Lorraine V. Murray Libri

Flannery O'Connor has been studied and lauded under many the Southern author whose pen captured the soul of a proud region struggling to emerge out of racism and poverty, the female writer whose independent spirit and tragically short life inspired a generation of women, the Catholic artist whose fiction evokes themes of sin and damnation, mercy and redemption.Now, and for the first time, The Abbess of Andalusia affords us an in-depth look at Flannery O'Connor the believer.In these pages you will come to know Flannery O'Connor not only as a writer and an icon, but as a theologian and apologist; as a spiritual director and a student of prayer; as a suffering soul who learned obedience and merited grace through infirmity; and truly, as the Abbess of her own small, but significant, spiritual house. For decades Flannery O'Connor the author has touched her readers with the brilliance of her books. Now be edified and inspired by the example of her life.New from Saint Benedict Press.

The author's transformation from a radical feminist and nihilist to a devoted Christian woman serves as a profound testament to personal redemption. She critiques her previous beliefs surrounding femininity, sexuality, and morality, drawing on her academic background in English and Philosophy. Through her journey, she explores the contrast between her past life as a feminist rebel and her newfound faith, offering an inspiring narrative of enlightenment and the embrace of divine truth.

Francesca Bibbo seeks to enhance her social life by joining the choir at St. Rita's, only to find herself amidst conflict between the choir director and the pastor over an old organ, alongside competitive sopranos. Following a disastrous rehearsal party that ends in a suspicious death ruled a suicide, Francesca suspects foul play and delves into the deceased's background. Her investigation reveals shocking and dark secrets among the choir members, leading her into a web of intrigue and danger.