The Lace Reader

Initially self-published, Brunonia Barry's debut novel surpassed its humble origins when it became the subject of a publishing bidding war, and was re-released to great fanfare and commercial success. Set in Salem, Massachusetts, THE LACE READER is a richly layered tale told by the highly unreliable narrator Towner Whitney. While recuperating from her mental instability in a California hospital, Whitney is reluctantly drawn back to Salem when her great aunt Eva, a woman known for her ability to see the past, present, and future by staring into lace, disappears. Witchcraft, Wicca, and the town's infamous history of zealous persecution all play a role in the novel, which manages to weave together supernatural adventure, a multi-generational literary tale, and strong vein of feminism. It's a strange brew, but Barry makes it work, and as it gains momentum THE LACE READER becomes truly bewitching.