Wild Words Newsletter
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From the pen of the acclaimed author of 'Black Narcissus' and 'The River' comes a captivating tale that has enthralled readers for generations. Rumer Godden, hailed by Philip Hensher as 'one of our best and most captivating novelists', presents a story of transformation, redemption, and the indomitable human spirit.
'Five for Sorrow, Ten for Joy' introduces us to the Sisters of Béthanie, a French Dominican order dedicated to ministering to society's most marginalised souls - from criminals to prostitutes and drug addicts. At the heart of this narrative is Lise, an Englishwoman who, in post-liberation Paris, ascended from a high-class brothel employee to a prosperous madame, only to find herself drawn into the sisters' fold.
With meticulous attention to detail and a keen understanding of human nature, Godden crafts a compelling conversion story. She deftly illustrates how divine mercy can penetrate even the darkest recesses of human experience, weaving together Lise's journey through imprisonment, spiritual awakening, and her subsequent work with women whose harrowing experiences often surpass her own.
This Virago Modern Classic is a testament to Godden's enduring appeal, described by Rosie Thomas in The Guardian as possessing an 'almost hypnotic' quality. It's a profound exploration of growth, choice, and spiritual freedom that, as Joan Chittister notes, resonates deeply with readers. Prepare to be enthralled by this masterful storyteller's ability to illuminate the complexities of redemption and the transformative power of compassion.
Book ISBN: | 9780349017549 |
Book Author: | Rumer Godden |
Book Format: | Paperback / softback |
Book Imprint: | Virago Press Ltd |
Book Publisher: | Little, Brown Book Group |
Book Dimensions: | 126 x 198 x 21 cm |
Book Publication Date: | 2025-02-13 |
Book Pagination: | 272 pages |
Book Weight: | 220g |
Sherlock & Pages is a little bookshop with a big heart. We are based in Frome, Somerset, England and curate lists of books in the areas we are passionate about – landscape, nature, history, and heritage. In short, the conservation of all we’ve inherited and all we are responsible to pass on. We aim to inspire and be inspired, to form a literary culture of care and passion about this precious planet we call home.
This is a shop where you might find something you haven’t seen before, and we like to think we’ve got something for everyone. We choose each of our books with care and for a reason. This is because our physical store is small but beautifully formed, holding only around 1200 titles at any one time. We try and recreate the feel of the shop wherever we are online, to reflect our niche categories and personality.
We have an active social media presence and aim to share our story with all our friends. The long-term goal is to build a hub for the books and writers we believe in. Who knows where our adventure will lead but by supporting Sherlock & Pages you’re helping us to add a further layer of magic to our little corner of the world. If you haven’t visited our physical store, one day you might just make a literary pilgrimage down to Somerset.
Our tagline is ‘Long Live the Hedgerows’ and our symbol a hibernating dormouse. If you want to support an independent with a unique character and which will share stories with you for years to come, then choose Sherlock & Pages. The world needs bookshops with soul, for they are ‘citadels of light.’
Sherlock & Pages is a little bookshop with a big heart. We are based in Frome, Somerset, England and curate lists of books in the areas we are passionate about – landscape, nature, history, and heritage. In short, the conservation of all we’ve inherited and all we are responsible to pass on. We aim to inspire and be inspired, to form a literary culture of care and passion about this precious planet we call home.
This is a shop where you might find something you haven’t seen before, and we like to think we’ve got something for everyone. We choose each of our books with care and for a reason. This is because our physical store is small but beautifully formed, holding only around 1200 titles at any one time. We try and recreate the feel of the shop wherever we are online, to reflect our niche categories and personality.
We have an active social media presence and aim to share our story with all our friends. The long-term goal is to build a hub for the books and writers we believe in. Who knows where our adventure will lead but by supporting Sherlock & Pages you’re helping us to add a further layer of magic to our little corner of the world. If you haven’t visited our physical store, one day you might just make a literary pilgrimage down to Somerset.
Our tagline is ‘Long Live the Hedgerows’ and our symbol a hibernating dormouse. If you want to support an independent with a unique character and which will share stories with you for years to come, then choose Sherlock & Pages. The world needs bookshops with soul, for they are ‘citadels of light.’