Maid: a novel of Joan of Arc by Kimberly Cutter
Picking two similar novels off the new fiction shelf at the library was mere coincidence. 
As Minnie Vautrin–the hero of Ha Jin’s Nanjing Requiem–Joan of Arc lived a heightened life in perilous times, accomplishing more than most could imagine, but dying before victory was achieved. Whether leader or mascot, Joan enabled the disorganized French army to succeed in several victories over the English during the bleak days of the 100 years war.
All was accomplished because she followed the words she heard from Michael the archangel and saints Catherine and Margaret. Based upon a series of visions she was able to convince a succession of military and political leaders that she had been sent by God to deliver France. Unwavering faith withstood doubt after doubt until she was granted command of a small army to lift the siege at Orleans. Many would join–why? just because–but victory was hers.
Betrayal inevitability followed, martyrdom the expected end. Does such faith always harbinger subsequent defeat and death?
