The Shepherdess: The Story of St. Germaine Cousin

by Andie Andrews

2024 Catholic Media Association Book Award Winner. @The Shepherdess was inspired by the brief life of St. Germaine Cousin of Pibrac as illuminated by Catholic history and tradition. An isolated and abused child stricken with an incurable, disfiguring disease, she became a shepherdess and radiant model of patience, humility, faith and fortitude — as well as the patroness of those suffering from abandonment, abuse, disability, or poverty. In a world plagued by the evils of human trafficking, St. Germaine is a serviceable saint for our times.

Written by a modern-day shepherdess, some names, characters, details, and events have been novelized as a means of presenting St. Germaine's story with heart and imagination while remaining faithful to the essence of her biography and heroic journey to sainthood.

Whether you're at home in the flock — or one who's wandering or lost — let St. Germaine lead you closer to the heart of Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

67 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 6, 2023

Reviews

[Karen J · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an interesting short story about St. Germaine Cousin. I knew nothing about St Germaine prior to reading this. I am not sure how much of the story is based on truth and how much is fictionalized. Germaine had a disease that her family didn't understand and so they banished her to the barn and tending the sheep. I found the story to be very much like Cinderella. She had an evil stepmother and 2 stepsisters and a father who did everything his wife wanted. Germaine found peace with her sheep and with going to church. She devoted her short life to God and found the good in her life. She died young - in her early 20's. She always gave of her own food to the poor, even if she never had enough for herself.

[Nancy Houlihan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Couldn't be More Catholic

St Germaine is a representative of the many suffering children of this world. Often those that suffer most have the most to give to others out of their own poverty. While my Protestant heart finds this story just a bit over the top, I am inspired by the many people who are called to witness to the love of God out of their own challenges and heartaches. Suffering does have meaning, although the world denies it. A quick but worthwhile meditation.

[Darlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first book completed in 2024. Beautifully and creatively written. I had never heard of St. Germaine Cousin and I’m so happy to have her story. Thank you, Andie Andrews, for this short yet captivating book.

[Jess Conley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not what I expected

I wish I was more interested in catholicism and their saints. I just can't bring myself to focus. There was nothing in this story that excited me or piqued my interest. 3 stars because I think it's more on me that this book wasn't entertaining.

[Amy Chavez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful book about the life of St. Germaine!