An Army of Angels is an extremly well written book. After reading 22 books on Jehanne's life I can honestly say Pam, unlike many authors, revield the true St. Jehanne. Pam has not made Jehanne a perfect saint but has showen her flaws, like her quick temper and her self doubt.

However, I find great fault with the rape scene. For me it was very unsettling. Yes, Jehanne was abused, hassled and had great heartache in prison, I do not doubt that. But rape? I do not think so. And while I think the rest of the book was well written I must protest against this scene. Some people may say I am being picky, and maybe for them I am. But that is ok.

I close with words I believed Pam left out of her book.

"Alas! Am I so horribly and cruelly used, that my clean body NEVER yet defiled, must this day be burnt and turned to ashes!"

It's not every day that a book like this comes along. Historical fiction can be dreadfully dull. Ms. Marcantel, however, has created a fascinating, page-turning, lively, visceral, unforgettable historical fiction book with her "Army of Angels".

Everyone THINKS they know about Joan of Arc, and they focus on the fact that she was burned at the stake. However, there is much, much more to her story than what most people know. Her bravery, her mystic visions, her humanity, the [issues] she put up with from men, her charisma -- why not buy this book and get the REAL story?

You will wish the book was longer after you have finished the last page and closed the cover. Take a journey back in time ... buy this book and give yourself the fun of getting to know the real Joan of Arc.

I read two to three books a week and it is rare for me to find a book as brutally honest as this one. The pull of the characters were so subtle that I had no idea how emotionally involved I was until near the end of the book. I have bought An Army of Angels twice because it has worn out from how many people I insist read it. Definitely worth the time and emotional involvement.