World Between Worlds: A Novel Based on the Early Life of Caterina, the Mystic of Siena

by Jenny duBay

World Between Worlds is Jenny duBay’s unforgettable story of one of the Church’s most dynamic saints, Catherine of Siena. Set in the tumultuous fourteenth century, World Between Worlds takes readers on a journey across the landscape of medieval Tuscany, through the eyes of a mystic who is entangled in political chaos, social upheaval, and spiritual awakening.

Ever since she experienced her first vision at the age of six, Caterina di Giacomo of Siena has been prone to mystical insights and spiritual revelations, yet the chaotic world around her isn’t tolerant of her supernatural inclinations. Her unconventional lifestyle, her ability to foretell future events, and her unnatural wisdom are suspect in the eyes of many. Women in fourteenth century Tuscany have only two choices in life—marriage or the convent. Caterina defiantly refuses both to follow her own path, an independent lifestyle no woman before her dared attempt. Amid the struggles to follow her inner path, Caterina— who has been blessed with the prophetic grace to help heal afflicted and struggling souls— finds the outside world is frazzled with political instability, city-wide bloodshed, and a Church in disarray.

Following St. Catherine’s early life, from mystical seclusion to her budding influence within the spiritual and social circles of her day, World Between Worlds is a novel of turmoil and redemption.

503 pages, Paperback

Published April 10, 2025

About the author

Jenny duBay is both a fiction and non-fiction author, with specialties in the medieval mystics as well as trauma recovery. She writes for a variety of online and print publications, and is the foundress of Create Soul Space, a Catholic blog designed to cultivate awareness of—and healing from—domestic abuse. In addition to writing, Jenny is a trauma-informed Christian life coach, certified Deconstructing Gaslighting Specialist (C-DGS), and a certified narcissistic abuse specialist. She earned her degree in Catholic theology from Catholic International University and is an alumni of Holy Apostles College and Seminary, with a major in pastoral care and spiritual direction. Jenny lives with her family on the beautiful coast of Maine.

Reviews

[Ellen Kolb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an outstanding book that does its subject justice. While this is historical fiction about the woman we now know as Catherine of Siena, it is firmly grounded in her real letters and Dialogues. Jenny duBay has crafted a beautifully written tale about a true mystic devoted to God who was surrounded by a tumultuous society and skeptical neighbors. The book drew me in from the first chapter.

I received an advance review copy of this book.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jenny’s writing is beautiful and delightful.. I feel like I’m being transported to the 14th century with all its medieval scents and mysteries.. ENJOY!!