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The Rules Upheld by No One
There is no dowry left for Elisabeth Knolly. She is destined for a nunnery, for eternal chastity – which is a good thing – because she doesn’t want to do that with anyone.
But the devil is at her back, tempting her with impure thoughts about her tutor, Samuel. Her parents, deeply ashamed of their libidinous daughter, do everything they can to keep Elisa’s thoughts from bodily pleasures. When she finally finds refuge in the nunnery, Elisa breathes a sigh of relief. But shame and guilt about her true nature follow her everywhere and it becomes apparent that the rules of the nunnery are not being obeyed. There’s a phallic shaped piece of wood hidden behind St Jerome’s books in the library and there are even rumours that the nunnery’s chaplain is defiling women. Elisabeth seeks shelter from the realities of the convent with Sister Constance and Sister Isabella, but with King Henry’s commitment to dissolving the abbeys, the sisters are left to fend for themselves.
Elisa, not knowing where to turn, finds sanctuary in one of London’s infamous stews.
But the devil is at her back, tempting her with impure thoughts about her tutor, Samuel. Her parents, deeply ashamed of their libidinous daughter, do everything they can to keep Elisa’s thoughts from bodily pleasures. When she finally finds refuge in the nunnery, Elisa breathes a sigh of relief. But shame and guilt about her true nature follow her everywhere and it becomes apparent that the rules of the nunnery are not being obeyed. There’s a phallic shaped piece of wood hidden behind St Jerome’s books in the library and there are even rumours that the nunnery’s chaplain is defiling women. Elisabeth seeks shelter from the realities of the convent with Sister Constance and Sister Isabella, but with King Henry’s commitment to dissolving the abbeys, the sisters are left to fend for themselves.
Elisa, not knowing where to turn, finds sanctuary in one of London’s infamous stews.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2021
8 people are currently reading
423 people want to read
About the author
Amie McNee
10 books281 followersAmie McNee is an Australian author of both fiction and nonfiction whose work celebrates the courage and chaos of the creative life. She is the author of To Kill a Queen, a queer historical mystery set in Elizabethan London, and We Need Your Art, a manifesto for creatives. Amie has also independently published several beloved novels and journals for creatives, building a global community through her platform Inspired To Write. She lives between Sydney and Oxfordshire with her writer husband, James.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
January 25, 2022
3,5 stars.
Oh how I wished I had loved this book enough to give it 5 stars!! I really enjoyed reading it, and the story was captivating, with a lot of lovable characters that I cared for as a reader. The historical information seeping through the fictional story was incredibly interesting as well, and I think the feeling of the time setting, the themes of female sexuality, shame, religion, and medicine seemed so well researched and was so well woven together. But the spelling mistakes, and the shifting pacing, and the language that changed between modern and medieval tone made the reading experience less than amazing for me. I also felt like I missed something - that some loose threads still hadn’t been gathered in the end.
Oh how I wished I had loved this book enough to give it 5 stars!! I really enjoyed reading it, and the story was captivating, with a lot of lovable characters that I cared for as a reader. The historical information seeping through the fictional story was incredibly interesting as well, and I think the feeling of the time setting, the themes of female sexuality, shame, religion, and medicine seemed so well researched and was so well woven together. But the spelling mistakes, and the shifting pacing, and the language that changed between modern and medieval tone made the reading experience less than amazing for me. I also felt like I missed something - that some loose threads still hadn’t been gathered in the end.
September 3, 2021
A balm for the wild women who were taught they were wicked.
Goodness. At moments I was livid with characters and at other times simply enchanted. I couldn't put it down. Elisa is such a powerhouse. Thank you, Amie for bringing her into the world.
Goodness. At moments I was livid with characters and at other times simply enchanted. I couldn't put it down. Elisa is such a powerhouse. Thank you, Amie for bringing her into the world.
