This haunting debut novel is based on a true event in Iceland during the early 1800s. Tons of research, actual letters, and transcripts are included. When Agnes Magnusdottir, a convicted murderer, is sent to live at an isolated farm until her execution, she chooses a certain young priest to be her spiritual guardian and also hear her story. Beautifully written and, at times, a bit disturbing. For the historical fiction aficionado. I couldn’t put it down.

—Barb of R.J. Julia Bookseller, Madison

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