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Divine Heretic
Everyone knows the story of Joan of Arc, a peasant girl who put Charles VII on the throne and spearheaded France's victory over Britain before being burned by the English as a heretic and witch.
But things are not always as they appear.
Jeanne d'Arc was only five when three angels and saints first came to her. Shrouded by a halo of heavenly light, she believed their claim to be holy. The Archangel Michael and Saint Margaret told her she was the foretold Warrior Maid of Lorraine, fated to free France and put a king upon his throne.
Saint Catherine made her promise to obey their commands and embrace her destiny; the three saints would guide her every step. Jeanne bound herself to these creatures without knowing what she'd done. As she got older, Jeanne grew to mistrust and fear the voices, and they didn't hesitate to punish her cruelly for disobedience. She quickly learned that their cherished prophecy was more important than the girl expected to make it come true.
Jeanne is only a shepherd's daughter, not the Warrior Maid of the prophecy, but she is stubborn and rebellious, and finds ways to avoid doing - and being - what these creatures want. Resistance has a terrifying price, but Jeanne is determined to fight for the life she wants.
But when the cost grows too high, Jeanne will risk everything to save her brother, her one true friend and the man she loves.
Not everyone is destined to be a hero. Sometimes you have no choice.
But things are not always as they appear.
Jeanne d'Arc was only five when three angels and saints first came to her. Shrouded by a halo of heavenly light, she believed their claim to be holy. The Archangel Michael and Saint Margaret told her she was the foretold Warrior Maid of Lorraine, fated to free France and put a king upon his throne.
Saint Catherine made her promise to obey their commands and embrace her destiny; the three saints would guide her every step. Jeanne bound herself to these creatures without knowing what she'd done. As she got older, Jeanne grew to mistrust and fear the voices, and they didn't hesitate to punish her cruelly for disobedience. She quickly learned that their cherished prophecy was more important than the girl expected to make it come true.
Jeanne is only a shepherd's daughter, not the Warrior Maid of the prophecy, but she is stubborn and rebellious, and finds ways to avoid doing - and being - what these creatures want. Resistance has a terrifying price, but Jeanne is determined to fight for the life she wants.
But when the cost grows too high, Jeanne will risk everything to save her brother, her one true friend and the man she loves.
Not everyone is destined to be a hero. Sometimes you have no choice.
400 pages, Paperback
First published August 20, 2020
8 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
About the author
Jaime Lee Moyer
25 books209 followersJaime Lee Moyer writes fantasy and science fiction, herds cats, is an occasional poet, and maker of tangible things. Her first novel, Delia's Shadow, was published by Tor Books, and won the 2009 Literary Award for Fiction, administrated by Thurber House and funded by the Columbus Arts Council. Two sequels, A Barricade In Hell and Against A Brightening Sky, were also published by Tor. Her new novel, Brightfall, will be out from Jo Fletcher Books on September 5, 2019.
She writes a lot. She reads as much as she can.
You can find Jaime on Twitter:
Follow
@jaimeleemoyer
She writes a lot. She reads as much as she can.
You can find Jaime on Twitter:
Follow
@jaimeleemoyer
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 1, 2021
Ahoy there me mateys! I received this historical fantasy eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. So here be me honest musings . . .
The cover drew me in, I have heard good things about the author, and I have always been intrigued by the story of Jeanne d'Arc. This was a quick read with a fun premise but ultimately rather forgettable with some substantial differences of the "history" that really irked me.
This version tells the story of Jeanne d'Arc from of the perspective of her believing that the divine inspiration wasn't angels but rather evil beings and that she had no choice but to eventually succumb to their demands. Cool.
Not so cool is how the author chose to make it a bad romance. She didn't explain why the evil beings wanted Charles on the throne, added in a Moorish husband for Jeanne, and gave it a happily ever after. What? Umm burned at the stake? Jeanne also has no agency or spunk and is rather boring. Men run her life. Rape is a subplot as an excuse to get her to leave her village. The demons threaten with no real logic or skill.
With all that fascinating history and myth to draw from, the author somehow manages to make a Jeanne D'Arc story where not much happens and where the events that do are rather nonsensical. She doesn't even use the traditional timelines or bare bones of the historical record. This novel fails on both a historical history front and the fantasy front. So it must walk the plank! Arrr!
So lastly . . .
Thank you Quercus Books!
The cover drew me in, I have heard good things about the author, and I have always been intrigued by the story of Jeanne d'Arc. This was a quick read with a fun premise but ultimately rather forgettable with some substantial differences of the "history" that really irked me.
This version tells the story of Jeanne d'Arc from of the perspective of her believing that the divine inspiration wasn't angels but rather evil beings and that she had no choice but to eventually succumb to their demands. Cool.
Not so cool is how the author chose to make it a bad romance. She didn't explain why the evil beings wanted Charles on the throne, added in a Moorish husband for Jeanne, and gave it a happily ever after. What? Umm burned at the stake? Jeanne also has no agency or spunk and is rather boring. Men run her life. Rape is a subplot as an excuse to get her to leave her village. The demons threaten with no real logic or skill.
With all that fascinating history and myth to draw from, the author somehow manages to make a Jeanne D'Arc story where not much happens and where the events that do are rather nonsensical. She doesn't even use the traditional timelines or bare bones of the historical record. This novel fails on both a historical history front and the fantasy front. So it must walk the plank! Arrr!
So lastly . . .
Thank you Quercus Books!
Read
August 28, 2020Spoilery discussion ahead.
This is quite a violent book, evoking in strong, vivid prose the violence of men against men, violence against women, violence against animals. But it depicts a violent time, when French and English lords ripped back and forth across the French countryside as the English tried to establish their control over ground that their Norman ancestors came from, and the French tried to defend it.
The strongest part of the book is Jeanne herself. The narrative voice is firmly on Jeanne's side, which kept me reading. I was totally ready for a fix-it retelling of Jeanne's story, and I got what I wanted. Jeanne holds onto her faith all the way--her faith in God as well as in the bonds of her family. I really rooted for this Jeanne.
Less strong, perhaps, were other elements. Jeanne is sure from the gitgo that these mysterious figures bathed in light who appear and insist that she is the Maid, that she has a great destiny, are not angels. Though a peasant girl, she's got a native intelligence that was bracing to see. Any peasant girl of that time, hearing the sound of lord and horses, knows that it never means any good, no matter whose side they are on, and Moyer conveys a sense of that here.
The mysterious figures remain somewhat diffuse, and the villains are pretty two-dimensional. Which really works if you want to read a book to cheer on Jeanne d'Arc. It's a long book, but the pages turn fast, the adventures keep coming, and Jeanne herself is a delight. Moyer's prose is vivid and her sense of pacing is assured.
copy provided by publisher
This is quite a violent book, evoking in strong, vivid prose the violence of men against men, violence against women, violence against animals. But it depicts a violent time, when French and English lords ripped back and forth across the French countryside as the English tried to establish their control over ground that their Norman ancestors came from, and the French tried to defend it.
