Like Book 1, I just felt that this was too long at over 400 pages. Either editing or having her break the trilogy down into a couple of more books might help. It is an amusing story though, with happy endings all around. I won't be in a big hurry though to get to the library and pick up the third book. There are more pressing books to consume. ( )

I did not enjoy this as much as I did the first book in the series...things seemed to be a bit too pat, & some events somewhat unbelievable given the time period. I thought that Margaret had actually regressed from a fairly feisty, strong female protagonist, to one who caved to convention (read "male-dominated society") & could/would no longer stand up for herself. ( )

Medieval midwife who talks to God, rescues herself and her husband, and does minor miracles while scolding God and organizing things. Friends with alchemist/conman. ( )

In this second of the Margaret of Ashbury trilogy, the majority of the action takes place in France. Margaret’s new husband, along with his father and brother, has been forced to go to war for his Duke. Father – mortally wounded- and brother return, but Gregory does not. When no message asking for ransom arrives, he is assumed to be dead. But Margaret knows he is not, and that she must rescue him. She sets out with her dear friends Hilde and Brother Malachi. Malachi has his own reasons for accompanying her- he is an alchemist and has come into possession of a text written in Hebrew, which he cannot read. He is convinced it contains the last secret he needs- the Green Lion- to create the Philosopher’s Stone. Disguised as religious pilgrims, they set out.

Alchemy figures large in the tale. Not only does it provide a second impetus for Malachi, but it is one of the obsessions of mad Sieur d’Aigremont, who shows the pilgrims his, er, hospitality. One of the evilest characters I’ve read, the Sieur also seeks both the gold and the eternal life the Philosopher’s Stone can provide. Multiple threads weave together in his keep as many of them face death. But those events aren’t the end of their troubles- they still have to get back to England.

I think this is my favorite of the three. It has alchemy, ghosts, supernatural healing, noblemen good, evil and stupid, sham ladies and possibly Jesus. What’s not to like? ( )

Sequel to "A Vision Of Light". The year is 1356. Margaret of Ashbury has married Brother Gregory, now unfrocked and using his birth name Gilbert de Vilers. But Gilbert has gone off to fight in France and is now missing. Accompanied by her friends, she sets off in search of her husband and, incidentally, the Philosopher's Stone. Engaging, sweet, and humorous. A lovely story. ( )