This is a deeply immersive historical novel with a stunning sense of time and place - think Norman-run Sicily in the gritty 11th century. Maria, the sharp and strong-willed daughter of a Norman warlord, navigates marriage, power struggles, faith, and survival in a very male-dominated world. The realism is top-notch: no sugarcoating, no modern sensibilities, just life as it might have been, complete with messy relationships and tough choices. If you love authentic, character-driven historical fiction with nuanced (and often unconventional) heroines - and appreciate stories that don't shy away from the dark side - this is for you.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers found the writing style choppy and almost emotionless, which can make the pacing feel slow and the narrative detached. If you need a strong, fast-paced plot or emotional intimacy with the main character, you may be frustrated. There's also a heavy focus on the daily grind of medieval life, which might not excite those looking for non-stop action or a clear romantic arc. And the historical setting, while rich in detail, can feel vaguely sketched out at times.

A brilliant, unvarnished look at medieval womanhood - challenging, complex, and deeply rewarding for fans of authentic historical fiction. Not for everyone, but a treasure if you love raw realism and strong, flawed heroines.

About:

'Great Maria' by Cecelia Holland is a historical fiction novel set in Sicily during the middle ages. The story follows Maria, the daughter of a powerful Norman robber knight, who is married off to Richard, one of his ambitious men, despite her preference for Richard's younger brother, Roger. Maria's life is depicted from her prepubescent innocence to her wily middle age, showcasing her struggles and growth within the confines of her medieval society. The writing style in the book is described as crisp, plain, and practical, with meticulous attention to historical detail, making the characters compelling and multi-faceted.

Characters:

The characters are multi-faceted, with Maria as a compelling female protagonist who navigates her challenges with resilience and intellect.

Writing/Prose:

Holland's writing is generally straightforward and detail-oriented, though it may lack emotional depth for some readers and can feel disjointed.

Plot/Storyline:

The story delves into Maria's life from innocence to maturity, highlighting her struggles in a male-dominated society, her relationships, and the power dynamics in her world.

Setting:

The setting is vividly depicted, immersing readers in the historical context of Norman Sicily.

Pacing:

The pacing can be uneven, with significant detail given to everyday experiences, which may detract from plot-driven momentum.

Other pilgrims offered silver at the shrine; Maria brought an armful of wildflowers. She laid the vivid little blue blossoms down at the foot of the Virgin and smiled into the statue’s face. In the gl...

Notes:

Great Maria is set in southern Italy during the early 11th century.

It features a female protagonist, Maria, who grows from innocence to a powerful woman.

Maria is the daughter of a Norman robber knight and marries Richard, one of his ambitious men.

The novel explores themes of power, gender roles, and domestic life in medieval society.

Richard, although ambitious, is capable of violence and domestic abuse towards Maria.

Despite hardships, Maria becomes a decisive and influential partner to Richard.

The detailed writing style offers a realistic view of medieval life, but some readers find it choppy.

The story reflects the political and social aspects of the Norman conquest of Sicily.

Maria's character embodies both strength and the constraints of her time as a woman.

Cecelia Holland's works are noted for their meticulous historical research.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers include domestic abuse and themes of violence common in historical contexts.

Has Romance?

While romance is significant, it is portrayed in a realistic manner, reflecting the complexities of the characters' relationships.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

a woman in norman sicily makes her way by marriage, guile, courage and love. reprinted from the original.

1974

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558 pages

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About the Author:

Cecelia Holland was born in 1943 and has written 24 historical novels, the first of which was published in 1966. The New York Times has called her a "literary phenomenon." She attended Connecticut College and now lives in Northern California.

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Great Maria

Cecelia Holland

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