The strongest part of the book is Jeanne herself. The narrative voice is firmly on Jeanne's side, which kept me reading. I was totally ready for a fix-it retelling of Jeanne's story, and I got what I wanted. Jeanne holds onto her faith all the way--her faith in God as well as in the bonds of her family. I really rooted for this Jeanne.
Less strong, perhaps, were other elements. Jeanne is sure from the gitgo that these mysterious figures bathed in light who appear and insist that she is the Maid, that she has a great destiny, are not angels. Though a peasant girl, she's got a native intelligence that was bracing to see. Any peasant girl of that time, hearing the sound of lord and horses, knows that it never means any good, no matter whose side they are on, and Moyer conveys a sense of that here.
The mysterious figures remain somewhat diffuse, and the villains are pretty two-dimensional. Which really works if you want to read a book to cheer on Jeanne d'Arc. It's a long book, but the pages turn fast, the adventures keep coming, and Jeanne herself is a delight. Moyer's prose is vivid and her sense of pacing is assured.
copy provided by publisher
August 22, 2020
I was a bit hesitant, because come on, Joanne d'Arc, that wont end well! But, it blew me away and at the end I was happy. It was perfectly told.
The writing was light, and suddenly I was at page 100. The pages really flew away, and this is more the origin story of hers.
She is a shepherd's daughter. The English are roaming the countryside, and she gets visions early on. And it was so well done because who are those that come to her? Angels? Demons? Or the Fae? Why do they come to her? And why are they such utter bastards? They say she is destined to free France, and it can only be her, if she refuse they will hurt her. Yes,they were bastards. I liked seeing her growing up because it shaped her. I did wonder where the whole La Pucelle thing would come in, but I did not mind, I liked actually getting to know Joanne. To see a real person behind the story.
It was not what I expected, I guess I thought a war heavy historical. Instead I got a lighter growing up story, and giving up to the fate trusted upon her. I liked the side characters as her brother, and Ethan. You will see.
And I liked how it ended too. I was glad to have read it, and I did finish it in a day (it helped that I was home with a sick kid so I could read all day)
I'd say definitely read it, it is not what you expect it to be
The writing was light, and suddenly I was at page 100. The pages really flew away, and this is more the origin story of hers.
She is a shepherd's daughter. The English are roaming the countryside, and she gets visions early on. And it was so well done because who are those that come to her? Angels? Demons? Or the Fae? Why do they come to her? And why are they such utter bastards? They say she is destined to free France, and it can only be her, if she refuse they will hurt her. Yes,they were bastards. I liked seeing her growing up because it shaped her. I did wonder where the whole La Pucelle thing would come in, but I did not mind, I liked actually getting to know Joanne. To see a real person behind the story.
It was not what I expected, I guess I thought a war heavy historical. Instead I got a lighter growing up story, and giving up to the fate trusted upon her. I liked the side characters as her brother, and Ethan. You will see.
And I liked how it ended too. I was glad to have read it, and I did finish it in a day (it helped that I was home with a sick kid so I could read all day)
I'd say definitely read it, it is not what you expect it to be
August 20, 2020
Jaime Lee Moyer has consistently published books that touch me profoundly, and this one is no different.
I approached Divine Heretic with some trepidation, since it's based on the story of Joan of Arc, and, well, as an emotional reader currently seeking solace, I wasn't sure I could handle that story right now.
Well.
This novel is an act of rebellion against the trauma that we experience that threatens to drag us down if we let go of the things that matter too easily.
It turns out, a book about resilience, about found family and holding onto the things and people you love, about finding joy in the little moments, and a book about understanding that courage means doing the thing anyway because you know what is right, no matter how scary, is exactly what I needed right now.
The well-known historical ending was tweaked in ways that work really, really well and aren't nearly as disheartening as the historical record.
Strongly recommended.
Content warning: there is attempted rape in this book; it is handled as the traumatic thing that it is.
I approached Divine Heretic with some trepidation, since it's based on the story of Joan of Arc, and, well, as an emotional reader currently seeking solace, I wasn't sure I could handle that story right now.
Well.
This novel is an act of rebellion against the trauma that we experience that threatens to drag us down if we let go of the things that matter too easily.
It turns out, a book about resilience, about found family and holding onto the things and people you love, about finding joy in the little moments, and a book about understanding that courage means doing the thing anyway because you know what is right, no matter how scary, is exactly what I needed right now.
The well-known historical ending was tweaked in ways that work really, really well and aren't nearly as disheartening as the historical record.
Strongly recommended.
Content warning: there is attempted rape in this book; it is handled as the traumatic thing that it is.
July 26, 2020
Blurbed this with: "Divine Heretic rewrites Joan of Arc's life with heart and humanity, creating surprising new twists in the tale we all think we know."
To add to that, this book made me so darn ANXIOUS all the way through because I was in dread of the ending, but wow. Try to shove aside your expectations. Be ready for anything, and enjoy.
To add to that, this book made me so darn ANXIOUS all the way through because I was in dread of the ending, but wow. Try to shove aside your expectations. Be ready for anything, and enjoy.
August 26, 2020
‘Divine Heretic’ is the story of Jeanne d’Arc, more commonly known in the UK as Joan of Arc. Jeanne is a saint of the Roman Catholic church for her role in the Hundred Years War, a battle between the French and the English for dominion over France. Jeanne claimed to have visions of angels – specifically the Archangel Michael, Saint Margaret, and Saint Catherine – instructing her to support the incumbent King Charles VII in his quest to reclaim France. Her actions aided him in ascending to the throne, but she herself was captured by the English and burnt at the stake for witchcraft.
The book more or less follows the common story, but diverges on Jeanne’s opinion of the angels. Here, the angels are more like demons who plague her. It starts with their first visit, when Jeanne is five, and follows as they torment her, cursing her with pain and horror for her family until she agrees to carry out their will. They claim she is the fabled Maid, but Jeanne doesn’t believe herself to be the Maid – she’s just a peasant girl. As time passes, the control these demons have over Jeanne appears to wax and wane – but they’re determined to ensure she fulfils her destiny no matter what the cost.
Jeanne is an intriguing protagonist. She’s exceptionally devout, but equally sure that these beings are not divine. She’s a strong character with clear desires – even when she seems powerless to achieve them. Her life is regularly awful, and she hates the demons she blames this on with burning passion. There’s a certain level of detachment between her and the reader – this seems to be common in historical novels – which can make her hard to connect with, but it’s hard not to sympathise with her inability to control her own life.
Unfortunately, the secondary characters are particularly two-dimensional. Her Grand-mere is an intriguing character – chosen to be the Maid before Jeanne until circumstances prevented her from fulfilling her destiny – yet this thread, and the impacts on her character, are never explored. Jeanne’s sworn protector, Ethan, also has brilliant potential – mixed-race in an era and place where that’s uncommon, he’s a strong knight with a heart of gold. However, he’s reduced to the cardboard love interest, never doing anything for himself. This would be a much stronger story if anyone except Jeanne felt like a real person.
