The Solitary Sparrow

The Margaret Chronicles, Book 1

De: Lorraine Norwood

Narrado por: Tracy Russell

She struggles against her enemies.

But still, they stand in her way.

In 14th century England, Meg of St. Michael’s Mead endures a life of abuse and isolation due to her birth deformity. However, her fortunes change when the village wise woman saves her and teaches her the art of healing. After witnessing a shocking birth, Meg discovers her true purpose: to become England’s first licensed female physician and provide compassionate care to women.

To achieve her goal, Meg seeks the tutelage of William of Oxford, a gruff surgeon who agrees to mentor her. But there's a catch. She must keep a secret—William and his son Gerard are performing illegal human dissections—and she must assist them. As Gerard and Meg work together, their feelings for each other deepen.

Amidst a civil war, Meg makes an enemy of the Queen, who accuses her of treason. Forced to flee to Montpellier, France, Meg tries to enter medical school, only to be met with resistance. She is told to marry, stay at home, and please her husband. Meg refuses to conform. When a deadly epidemic breaks out in Montpellier, Meg has one last chance to prove herself, but at the risk of losing Gerard.

A story of one woman’s courage and persistence, this captivating tale follows Meg's arduous journey of overcoming prejudice and adversity as she battles societal expectations amidst the specter of a lethal epidemic.

©2023 Lorraine Norwood (P)2024 Lorraine Norwood

Fabulous, moving story!

Meg is one of those characters that captures your heart and won’t let go. Fully developed with sympathetic motivations, we want her to succeed — though she lives in a world that feels otherwise. There’s interesting research in this novel yet it’s intrinsic to the story and never boring or academic. A great read!

Powerful 14th .c tale is as relevant today as then

I cannot fathom the depth of research Lorraine Norwood must have done to write this epic novel. Eschewing the romantic view of this age, she immerses the reader in the sights, sounds, and smells of a brutal time period. Every detail is careful crafted to present the most authentic telling, from language to customs to religious and cultural norms. And it is quite a tale. I found it painfully relevant to follow Meg's journey. A woman plagued with deformity, it is her ambition that is the real curse. Desiring to be a doctor, and worse serving women who are treated only slightly better than livestock, she forges courageously on. You cannot help but cheer for her spirit. Norwood selected the perfect narrator for the story. I was completely engrossed. A must read!