The Book of Longings

In her captivating fourth fiction novel, Sue Monk Kidd takes a bold approach to history and builds on her acclaimed narrative to imagine the story of a young woman named Anna. Raised in a wealthy family with ties to the ruler of Galilee, she is rebellious and ambitious, with a keen mind and a daring spirit. She engages in esoteric scholarly pursuits and writes stories of neglected and reticent women. Anna is expected to marry an older widower, a prospect that terrifies her. But an encounter with the eighteen-year-old Jesus changes everything. Their marriage develops in Nazareth, where Anna settles with Jesus, his brothers, and their mother, Mary. Anna's repressed longings mount amidst the violent resistance to Rome's occupation of Israel, led in part by her brother Judah. ​​She is supported by her courageous aunt, Ialtha, who harbors a striking secret. When Anna commits a brazen act that puts her in danger, she flees to Alexandria, where startling revelations and even greater dangers unfold, finding refuge in an unlikely environment. Anna forges her own destiny through a stunning confluence of events that are among the most influential in human history. Based on meticulous research and written with a reverent approach to the life of Jesus that focuses on his humanity, *The Book of Desires* is an unforgettable, inspiring account of one bold woman's struggle to realize her passion and potential, while living in a time, place, and culture designed to silence her. It is a triumph of timely and timeless storytelling from a masterful writer at the height of her powers.