Written in 1861 but taking place in the fifteenth century, this picturesque historical novel by Charles Reade follows the story of a young scribe and illuminator named Gerard Eliason.
In order to escape persecution, Gerard sets out on a journey from Holland to Rome, leaving behind the woman he loves, Margaret. Along the road Gerard meets a colorful cast of characters—including various historical figures—and explores the conflict between a person’s obligation to family versus the church. Considered a literary classic, Reade’s novel has been hailed as one of the best historical novels of the English language.
Download and start listening now!
“Critically acclaimed as one of the greatest historical novels in English, The Cloister and the Hearth contains a meticulous recreation of fifteenth-century European life. Mingled with its cast of vividly drawn characters are various historical personages.”
—
Merriam-Webster Encyclopedia of Literature