The Hawk and the Dove

This is the only book I have ever read twice. I couldn’t put it down. The stories about these monks growing in virtue made me laugh and cry. I could hardly believe the author was Methodist because her descriptions of holy Mass and the use of Latin seemed spot on. There is one little part where the young narrator wrestles with her faith, but I interpreted it as typical of a girl her age.

This book, the opening of the trilogy, is very entertaining and touching. I intend to read the first two books to my children, and hold off a while on the third one (they can read it when they are in their teens). Perhaps due to my earlier interest of becoming a monk, I was entertained with the tales of monastic life, not dry reading about the rules of their life, but the people that lived, retold from mother to daughter for generations and now shared with all who are interested. Lessons of life are told, that we may benefit.

Tells the tales and trials of a collection of monks who are just adorable! The stories are honest, humble as well as painful. I laughed at the characters who were ridiculous, unreasonable or senile, and trickled some tears for those wounded. Every corner of my being was warmed by the healing encounters the main characters received. In a sacred moments they were treasured by a brother who embraced them with a mother's heart. The creative wisdom and powerful love of Peregrine inspired me (reminded me of the one who inspired him). I'll savor these characters and devour the next two parts to the series. Scrumptious read!

This first book in Wilcock's stirring trilogy starts a little slow, but draws the reader into the world of relationships between the head Abbot and the other monks and brothers so well that you will grieve over Father Peregrine's losses, repent over his sins that mirror your own, and rejoice with his successes as he, through Christ, touches the lives of others for good.The transformation of this man, Father Peregrine, from a steely, articulate, impressive leader into a humbled, cripled, loving mentor will challenge you to examine your own life and how you affect the people around you.This book will probably be most appreciated by readers at least over twenty, maybe even thirty, who have lived long enough to see some of their own weaknesses in Father Peregrine, and can be inspired to change for the better. Very moving and inspirational.