Hi William, I’ve just finished reading this (out aloud to my wife). I found it a very unusual book, not only because the period and setting are unfamiliar to most of us, but because you present Winwæd’s actions and reflections to us in a very subjective way, often forcing us to full in the gaps that were perfectly obvious to him. I like the deep spirituality, faith and submissiveness we see in the hearts and lives of these humble monks. You also give us thought-provoking ideas about prayer and God’s sovereignty.
I was particularly interested to read The Oblate’s Confession since I am writing a novel about a Roman bishop in the sixth century.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on “The Oblate’s Confession.” The fact that you decided to read the book aloud to your wife made me very happy. I would love to know how many times, over the course of writing the book, I read individual passages and even entire chapters aloud to my wife. Certainly, without Melissa, the book would never have happened. And you are writing a book yourself about a sixth century bishop! I should imagine that will be interesting indeed, though the research requirements must be daunting. Have you read Iain Pears’ “The Dream of Scipio”? Think you might like it.
Thanks for taking the trouble to respond, William. I was intrigued that you suggested I read Iain Pears’ “The Dream of Scipio”, as my young protagonist picks up a copy of Cicero’s “Somnium Scipionis” and wants to discuss it with his friend the bishop. I must read that book you mention.
BTW: I notice your reviewers mention the slow pace of your book. I participate in a critique circle where we review each other’s works and I’m often told that not enough happens in my story. Their books are fast-paced fantasy thrillers, whereas I want to explore the inner life and struggles of a young pagan lad, and the new perspectives he gains through his friendship with his old bishop-mentor. The parallels with your book particularly interested me. I also write from a Christian perspective whereas the others in the group have a totally different view of spiritual and moral issues. The feedback from the other side of the fence is valuable, even if it’s sometimes hard to swallow.
Cheers, Viktor
Looking forward to the book and the release!
Hi William, I’ve just finished reading this (out aloud to my wife). I found it a very unusual book, not only because the period and setting are unfamiliar to most of us, but because you present Winwæd’s actions and reflections to us in a very subjective way, often forcing us to full in the gaps that were perfectly obvious to him. I like the deep spirituality, faith and submissiveness we see in the hearts and lives of these humble monks. You also give us thought-provoking ideas about prayer and God’s sovereignty.
I was particularly interested to read The Oblate’s Confession since I am writing a novel about a Roman bishop in the sixth century.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on “The Oblate’s Confession.” The fact that you decided to read the book aloud to your wife made me very happy. I would love to know how many times, over the course of writing the book, I read individual passages and even entire chapters aloud to my wife. Certainly, without Melissa, the book would never have happened. And you are writing a book yourself about a sixth century bishop! I should imagine that will be interesting indeed, though the research requirements must be daunting. Have you read Iain Pears’ “The Dream of Scipio”? Think you might like it.
Thanks for taking the trouble to respond, William. I was intrigued that you suggested I read Iain Pears’ “The Dream of Scipio”, as my young protagonist picks up a copy of Cicero’s “Somnium Scipionis” and wants to discuss it with his friend the bishop. I must read that book you mention.
BTW: I notice your reviewers mention the slow pace of your book. I participate in a critique circle where we review each other’s works and I’m often told that not enough happens in my story. Their books are fast-paced fantasy thrillers, whereas I want to explore the inner life and struggles of a young pagan lad, and the new perspectives he gains through his friendship with his old bishop-mentor. The parallels with your book particularly interested me. I also write from a Christian perspective whereas the others in the group have a totally different view of spiritual and moral issues. The feedback from the other side of the fence is valuable, even if it’s sometimes hard to swallow.
Cheers, Viktor