I enjoyed the plot – despite telling a well-known tale it maintained interest, with less predictable twists thrown in alongside the predictable ones. However, I disliked what was done with the ending. It felt unnecessary – after the darkness of the rest of the book, throwing in fluffiness felt trite.
I struggle with historical fiction more than many other genres because it’s often written in a very detached style, and I need to connect with the characters to really enjoy a story. This is no different. It’s well-written, but the impersonal nature of it lessens its appeal. Fans of historical fiction and plot-driven novels likely won’t mind this, or may even prefer it – but I want it to delve deeper.
Overall, this is a solid historical fiction novel about an interesting, well-known figure that takes a slightly different spin to what is often portrayed. Recommended to fans of historical fiction, especially Roman Catholic history, and strong female characters.
TW: Sexual assault, attempted rape of a minor.
The book more or less follows the common story, but diverges on Jeanne’s opinion of the angels. Here, the angels are more like demons who plague her. It starts with their first visit, when Jeanne is five, and follows as they torment her, cursing her with pain and horror for her family until she agrees to carry out their will. They claim she is the fabled Maid, but Jeanne doesn’t believe herself to be the Maid – she’s just a peasant girl. As time passes, the control these demons have over Jeanne appears to wax and wane – but they’re determined to ensure she fulfils her destiny no matter what the cost.
Jeanne is an intriguing protagonist. She’s exceptionally devout, but equally sure that these beings are not divine. She’s a strong character with clear desires – even when she seems powerless to achieve them. Her life is regularly awful, and she hates the demons she blames this on with burning passion. There’s a certain level of detachment between her and the reader – this seems to be common in historical novels – which can make her hard to connect with, but it’s hard not to sympathise with her inability to control her own life.
Unfortunately, the secondary characters are particularly two-dimensional. Her Grand-mere is an intriguing character – chosen to be the Maid before Jeanne until circumstances prevented her from fulfilling her destiny – yet this thread, and the impacts on her character, are never explored. Jeanne’s sworn protector, Ethan, also has brilliant potential – mixed-race in an era and place where that’s uncommon, he’s a strong knight with a heart of gold. However, he’s reduced to the cardboard love interest, never doing anything for himself. This would be a much stronger story if anyone except Jeanne felt like a real person.
I enjoyed the plot – despite telling a well-known tale it maintained interest, with less predictable twists thrown in alongside the predictable ones. However, I disliked what was done with the ending. It felt unnecessary – after the darkness of the rest of the book, throwing in fluffiness felt trite.
I struggle with historical fiction more than many other genres because it’s often written in a very detached style, and I need to connect with the characters to really enjoy a story. This is no different. It’s well-written, but the impersonal nature of it lessens its appeal. Fans of historical fiction and plot-driven novels likely won’t mind this, or may even prefer it – but I want it to delve deeper.
Overall, this is a solid historical fiction novel about an interesting, well-known figure that takes a slightly different spin to what is often portrayed. Recommended to fans of historical fiction, especially Roman Catholic history, and strong female characters.
TW: Sexual assault, attempted rape of a minor.
March 29, 2022
Incredibly violent and incredibly touching. I loved to hate this book and feeling like that makes me want to finish a book even if it leaves me with a book hangover. This work was no different. I think everyone can see a little Jeanne in themselves. I received this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2022
Absolutely loved it, it was a history nerds dream and if it weren't for the random lapse of time halfway through two of the chapters it would have been 5 stars! I just don't like it when in a single chapter it goes from something happening in one paragraph to the next paragraph randomly jumping way into the future!
February 18, 2021
Jeanne is destined to be the Maid of Lorraine, who will lead the Dauphin's Army against the English to liberate France.
Moyer's novel is poignant and flows easily, but there is a sense of missing detail, which frustrates somewhat.
Moyer's novel is poignant and flows easily, but there is a sense of missing detail, which frustrates somewhat.
October 28, 2020
Last September I read Jaime Lee Moyer’s brilliant reimagining of Maid Marian’s life, Brightfall. A year later and her latest novel explores the life of Jeanne d’Arc; from her humble beginnings to her key role in the history of France.
Like Brightfall, this is very much a character driven piece. Jeanne is at the centre of everything, all the action revolves squarely around her. Moyer does an excellent job of defining the shape of the conflict around, and also within Jeanne. On one hand, Jeanne is just a young woman who wants nothing more than to make her own decisions about her life. She just wants the opportunity to find her own path. As a counterpoint to that, the voices that have haunted her for years have far loftier goals. Jeanne’s divine friends seek to define the shape of nations. Throughout the narrative, there is always that constant juxtaposition between the ideas of destiny and choice.
While the internal battle consumes our heroine events around Jeanne also spiral out of control. France and England are in an increasingly bloody war and the French leaders require a symbol to ignite their nation’s patriotism. Can Jeanne act as a lightning rod who can stir the hearts of men?
One of the things I found most interesting and kept coming back to was the idea of the voices in Jeanne’s head. They are the key driver to many of Jeanne’s actions and reactions. It got me thinking about their nature. Are they angels as they claim to be, or harbingers of a more primal supernatural force? There is another argument that they could even be viewed as some by-product of Jeanne’s own damaged psyche. There is a level of ambiguity there that I like. The voice’s existence can be explained in a variety of ways, and each different interpretation will impact how any reader perceives the rest of the book.
There is a genuinely intimate quality to Divine Heretic I very much enjoyed. The idea that a single person shapes the direction of a nation, and the burden that power carries, is examined in a very unique way. I was left with a lot to mull over. Moyer’s novel covers a whole lot of ground; politics, religion, gender inequality are all explored within the bounds of Jeanne’s life.
Like Brightfall, this is very much a character driven piece. Jeanne is at the centre of everything, all the action revolves squarely around her. Moyer does an excellent job of defining the shape of the conflict around, and also within Jeanne. On one hand, Jeanne is just a young woman who wants nothing more than to make her own decisions about her life. She just wants the opportunity to find her own path. As a counterpoint to that, the voices that have haunted her for years have far loftier goals. Jeanne’s divine friends seek to define the shape of nations. Throughout the narrative, there is always that constant juxtaposition between the ideas of destiny and choice.
While the internal battle consumes our heroine events around Jeanne also spiral out of control. France and England are in an increasingly bloody war and the French leaders require a symbol to ignite their nation’s patriotism. Can Jeanne act as a lightning rod who can stir the hearts of men?
One of the things I found most interesting and kept coming back to was the idea of the voices in Jeanne’s head. They are the key driver to many of Jeanne’s actions and reactions. It got me thinking about their nature. Are they angels as they claim to be, or harbingers of a more primal supernatural force? There is another argument that they could even be viewed as some by-product of Jeanne’s own damaged psyche. There is a level of ambiguity there that I like. The voice’s existence can be explained in a variety of ways, and each different interpretation will impact how any reader perceives the rest of the book.
There is a genuinely intimate quality to Divine Heretic I very much enjoyed. The idea that a single person shapes the direction of a nation, and the burden that power carries, is examined in a very unique way. I was left with a lot to mull over. Moyer’s novel covers a whole lot of ground; politics, religion, gender inequality are all explored within the bounds of Jeanne’s life.
