The Cleaner of Chartres by Salley Vickers

 

This book is beautifully written, has outstanding characters with depth, includes mystery and intrigue, has a plot that will keep you engaged, and a tale you won’t want to end.

We all have a past whether sordid or lily white.  We either like to keep our past hidden or allow it to be an open book.  Agnes didn't like to think of her past.  She did have an unpleasant history and tried to keep it buried, but people and circumstances caused others to want to "dig" into the life she led before she arrived in Chartres.

The storyline is unique and appealing.  Through Ms. Vickers' skillful style, the book masterfully draws out the secrets of Agnes' life with hints of what she holds inside. The hints at her life capture your attention and then move to something else as you patiently wait for the next piece of the puzzle to be revealed. 

You will not be disappointed and will quickly want to move to the next chapter to enjoy more of the creative, absorbing story.  The chapters move smoothly between time periods giving background information as well information about the life Agnes currently leads. The interaction of the characters was marvelous.  The writing is very detailed, and the characters and scenes are vivid.  

THE CLEANER OF CHARTRES took a few pages to become interesting, but once the story took off, it was quite captivating as the mystery of who Agnes really was and what caused her to be the person she had become unfolds.  You will grow to love Agnes as she makes it through her life simply and effectually and share every turn her life takes.  You will feel sorry for Agnes but will also be amazed at her resiliency since she didn't have an easy life and especially since she was able to function as an illiterate.  The story will stay with you long after you turn the last page.

As well as a wonderful storyline and wonderful characters, you will learn about The Cathedral of Chartres.  The history of this cathedral was fascinating and had me looking up photos of the structure as well as particulars of the church and its beautiful stained glass windows.  The book's cover is charming.

I wholeheartedly enjoyed this story of Agnes.  I hope you will be able to read this book and get caught up in her life as I did.  5/5  

This book was given to me free of charge and without compensation by the publisher in return for an honest review.