Matrix (by Lauren Groff)

I loved this historical novel, set in the 12th century during the life of Eleanor of Aquitaine, centering on Marie of France, a semi-obscure historical figure who lived out her life in an abbey. Groff envisions her as a mystic, a leader, and a writer.

As In This House of Brede shows us, the interior life of a community of women can be fascinating. (In this case, Marie's desire for other women is also a thread running throughout the book.) She uses her position in the abbey to claim power in one of the only ways available to women at the time, and this exploration of female power is the center of the book.  

I also love Groff's writing style, present-tense omniscient, and how she drops in references to future events seemingly without holding anything back. And yet removing the suspense doesn't make the book any less compelling. Looking forward to discussing this one in the Tournament in March!