In the Falcon's Claw: A Novel of the Year 1000

by Chet Raymo

In the year 998 A.D., the Apocalypse is believed imminent. Strengthened by a fearful and superstitious populace, the Church is seeking to harness a decaying Holy Roman Empire by asserting its absolute authority in interpreting the will of God. Aileran, a monk perceived as saintly, takes issue with the Church and is accused of heresy. Based on real events, places, and people, In the Falcon's Claw magically evokes the political and pastoral landscapes of tenth-century while exploring love, friendship and timeless spiritual and religious questions.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

236 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1995

About the author

Chet Raymo (born September 17, 1936 in Chattanooga, Tennessee) is a noted writer, educator and naturalist. He is Professor Emeritus of Physics at Stonehill College, in Easton, Massachusetts. His weekly newspaper column Science Musings appeared in the Boston Globe for twenty years, and his musings can still be read online at www.sciencemusings.com.

His most famous book was the novel entitled The Dork of Cork, and was made into the feature length film Frankie Starlight. Raymo is also the author of Walking Zero, a scientific and historical account of his wanderings along the Prime Meridian in Great Britain.

Raymo was the recipient of the 1998 Lannan Literary Award for his Nonfiction work.

Reviews

[Emmett · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the Falcon’s Claw is very well-written, but that’s not a surprise, given that I remember loving every bit of Chet Raymo’s novel Valentine. Although it seems the majority of his works are non-fiction, after reading two different fictional novels by Raymo, I can say that he writes great historical fiction and should probably be better known for it.

Although the novel was short, all of the characters were distinct and likable and even though the majority of the story was recalled by the main character, Aileran, in letters, it still managed to come off as a sweeping, complex tale. At its core, it’s a story of one man’s struggle with the institution of his religious faith and his deep love for a woman he is forbidden to act upon, but Raymo manages to interweave countless other themes throughout the novel. Anyone interested in the time period, historical fiction in general, or just excellent writing should pick this one up and give it a try!

[Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another page turner ... for mature readers ... the story of 2 monks who are best friends ... one becomes Pope Sylvester II and the other is found guilty of heresy by the Inquisitors of the Scared Tribunal of the Holy Office. I grew fond of the Lady Melisande. The story begins on Skellig Michael, County Kerry, Ireland. "There is but one miracle, my gentle instructor had said and that one miracle is the Creation." "He was a sparrow caught in the falcon's claw ... torn between heaven and earth ... between the desire for love and the fear of it." I found it helpful to re-read the first three pages after I finished the book. Enjoy!

[Alan Michael Wilt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical fiction that says as much about the year 2000 as it does the year 1000.