mention here as I do not want to spoil the story. Just take it from me, you might as well plan to block out a day or two of your life to reading this book because once you start, you won't be able to put it down.

[Marcella Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great read. The main character, a teenage French girl, Felise, is a contemporary of Joan of Arc. Through a series of plot twists, Felise meets and serves Joan in her effort to put the Dauphin of France back on the throne. Rich in historic details and depictions of everyday life and occupations (e.g., scribes, healers, merchants, tanners, soldiers, people associated with the church, etc.), this book gives readers a deeper understanding of 15th century France. The characters and story (which includes an arranged marriage) were varied, intriguing and believable

[Diana Mauriello · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would think historical fiction would be the most difficult genre to write, but Anne Echols does a fantastic job here. The target audience may be for young adults, but everyone enjoys a great story and this one does not disappoint. Set in France during the time of Joan of Arc, the lead female character is strong, independent and courageous, providing a wonderful role model for young women today. I loved this book!

[Dawn FC · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book - both historically oriented, and a uniquely youthful (young teen) perspective. The main character has a remarkably strong sense of self that guides her along the way during a turbulent time in history. The parallel story of the rise and the sad fall of Joan of Arc, the artfully descriptive narratives of the village and town life with the overarching history all interweave beautifully to create a vivid story.

[Kim Papastavridis · Rating 5 out of 5]

In A Tale of Two Maidens by Anne Echols, timeless themes play out in medieval France, where characters and their pursuits spring to life in true-to-period visual richness. All that the protagonist Felise loves: home, family, God, and country are at stake. While her breathtaking actions are not beyond the pale for her time, she makes the extraordinary happen in her ordinary life. This novel is a thoroughly relatable page-turner and a delight for anyone who enjoys the triumph of the spirit.

[Sandy Kleinman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A triumph! Anne has woven together parallel journeys of bravery and self-discovery. Her keen understanding of the middle ages serves as the backdrop of a piece that evokes empathy and admiration for its central character. What better way to experience history than through the eyes of those who lived it and challenged it! The book is a page-turner for all readers, and we end in anticipation of Labyrinth of the Spirit. I, for one, can't wait to join Felise as her life journey continues.

[Reader]

Admittedly, I am not at all an expert on French History. This book enabled me to make connections to this historical period. The story draws you into the difficult time through the perspective of the main character, a young French girl. The detailed, descriptive writing is vivid and gives the reader a chance to understand the historical setting while becoming involved in the story. The inspirational young girl and her journey allows for rich discussion whether in a book club or classroom.

[Patti Schropp · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a prolific reader and member of a book group, I highly recommend A Tale of Two Maidens. I particularly like that the historical details about Joan of Arc are accurate at the same time as she is humanized. The main fictional character Felise seemed like a flesh and blood person to me.

Looking forward to the sequel as well!

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I found the characters very compelling and forged immediate connections with them. The plot line held many surprises while still giving a sense of living in the age of Joan of Arc. Can't wait for the latest release of Anne Echol's next book.

[Katie Smillie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. How many times have you wished there were more than cursory descriptions of what women in history thought, said and did? This book has vivid descriptions of the times, as well as the drama of the life of Joan of Arc. Great book.

[Deborrah Chapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a great read. Although I do not generally read historical fiction, this book caught my interest from the beginning. I love the parallels between the '2 maidens'. I would definitely read something else written by this author!

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here’s a wonderful story for women of all ages and especially teenagers. This novel has strong female characters and is a perfect blend of fiction and history. I enjoyed the moving portrayal of Joan of Arc. I can’t wait for the film version of this novel!

