The Maid's Tale

Abuse of power is the theme of this novel set in the city of Derry from the late 50s to the present, an era when the Catholic Church was at the forefront of political change and religious controversy. As housekeeper to Father Patrick Mann, Brigid gains self-esteem, only to lose her position when Father Mann loses his ability to function as a priest. But Brigid refuses to be silenced. With Brigid's narrative, Ferguson celebrates the discovery of free expression on the part of victims of powerful groups. ""Widely praised.""--Books Ireland ""A tour de force""--David Marcus.