An exploration of Pedro Vieira's new essay collection, 'Vénus em Chamas', which examines the lives of seven women—including the Virgin Mary, Joan of Arc, and Sister Lúcia—whose stories have been shaped by religious narratives and historical ambiguity. The article also briefly reviews 'Almanaque do Pão' by Sérgio Luís de Carvalho and 'Os Livros Que Não Escrevi' by George Steiner.