by H. G. Watts (Author)
This biographical historical novel focuses on Jacoba dei Settesoli - the woman who came to be known as Jacoba of the Seven Suns. A wealthy, beautiful Italian aristocrat, Jacoba lived in the tumultuous Middle Ages. In her early teens she moves from her family's palace to Rome's Septizonium when she marries into city's most powerful family - the Frangipani. Her husband, Gratien, who is nearly twice her age dies prematurely leaving the young widow in charge of his palaces and knights as well as raising their children. Jacoba also maintains a lifelong relationship with St. Francis - the reformed playboy who avoided women and considered them "honeyed poison." Why then was Jacoba the only woman he called to his deathbed? More puzzling, why do her remains share his crypt in Assisi? This is the love story that was never told. It is also a chronicle of conflict - internal battles as well as physical clashes. Steeped in medieval history, this novel explores how an extraordinarily close relationship may have developed between the powerful aristocrat and the future saint. This book transports you to a Rome and Assisi unlike the places we know today. It also provides in-depth insight into the often violent and always fascinating medieval period in Europe.