The Column of Burning Spices: A Novel of Germany's First Female Physician

Hildegard of Bingen Series, Book 2

De: P. K. Adams

Narrado por: Elizabeth Wiley

The year is 1143. Hildegard, already a well-known physician, has expanded her work to writing not just about medicine but on theological matters as well. Once again, the monks of St. Disibod are there to stop her, citing the biblical passages that admonish against "women teachers". Also, Abbot Kuno is aging, and it is only a matter of time before he is succeeded in the post by Prior Helenger, who wants nothing more than to see Hildegard permanently relegated to the convent's enclosure.

Leaving St. Disibod is Hildegard's only hope of continuing her mission of healing and writing as she sees fit. She has been saving money from the convent's endowments for years, but in order to establish her own foundation she will need the backing of a powerful man of the Church.

There are several who could become her champions - from the famed Abbot Bernard of Clairvaux, to the Archbishop of Mainz, to the newly elected Pope Eugenius III. But will they take up a woman's cause and subvert centuries of established tradition? And will it be enough to protect Hildegard from a betrayal that lurks closer than she could ever imagine?

©2019 Patrycja Podrazik (P)2020 Tantor

Get lost in it

Loved this series of books, truly transported me to another time and place. Hildegard is closer to my heart having read it. Thank you.

Beautiful enveloping storytelling

I enjoyed both books in this series! The narration and the storytelling kept me at rapt attention and also I appreciated the semi-autobiographical nature of this real-life protagonist and her struggles and accomplishments.

Excellent presentation

Vivid, dramatic, great imaginations mixed with historical truths presented a revolutionary woman sainthood who lid up light leading faith out of the dark ages!

Not close enough to the truth

I was interested in reading a historical novel about Hildegard of Bingen, with hopes of learning more about her real life. I thought the author took too many liberties with facts, so it was ultimately not as satisfying as I would have liked. Narration was great though.