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36 pages 1 hour read

Matrix

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021

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Book Brief

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Lauren Groff

Matrix

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

England • 12th Century

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Matrix by Lauren Groff follows Marie de France, an illegitimate noblewoman and poet, as she is sent by Eleanor of Aquitaine to be the prioress of a struggling abbey. Initially homesick and resented, Marie gradually transforms the abbey through her administrative skills, divine visions, and unconventional leadership. As she defies church norms, she gains respect and faces challenges from both within and outside the abbey. The novel contains themes of sexual intimacy and terminal illness.

Contemplative

Emotional

Melancholic

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

3.9

68,630 ratings

62%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Lauren Groff's Matrix has been praised for its lyrical prose and richly detailed historical setting, transporting readers to a medieval convent. The protagonist's complexity and growth are notable strengths. However, some critics feel the narrative's pace can be slow and the plot meandering. Overall, it's seen as a compelling and ambitious work that may appeal more to fans of literary fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Matrix?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong, complex female protagonists will find Matrix by Lauren Groff captivating. Similar to Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel or The Red Tent by Anita Diamant, it appeals to those who appreciate rich, evocative storytelling set in the past, highlighting resilience and leadership.

3.9

68,630 ratings

62%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Character List

Marie de France

A complex character inspired by a historical poet, she is a noblewoman with unconventional origins who becomes a powerful abbess, defined by her poetry and her outsider identity.

A historical figure and queen, depicted as a foil to Marie, who is worldly and influential yet increasingly lonely, bound to Marie through intertwined lives.

The prioress at the abbey, who ultimately succeeds Marie and struggles with her own vision of religious orthodoxy, highlighting tensions in leadership and faith.

Marie’s confidante at the abbey who eventually leaves to marry; known for her intelligence, she serves as a reminder of the sacrifices of personal potential.

Marie’s childhood friend and lover who represents a grounding presence; her consistent acceptance of Marie contrasts with more dramatic relationships.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

England • 12th Century

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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