Book of Forbidden Words

by Louise Fein

"Devotees of rich historical fiction and contemporary social discourse alike will be enthralled.” —Booklist, starred review From bestselling author Louise Fein comes a new historical novel set in a world of banned books and censorship, in which an encrypted manuscript unleashes a chain of consequences across 400 years, perfect for fans of Weyward and The Briar Club.

1552, The print­ing press is quickly spreading new ideas across Europe, threatening the power of church and state and unleashing a wave of book burning and heretic hunting. When frightened ex-nun Lysbette Angiers arrives at Charlotte Guillard’s famous printing shop with her manuscript, neither woman knows just how far the powerful elite will go to prevent the spread of Lysbette’s audacious ideas. 1952, NEW Milly Bennett is a lonely housewife struggling to find her way in her new neighborhood amidst the paranoid clamors of McCarthy’s America. She finds her life taking an unexpected turn when a relic from her past presents her with a 400-year-old manuscript to decipher, pulling her into a vortex of danger that threatens to shatter her world.

From the risky backstreets of sixteenth-century Paris to the unpredictable suburbs of mid-twentieth century New York, the stakes couldn’t be higher when, 400 years apart, Milly, Lysbette, and Charlotte each face a reality where the spread of ideas are feared and every effort is made to suppress them.

Dramatic and affecting, and inspired by the real-life encrypted Voynich manuscript, Book of Forbidden Words is both an engrossing story about a timeless struggle that echoes through the ages and a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dare to let their words be heard.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Books About Books, Historical, France, Contemporary, Adult Fiction

384 pages, Paperback

First published February 17, 2026

About the author

Louise is an internationally bestselling and prize winning author of historical fiction, focusing on unheard voices or from unusual perspectives. Her fourth novel, Book of Forbidden Words, will be published in February 2026.

Louise, holds an MA in Creative Writing from St Mary’s University and now writes full time. Equally passionate about historical research and writing, she loves to look for themes which have resonance with today’s world. Louise lives in the Surrey countryside, UK, with her family, and is a slave to the daily demands of her pets.

Reviews

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone deeply fascinated by both the hidden history of Bletchley Park coders and the world of rare books and manuscripts, Book of Forbidden Words was an absolute delight to read. It weaves together multiple timelines, most vividly the 1500s/1600s and the 1950s; showing how, across centuries, women’s voices have been suppressed, silenced, or dismissed. Yet, the resonance of their resilience and brilliance still shines through.

Through the characters of Lysbette, Charlotte, and Milly, the novel highlights the unbroken thread of women pushing against the constraints of their time. Lysbette’s fight to have her words preserved, Charlotte’s determination to honor them despite danger, and Milly’s struggles in post-war England and America all mirror one another, demonstrating how little some challenges have changed even four hundred years apart. As a woman in 2025, I found myself relating to each of them such as the frustration of being dismissed, the yearning for independence, the hunger to leave behind more than silence.

The manuscript at the heart of the story, hidden and rediscovered, felt like a metaphor for women’s history itself: fragile, easily buried, but when uncovered, capable of rewriting narratives. The layers of espionage, censorship, forbidden books, and code-breaking were captivating, but what stayed with me most was the emotional truth; the courage it takes for women to think, write, and live beyond the roles assigned to them.

The author’s attention to historical detail was remarkable, from the echoes of McCarthyism in the 1950s, to the religious crackdowns of the 1500s, to the lingering secrecy of Bletchley. Each era felt immersive, and I appreciated how the narrative wove them together seamlessly without losing emotional depth.

This is not only a story about manuscripts and codes, but about the enduring fight for women’s intellectual and personal freedom. A sweeping, thought-provoking, and ultimately inspiring novel that I couldn’t put it down.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set over differing timelines and told from the perspective of three main female characters, Charlotte, Lysbette and Milly, this is a captivating story of censorship through the ages – from the 16th century through to the 20th and the brave women who despite the danger they faced from accusations of heresy and communism in an intolerant world were determined to make their voices heard.

A 400 year old encrypted manuscript is the focus of the story; in 1500’s Paris renowned printer of theological books Charlotte Guillard is defying the authorities and secretly printing literature that has been banned. A brutal murder is the catalyst for Charlotte’s determination to protect the manuscript for future generations in any way she can.

The stories of all three women were beautifully drawn but for me Milly was the star. Hiding secrets of her past from her family through necessity, her feelings of loneliness and boredom were palpable but through her friendship with a local librarian, she was afforded some independence at a time when women couldn’t even open a bank account without their husband’s permission. She loved her husband and children of course but housework wasn’t her natural forte and she didn’t fit in with other mothers at the school gates. Her part was central to the story however actions have consequences, especially in McCarthy’s era of accusations for anything deemed to be subversive or “unAmerican,” whether it be books, teaching or people.

Compelling, powerful, rich with detail and superbly researched this is a story to savour. There is always an element of Louise’s books that is both thought provoking and educating and Book of Forbidden Words is no exception. I was drawn into this from the first page and have no hesitation in recommending.