August 16, 2025
I need more
July 18, 2022
ummm… this was a journey! love everything about this book and read it multiple times since i finished it for the first time. underlined lots of very resonating and beautiful written phrases. amie mcnee is the queen of knowing how to make magic with words💘
October 2, 2021
I have been following Amie McNee on Instagram (@inspiredtowrite) for many months, so encouraged by her many posts and affirmations to keep pursuing my art for that magic it is. So I was so excited to have the chance to support her as she self-published her first book! I pre-ordered it instantly, and I'm so glad I did.
Elizabeth was a wonderful heroine, I felt so attached to her from the first page and kept rooting for her throughout. I know Amie has studied this time period extensively, so it was especially interesting to read this story and trust everything she shared was accurate to the time. The pacing moved faster than I would have liked, I wish we had gotten more time in the convent. And I wish there had been more/ more developed sub-plots to enhance the many interesting characters she introduced.
Overall, this story was a perfect celebration of all that Amie strives to encourage among all artists. It wasn't perfect, but it didn't need to be -- a refreshing reminder that has me encouraged to pick up my own pen and enjoy the process.
Elizabeth was a wonderful heroine, I felt so attached to her from the first page and kept rooting for her throughout. I know Amie has studied this time period extensively, so it was especially interesting to read this story and trust everything she shared was accurate to the time. The pacing moved faster than I would have liked, I wish we had gotten more time in the convent. And I wish there had been more/ more developed sub-plots to enhance the many interesting characters she introduced.
Overall, this story was a perfect celebration of all that Amie strives to encourage among all artists. It wasn't perfect, but it didn't need to be -- a refreshing reminder that has me encouraged to pick up my own pen and enjoy the process.
January 31, 2024
I'm in awe of Amie Mcnee, how she wrote this book while creating spaces for many of us writers around world.... and Wow she gave us the Eli from Beth!!! Elizabeth is damn Elizabething my spirit right now. I wanted her to meet my grandmother🤣🤣 Tjo Elizabeth !!! Someone should write a PHD about Ms Elizabeth... her decision making, her parents, her desires, her love for friendships and love for lust and the fear of God.... tjo tjo... she is exhausting... but love her dearly... a combination of Brenda Fassie and Rebecca Malope I tell you...
September 10, 2021
“I don’t think God will ever leave you……You are too important to be abandoned by the divine.”
This memorable quote which grabbed me from the start proved to be a key element in this unexpected story of finding yourself and you highest calling, even through the darkest of paths.
Elisa was destined to become a nun, whether by holiness or by laziness on her parents part, she has always known she will not marry and instead give her whole life to religion. She struggles with her own acceptance of this fate, pondering not only her worthiness but her interest in such a life.
The convent, however, is just the first step in Elisa’s long journey of self discovery. From nuns to nurses and even whores Elisa sees and walks so many different paths, all the while grappling with what she herself truly wants and some part of her deciding if she has any room for a belief in a God.
This is why the line quoted becomes so powerful, because slowly, as Elisa grows into herself and truly seeks to find her own way she is used for good, and she has truly grown.
The author’s background knowledge of medieval sex cultures and the roles played in society set the stage for this entire story and in and of themselves are very interesting. Overly sexualized stories aren’t my favorite, so I was nervous after starting this one that it wouldn’t be for me, yet things in the story happen for a reason and most encounters aren’t too graphically portrayed. However the book is heavy on exploring sexuality and unmasking many taboos.
Overall it was moving to see Elisa claim a life for herself, and see her growth and maturity. The options for women of the times were absolutely heartbreaking (Slammerkin by Emma Donoghue was another similar book that struck a deep chord of the same tone for me) and often left them with nothing to sell but themselves.
Interesting and heartbreaking times, yet Elisa moves on and follows her own path to find her way into a life of happiness.
I’m glad the author self published, with or without flaws (as noted by others) it still is a story that shines and demonstrates the fighting power of the human spirit.
This memorable quote which grabbed me from the start proved to be a key element in this unexpected story of finding yourself and you highest calling, even through the darkest of paths.
Elisa was destined to become a nun, whether by holiness or by laziness on her parents part, she has always known she will not marry and instead give her whole life to religion. She struggles with her own acceptance of this fate, pondering not only her worthiness but her interest in such a life.
