Book Review | The Maiden of All Our Desires

In Northern England lies the isolated abbey of Gaerdegen, untouched by the Black Plague. However, when its abbess, Mother John, is accused of heresy and a bishop comes to investigate, dark secrets threaten to unravel the abbey.

The Maiden of All Our Desires by Peter Manseau is a wonderfully atmospheric, intricate, and well-researched historical novel set during the 14th century.

To my delight, there’s also a deliciously gothic, almost mystical undercurrent woven throughout this story: from the raging blizzard outside to Mother John's strange fixation with the crucifix inside her room, and of course, there’s a lecherous, one-eyed priest as well.

I think it’s also important to note that this book is a slow burn. It’s more of an introspective character study than an action-oriented book. However, the characters are so compelling and well-written, I found that I didn't mind too much.

Thank you, NetGalley and Skyhorse Publishing, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest

Book Details:

Publication Date : February 15, 2022

Publisher : Skyhorse Publishing

ISBN : 195099421X

Pages : 336

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