The Book of Eve

A beguiling historical feminist tale – inspired by the undeciphered Voynich manuscript

Meg Clothier author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Headline Publishing Group

Published:2nd Mar '23

Should be back in stock very soon

The Book of Eve cover

This gripping tale, The Book of Eve, explores the life-changing power of a mysterious manuscript and the strength of women facing adversity.

In The Book of Eve, a captivating and dark narrative unfolds, centered around an enigmatic manuscript inspired by the Voynich manuscript. This book possesses the unique ability to alter the destinies of women, weaving a tale that is both haunting and transformative. The story follows Beatrice, a solitary convent librarian who finds solace in her manuscripts, until a fateful carnival night changes everything. Two injured women arrive at the convent, and one of them entrusts Beatrice with a mysterious book, igniting a series of events that threaten her life and the lives of those around her.

As Beatrice grapples with her newfound responsibility, she discovers that the book holds an ancient power that is both alluring and dangerous. With men of faith seeking to destroy it and a zealous preacher closing in, Beatrice must confront her obsession with the book and decide where her loyalties lie. The narrative expertly blends elements of dark academia and historical feminist fiction, making it a compelling read for fans of both genres. The book's voice grows stronger, urging Beatrice to listen, even as the stakes escalate.

The Book of Eve is not just a story about a powerful manuscript; it's a tribute to female strength, resilience, and the bonds that unite women. As Beatrice's journey unfolds, readers will find themselves immersed in a richly crafted world that challenges societal norms and celebrates the power of women when they come together for a common purpose.

A wonderfully rich and absorbing tale * Observer *
This novel is chillingly good. * The Book Trail *
Wonderfully atmospheric, this immersive tale grips the reader to the final page. * Woman & Home *
A fascinating read for any fans of historical fiction, magical realism, intrigue and mystery, dealing with themes of female power, patriarchal religion and the power of books. * Somerset Life *
Enchanting. The Book of Eve draws you into its rich, unsettling world from the first page and refuses to let go until the very end. Vividly drawn characters and a totally transporting setting with timely undertones, like The Handmaid's Tale meets The Devil and the Dark Water. -- Bobby Palmer, author of Isaac and the Egg
Expertly crafted and beautifully told, this is an intriguing tale of ancient power and mystery with female strength and solidarity at its core. Haunting, magical and moving. -- Jennifer Saint, author of ARIADNE and ELEKTRA
What a spellbinding tale! I can't remember the last time I was so captivated by a novel that I had to put everything else on hold to read it. Tense and claustrophobic, with a creeping sense of dread that builds throughout the story, The Book of Eve is a beautifully written, utterly enthralling read. -- Karen Coles, author of THE ASYLUM
Can a book be both fast-paced and a slow-burn? I read Meg Clothier's The Book of Eve in a quick burst, enchanted by the plot, the mysterious manuscript, and the unfolding relationships between characters. Weeks later I'm still thinking about the compelling and complex treatments of themes of knowledge, community, agency and kinship. At times brutal and haunting, this is a beautiful book and one whose ideas resound long after the final page is turned. -- Melissa Fu, author of PEACH BLOSSOM SPRING
What an extraordinary book - rich in historical detail and full of esoteric knowledge yet wearing its learning lightly while tapping into a rage that's universal at men's endless attempts to control the doings and thinkings of women. It's an education hidden in a tense, compelling, anger-driven narrative, Beatrice and Diana both knock-out characters. No mean feat! -- Harriet Tyce, author of BLOOD ORANGE and IT ENDS AT MIDNIGHT
The Book of Eve completely captured me with its intricately and delicately woven world, filled with strange and entrancing magic. A powerful novel that grips with its compelling mystery and unforgettable heroine. -- Eleanor Shearer, author of RIVER SING ME HOME
The Book of Eve is a dark, magical tale of women called upon to find their strength and sisterhood in order to protect an ancient power. Mysterious, bewitching and beautiful. -- Elizabeth Lee, author CUNNING WOMEN
A ravishing, erudite feminist hijack of Renaissance Florence and the Bonfire of the Vanities -- Alice Albinia, author of CWEN
A truly beautiful book, brimming with unsettling magic and the love of literature. It's erudite and bewitching, with a heroine I will never forget. Like a feminist Name of the Rose. -- Costanza Casati, author of CLYTEMNESTRA

ISBN: 9781472276087

Dimensions: 236mm x 150mm x 36mm

Weight: 580g

368 pages