August 1, 2022
Divine Heretic tells the story of Jeanne d’Arc. It’s marketed as fantasy but reads more like historical fiction - yes, the angels that Jeanne hears are “real”, but they play a relatively small part in the story, and the prophecy that Jeanne will lead the French army to defeat the English is treated as just another story that the soldiers believe.
I did enjoy elements of this book. Divine Heretic is a thorough retelling of Jeanne’s life that fills in a lot of the gaps in her history, including the addition of a sweet romance between Jeanne and a Moorish mercenary, in which Jeanne is treated like an equal (a rarity in the 15th century).
But where it fell flat for me was that it never felt like there were any stakes. Jeanne longs to break free of her angels (oddly referred to as Fae despite having no faerie characteristics), but they also spend large parts of this book hovering in the background doing nothing or making empty threats. The Hundred Years’ War is raging, but the English enemy is largely in the background, and the majority of clashes between the two armies are over in a few sentences. And Jeanne is destined to see Charles crowned as King, but there is no background on French history or politics in this book, so it’s never really clear why this is such a big deal, or what it will mean for Jeanne to fail in her mission.
There are some interesting glimpses into what it’s like to be a woman in medieval Europe - the most terrifying villain in this story is actually the local priest who is hell bent on saving Jeanne from sin - but these are few and far between and often rely on sexual violence as the primary threat to Jeanne’s safety and personal agency.
I wish I could recommend this book more highly since the story of Joan of Arc is ripe with possibilities, but this version was a bit too bland for my tastes.
Note: I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a review. This book will be released on 20 August by Quercus Publishing/Jo Fletcher Books.
I did enjoy elements of this book. Divine Heretic is a thorough retelling of Jeanne’s life that fills in a lot of the gaps in her history, including the addition of a sweet romance between Jeanne and a Moorish mercenary, in which Jeanne is treated like an equal (a rarity in the 15th century).
But where it fell flat for me was that it never felt like there were any stakes. Jeanne longs to break free of her angels (oddly referred to as Fae despite having no faerie characteristics), but they also spend large parts of this book hovering in the background doing nothing or making empty threats. The Hundred Years’ War is raging, but the English enemy is largely in the background, and the majority of clashes between the two armies are over in a few sentences. And Jeanne is destined to see Charles crowned as King, but there is no background on French history or politics in this book, so it’s never really clear why this is such a big deal, or what it will mean for Jeanne to fail in her mission.
There are some interesting glimpses into what it’s like to be a woman in medieval Europe - the most terrifying villain in this story is actually the local priest who is hell bent on saving Jeanne from sin - but these are few and far between and often rely on sexual violence as the primary threat to Jeanne’s safety and personal agency.
I wish I could recommend this book more highly since the story of Joan of Arc is ripe with possibilities, but this version was a bit too bland for my tastes.
Note: I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a review. This book will be released on 20 August by Quercus Publishing/Jo Fletcher Books.
August 20, 2020
I'm grateful to Jo Fletcher Books for an advance copy of Divine Heretic to consider for review.
Following from last year's Brightfall, which gave us a fantasy focussed on Maid Marian, Moyer moves into more historical territory with a story inspired by the life of Jeanne d'Arc, Joan of Arc to the English although as they (we) were her enemies I will stick to Jeanne.
When I heard about this book I was really intrigued and keen to see how, exactly, Moyer would treat the subject. It was clear that there would be fantasy elements. It's equally clear, if you think for a moment, that the religious and social atmosphere of the medieval wars between England and France - let alone the specific subject matter of Jeanne's life and terrible death - makes for quite difficult subject matter. It would be easy, on the one hand, to avoid this and completely fantasy this story up - but also easy to write something very, very grim indeed (grimdark doesn't have to be made up!)
Moyer manages, I think, to tread a middle course here. She resists making the book too genre-y. Her Jeanne's world is one with definite magical and fantasy elements. In an early scene we see tree-spirits in a grove, and the rural people make offerings in remote shrines to vaguely described spirits or saints (with one eye out for the baleful local priest, Father Jakob). But Jeanne is no kick-ass fantasy heroine, there's no route for her to learn magic or turn all this to her advantage (other than making those hopeful offerings, alongside her prayers to the Blessed Virgin). And when three spirits turn up, claiming to be Saints Michael, Margaret and Catherine, though Jeanne immediately sees through them and henceforth refers to them as "monsters" she has no special powers or knowledge to resist them.
Nor, though, is the grimness celebrated. It's there - the heart of this book is the extent to which Jeanne is constrained, compelled, abused both by the society around her - most dramatically in an attempted forced marriage and rape - and by the monsters. (They wish to use her for their own strange ends, influencing history and the war but for reasons that are never really explained.) But it doesn't, in the end, predominate.
Jeanne's trials are many. The foretold martial role of Maid of Lorraine which the three spirits want to force her into (almost like an inversion of Macbeth) is not one that suits her nature or upbringing and the deceptions it entails strain her conscience. She is the subject of vicious, misogynistic rumour and of jealousy and she feels guilt over joining in the war and particularly leading men to her death. (I think this latter aspect is something that we could have been shown more of - while the stunning cover art shows Jeanne holding a bloodied sword, and there are scenes of her trying to use it, much of the battle is skipped. I'm not saying I want to see lots of bloodshed but it seems a central aspect of the story and key to creating the wearied, jaded Jeanne we see in the later sections of the book).
Through all this though she struggles to own herself, to be more than the puppet that the three spirits or the Dauphin want. The story is nicely calibrated here, demonstrating just how little agency Jeanne has, her life and future in the hands of men - the priest, the village council, various nobles, ultimately the Dauphin Charles himself - as well as those manipulating spirits. Her achievement is to endure, to love even when it is forbidden, to remain loyal to those who are loyal to her, above all to retain some sense of herself, some control over herself and her actions. It is a constant fight and one that can never be fully successful involving sacrifice both physical and spiritual - this isn't just a matter of Jeanne and her fate, the wicked spirits bind up others, too, people she cares for, and they are ruthless in leveraging this.
As I grew more and more absorbed in Divine Heretic, I came to love the way it isn't conventional fantasy. There aren't, as I have said, tools and techniques to be sought to achieve a neat solution. Many questions are left unanswered (the three spirits operate to a strangely specific schedule - why?) But that leaves the story space to grow, to breathe, to show us Jeanne's courage and to show her growing and becoming more assured and understanding. It's that portrait that is at the centre of the book, really, and it is a masterpiece of storytelling. Moyer gives us a fully rounded and complex portrayal of a figure who tends to be viewed, in a very one dimensional sense, as merely a tragic victim.
In short Divine Heretic fully lived up to my expectations and I'd strongly recommend it.
Following from last year's Brightfall, which gave us a fantasy focussed on Maid Marian, Moyer moves into more historical territory with a story inspired by the life of Jeanne d'Arc, Joan of Arc to the English although as they (we) were her enemies I will stick to Jeanne.