At the back of the book is the author’s interesting ‘Behind the Book’ outlining those characters and events that were inspired by fact and history and those which are fictionalised.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow for the opportunity to read Book of Forbidden Words by Lois Fein.

Book of Forbidden Words was not what I was expecting. I thought it would be like many WWII books that approach the topic of banned books or books used to pass coded messages during the war. Yes there is a book that is encrypted, but it is 400 years old.

Book of Forbidden Words takes place in the 1950s, where the fear of communism was very real. Milly, as far as anyone knows, is a typical housewife, but she is far from ordinary. During the war, Milly had a top secret job, the kind she can never talk about. When someone from her past shows up unexpectedly with a 400 year old manuscript, she has to come up with a cover story to keep her past a secret.

Book of Forbidden Words tells the story of how this manuscript came to be. Like Milly, it too has secrets that could be dangerous if the truth ever came out. The reader is taken back in time to 1552 Paris, where we learn about the author of the manuscript, ex-nun Lysbette, and the woman who helped her print it, Charlotte.

Throughout history there has been the issue of banning books and censorship. Whether it is Lysbette and Charlotte in 1552 Paris or Milly in 1952 New York, new ideas are feared and considered dangerous. The three women in this story face the challenge of protecting the manuscript and its contents. They struggle with the consequences of what they are doing, as well as the consequences if they don't.

I enjoyed this book. The issues the characters face are just as real today as they were then. People fear change, are resistant to new ideas, and often see information as dangerous. So, they try to control it by banning books, censoring information, and denying access.

[Bronwyn Lea · Rating 5 out of 5]

A timely and compelling read following the dual timeline of a post WW2 housewife in the McCarthy years and then of a 16th century printer and former nun who are risking everything to imagine a world where dissenting voices (especially those of women) arent silenced. Plucky and prophetic. 4.5 stars rounded up.

I’m grateful to Netgalley for an ARC for review.

[jadynfrahm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for this Arc. I really enjoyed this book! I did have a hard time getting into it in the beginning but once everything was established, it just flowed really well. I like that you can tell the author put research and genuine interest into this book. I also enjoyed the 3 perspectives because it really helped build the book into what it was. All three women were brave to do what they did and I think it was inspiring. I also honestly liked George because even though he might not have agreed with Millie, I think him never seeming to give up on her was nice. I loved the ending because it gives you hope. I really liked this book and recommend it!

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another timely, infuriating dual timeline historical fiction novel set in 16th century Europe and 1950s America that follows the journey of one encrypted manuscript, one woman printer, one woman author and one British American housewife/codebreaker who dreamed of a better world.

Together they all play a part in fighting to protect the words on the manuscript's pages that envision a more egalitarian life for women everywhere. I loved this story about a former Bletchley Park codebreaker turned American housewife who gets tasked with decoding this mysterious manuscript only for her to fall under the Comstock/Communism craze of the 50s and get torn from her family and deported back to England.

This book is for anyone who stands against censorship, book banning and for gender equality. It's truly sad and rage-inducing that women are still having to fight for equal rights against angry, scared men who want to silence their voices.

Great on audio narrated by a full cast and perfect for fans of books like The librarian of banned books by Brianna Labuskes or The sisters of book row by Shelley Noble. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review.

[erin (readingwithremy) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book of Forbidden Words by Louise Fein is a historical fiction is about banned books and censorship across 400 years. Between 1552 France with the printing press spreading new ideas and 1952 Long Island deep in the McCarthy era with an encrypted manuscript and the women who are fighting the suppression of ideas.

I enjoyed the 1950s timeline more because I loved the Bletchley Park encryption angle and I prefer more recent historical fiction. The 1550s was good, but seemed a little slower for me. I liked the parallels in this book and seeing how the manuscript helped these women fight for what they believed in.

If you're looking for a more unique historical fiction check out Book of Forbidden Words!

3.5 stars rounded up to 4

[Tiffany E-P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over the past year, I have read quite a few books that seem to parallel the dystopian USA timeline we are living in. This book is chilling in the historical facts that echo current events. I was especially struck by the Minute Women and their similarity to Moms for Liberty. I hope this book and others will raise consciousness and get people, especially women, thinking and questioning. There are dangerous and destructive forces attempting to stifle democracy, equality and justice. Too many people are complacently ignoring current events and excusing themselves by claiming not to be political. That is a mistake born from privilege.

[Kaitlyn Cotton · Rating 3 out of 5]

A strongly feminist historical fiction split between the Protestant Reformation & the Red Scare/McCarthyism. I loved the concept (centuries old book inspired by the Voynich manuscript, female codebreaker from Bletchley Park, secret communication between women, etc.), but it felt a bit slow to me & I wished there was more focus on the encryption and mystery!

Thank you to William Morrow Paperbacks for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley.