The convent, however, is just the first step in Elisa’s long journey of self discovery. From nuns to nurses and even whores Elisa sees and walks so many different paths, all the while grappling with what she herself truly wants and some part of her deciding if she has any room for a belief in a God.
This is why the line quoted becomes so powerful, because slowly, as Elisa grows into herself and truly seeks to find her own way she is used for good, and she has truly grown.
The author’s background knowledge of medieval sex cultures and the roles played in society set the stage for this entire story and in and of themselves are very interesting. Overly sexualized stories aren’t my favorite, so I was nervous after starting this one that it wouldn’t be for me, yet things in the story happen for a reason and most encounters aren’t too graphically portrayed. However the book is heavy on exploring sexuality and unmasking many taboos.
Overall it was moving to see Elisa claim a life for herself, and see her growth and maturity. The options for women of the times were absolutely heartbreaking (Slammerkin by Emma Donoghue was another similar book that struck a deep chord of the same tone for me) and often left them with nothing to sell but themselves.
Interesting and heartbreaking times, yet Elisa moves on and follows her own path to find her way into a life of happiness.
I’m glad the author self published, with or without flaws (as noted by others) it still is a story that shines and demonstrates the fighting power of the human spirit.
September 7, 2021
A breathtaking novel! I have followed Amie for years, starting with her journey through finding an agent, and now her wonderful support to struggling authors. So when I learned she published a book on her own, I snatched it up without even knowing what it was about. Let me tell you, this books is better than most of the novels I've read, and I read a lot! It's kind of a coming of age story, if coming of age stories include nunneries and whore houses. The story includes beautiful moments and lots of hardships, and I appreciate how the writing could be sensual and provocative without getting too graphic. The author does a wonderful job of starting the imagination and letting the reader finish it. That's not an easy thing to do, especially with a first novel. I found this book to be a modern day Jane Eyre, with a strong female character who rises up, even under the most dire of circumstances. Most of all, I was moved by the underlying theme of the story, which offered permission to live authentically. The Rules Upheld by No One was inspiring and emotional, and I'm so glad I got to read this story. I hope every agent and publisher who passed it up ends up regretting their misstep.
October 2, 2021
“Why am I subject to rules upheld by no one? Why am I shamed and beaten and humiliated by those who do the same as me, worse than me?”
I had to start this review with my favourite quote from the book. It left me with goosebumps, not only because I love when authors weave their book title into it somehow, but as a woman - I felt like quote so deeply.
This book was a magic and necessary story. One that is not often told, or lost. Amie did an incredible job at telling a breathtakingly, heart wrenching story. Filling it with laughter, sorrow & spiciness. I simply could not put the book down. I enjoyed every single word. Every character. It is beautifully written. Thank you for bringing this story to life and sharing with the world Amie.
I had to start this review with my favourite quote from the book. It left me with goosebumps, not only because I love when authors weave their book title into it somehow, but as a woman - I felt like quote so deeply.
This book was a magic and necessary story. One that is not often told, or lost. Amie did an incredible job at telling a breathtakingly, heart wrenching story. Filling it with laughter, sorrow & spiciness. I simply could not put the book down. I enjoyed every single word. Every character. It is beautifully written. Thank you for bringing this story to life and sharing with the world Amie.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2024
I am just in awe of Amie McNee. This was her first novel and I loved it just a pinch less than Regrettably, I am About to Cause Trouble. Here we have Elisa, who is being sent to the nunnery in a time period in which the king is really starting to dismantle the church's hold on the country and being a nun does not the have the air of respectability it once did. Elisa is a fantastic character and a survivor. The rest of the nuns are well drawn out and loveable too.
This is not a comedy. Some terrible things go down. It is a story of getting back up when life pushes you down.
Highly recommended.
This is not a comedy. Some terrible things go down. It is a story of getting back up when life pushes you down.
Highly recommended.
February 2, 2025
The audiobook edition isn't available on goodreads as of this writing - this review is for the audiobook.
