Gave up at 25% -- Too simple in wording, plot and characters. Everyone seems generic and I really think our main character is dimwitted. I stopped when the noble wife beater trapped her in his wife's room. Either he was going to rape her, kill her, or frame her...or all 3. It was obvious that it was a trap but oh no, so surprised! ( )

In the fourteenth century, opportunities for women are limited to the home. But spirited young Madlen finds her calling as assistant to the city’s trusted midwife, Clara. Working alongside Clara, Madlen develops a surprisingly soothing technique and quickly becomes a talented healer.
After Clara’s tragic death, Madlen alone rushes to assist the birth of a local nobleman’s child. But rather than the joy of birth, Madlen walks into an accusation of murder and witchcraft because of her extraordinary gifts. Forced to flee her own town, she establishes a new identity in the home of her aunt. Yet even though it endangers her life, she cannot resist the urge to help the sick patients who seek out her miraculous treatment. When she meets handsome Johannes—an investigator hired by the Church to bring her to justice for sacrilegious acts—she becomes drawn to the very man who could destroy her.

The Secret Healer has a interesting storyline. First half of the book was a speedy read. Then, I had trouble finishing it. The husband's belief flipping was not quite believable. However, all loose ends are nicely cleaned up with a satisfying ending. ( )

Ellin Carsta is as mysterious as the novels she writes. She is a successful German author who writes under various pseudonyms. My internet research was completely unsuccessful in discovering anything else about her work…and that’s unusual for me. Normally I can find something, but not in this case.

The Secret Healer was translated into English by Terry Laster, who did an excellent job. This 14th century story flows beautifully with none of the sometimes rough spots a lesser translation might have. I was drawn to this novel because its story is one I’m always drawn to – women helping women throughout history despite often overwhelming odds and heavy prices paid. It’s also a lesson in how fear of the unknown and ignorance can lead to horrible consequences…a timely lesson, unfortunately. And at the heart of all of this is a beautifully written coming-of-age tale that is a joy to read. I hope you like it as much as I did. Read the rest of my review at http://popcornreads.com/?p=9059 ( )