Huguenot Persecution by the Catholic Hierarchy
An Editorial Review of “Greet Suzon for Me“
Book Blurb
King Louis XIV is determined to unite the French nation in a single church. Gédéon, the oldest child of a Huguenot family in Normandy, experiences first-hand the increasing hostility of the Catholic hierarchy.
What is the cause of the religious conflict? Is reconciliation possible? Or will Gédéon’s family have to flee the country?
What causes religious conflict today? Can’t the underlying disagreements be resolved? Sadly, even today, countless families in many countries see no alternative than to escape their beloved homeland and seek refuge in an unfamiliar, unwelcoming nation. Vince’s second book – Greet Suzon for me – about the plight of Gédéon’s family, is due to be published in 2024.
Editorial Review
“Greet Suzon for Me” by Vince Rockston is a profound and emotional story set in the context of 17th-century France, a period marked by religious tensions between the Huguenots (French Protestants) and Catholics. The book is a complex journey into the lives of a Huguenot family in Normandy, sensitively portraying their struggle for survival and the preservation of their faith in the face of persecution.
The novel begins in Lancrel, Normandy, in August 1681, a time when tensions between the Huguenots and Catholics had reached a boiling point. These conflicts are intensified by King Louis XIV’s royal decree aimed at suppressing Protestantism and forcing conversion to Catholicism. The tense atmosphere and hostility are vividly depicted in the text: „People were arriving at our temple from all sides, many of them carrying sticks. I had never seen that before. My body tensed. It looked as though they were expecting trouble.” This sentence reflects the fear and uncertainty faced by the Huguenot community, illustrating how dangerous it had become for them to practice their religion.
The protagonist, Gédéon, is a young man whose life is deeply affected by these religious conflicts. We see him struggling with his own doubts and spiritual turmoil, trying to understand why religious beliefs can lead to so much hatred and violence: “I went through the motions of worshiping with them but couldn’t shake my uneasiness about how God-believing people could be so at odds. Was one side right, and one side wrong? Were our different opinions even worth arguing about?”
This inner reflection of Gédéon adds depth to his character, portraying him not only as a witness to the events but also as a young man trying to find his own path in a confusing and divided world.
Another strong aspect of the novel is the portrayal of family relationships and solidarity in the face of adversity. Gédéon’s father, a man of strong faith, tries to guide his family through these difficult times, maintaining an attitude of hope and courage: “We will ask God to deliver us from these attacks on our faith.” This sentence highlights the father’s determination to protect his family, even when facing severe persecution.
The book also explores the psychological and social impact of religious persecution. The scene where Pastor Benoist is attacked and forcibly taken away by soldiers under the orders of Père de la Rue is a powerful depiction of conflict and spiritual resistance: “You may destroy this building,” Pastor Benoist bellowed. “But the true Church of our Lord will continue – unfaltering – in the hearts of His dear children.” This declaration by the pastor, in the face of possible death, symbolizes the unyielding resilience of the Huguenot believers and their faith in divine protection.
Vince Rockston employs a realistic yet poetic narrative style to authentically capture the atmosphere of the era. The detailed descriptions of religious rituals, rural landscapes, and interpersonal relationships fully immerse the reader in the characters’ world. The well-crafted dialogues reflect the deep convictions of the characters, adding realism and narrative depth. The episode where the main character arrives at Abraham Papot’s house is particularly moving, especially when he meets Papot’s daughter, Élisabeth. Her facial disfigurement, resulting from the violence she endured, becomes a symbol of the regime’s cruelty and the suffering of the Huguenots. The young man’s reaction upon seeing her and the ensuing conversation with Monsieur Papot add emotional depth and underscore the brutality of the dragonnades—the persecution campaigns against the Huguenots. The book continues to reveal aspects of solidarity within the Huguenot communities, where ordinary people risk their lives to shelter the persecuted. At the same time, the author explores religious themes through texts and sermons read by the protagonist, reflecting the moral dilemmas faced by the Huguenots. The passage from Saint Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, quoted in the book, serves as a call to perseverance and moral action, regardless of others’ beliefs. This emphasis on universal kindness and Christian charity sharply contrasts with the violence imposed by the authorities, creating narrative tension between religious ideals and harsh reality. As the story progresses, the reader witnesses the hardships of emigration and the search for a safe place in Europe, culminating in their arrival in Geneva. Here, the concept of “refugee” becomes central, reflecting the desperate situation of thousands of Huguenots forced to leave their homes. The way the protagonist and Sophie are received in Geneva, as well as their interactions with various officials, highlights the complexity of this process and its impact on their identity.
A central element of the novel is Gédéon’s relationship with his faith. While his sister Madeleine maintains an unwavering belief in God, even in the darkest moments: “Her faith – despite her weakness and the peril we were in – was nothing short of amazing. Sick, freezing, soaked to the bone, and being tossed to and fro… and still she believed Jesus would come to her rescue.” Gédéon struggles with deep doubts, often feeling helpless and afraid: “I felt more vulnerable than ever. And despite Papa and Maman’s teachings, and all the cultes I’d attended, all the psalms and prayers I’d uttered, I felt my faith wavering. All I could think about was how scared I was, and how helpless. I realised I didn’t share Madeleine’s trust in God.”
A remarkable aspect of the novel is how the characters maintain hope and faith even in the most challenging moments. A crucial moment occurs when Noël confesses his guilt and asks for forgiveness for his mistakes. His transformation from a persecutor of the Huguenots to a repentant man illustrates the novel’s central theme, exploring forgiveness and the profound change an individual can experience throughout life.
An essential moment that illustrates the family dynamics is when Papa announces the decision to leave the house in haste. Mama’s immediate reaction, collapsing onto the couch speechless, and Madeleine rushing to pack, underscores the tension and despair that dominate the family in the face of imminent danger.
“Greet Suzon for Me” is a compelling and powerful novel that delves into universal themes of faith, resilience, and survival amidst the harsh realities of religious oppression. Vince Rockston masterfully weaves an emotional narrative with meticulously researched historical details, offering readers a profound understanding of the struggles and aspirations of the Huguenots during a tumultuous period in European history. The novel presents a vivid portrayal of the characters’ lives, capturing their hopes and fears as they navigate the dangers of persecution. Rockston’s rich storytelling immerses the reader in the emotional landscape of the time, illustrating not only the physical challenges faced by the Huguenots but also their spiritual battles. As the story unfolds, it evolves into a deep meditation on the complexities of human identity, particularly in the face of societal and religious pressures. The themes explored in the novel resonate not only with historical contexts but also with contemporary issues surrounding identity, faith, and the quest for belonging.
“Greet Suzon for Me” is more than just a historical account; it is a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit when confronted with adversity. This novel is an essential read for anyone interested in religious history and the intricate dynamics of faith and resilience. It serves as a reminder of the timeless struggle for freedom and the power of hope in even the darkest of times.
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“Greet Suzon for Me” by Vince Rockston receives 4.5 stars from The Historical Fiction Company
D. K. Marley
HFC CEO
