Elizabeth DeLozier’s debut novel “Eleanore of Avignon” is an ambitious and largely successful attempt to bring the tumultuous world of 14th-century Provence to vivid life. Set against the backdrop of the Black Death and religious persecution, this meticulously researched historical fiction weaves together medicine, mysticism, and the plight of women seeking autonomy in medieval Europe.
The Story and Its Setting
In the walled city of Avignon in 1347, Eleanore (Elea) Blanchet follows in her mother’s footsteps as a skilled herbalist and midwife. When a chance encounter with Guy de Chauliac (Guigo), the Pope’s personal physician, leads to an unprecedented opportunity to become his apprentice, Elea’s world expands beyond the confines of her prescribed role as a woman in medieval society.
As the Black Death approaches Avignon’s gates, Elea finds herself navigating multiple challenges: tending to Pope Clement VI, delivering Queen Joanna of Naples’ baby, and fighting to save countless plague victims alongside Guigo. All while concealing her growing feelings for David, a Jewish physician’s nephew, in a time when such relationships could mean death for both parties.
Strengths and Stellar Moments
Rich Historical Detail
DeLozier’s extensive research shines through in her portrayal of medieval medicine, religious politics, and daily life in 14th-century Avignon. The details of herbal remedies, surgical procedures, and the devastating progression of the plague are presented with unflinching accuracy while remaining accessible to modern readers.
Complex Characters
The author excels at creating multifaceted characters who defy simple categorization. Elea is a compelling protagonist whose determination and intelligence are balanced by very human doubts and fears. The supporting cast, particularly Guigo and Queen Joanna, are equally well-drawn, their motivations and actions reflecting the complexities of their historical moment.
Twin Dynamic
The relationship between Elea and her twin sister Margot forms the emotional core of the novel. Their divergent paths—Margot embracing traditional roles while Elea pushes boundaries—create tension that feels both historically authentic and personally resonant.
Areas for Improvement
Pacing Issues
The novel occasionally suffers from uneven pacing, particularly in its middle section. Some scenes of medical practice and herb gathering, while historically accurate, could have been condensed without losing their impact.
Religious Elements
While the religious conflicts of the era are well-portrayed, the spiritual aspects of characters’ lives sometimes feel underdeveloped. Given the centrality of faith to medieval life, deeper exploration of characters’ religious beliefs could have added another layer of complexity.
Secondary Plot Lines
A few secondary storylines, particularly those involving minor characters at the papal court, remain somewhat underdeveloped. These threads could have either been expanded or trimmed to create a tighter narrative focus.
Historical Accuracy and Creative License
DeLozier demonstrates remarkable skill in balancing historical accuracy with narrative engagement. Her portrayal of historical figures like Pope Clement VI and Queen Joanna of Naples adheres closely to historical record while bringing them to vivid life as characters.
The medical practices described in the novel are particularly well-researched, reflecting both the limitations and innovations of medieval medicine. The author’s background in biological anthropology and physical therapy likely contributed to the authenticity of these scenes.
Writing Style and Narrative Voice
The prose is elegant and assured, with a contemporary accessibility that never feels anachronistic. DeLozier has a particular talent for sensory detail, bringing the sights, smells, and textures of medieval Avignon to life:
“The smell of honeysuckle hangs in the air like stars. After the wind in my ears, it is so quiet here: no sound but the music of crickets, the cozy hoot of an owl. And voices”
Themes and Deeper Meanings
Gender and Power
The novel expertly explores the limitations placed on women in medieval society while avoiding anachronistic feminist messaging. Elea’s struggles feel authentic to her time while resonating with contemporary readers.
Knowledge and Superstition
The tension between scientific understanding and religious superstition is masterfully handled, with neither side completely villainized or glorified.
Love and Sacrifice
The various forms of love portrayed—romantic, familial, platonic—add depth to the narrative and raise stakes in the novel’s climactic moments.
Impact and Relevance
Written during the COVID-19 pandemic, “Eleanore of Avignon” carries particular resonance for contemporary readers. The parallels between medieval and modern responses to disease—fear, scapegoating, and the courage of medical practitioners—are subtle but powerful.
Verdict
“Eleanore of Avignon” is an impressive debut that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, medical history, and strong female protagonists. Despite some minor flaws, DeLozier has created a compelling narrative that brings medieval Europe to vivid life while exploring themes that remain relevant today.
Recommended for:
- Readers who enjoyed “Year of Wonders” by Geraldine Brooks
- Fans of Ken Follett’s “Kingsbridge” series
- Those interested in medieval medicine and the Black Death
- Readers seeking strong female protagonists in historical settings
Not recommended for:
- Those seeking light historical romance
- Readers sensitive to medical details or descriptions of plague
- Those preferring fast-paced historical thrillers
Final Thoughts
Elizabeth DeLozier’s debut novel demonstrates remarkable promise. Her ability to combine historical accuracy with compelling storytelling marks her as an author to watch in historical fiction. While there is room for growth in certain areas, “Eleanore of Avignon” is a significant achievement that adds a fresh voice to the genre.
The novel’s greatest strength lies in its ability to make the medieval world feel immediate and relevant while never losing sight of its historical context. In Elea, DeLozier has created a protagonist whose struggles and triumphs resonate across the centuries, reminding us that the human experience—in all its complexity—remains fundamentally unchanged.