When I heard about this book I was really intrigued and keen to see how, exactly, Moyer would treat the subject. It was clear that there would be fantasy elements. It's equally clear, if you think for a moment, that the religious and social atmosphere of the medieval wars between England and France - let alone the specific subject matter of Jeanne's life and terrible death - makes for quite difficult subject matter. It would be easy, on the one hand, to avoid this and completely fantasy this story up - but also easy to write something very, very grim indeed (grimdark doesn't have to be made up!)
Moyer manages, I think, to tread a middle course here. She resists making the book too genre-y. Her Jeanne's world is one with definite magical and fantasy elements. In an early scene we see tree-spirits in a grove, and the rural people make offerings in remote shrines to vaguely described spirits or saints (with one eye out for the baleful local priest, Father Jakob). But Jeanne is no kick-ass fantasy heroine, there's no route for her to learn magic or turn all this to her advantage (other than making those hopeful offerings, alongside her prayers to the Blessed Virgin). And when three spirits turn up, claiming to be Saints Michael, Margaret and Catherine, though Jeanne immediately sees through them and henceforth refers to them as "monsters" she has no special powers or knowledge to resist them.
Nor, though, is the grimness celebrated. It's there - the heart of this book is the extent to which Jeanne is constrained, compelled, abused both by the society around her - most dramatically in an attempted forced marriage and rape - and by the monsters. (They wish to use her for their own strange ends, influencing history and the war but for reasons that are never really explained.) But it doesn't, in the end, predominate.
Jeanne's trials are many. The foretold martial role of Maid of Lorraine which the three spirits want to force her into (almost like an inversion of Macbeth) is not one that suits her nature or upbringing and the deceptions it entails strain her conscience. She is the subject of vicious, misogynistic rumour and of jealousy and she feels guilt over joining in the war and particularly leading men to her death. (I think this latter aspect is something that we could have been shown more of - while the stunning cover art shows Jeanne holding a bloodied sword, and there are scenes of her trying to use it, much of the battle is skipped. I'm not saying I want to see lots of bloodshed but it seems a central aspect of the story and key to creating the wearied, jaded Jeanne we see in the later sections of the book).
Through all this though she struggles to own herself, to be more than the puppet that the three spirits or the Dauphin want. The story is nicely calibrated here, demonstrating just how little agency Jeanne has, her life and future in the hands of men - the priest, the village council, various nobles, ultimately the Dauphin Charles himself - as well as those manipulating spirits. Her achievement is to endure, to love even when it is forbidden, to remain loyal to those who are loyal to her, above all to retain some sense of herself, some control over herself and her actions. It is a constant fight and one that can never be fully successful involving sacrifice both physical and spiritual - this isn't just a matter of Jeanne and her fate, the wicked spirits bind up others, too, people she cares for, and they are ruthless in leveraging this.
As I grew more and more absorbed in Divine Heretic, I came to love the way it isn't conventional fantasy. There aren't, as I have said, tools and techniques to be sought to achieve a neat solution. Many questions are left unanswered (the three spirits operate to a strangely specific schedule - why?) But that leaves the story space to grow, to breathe, to show us Jeanne's courage and to show her growing and becoming more assured and understanding. It's that portrait that is at the centre of the book, really, and it is a masterpiece of storytelling. Moyer gives us a fully rounded and complex portrayal of a figure who tends to be viewed, in a very one dimensional sense, as merely a tragic victim.
In short Divine Heretic fully lived up to my expectations and I'd strongly recommend it.
August 21, 2020
My thanks to Quercus - Jo Fletcher Books for an advance reading copy via NetGalley of ‘Divine Heretic’ by Jaime Lee Moyer.
Last year I was enchanted by Jaime Lee Moyer’s Robin Hood themed fantasy, ‘Brightfall’, and so was very excited to read her latest novel that reimagines the story of Joan of Arc. I have to admit that I knew very little about her life.
In the first part of the novel the focus is upon Jeanne d'Arc’s relationship with the three holy beings that told her that she was the foretold Warrior Maid of Lorraine, fated to free France and place a king upon his rightful throne.
She initially believes their claim of being the Archangel Michael, Saint Margaret, and Saint Catherine and promises to obey their commands and embrace her destiny, allowing them to guide her.
As time passes she starts to question their motives and even their true natures as they don’t hesitate to punish her cruelly when she disobeys them. She begins to believe that they are Fae, passing themselves off as saints and an angel. Eventually she begins to refer to them as ‘my monsters’ and seeks only to survive their plans and gain her freedom.
However, in due course she comes into the orbit of the Dauphin and takes up his cause. She also finds a protector in Ethan, one of Charles’ knights who embodies nobility. I won’t say more about the plot in order to avoid spoilers.
Jeanne is the narrator for the novel and there are many moments of trauma in her young life, some made quite uncomfortable reading, especially in the final chapters.
I did feel that some of her narration and the dialogue was quite modern though trying to recreate the thoughts of a fifteenth century French peasant girl and her interactions with others would not likely make for an accessible reading experience.
Overall, this proved an interesting and engaging novel negotiating the territory between historical fiction and fantasy.
Last year I was enchanted by Jaime Lee Moyer’s Robin Hood themed fantasy, ‘Brightfall’, and so was very excited to read her latest novel that reimagines the story of Joan of Arc. I have to admit that I knew very little about her life.
In the first part of the novel the focus is upon Jeanne d'Arc’s relationship with the three holy beings that told her that she was the foretold Warrior Maid of Lorraine, fated to free France and place a king upon his rightful throne.
She initially believes their claim of being the Archangel Michael, Saint Margaret, and Saint Catherine and promises to obey their commands and embrace her destiny, allowing them to guide her.
As time passes she starts to question their motives and even their true natures as they don’t hesitate to punish her cruelly when she disobeys them. She begins to believe that they are Fae, passing themselves off as saints and an angel. Eventually she begins to refer to them as ‘my monsters’ and seeks only to survive their plans and gain her freedom.
However, in due course she comes into the orbit of the Dauphin and takes up his cause. She also finds a protector in Ethan, one of Charles’ knights who embodies nobility. I won’t say more about the plot in order to avoid spoilers.
Jeanne is the narrator for the novel and there are many moments of trauma in her young life, some made quite uncomfortable reading, especially in the final chapters.
I did feel that some of her narration and the dialogue was quite modern though trying to recreate the thoughts of a fifteenth century French peasant girl and her interactions with others would not likely make for an accessible reading experience.
Overall, this proved an interesting and engaging novel negotiating the territory between historical fiction and fantasy.
October 18, 2024
It was the first mixed bag I've read in a while. Admittedly, a book I was drawn to without any prior knowledge, firstly through a gorgeous cover and secondly a convincing blurb.
Jeanne d'Arc realising that the angels guiding her towards the liberation of France are anything but holy and more likely fae creatures doing it for their own ends was definitely an interesting an premise to hook me in, and see how they pressured her and manoeuvred not just her but the people around her, friend and foe alike, was a equally fascinating and terrifying spin on the story of one of histories greatest heroines.
