Thank you to NetGalley, author and the publisher for sending me this exquisitely written novel to review. It is the blend of genres which appealed to me- historical fiction, magical realism, mystery and intrigue set in the world of Sister Beatrice, the Convent librarian. Books that are woven around a true historical event are particularly interesting to me. In the notes at the back of the book, the author mentions that this book was inspired by The Voynich Manuscript- 'the world's most mysterious book. Written in an unknown script by an unknown author'. which immediately had me searching on the internet for more information on this interesting rare book.
This is a book to savour, the language added to the atmosphere, great atmospheric setting and well developed and interesting characters.

I loved this book: pulling out a deeply personal point of view and maintaining that all the way through (which isn't easy at all); the magic that grew and expanded; the imaginary city and its horrors, based clearly on real events. All so good. I read it in two days flat, and wish I had spaced it out more as I miss it all now. Recommended.

I love historical fiction and it is books like this that make the genre so good in my opinion. The writing was excellent with a compelling sotyrline and well developed characters and a fantastic setting. The story is full of mystery and suspense and the twists kept me guessing. I would highly recommend this read.

The Book of Eve by Meg Clothier is an entertaining historical fiction that has mystery, mysticism, and fiction wrapped up into one.

This book was definitely entertaining. It had action, suspense, mystery, twists and turns, and surprises all blended within an historical fiction narrative. It was also presented in a unique and creative way.

Sister Beatrice, amongst a thick cast of intricate and well-drawn characters, is an excellent main character herself. The incorporation of the Sisters, convent…the play and balance between spiritual and holiness and worldly, earthly, and evil was fascinating and kept me drawn in. I was intrigued throughout and the pacing helped keep me interested and coming back for more…a satisfying end as well.

4/5 stars

Thank you NG and Wildfire/ Headline for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 3/30/23.

I really wanted to like this, but the plot is confused and the writing hard to follow at times. There is a lot of context required for this story and the world it plays out in which is never really explained, and the characters aren’t developed enough for the big reveals to have much impact.

This book was an emotional journey. I absolutely loved the story and characters however I didn't really enjoy the writing style.