3 Stars for Amie McNee for the story
5 Stars for Amie McNee for the narration
I didn't enjoy this one as much as I enjoyed Regrettably, I'm About to Cause Trouble. LOVED the narration by Amie McNee for both books. She's really good as a narrator and since it's her work she really knows how to tell the story well. This was a bit darker than I expected, although I was fine with that. Towards the middle of the book I got a little bored though, ended up skimming to the end then listening to the chapters from the end back to the middle where I got bored. Probably not the best way to listen to a book, but it worked for me.
3 Stars for Amie McNee for the story
5 Stars for Amie McNee for the narration
I didn't enjoy this one as much as I enjoyed Regrettably, I'm About to Cause Trouble. LOVED the narration by Amie McNee for both books. She's really good as a narrator and since it's her work she really knows how to tell the story well. This was a bit darker than I expected, although I was fine with that. Towards the middle of the book I got a little bored though, ended up skimming to the end then listening to the chapters from the end back to the middle where I got bored. Probably not the best way to listen to a book, but it worked for me.
April 30, 2025
What a delight. I love the way Amie writes - her voice, her details, the magical way she strings words together. She could be a poet.
This story isn't one I would have picked up a few years ago. A 16th century noblewoman turned nun turned sex worker? Nah. But I actually truly loved this. So much of Eliza's story reflected my own. Growing up feeling ashamed about bodies and sex and desire, being taught that God wanted you to hide away yourself. Then, learning there is no need to be ashamed. I loved her story. I loved the ambiguous romances. I loved the spicy parts.
I also truly adore Amie McNee's voice as narrator - if you get the chance, listen to the audiobook.
What a beautiful, unconventional, strange story. A true delight.
This story isn't one I would have picked up a few years ago. A 16th century noblewoman turned nun turned sex worker? Nah. But I actually truly loved this. So much of Eliza's story reflected my own. Growing up feeling ashamed about bodies and sex and desire, being taught that God wanted you to hide away yourself. Then, learning there is no need to be ashamed. I loved her story. I loved the ambiguous romances. I loved the spicy parts.
I also truly adore Amie McNee's voice as narrator - if you get the chance, listen to the audiobook.
What a beautiful, unconventional, strange story. A true delight.
October 9, 2021
this genre is not my go-to read but I wanted to be supportive of the author as she has been an amazing influence with her work as a creative coach and book doula. I thoroughly enjoyed her first published fiction in this book. Her style pulled me immediately into the story, her characters are well-rounded and sympathetic without being too "perfect." I enjoyed the entire story and was satisfied with the main character's journey. Aimee took on real-world issues in a historical setting, it was easy to identify with some of the character's struggles to find self-acceptance. I would recommend this book and will read any further work by this author.
April 13, 2022
I really liked the setting and the feel of this story. McNee did bring the characters to life and I felt her joys and her disgust and her hurt. It was very compelling to read. I just... I really do wish I could have seen some sort of TW. I, personally, do not like to read about rape, and, as I listened to the audio book, that made it feel worse. Also it was a little weird that a historical novel could have such modern language in the narration, but it didn't take me out of the story THAT much. It was cool to see a bisexual MC, just watch out for your sexual assault triggers.
October 22, 2022
Elisabeth has internalized all the teachings from her parents, society, and the religion. She is plagued by guilt because she wants something else than what has been decided for her, because she wants more. Pushed by men’s greed and violence, she breaks free, and finds her way in a world where a woman isn’t allowed much and is punished for everything.
This book has great characters, excellent pacing, and a very interesting subject. It’s feminist, it’s queer, I cried reading how women lift up and support each other, and Samuel is a gem!
This book has great characters, excellent pacing, and a very interesting subject. It’s feminist, it’s queer, I cried reading how women lift up and support each other, and Samuel is a gem!
