Genre
Audience
11th grade and Up
Author’s Worldview
Catholic
Year Published
2011
Themes
Reviewed by
A.R.K. Watson
This novella is comprised of a collection of fictional letters sent by a man in England to his friend in Europe at the start of the 20th century. The first few letters mostly revolve around descriptions of Miss Magdalen Montague, for whom the writer carries a deep romantic admiration. But let’s be frank here: the writer is a stalker, and not the innocent, awkward kind. It is clear that he is the sort of rebellious person who takes pride in debauchery and irreverence, and who bears a superstitious level of animosity toward anything holy or pure.
His overblown grief and outrage when his object of obsession enters a Catholic convent is, therefore, difficult not to enjoy.
It will be clear to the Catholic reader that Magdalen’s prayers and intercession continue to haunt this man for the rest of his life. Just when his despair leads him to a state that hints at demonic oppression, he miraculously finds his way into the arms of the Church he once despised. The letters between him and his still stubbornly heretical friend become more spaced out as his conversion strains their friendship. Still, these letters trace the two men’s paths as they encounter one, then two, world wars. Much like in her novel, A Bloody Habit, Nicholson starts out making us laugh at her protagonists, but by the end we are instead moved to grief for their sufferings. The whole story is a beautiful meditation on the lies and temptations of modernity, and how we as Christians and Catholics encounter the world and keep faith when it feels as though the world is going to end. Reading this on the heels of a global pandemic was oddly comforting. If you need something short and entertaining to refill your cup with hope, this little novella is an excellent choice.
Having read her book, A Bloody Habit, I was already familiar with Nicholson’s talent for the tone and style of writing common in pre-20th century England, and I was not disappointed. If you are a fan of Victorian literature, Chesterton, or any of the Inklings, you will find this an enjoyable story, with prose on par with the quality of Lewis or Tolkien. Protestant Christian readers may find this just as beneficial if they have no aversion to loving descriptions of Mary. However, this is probably not the best book to give to a secular friend who hasn’t yet clued into the pitiable comedy of many modern heresies. But for Catholics, Nicholson is the very voice of ironic and cathartic humor.
Join Here for FREE to Never Miss a Deal
Find new favorites & Support Catholic Authors
Freedom & Responsibility in “Citizen of the Galaxy” by Robert Heinlein
One of the masters of science fiction delivers a story exploring the limits of freedom and the ongoing battle against fallen human nature.
Hologram by Walker Larson
Aaron is the only one who can see through the holograms.
In Pieces by Rhonda Ortiz
Is a marriage without love the only way to save Molly Chase’s reputation?
My Name is Saul by Lin Wilder
How does a man become a monster? How does a monster become a saint?
A Pius Man by Declan Finn
A hilarious espionage action adventure in the Vatican. Also a halberd fight scene. Nuff Said.
The Reluctant Queen: The Story of Esther by Lin Wilder
Chosen by Xerxes to be queen, chosen by God to be savior of His people: the story of Esther.
Officers and Gentlemen by Evelyn Waugh
Evelyn Waugh’s brilliant examination of the moral fatigue of men at war.
Vassals of the Valley by Robin Sebolino
Travel to the Islands of the Philippines of the 16th century with a colorful former pirate who is sure to entertain you as he fights off invaders and explores various early settlements of Southeast Asia.
Somewhither by John C. Wright An Unwhithering Realm
What if the Multi-verse were not a theory to disprove God? What if he created it, and all humanity must unite to fight the powers of Babel?
The Pre Persons by Phillip K. Dick
The pro-life Phillip K. Dick story so prophetic it was buried.
Outlaws of Ravenhurst, by Sr. M. Imelda Wallace, S.L.
The 10-year-old heir of a noble Scottish family must choose between his inheritance and his Catholic faith.
The Christbearer – Exploring the Connection Between the Mandalorian and Christian Saints
Was the Mandalorian divinely inspired? A little child shall lead them. (Isaiah 11:6)
House of War by Carlos Carrasco
With the government on the verge of outlawing Christianity, a group of Catholics launch a new Crusade.
The Singer not the Song by Audrey Erskine Lindop (AKA The Bandit and the Priest)
A priest and a bandit king face off for the fate of a small Mexican town in this thrilling western adventure.
Lord of the World by Robert Hugh Benson
Does Pope Francis think the world is about to end?
Shadow in the Dark by Antony Barone Kolenc
An immersive mystery and an amateur sleuth set in the walls of a 12th century English monastery
The Wistful and the Good by G. M. Baker
Two weeks after the sacking of Lindisfarne, Norse traders aren’t welcome in Northumbria. But they’re here. Does a Viking really have a chance with an English noblewoman?
Wake of Malice by Eleanor Bourg Nicholson
Sent to investigate a series of murders in the Irish countryside, Hugh soon finds signs that someone is messing with old Celtic myths best left undisturbed.
The Book of Jotham by Arthur Powers
Experience Christ through the eyes of Jotham, his disabled disciple.
Unclaimed, Nameless, & Vanished by Erin McCole Cupp
Jane Eyre re-imaginged in a world where cloning, and genetic manipulation have returned us to a class system.



