3.91
Part of "Catherine LeVendeur" series
"Death Comes As Epiphany" by Sharan Newman is a captivating historical mystery that transports readers to medieval France. The novel, the first in Newman's Catherine LeVendeur series, introduces us to a time when superstition and reason coexisted, and the line between science and magic was blurred. The story revolves around Catherine LeVendeur, a young and intelligent novice at the convent of Saint-Louis-du-Temple in Paris. Catherine is a believable and engaging protagonist, whose curiosity and determination drive the plot forward. When a wealthy merchant dies during the Twelfth Night Revel, and his fortune disappears, Catherine becomes embroiled in the investigation to find the killer and the missing gold. Newman's vivid descriptions of medieval Paris and its inhabitants bring the setting to life. The author's attention to detail in recreating the historical context is impressive, and she manages to weave in themes of gender, religion, and social class without disrupting the flow of the narrative. The novel's title is a clever play on words, as the "epiphany" refers both to the Christian feast day and to the sudden, striking realization that Catherine experiences as she uncovers the truth behind the murder. The pacing is well-balanced, with a gradual build-up of tension and suspense that keeps readers engaged until the very end. Overall, "Death Comes As Epiphany" is a delightful read for fans of historical fiction and mystery novels. Newman's ability to create a vivid and immersive world, combined with her compelling plot and well-drawn characters, make this novel a standout in the genre. The book is a testament to Newman's skill as a writer and her passion for historical research, and it will leave readers eager to explore more of Catherine LeVendeur's adventures...
Matthew Pearl
The Dante Club
For readers who enjoyed the blend of history, mystery, and literature in 'Death Comes As Epiphany', 'The Dante Club' by Matthew Pearl is a great choice. Set in post-Civil War Boston, this novel follows a group of poets as they translate Dante's Divine Comedy and investigate a series of murders inspired by the epic poem. With its rich historical detail and literary allusions, this book is sure to please fans of Newman's work.
Learn MoreLouise Penny
A Rule Against Murder
Fans of Sharan Newman's 'Death Comes As Epiphany' will enjoy this intricate mystery novel by Louise Penny. Set in the Canadian countryside, 'A Rule Against Murder' follows Chief Inspector Armand Gamache as he investigates a murder at a family reunion. This book shares the same historical and cultural depth as Newman's work, with a focus on the complexities of family dynamics and human nature.
Learn MoreUmberto Eco
The Name of the Rose
If you enjoyed the historical setting and intellectual intrigue of 'Death Comes As Epiphany', you'll love 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. Set in a 14th-century Italian monastery, this novel follows Brother William of Baskerville as he investigates a series of murders. Filled with philosophical debates, theological discussions, and a richly detailed historical setting, this book is a must-read for fans of Newman's work.
Learn MoreCaleb Carr
The Alienist
Fans of Sharan Newman's 'Death Comes As Epiphany' will enjoy the historical setting and psychological depth of 'The Alienist' by Caleb Carr. Set in 1896 New York City, this novel follows a team of investigators as they track down a serial killer who preys on boy prostitutes. With its rich historical detail and exploration of the emerging field of forensic psychology, this book is a great choice for fans of Newman's work.
Learn MoreOliver Pötzsch
The Hangman's Daughter
If you enjoyed the historical setting and atmospheric tension of 'Death Comes As Epiphany', you'll love 'The Hangman's Daughter' by Oliver Pötzsch. Set in 17th-century Germany, this novel follows the adventures of hangman Jakob Kuisl as he investigates a series of murders and uncovers a conspiracy that threatens his family. With its vivid historical setting and fast-paced plot, this book is a great match for fans of Newman's work.
Learn MoreKatherine Howe
The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane
For readers who enjoyed the blend of history, mystery, and the supernatural in 'Death Comes As Epiphany', 'The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane' by Katherine Howe is a great choice. Set in 1991 Salem, Massachusetts, this novel follows a graduate student as she uncovers a family secret and a centuries-old curse. With its rich historical detail and exploration of the Salem witch trials, this book is a great match for fans of Newman's work.
Learn MoreDiane Setterfield
The Thirteenth Tale
If you enjoyed the atmospheric tension and literary allusions in 'Death Comes As Epiphany', you'll love 'The Thirteenth Tale' by Diane Setterfield. This novel follows a young biographer as she uncovers the secrets of a reclusive author and her mysterious past. With its rich language and exploration of the power of storytelling, this book is a great choice for fans of Newman's work.
Learn MoreMichel Faber
The Crimson Petal and the White
For readers who enjoyed the historical setting and complex characters in 'Death Comes As Epiphany', 'The Crimson Petal and the White' by Michel Faber is a great choice. Set in Victorian London, this novel follows a prostitute as she navigates the city's underworld and seeks to improve her station in life. With its rich historical detail and exploration of gender, class, and power, this book is a great match for fans of Newman's work.
Learn MoreSarah Perry
The Essex Serpent
If you enjoyed the historical setting and exploration of faith and science in 'Death Comes As Epiphany', you'll love 'The Essex Serpent' by Sarah Perry. Set in 19th-century England, this novel follows a widow as she investigates reports of a mythical sea creature and clashes with a local pastor. With its rich historical detail and exploration of the tensions between faith and reason, this book is a great match for fans of Newman's work.
Learn MoreDeborah Blum
The Poisoner's Handbook
For readers who enjoyed the historical detail and forensic investigation in 'Death Comes As Epiphany', 'The Poisoner's Handbook' by Deborah Blum is a great choice. This nonfiction book explores the history of forensic science and the development of toxicology in early 20th-century New York City. With its rich historical detail and exploration of the science of poison, this book is a great match for fans of Newman's work.
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