Beautifully written and historically accurate depiction of the now Saint Joan of Arc. Twain was meticulous with his research, taking twelve years, with another two to write the story. Twain is clearly mesmerized with his subject, repeatedly touching on her youth, intellect, beauty, and impeccable character. It was fascinating to read about this incredible woman, who had no education (she couldn't read or write) yet she was able to conduct complex military operations. She was diminutive in size, yet led her troops to battle. She was treated horrifically during her imprisonment and multiple trials. I cried when she was burned at the stake. This was the only thing of which she was terrified.

I liked this quote that Twain included at the beginning:

Consider this unique and imposing distinction. Since the writing of history began, Joan of Arc is the only person, of either sex, who has ever held supreme command of the military forces of a nation at the age of seventeen. Louis Kossuth