“I am the one left alive. I am the archivist, the keeper of their secrets. They gather around me with wet cloth in their hands, drowned cloth, marked with blood that won't wash out.”

On August 15, 1951, in the small French town of Pont-Saint-Esprit, a mass poisoning occurred that affected more than 250 people within the town and its surrounding villages. Only residents who bought bread from one specific bakery seem to have been affected; therefore, the French refer to the incident as “Le Pain Maudit”, or “The Cursed Bread.” In all, seven people died and many were committed to asylums.

The exact cause of the Pont-Saint-Esprit tragedy has never been identified. Although there were many theories, no conclusive evidence was found.  Sophie Mackintosh’s new novel, “Cursed Bread” presents a compelling, fictional speculation of what could have led to this terrible day in French history. It is an amazing story!

The town baker’s wife, Elodie, a rather plain woman, feels ignored and transparent. She spends her days dreaming of what life could be if someone would but notice her—especially her husband. However, when an American ambassador and his enigmatic wife, Violet, move into town, Elodie seizes upon her chance to gain attention. Seeking every opportunity to force herself into Violet’s life, while earning the envy of her neighbors in the process, she quickly becomes obsessed. Secretly listening to private conversations, sneaking glimpses into intimate moments and stalking Violet’s every move throughout town, Elodie soon finds herself living in a fantasy world where she and Violet reverse roles. As strange events begin happening around town, and as her hold on reality slips away, Elodie finds herself in the heart of a sinister plan with no way of escape. Will this fall into darkness ultimately provide her with the transformation she has always sought?

Booker Prize nominated author Sophie Mackintosh has delivered another brilliant novel. With elements both gothic and psychedelic, the reader is drawn into a rich, dark, erotic tale that is engaging and horrifying. One of the most interesting reads of the year!             Thank you to my friends at #NetGalley and #DoubledayBooks for allowing me to review an ARC of this novel.