“She is lost to history.” She is the mysterious concubine referred to only as “Una”—the One—in Augustine’s Confessions. Since hearing about Augustine of Hippo’s love for this woman 40 years ago, author Suzanne Wolfe has pondered what life might have been like for them.
The Confessions of X is the imagined story of a deep love forever denied its fullness because of societal class. Augustine, his mother Monica, and a son born to X all feature prominently in the tale. The context is well-researched and grounded in historical accuracy, drawing from texts of Augustine and his contemporaries.
The novel is at once beautiful and poignant, lyrical and poetic in its telling. Author notes and discussion questions make it a great selection for a book club. (Thomas Nelson)
About the Author
Jenny deGroot is a freelance media review and news writer for The Banner. She lives on Swallowfield Farm near Fort Langley B.C. with her husband, Dennis. Before retirement she worked as a teacher librarian and assistant principal.