The writing was easy to read and it was largely a pleasant and interesting enough story to get invested in, but I'll admit that the tail end of the story and the ending knocked it down a few stars for me.
Primarily, while it's pretty much settled on that the heavenly voices are actually Fae creatures bent on keeping France free of England, I felt like they weren't explored and explained quite as firmly as I'd like, maybe the goal was to leave them as a vague overpowering force in the background but it just ended up feeling a little underwhelming.
The ending was a little bit of a dip for me, it alluded that the creatures are actually behind her capture by the English but it's never fully confirmed, it could also be argued that the reason she's seeing them during her torture and imprisonment was because she was imagining things in her weaker state, as they never explicitly interact with her when she does see them.
Maybe these issues come from a personal POV attributed to me, I just found the tail end that bit too lacklustre.
Jeanne d'Arc realising that the angels guiding her towards the liberation of France are anything but holy and more likely fae creatures doing it for their own ends was definitely an interesting an premise to hook me in, and see how they pressured her and manoeuvred not just her but the people around her, friend and foe alike, was a equally fascinating and terrifying spin on the story of one of histories greatest heroines.
The writing was easy to read and it was largely a pleasant and interesting enough story to get invested in, but I'll admit that the tail end of the story and the ending knocked it down a few stars for me.
Primarily, while it's pretty much settled on that the heavenly voices are actually Fae creatures bent on keeping France free of England, I felt like they weren't explored and explained quite as firmly as I'd like, maybe the goal was to leave them as a vague overpowering force in the background but it just ended up feeling a little underwhelming.
The ending was a little bit of a dip for me, it alluded that the creatures are actually behind her capture by the English but it's never fully confirmed, it could also be argued that the reason she's seeing them during her torture and imprisonment was because she was imagining things in her weaker state, as they never explicitly interact with her when she does see them.
Maybe these issues come from a personal POV attributed to me, I just found the tail end that bit too lacklustre.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2025
I accept the need to make departures from historical accounts when writing historical fiction, but the question remains: how far can one stray while being able to tell a related story?
In this case, I would say that Divine Heretic has little resemblance to the story of Jean d'Arc.
Every interesting aspect of her life—that she was a willful soul who actively defied patriarchal power and refused to conform to the demands of gender—are replaced by a vision of her as wanting nothing more than marriage and children. In every single way, she wishes to be exactly as the historical Jean did not. This 'subversion' robs the myth of Jean of both its nuance and the things that make her interesting.
That her voices are not truly angels begins as an intriguing dynamic, yet goes nowhere and only reinforces her character as someone who is forced to act when she'd rather not.
As for the historical events covered, these are largely reduced to matters mentioned and passing so that many chapters can linger upon scenes of Jean recuperating in a castle and falling in love. Within this novel, she only cares about France in so far as she is forced to when the lives of her loved ones are threatened, not by the war, but by the voices that compel her.
The worst sin, without a doubt, is that she doesn't even die at the end.
I reached the end of this and was immediately met by the question: why do I care?
This story is not a historical, fantasy retelling of Jean d'Arc, it is a passably edited fan fiction that reduces her to the protagonist of a romance novel.
In this case, I would say that Divine Heretic has little resemblance to the story of Jean d'Arc.
Every interesting aspect of her life—that she was a willful soul who actively defied patriarchal power and refused to conform to the demands of gender—are replaced by a vision of her as wanting nothing more than marriage and children. In every single way, she wishes to be exactly as the historical Jean did not. This 'subversion' robs the myth of Jean of both its nuance and the things that make her interesting.
That her voices are not truly angels begins as an intriguing dynamic, yet goes nowhere and only reinforces her character as someone who is forced to act when she'd rather not.
As for the historical events covered, these are largely reduced to matters mentioned and passing so that many chapters can linger upon scenes of Jean recuperating in a castle and falling in love. Within this novel, she only cares about France in so far as she is forced to when the lives of her loved ones are threatened, not by the war, but by the voices that compel her.
The worst sin, without a doubt, is that she doesn't even die at the end.
I reached the end of this and was immediately met by the question: why do I care?
This story is not a historical, fantasy retelling of Jean d'Arc, it is a passably edited fan fiction that reduces her to the protagonist of a romance novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2020
Jeanne d’Arc is a regular girl, a farmers daughter, a younger sister. There is nothing outwardly special about her, so when three creatures disguised as angels appear to her and inform her she is to be the Maid of Lorraine destined to lead France and ensure the Dauphin is crowned five year old Jeanne is to scared to deny their claims and promises to fulfil the prophecy. As the years go by Michael, Margaret and Catherine are constant shadows in Jeanne’s life, reminding her of the promise she made and pushing her to do more to fulfil it. Eventually Jeanne’s path crosses with the Dauphin and his army, taken in by Ethan, a loyal Knight and friend to Charles he vows to protect her and the ‘Angels’ tell her to keep him close, he is to be one of her champions, someone who will not let her fall. But things are not always as easy as they seem, when her prophecy as the Maid of Lorraine is brought to light the Dauphin wants to use Jeanne to buoy his army, to actually put her into the battle. Jeanne tries to resist both the Dauphin and the Angels on her shoulder reminding her of her purpose, but both forces have the ability to harm the people that Jeanne loves and she will need to accept the prophecy and put herself in danger to ensure everyone she loves makes it out alive.
I will admit going into this knowing very little about Joan of Arc, apart from her death, so I had little to no expectations or ideas on where the story would go. Divine Heretic gives us a look into the life of Jeanne, an insight into her inner battles with the demons and the relationships both familial and romantic. We spend a large amount of time with Jeanne growing up, seeing how the demons influence not only her, but the people around her to ensure that she fulfils their purpose. She is incredibly strong willed and fights for those she loves. She only really gives into the Demons once they start taking their frustrations with her out on those she loves.
This is a weird one cause I enjoyed the book as a whole BUT there were a lot of things that just fell a bit flat. The pacing of the book seems to jump around. We get a large portion of the book set before Jeanne meets the Dauphin, when she is a simple farmers daughter, and I will admit that the first few chapters were a bit of a drag to get through. But there are also bits that seem to fly by. I would have liked more time with Ethan and the Dauphin and just felt the first part of the book went on a little longer than necessary. My other main issue was there were no real stakes, at no point did I feel my heart speed up a little, I was never worried for the outcome of the characters. Because of this I felt the book lacked a little something, I didn’t struggle to bond with Jeanne and I loved her interactions with the other characters, but there was no spark, no WTF moments, it just kind of ended.
There is a great and sweet romance in Divine Heretic and this was one of my favourite parts of the book. It was bittersweet, and though it was easy to guess who would end up with who, I still enjoyed their interactions. Jeanne’s lover is the one haven she has from the demons, her one ability to act out and twist the prophecy they have woven and I loved that addition to her story.
Like I said, I did enjoy this overall and the pacing definitely picked up in the second half. It’s not the story I expected, more a bittersweet story about how promises can be twisted, how they can break you, but also how they can save you. It’s about how we shouldn’t have to shoulder our responsibilities alone and how much of a weight can be lifted when you share your burden with others. I may not have enjoyed this one as much as Brightfall, Moyers Robin Hood retelling, but Jeanne d’Arc will always hold a special place in my heart.