[Jemille Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

With Anne Echols' scholarship of two rigorously researched nonfiction tomes about women in the Middle Ages: An Annotated Index of Medieval Women and Between Pit and Pedestal: Women in the Middle Ages, I was confident that this was a novel that would not play fast and loose with facts.
The Hundred Years War, and most especially Joan of Arc, is a favorite period of mine, and I gravitate to fiction that is set in that time.
For, while I love good historical fiction, I like to believe I'm learning as I enjoy the story.
Joan of Arc has fascinated me since I was in the eighth grade, so I eagerly dove into A Tale of Two Maidens.
I enjoyed the juxtaposition of the fictional Felise, who was a de facto orphan who toiled as a scribe who yearned to be a writer in her own right.
The story takes us into the nitty-gritty of what it was to be a camp follower, and a young girl on the lam from evildoers. Of special interest was her tender solicitude of taking her mentally disabled aunt along, as she was sometimes too simple to understand the need for silence, and not speaking to strangers, lest they be found out.
We come to find that Felise is made with much the same mettle as Joan, as we follow Joan's story writ large and Felise's parallel story of the day-to-day lot of the 15th-century working class.
I am eagerly awaiting the sequel to this wonderful book!

[Patricia Hurd · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a middle/high school teacher I read many young adult novels. Anne Echols has created an exciting historical fiction novel that creates an adventurous, gritty world during the 100 Years War and the time of Joan of Arc. She allows the reader to experience this world through the eyes of Felise, a fifteen year old girl who is taking care of her mentally challenged sister after her mother and sister have died. Her sorrow is compounded with fear as her father's creditors are threatening her, and her guardian is setting up an arranged marriage with a much older man. She has experienced loss, betrayal, and talk of war surrounds her. Felise ponders the character of Joan of Arc and is inspired to find her own hidden courage, escaping with her sister and following her unknown path.
The work world of scribes, merchants and healers are brought to life in this adventurous tale, as well as the horrors and brutality of war. Felise is a believable character the reader can relate to. The added bonus is learning a bit of history.

[Susan Giles · Rating 5 out of 5]

With distinct sensory details, a protagonist's internal conflict that is as equally compelling as the novel's well-paced plot, and thoroughly researched historical specifics, Echols accomplishes transporting the modern reader to the Europe of centuries ago. While the style is reminiscent of Tracy Chevalier's in Girl with a Pearl Earring, the prose is also accessible and appropriate for a young adult audience without being patronizing. Felise is a relatable and fascinating narrator, similar to Mattie Cook in Laurie Halse Anderson's Fever 1793, and the sophisticated diction is executed in a comprehensible context. As a high school English teacher, I would recommend this novel to seventh grade through adult readers, for it provides an effective springboard for contemplating and discussing gender issues, as well as the opportunity to experience not only the drama but also the commonplace existence of fifteenth-century France. Wonderful summer read!

[Kathryn Legan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book. The story is riveting. The characters are compelling and believable, and the writing is lively, warm-hearted and lyrical. It works well as a young adult novel and for adults. I gave it to a male friend who rarely reads novels and he loved it! I really enjoy historical fiction and this novel does not disappoint. It is well-researched and convincing. It is also inspiring, a quality that is often missing in modern fiction. There's also a very satisfying love story. I highly recommend it! . Can't wait for the sequel which I understand will be published soon.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful read! I came away with additional knowledge of Joan of Arc and how she became a force to be reckoned with during the 15th century. "A Tale of Two Maidens" takes you on an adventure with the protagonist, Felise, who must flee her home to avoid being confronted by moneylenders. She leaves all that is familiar only to discover that she knows how to survive. Her path crosses with Joan of Arc where Felise becomes an ardent fan.
Anne knows how to stitch together several storylines in this beautiful historical fiction. A great read!

[P Griffin]

Echols has a talent for storytelling. She brings an old story--that everyone thinks they know but no one can really remember--sharply into focus by placing a relatable teenager as the protagonist. The end of each chapter had me eager to begin the next. Knowing that Echols had meticulously researched the historical facts markedly increased my pleasure and my joy in learning. The book seems perfect for making medieval history relevant and exciting for YA readers.