Wings Like a Dove: The Courage of Queen Jeanne D’Albret book review

Calvary Herald
THE WEB MAGAZINE OF CALVARY REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

B o o k R e v i e w

12/31/06

Wings Like a Dove:
The Courage of Queen Jeanne D'Albret

by Christine Farenhorst

Reviewed by Byron Snapp

Psalm l27:4 speaks of children being like arrows in the hands of a warrior. This verse came to mind after reading this work of historical fiction based on the life of Jeranne D’Albret.

The princess of Navarre was providentially born in l528. Her father, Henri, was Catholic, but her mother, Marguerite, favored the Protestants even at the risk of her husband’s anger. Young Jeanne seldom saw her parents. This brought great sadness to her life. She was keenly aware that she was to be used as a political pawn. The first move came as her powerful uncle betrothed her to the older Duke of Cleves. She now had to make some major decisions. How could she forestall the marriage? Was refusal to marry worth the price she would have to pay? Readers will be surprised at her resolve and how God providentially worked in this episode.

Her courage served her well in later life. As queen of Navarre, her land became a haven for reformers, including the Huguenots, who were escaping Catholic persecution. Her husband, Antoine, was not hostile to the Protestants but was unwilling to pay a political price to protect them.

Through many trials, God brought young Jeanne to realize that Christ alone is Savior and that she could go directly to God’s throne through Christ. Her faith sustained her in the midst of crises. Because of her faith, she ultimately made many family sacrifices. She publicly announced her Protestant faith on Christmas Day, l560. Calvinism became the state religion of her realm. The queen actively promoted laws and reformation that favored Protestantism.

This historical fiction gives a great portrait of the times in which Jeanne lived. It opens up her thoughts to the reader. Through her eyes we become aware that royalty often have less freedom than the peasants over whom they rule. We learn of the nightmares that guilt-ridden rulers endured long after they had sent many Protestants to die on fiery stakes. We are reminded anew that outward pomp and attire may cover a heart void of joy and purpose.

The author writes with an astute awareness of character and the complexity of the human being. Her knowledge of the Reformation and her respect for Jeanne allows her to write a very inspiring book. It broadens our understanding of a young, heroic queen about whom many Calvinists know little. This is a volume of interest to adults and youth.