I will admit going into this knowing very little about Joan of Arc, apart from her death, so I had little to no expectations or ideas on where the story would go. Divine Heretic gives us a look into the life of Jeanne, an insight into her inner battles with the demons and the relationships both familial and romantic. We spend a large amount of time with Jeanne growing up, seeing how the demons influence not only her, but the people around her to ensure that she fulfils their purpose. She is incredibly strong willed and fights for those she loves. She only really gives into the Demons once they start taking their frustrations with her out on those she loves.
This is a weird one cause I enjoyed the book as a whole BUT there were a lot of things that just fell a bit flat. The pacing of the book seems to jump around. We get a large portion of the book set before Jeanne meets the Dauphin, when she is a simple farmers daughter, and I will admit that the first few chapters were a bit of a drag to get through. But there are also bits that seem to fly by. I would have liked more time with Ethan and the Dauphin and just felt the first part of the book went on a little longer than necessary. My other main issue was there were no real stakes, at no point did I feel my heart speed up a little, I was never worried for the outcome of the characters. Because of this I felt the book lacked a little something, I didn’t struggle to bond with Jeanne and I loved her interactions with the other characters, but there was no spark, no WTF moments, it just kind of ended.
There is a great and sweet romance in Divine Heretic and this was one of my favourite parts of the book. It was bittersweet, and though it was easy to guess who would end up with who, I still enjoyed their interactions. Jeanne’s lover is the one haven she has from the demons, her one ability to act out and twist the prophecy they have woven and I loved that addition to her story.
Like I said, I did enjoy this overall and the pacing definitely picked up in the second half. It’s not the story I expected, more a bittersweet story about how promises can be twisted, how they can break you, but also how they can save you. It’s about how we shouldn’t have to shoulder our responsibilities alone and how much of a weight can be lifted when you share your burden with others. I may not have enjoyed this one as much as Brightfall, Moyers Robin Hood retelling, but Jeanne d’Arc will always hold a special place in my heart.
May 28, 2021
Great premise, doesn't quite deliver.
Young Jeanne d'Arc meets three mystical figures in the woods. They have all the appearance of angels, but divine beings would not act as they do, and their cruelty in the face of Jeanne's refusal to become a prophesied warrior maid of France tortures the girl. Haunted by visions of tragedy, Jeanne is caught between leading her own life, the war with the English, and the never-ending demands of the mysterious beings of light.
I enjoyed the first third of the book, with the depiction of small town life, the pastoral imagery, and the growing mystery of the merciless figures who haunted Jeanne. After that, my interest began to wane, even as the action picked up and Jeanne found herself involved with the war and all the deeds for which she is known in history. Jeanne was constantly needing help from others, and while the other characters were engagingly charming or repulsive, I grew tired of waiting for Jeanne to be rescued from whatever new trouble had come. Also, who knows what the voices actually were, or why they wanted Charles so badly on the throne, or anything else for that matter. Having that unexplained was a big disappointment. In the end, it didn't feel like there was a point to it all.
**Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC**
Young Jeanne d'Arc meets three mystical figures in the woods. They have all the appearance of angels, but divine beings would not act as they do, and their cruelty in the face of Jeanne's refusal to become a prophesied warrior maid of France tortures the girl. Haunted by visions of tragedy, Jeanne is caught between leading her own life, the war with the English, and the never-ending demands of the mysterious beings of light.
I enjoyed the first third of the book, with the depiction of small town life, the pastoral imagery, and the growing mystery of the merciless figures who haunted Jeanne. After that, my interest began to wane, even as the action picked up and Jeanne found herself involved with the war and all the deeds for which she is known in history. Jeanne was constantly needing help from others, and while the other characters were engagingly charming or repulsive, I grew tired of waiting for Jeanne to be rescued from whatever new trouble had come. Also, who knows what the voices actually were, or why they wanted Charles so badly on the throne, or anything else for that matter. Having that unexplained was a big disappointment. In the end, it didn't feel like there was a point to it all.
**Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC**
May 28, 2021
Great premise, doesn't quite deliver.
Young Jeanne d'Arc meets three mystical figures in the woods. They have all the appearance of angels, but divine beings would not act as they do, and their cruelty in the face of Jeanne's refusal to become a prophesied warrior maid of France tortures the girl. Haunted by visions of tragedy, Jeanne is caught between leading her own life, the war with the English, and the never-ending demands of the mysterious beings of light.
I enjoyed the first third of the book, with the depiction of small town life, the pastoral imagery, and the growing mystery of the merciless figures who haunted Jeanne. After that, my interest began to wane, even as the action picked up and Jeanne found herself involved with the war and all the deeds for which she is known in history. Jeanne was constantly needing help from others, and while the other characters were engagingly charming or repulsive, I grew tired of waiting for Jeanne to be rescued from whatever new trouble had come. Also, who knows what the voices actually were, or why they wanted Charles so badly on the throne, or anything else for that matter. Having that unexplained was a big disappointment. In the end, it didn't feel like there was a point to it all.
**Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC**
Young Jeanne d'Arc meets three mystical figures in the woods. They have all the appearance of angels, but divine beings would not act as they do, and their cruelty in the face of Jeanne's refusal to become a prophesied warrior maid of France tortures the girl. Haunted by visions of tragedy, Jeanne is caught between leading her own life, the war with the English, and the never-ending demands of the mysterious beings of light.
I enjoyed the first third of the book, with the depiction of small town life, the pastoral imagery, and the growing mystery of the merciless figures who haunted Jeanne. After that, my interest began to wane, even as the action picked up and Jeanne found herself involved with the war and all the deeds for which she is known in history. Jeanne was constantly needing help from others, and while the other characters were engagingly charming or repulsive, I grew tired of waiting for Jeanne to be rescued from whatever new trouble had come. Also, who knows what the voices actually were, or why they wanted Charles so badly on the throne, or anything else for that matter. Having that unexplained was a big disappointment. In the end, it didn't feel like there was a point to it all.
**Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC**
June 14, 2021
“‘You can’t escape destiny, Jeanne,’ she whispered in my ear. ‘Promise to obey all our commands and we will teach you to be a great warrior.’”
Divine Heretic by Jaime Lee Moyer is a retelling of the Joan of Arc story. In this version Jeanne, sees the angels who are guiding and directing her path as monsters that she is terrified of. And on her journey that she feels forced on to help her country and stay alive, she seeks safety above all and finds love.
This was an interesting read. There were many times that I was very confused about where the author was going with the story and wondered when the story would start to feel more familiar to what I have read in the past, and honestly it never really did happen. It did make me think though, and I liked the characters she wrote. I would say read it with an open mind and I give it 3.5 stars.
Divine Heretic by Jaime Lee Moyer is a retelling of the Joan of Arc story. In this version Jeanne, sees the angels who are guiding and directing her path as monsters that she is terrified of. And on her journey that she feels forced on to help her country and stay alive, she seeks safety above all and finds love.
