Marques Gomes takes us back to the 1400s, to a Portugal buzzing with royal intrigue. At the center is Princess Joanna, daughter of King Afonso V. From a young age, she's groomed to be a key political pawn, her marriage a tool for forging powerful alliances. But Joanna feels a different pull—a deep, unwavering call to religious life.

The Story

The book follows Joanna's life from her childhood in the palace to her ultimate, dramatic choice. We see the immense pressure from her family, especially her father, who needs her to secure the kingdom's future through a strategic marriage. The court is full of whispers and schemes. Yet, alongside the politics, we get a close look at Joanna's inner world—her prayers, her doubts, and her growing conviction that her path leads not to a throne, but to a convent. The tension builds as these two worlds—the glittering court and the silent cloister—crash into each other.

Why You Should Read It

I was hooked by how human Joanna feels. This isn't a dry saint's biography. Gomes shows us her struggle, making her choice to renounce wealth and power feel both radical and deeply personal. It’s a powerful story about a woman defining her own purpose in a world that had a very specific plan for her. The historical setting is vivid without being overwhelming, focusing on the people and their motivations.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who enjoys historical fiction about lesser-known figures, or stories of personal conviction. If you liked the feel of The Other Boleyn Girl but wanted more spirituality and less romance, you'll find a fascinating companion here. It's a quiet, thoughtful book that packs a punch about what it means to live a meaningful life.