Pope John VIII, an English woman, alias Pope Joan

The novel 'Pope Joan' by Donna Woolfolk Cross tells the story of a brilliant and determined woman who defies medieval societal norms by disguising herself as a man to pursue her education and career within the Church.

Eventually, she rises to the position of Pope, though her reign is marked by controversy and secrecy.

The book is a fictionalized account based on the historical legend of Pope Joan.