Published by Instant Apostle in July 2022.
The Pilgrim is a prequel to The Healing, telling Brother’s Hywel’s own story of healing and redemption. Purchase your signed copy here
THE BLURB
Driven by ambition and family expectation, young Henry de Brampton is determined to make his mark. Destined for a prestigious career in the Church, he readily embraces the chance to experience the world before taking his vows. But fuelled by selfish desire, he recklessly betrays those he loves, with devastating consequences.
Overwhelmed with guilt, he seeks redemption among the Cistercians of Abbey Cwmhir and finds a new identity as Brother Hywel. Yet a further thoughtless betrayal will prove he cannot escape himself, and he is forced on pilgrimage to save his vocation.
A reluctant pilgrim, can the unlikely company help him discover what it truly means to be great in God’s eyes, and will Hywel ever be willing not just to receive forgiveness but also to forgive himself?
ENDORSEMENTS:
‘A timeless journey of love, loss and redemption played out across a compelling medieval landscape.’ Anne E Bailey, Historian, Oxford University
‘The Pilgrim is a beautifully set novel, crafted with real compassion, revealing the truth that true pilgrimage happens in the soul, amidst tragedy, miracles and the gift of the peace of God.’ Andrew J Chamberlain, writer, presenter of The Creative Writer’s Toolbelt Podcast
REVIEWS:
‘What a beautiful book this is. From the very beginning, right through to the end, Joy Margetts’ story held me captivated. I felt I was in medieval Wales, and tried to delay reaching the end, as it became almost like a retreat-in-daily-life, just reading this book! As it relates the story of Hal, a nobleman, later to become the monk Hywel, it becomes almost meditative for the reader.’ SHEILA ROBINSON
‘This gently drawn portrait of Medieval life is a joy to read. Margetts puts me right there in her story world. Her characters are sympathetic and well-drawn and the chemistry between them makes The Pilgrim the sort of book you can delight in losing yourself in. Waiting for more of this time and place from her.’ BOBBIE COLE
‘I don’t like monks, or discomfort, or the idea of pilgrimage – but this story totally drew me in. The characters were real and I felt their pain and shared their joys. At times I laughed, many times I cried. I never wanted to put it down.
If you enjoy a well-told story, with depth and heart, you will enjoy The Pilgrim. Perfect for book clubs – so many great discussions to be had.’ JOY VEE
‘Easy to read story of the emotional and spiritual battles of a group of pilgrims but so reflective of the battles we each face on life’s journey. A Pilgrims Progress with an array of characters we can associate with and poignant themes of trauma, loss, heartache, confusion, forgiveness, awakening, hope which although in the medieval context apply today. Would love to see it as a movie.’ JULIE