by Christine Farenhorst
2006 / 208 pages
In this historical biography, her first, author Christine Farenhorst brings us into the life and times of Jeanne d’Albret, princess of Navarre. No small undertaking this, for in the story we are spirited into sixteenth century France, a setting profoundly different from our own. Accuracy of surroundings, dress, diet, and custom must be researched and woven integrally into the narrative. Authenticity of events, character, and issues of faith must be carefully established from numerous sources. The resulting tale must be true, readable, intriguing, and inspiring.
Wings Like a Dove is indeed such a book. The story begins with scenes of Princess Jeanne’s childhood. One by one the people of Jeanne’s life are introduced to us in a slowly widening circle. We first meet Jeanne’s governess, her servants next, and then her distant father and mother, the king and queen of Navarre, which is a small but important kingdom bound in a tight alliance with France. The little princess is pathetically lonely as she grows, and as various attempts are made to betroth her merely for the sake of political advantage, she slowly realizes that she is but a pawn in the intrigue swirling about her. Poignantly, intimately, Jeanne’s life is opened to us in all of its joys and its sorrows.
Princess Jeanne lived in turbulent Reformation times. Affecting Jeanne’s life are several of the key Reformation figures: Calvin, Farel, Beza, and the French hymnwriter Marot. A number of the fierce antagonists of the Reformation, the reigning kings of France, Philip the II of Spain, Catharine de Medici and others are also important figures in her life, as their power and influence threaten to overwhelm Jeanne again and again.
In all of this we see the hand of sovereign God as He shapes this frail creature. He uses many people, her vacillating mother, her servants, and the Reformers to plant the seed of the Word. Although Satan would snatch away that seed and the cares of this world would threaten to choke out the tender plant of faith in Jeanne, we see that faith grow and mature. In His grace the Lord God is shaping this pitiable young girl to be a resolute champion for His truth and His Church, a Deborah who steps forth when others quail.
I heartily recommend this book. While written as part of “The Chosen Daughters” series for girls from twelve to sixteen, it is really a book for all ages, both for those well-acquainted with the Reformation and those new to its history. Through it all is portrayed the strange and wondrous way in which almighty God works His sovereign will through frail man’s responses of faith and rebellion, as true then as it is today. Read this convincing and bittersweet tale of faith and grace and be instructed, be sobered, and inspired.