October 25, 2023
This book was captivating. I felt every emotion under the sun- literally laughed and cried and everything in between. I've been a fan of Amie McNee for a while now and didn't know it was possible to admire her talent even more. I related to Elisa, her shame and fears, and her tendency to question and to rebel. One of my favorite lines from the book (and there are many) is this one:
"I smiled, at a human's wonderous capacity for being a million different people all at once" - a loving way to say that we shouldn't put anyone in a box, and we shouldn't judge a book by its cover.
"I smiled, at a human's wonderous capacity for being a million different people all at once" - a loving way to say that we shouldn't put anyone in a box, and we shouldn't judge a book by its cover.
September 9, 2021
I adored this book. It was such a moving read, full of humour, warmth, love and vulnerability. It's a book that truly celebrates women and women's sexuality, examining shame, guilt, sex, lust and societal expectations. I don't usually read historical fiction but this was a really unique and clever read - fusing modern language together with history. Such a wonderful read, highly recommend. I'm looking forward to more from this author and watching their literary career grow :)
January 3, 2025
One of the most gorgeous, beautifully written novels that celebrates and pushes against archival tropes of a woman’s voice and place in society and the double standards it held during this period. A celebration of female love and friendships, bodily autonomy and the strength of oneself amidst adversity and controversy. follow amie’s Instagram @inspiredtowrite - ur favourite artists favourite artist.
September 13, 2021
This is a gem of a novel. I have followed Amie's creative journey for years and all I keep thinking is, this book is so wonderfully unique. This is the kind of magical art that can only exist without gatekeepers- the story was entirely Amie's to tell. It bends rules and has so much fun with its characters.
November 7, 2021
This was the book I needed to read. I follow Amie on instagram and have always been drawn to her quietness, her understated but powerful way of sharing. This book made me think, it made me feel, and I think it’s helped me address somethings I’ve been struggling with. Thank you for writing this book Amie!
January 5, 2023
Fabulous read. Amie has such a succinct yet expressive writing style that the story picked me up and carried me with it, and I didn't want to put it down. The writing style is shamelessly unique and as a writer, I revelled in that, not to mention the journey of the main character to confront shame in herself and others. I celebrate this book.
September 25, 2024
3.75
It took me longer than I thought it would to finish this. I had to put it down once I got to Part II. It was just too much for me, as I read this book at a time when violence against women is more rampant and more brutal than ever, with Dominique Pélicot's mass rape trial ongoing.
Women have been ostracized, abused, persecuted, and violated for ages. When will it end? Will it ever?
It took me longer than I thought it would to finish this. I had to put it down once I got to Part II. It was just too much for me, as I read this book at a time when violence against women is more rampant and more brutal than ever, with Dominique Pélicot's mass rape trial ongoing.
Women have been ostracized, abused, persecuted, and violated for ages. When will it end? Will it ever?
November 4, 2021
This was my first read of a self published book and am I glad for it. I have been able to witness Amie (through social media) talk about stories and her desire to write and to read her novel, her baby, it was a blessing.
March 8, 2023
I had a hard time with the first half of this book... It was cringe and depressing and I dreaded returning to it. I almost didn't finish... but I am so glad I did!!! I love the dynamic character shift, the empowerment, the fulfillment! I listened to the audiobook and I love Amie McNee's voice.
September 22, 2025
Another great tale of women’s life (and choices) in Henry Tudor’s time but while this one is likely more accurate (especially vis-a-vis the amount of sexual assault) than ‘Regrettably. I am about to cause trouble’, it is also appropriately less funny.
September 13, 2021
I devoured this book in a matter of hours and I’m not exaggerating when I say, it’s completely changed my life.
September 25, 2021
Totally captivating.
Historical fiction is not normally my thing but this was amazing. Couldn’t put it down. More please!
Historical fiction is not normally my thing but this was amazing. Couldn’t put it down. More please!
November 28, 2021
Didn’t want it to end.
Just the soothing balm I needed to remind me of the beauty of this life, the courage of women and the importance of being true to yourself.
Just the soothing balm I needed to remind me of the beauty of this life, the courage of women and the importance of being true to yourself.
January 3, 2022
I'm sobbing. A masterpiece! Congratulations Amie.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews