The Witch of Cologne (novel)

The Witch of Cologne by Tobsha Learner has definitely made its way onto my favorites list. It features a very strong willed Jewess named Ruth bas Elazar Saul and a Catholic priest named Detlef von Tennen. Ruth is pressing against the constraints of being a woman by increasing her knowledge in science (specifically medicine) and practicing as a midwife. Detlef has given up his privileged position in order to be part of the Catholic Church, but questions the inner workings of his station.


Without giving too much away, there were a number of reasons why this book was a huge draw for me. One, Learner's use of language to paint the imagery of what was going on was very good. I like when authors are creative with word choice, but not so overly florid that it feels as if they are trying too hard. I also give bonus points to any book that makes me reach for a dictionary (more likely my iPod Touch now) and look up a word that I have never seen before.


I also give points to any book that can meld science, religion, and mysticism. I think it is easy to have science vs. religion and take a stance (or leave it open for the reader to take a stance). But I personally feel like a character is more identifiable with when they strongly stand on the scientific but have not let go of their religious beliefs entirely. Through the character of Ruth, Learner is able to put together this situation where medicine, Judaism, and mysticism all have to come together in a comprehensive and logical way in order to make the story that much more interesting. And Learner does a great job. 


The character of Detlef VonTennon was very interesting to read. How he changes from beginning to end is quite amazing. However, as a reader, I barely noticed it until I went back and thought about it. The change was so natural and organic, I did not pay attention to it until I realized how different his actions at the beginning were from how he acted at the end.


I do not read much historical fiction, but this one was a very good find. If you are looking for a good novel, I highly recommend this one.

What is this blog?

Growing up, I was definitely what you would term as a book worm. I read just about anything I could get my hands on. Well that has not really gone away for me (not that I want it to). And whenever I can get a free moment, I try and read something, whether it be comic books, traditional novels, short stories, what have now. 

Then I decided, why keep the good finds to myself? I should put out what I thought about what I read. It will give my blog some type of direction (where my personal blog is nothing but whatever topic of the day happens to enter my head that morning).

So that is what this blog is. My thoughts on written work that comes through my hands. Hope you readers enjoy.