This was an interesting read. There were many times that I was very confused about where the author was going with the story and wondered when the story would start to feel more familiar to what I have read in the past, and honestly it never really did happen. It did make me think though, and I liked the characters she wrote. I would say read it with an open mind and I give it 3.5 stars.
July 10, 2022
4/5
I began Devine heretic in the dark, having not ever heard of Joan of Arc, I had simply picked up the book after the cover and blurb caught my eye. Maybe my opinion would be different had I known of Joan before, but nevertheless I enjoyed the read. A story from the middle ages was a breath of fresh air for me, embedded with the mystic theme of angels made it even better. My understanding of these times is very limited so the story was quite eye opening to the battles women faced especially. My criticisms of the book would be that I found at some crucial parts the of the story were cut and made to feel slightly jumpy by leaving out gaps of battles etc. Maybe this prevented the book from becoming too repetitive though, just could have been edited better.
Overall though I would give the book 4/5 stars, thoroughly enjoyed!
I began Devine heretic in the dark, having not ever heard of Joan of Arc, I had simply picked up the book after the cover and blurb caught my eye. Maybe my opinion would be different had I known of Joan before, but nevertheless I enjoyed the read. A story from the middle ages was a breath of fresh air for me, embedded with the mystic theme of angels made it even better. My understanding of these times is very limited so the story was quite eye opening to the battles women faced especially. My criticisms of the book would be that I found at some crucial parts the of the story were cut and made to feel slightly jumpy by leaving out gaps of battles etc. Maybe this prevented the book from becoming too repetitive though, just could have been edited better.
Overall though I would give the book 4/5 stars, thoroughly enjoyed!
July 27, 2022
It was a nice story, but I found Jeanne not as heroic as I would have liked. When I think of Joan of Arc I imagine this badass feminist kicking butt - but she didn't quite measure up in this book. I found it hard to relate to her at times as if I was her I needed more anger and frustration instead of just pure fear, made her more 2 dimensional. I also found myself wanting to understand the ‘angels’ intentions more. They were such a key part yet it wasn't very clear even at the end why they did what they did.
I struggled between the last 60% - 90% of the book but then the last 10% hooked me back in at the end. I think just after the love interest, it weakened her character more than strengthen her - fear driving her more after that.
But I loved the ending though, that was a nice touch.
I struggled between the last 60% - 90% of the book but then the last 10% hooked me back in at the end. I think just after the love interest, it weakened her character more than strengthen her - fear driving her more after that.
But I loved the ending though, that was a nice touch.
May 11, 2021
I had high hopes for this book, and was eagerly anticipating reading it, but it was a big disappointment. In this retelling of the story of Jeanne d'Arc, Jeanne is forced by otherworldly beings--definitely not angels--to pretend to be the mythical Maid of Lorraine and help the dauphin take the French throne. Jeanne does so, survives being interrogated as a witch, and lives happily ever after with her husband. Alas, my primary reaction was "so what?" Jeanne's basic trajectory is the same, except this Jeanne *doesn't* feel a calling to her god or her national leader, and she doesn't die. This plot-line feels more like pedestrian wish fulfillment for Jeanne rather than an imaginative re-rendering of the story; in fact, very little here is imaginative at all.
August 4, 2020
I read this as an ARC.
Divine Heretic by Jaime Lee Moyer is a fantastic retelling of the Jeanne d'Arc legend. This book kept me awake, reading to the very end--Without giving too much away, what Moyer did with a well-known story was unique and wonderful and very very engaging. Throughout the book, Jeanne tries to reclaim her life from spirits of the land who have claimed her as their tool to rid France of the English invaders, and the slightly-changed story works very well as a straight-up fantasy, while being nicely rooted in history. I was fascinated by Jeanne's story. This is another lovely book from one of my favorite writers!
Divine Heretic by Jaime Lee Moyer is a fantastic retelling of the Jeanne d'Arc legend. This book kept me awake, reading to the very end--Without giving too much away, what Moyer did with a well-known story was unique and wonderful and very very engaging. Throughout the book, Jeanne tries to reclaim her life from spirits of the land who have claimed her as their tool to rid France of the English invaders, and the slightly-changed story works very well as a straight-up fantasy, while being nicely rooted in history. I was fascinated by Jeanne's story. This is another lovely book from one of my favorite writers!
August 21, 2020
I really like Brightfall and had high expectations for this book. Unfortunately I was a bit disappointed as I found the story less gripping and more slow paced than the previous book.
It seems to be on the fence as it's not historical fiction nor fantasy. The historical background is left undefined, we know what it should be but we are not given any specific details. The fantasy side has no specific world building and a lot of details are left undefined.
I also found the character development lacking depth and a lot of characters are a bit flat.
All in all it was an entertaining read but not my cup of tea.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
It seems to be on the fence as it's not historical fiction nor fantasy. The historical background is left undefined, we know what it should be but we are not given any specific details. The fantasy side has no specific world building and a lot of details are left undefined.
I also found the character development lacking depth and a lot of characters are a bit flat.
All in all it was an entertaining read but not my cup of tea.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
August 18, 2020
If - like me - you enjoy alternate takes on history with a bit of darkness, pick up Jaime Lee Moyer's DIVINE HERETIC when it drops on Thursday. She takes the story of Jeanne d'Arc and re-spins what we think we know into a new fairy tale, one that's dark and occasionally terrifying, but also filled with honor and affection.
As an adult reader I enjoyed the hell out of it; I think it's also perfect for a teen reader, as it treats sex and violence honestly but more elided than explicit, gives it context, and balances the darkness with positive and healing relationships.
As an adult reader I enjoyed the hell out of it; I think it's also perfect for a teen reader, as it treats sex and violence honestly but more elided than explicit, gives it context, and balances the darkness with positive and healing relationships.
November 13, 2020
In this engaging novel, Jaime Lee Moyer shows us Joan of Arc from a different angle: reluctant heroine and troubled voice-hearer, bullied into risking her life to save France. It’s the myth of the Maid of Orleans recast as a romance.
Full review
https://annegoodwin.weebly.com/annecd...
Full review
https://annegoodwin.weebly.com/annecd...
May 26, 2021
DNF at page 80. I love Joan of Arc so obviously I’m going to read as many books about her as I can but I feel this was just a waste of my time - my head couldnt get around all the inaccuracies (i know its fiction but yknow) and Jeanne just didnt come across as /jeanne/. She never would have doubted that the voices talking to her were angels.
August 25, 2020
A intriguing historical based fantasy taking a real enigmatic figure and giving her a voice and life of her own
Full review - https://www.runalongtheshelves.net/bl...
Full review - https://www.runalongtheshelves.net/bl...
August 16, 2021
What an author can not do is make a fantasy tale about a canonized Catholic Saint. It is just not allowed, and it is blasphemy. Think of how in modern history women/girls need a hero. St. Joan of Arc was, and is a hero, period.
June 2, 2022
Story was interesting, historical details were interesting, writing wasn't my favourite. Also not a fan of first person.
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