Hidden Knowledge

A tale of secrets, loss, and the search for truth

Bernardine Bishop author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Hodder & Stoughton

Published:6th Nov '14

Should be back in stock very soon

Hidden Knowledge cover

The story delves into the complexities of truth and deception through interconnected lives. Hidden Knowledge explores the impact of secrets on relationships.

In Hidden Knowledge, the narrative unfolds around Father Roger Tree, who finds himself at the center of a scandal when he is accused of child abuse. His immediate confession serves as a façade, concealing a more profound and troubling secret that threatens to unravel the lives of those around him. The story intricately weaves the lives of Roger's sister, Romola, and Hereward Tree, the renowned novelist and Roger's brother, whose impending death casts a long shadow over their family. Romola grapples with the emotional fallout of losing her brother and the haunting implications of his unfinished work.

Carina, Hereward's much younger lover, adds another layer to this complex tapestry. She is determined to take control of her destiny amidst the chaos, showcasing the lengths to which individuals will go when faced with uncertainty and loss. Each character's journey reflects their struggle with truth and deception, both towards others and within themselves.

At the heart of Hidden Knowledge lies Betty Winterborne, a woman forced to confront the painful memories of her son Mark's death, which occurred two decades prior. As she navigates her grief, Betty embodies the courage to seek the truth, challenging the lies that have shaped her life. This poignant tale explores the delicate balance between reality and perception, ultimately revealing the profound impact of our choices and the truths we choose to confront or ignore.

An extraordinarily brave and powerful novel . . . one that pins down the darker aspects of human experience with a precision beyond most writers. -- Gerard Woodward (author of Vanishing) * Guardian *
Remarkable and surprising . . . outdoes Muriel Spark and Evelyn Waugh in high Catholic comedy . . . The plot is brilliantly articulated: storylines present with effortless and enviable ease,minor characters are a delight . . . Bishop had long been fascinated by the concept of the "impossible moral conundrum", the day of reckoning, and here she has created one that keeps us in suspense to the last moment. She resolves it with a tragic humanity and wit. -- Margaret Drabble * Observer *
A testament to deft storytelling * Daily Mail *
Bishop relishes coincidence and the unexpected quirks of fate . . . [with] a welcome lightness and sense of irony * Literary Review *
Graceful and haunting * Sunday Mirror *

Praise for UNEXPECTED LESSONS IN LOVE:
It's impossible to recommend the late Bernardine Bishop's wondrous book too highly

* Guardian *
Bishop treats a fearful subject with an extraordinary lightness of touch; her humour and her emotional wisdom make this a delightful and humane novel. * The Times *
This novel, wise, sharp and startlingly frank, distils a lifetime of reflection on the rules of attraction, affection - and family life. From confused youth to the ordeals and confusions of old age, her wry insights delight. * Independent *
A wonderful novel, one of those rare books which leaves the reader with a deeper understanding of the human heart . . . This is an author of exceptional intelligence, subtlety and warmth. Expect to hear the name Bernardine Bishop when the lists for the Costa and Man Booker prizes are complied this year. * Spectator *
This novel should appeal to Joanna Trollope fans . . . Bishop is a fine, intelligent writer, capable of handling moral and philosophical themes with a light touch. * Sunday Telegraph *

ISBN: 9781444789270

Dimensions: 196mm x 128mm x 18mm

Weight: 160g

384 pages