“Hamnet”

Since the names Hamnet and Hamlet are interchangeable and the book takes place in the 1580 - 1590’s in Stratford-Upon-Avon and it features a writer/stage company founder, there are clear references to Shakespeare in this story.  But this novel by Maggie O’Farrell is really about a haunting woman named Agnes who has powers to heal the sick and love deeply.  The book is not a light read with the pervasive and deadly Black Plague serving as the backdrop, but it is a rich and eloquent tale about family relationships (good and bad) and the desperate measures some take to preserve life.  Thanks, Debby, for the excellent recommendation.