ARC of Sold for Endless Rue: Coming in May from Forge Books, this is a stand-alone historical set in and around the medieval medical school at Salerno in the 13th century, by the author of Point of Honour and other Sarah Tolerance alt-Regency mysteries.
Inspired by the tale “Rapunzel,” Sold for Endless Rue is a moving, eloquent novel of three generations of women, bound to each other by love and duty.
Salerno, Italy, in the 13th century is home to the world’s first medical school, a temple of learning that admits both men and women. The city is filled with medicos and their patients, but in the hills, people seek help from midwives and hedge-witches like Crescia.
One tumultuous day Crescia saves the life of a fugitive, Laura, who becomes her daughter and apprentice. Soon Laura’s skill at healing surpasses Crescia’s and the older woman enrolls her at the Scuola. The Scuola opens vistas of learning, friendship, and love. Knowledge takes her from the Crescia’s cottage to fame and wealth as a medica in the city, but love shapes a bitter kernel in her heart–and brings her a stolen child, Bieta. Laura swears to keep her daughter safe from the hurt and loss she herself suffered
As in “Rapunzel,” Crescia cannot keep her daughter from the world. Whatever her mother’s wishes, Bieta will venture from the towers of the Scuola, to find her destiny.
Starting Bid: $5
Notes: As soon as I have my copies, I will ship this to you.
Bidding is now open and closes Sunday, February 24, 2013 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. More Information.