Cecilia's Vision by T. J. Armstrong

Cecilia's Vision

T. J. Armstrong

This author really brings to life the dangerous times faced by heretics in the 13th century. Domna Cecilia is investigated by two monks, who are the unwitting puppets of their superiors. The tale involves alchemy and the Cathars. A great historical read.

Extract
In the upper room, to which the woman led us, we saw Domna Cecilia for the first time. I shall never forget the impression she made on me. Half in shadow, her back towards us, she was straining out of the window. I was bedazzled by the brilliant light that framed her and struck by the straightness of her bearing, the length and beauty of her hair flowing loose down her back, its colour uncertain against the light.
Parallels
  • The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco
  • Credo by Melvyn Bragg