#GoodreadsGiveaway

[Shelby Grant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book of Forbidden Words goes back & forth between the 1500s & the 1950s from 3 different women’s perspectives. Lysbette is a ward to Sir Thomas More & becomes a nun & writer, Charlotte meets Lysbette & is determined to help her with her manuscript, & Milly comes in 500 years later to decipher the encrypted manuscript. This book tells the story of times where books were banned for heresy in the 1500s & for political reasons in the 1950s. The consequences when you didn’t follow the law or rules of the time could really be dangerous & heartbreaking. This book showed that & just how horrible some women were treated. Very interesting book!

[Valerie Barber · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked the different timelines and the comparisons of the times, including the inevitable comparison of our current time. It also had several elements to which I'm a sucker for - books, libraries, women's wartime efforts, encryption/decoding, and the innate power of women. Really interesting read

[Lauren W · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25

[Katherine Gypson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the opportunity to read this engrossing, thoughtful and deeply researched historical novel. This is my first time reading Louise Fein - I’m going to seek out all of her other books. She is a fantastically talented storyteller!

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚Book of Forbidden Words
✍🏻Louise Fein
Blurb:
From bestselling author Louise Fein comes a new historical novel about an encrypted manuscript that unleashes a chain of consequences across 400 years, set in a world of banned books, fear of new ideas, and the dangers of censorship, perfect for fans of The Briar Club and Weyward .

"What power lay there in words on a page. And with that thought, Charlotte knew she would not rest until she had seen what was in the manuscript that Lysbette so desperately wanted to preserve in print.”

1552, Against a backdrop of turmoil, suspicion, and paranoia, the printing press is quickly spreading new ideas across Europe, threatening the power of church and state and unleashing a wave of book burning and heretic hunting. When frightened ex-nun Lysbette Angiers arrives one day at Charlotte Guillard’s famous printing shop with her manuscript, neither woman knows just how far the powerful elite will go to prevent the spread of Lysbette’s audacious ideas.

1952, New Milly Bennett, lonely and unmoored, is a seemingly ordinary housewife with a secretive past. Balancing the day-to-day boredom of keeping house and struggling to find her way with the mothers at her children’s school, she finds her life taking an unexpected turn as conspiracies spread amidst the paranoid clamors of McCarthy’s America. When a relic from her past presents her with a 400-year-old manuscript to decipher, she is reluctantly pulled into a vortex of danger that threatens to shatter her world.

From the risky backstreets of sixteenth-century Paris to the unpredictable suburbs of mid-twentieth century New York, the stakes couldn’t be higher when, 400 years apart, Milly, Lysbette, and Charlotte each face a reality where the spread of ideas are feared and every effort is made to suppress them.

Dramatic and affecting, and inspired by the real-life encrypted Voynich manuscript, Book of Forbidden Words is both an engrossing story about a timeless struggle that echoes through the ages and a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dare to let their words be heard.
My Thoughts:
Book of Forbidden Words focus so heavily on women and the unfairness of our lives but also our strength and bravery in the face of that unfairness. Especially given the climate of our world right now these books are more important than normal. I would’ve been burned at the stake or arrested for communism if I was Charlotte, Lysette, or Milly and it would’ve been worth it because these books show us that we, as women, are capable. These characters are the types of women we need in the world now and I love that authors are giving them their voices.
Filled with strong and intelligent female characters, "Book of Forbidden Words" is a thought-provoking read that will resonate with fans of historical fiction and those who enjoy piecing together narratives. Fein's intricate and engaging writing keeps readers enthralled as they explore the connections between the two eras. While I found myself wanting to re-read the ending for clarification on one character's fate, the novel's overarching themes of female solidarity and resilience are unmistakable.
Thanks NetGalley, William Morrow Paperbacks and Author Louise Fein for the advanced copy of "Book of Forbidden Words" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#LouiseFein
#BookofForbiddenWords
#WilliamMorrowPaperbacks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️Trigger Warnings:Alcoholism, Body shaming, Confinement, Cursing, Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Hate crime, Homophobia, Misogyny, Panic attacks/disorders, Physical abuse, Sexism, Toxic relationship, Violence, Forced institutionalization, Xenophobia, Blood, Religious bigotry, Murder, Gaslighting, Abandonment, Alcohol, Classism
Moderate: Ableism, Infertility, Excrement, Grief, Toxic friendship, Injury/Injury detail, Deportation
Minor: Body horror, Infidelity, Mental illness, Rape, Terminal illness, Torture, Stalking, Death of parent, Pregnancy, Outing, War

[Bookreporter.com Historical Fiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

Following THE LONDON BOOKSHOP AFFAIR, which was set in 1962, Louise Fein time-travels 10 years earlier and centuries before. BOOK OF FORBIDDEN WORDS is a thought-provoking novel that takes a page from Madeline Martin’s THE SECRET BOOK SOCIETY.

Milly Bennett evidently is a content housewife in 1952 Levittown, but during World War II, she was a code breaker in London deciphering Axis messages. A wartime colleague now asks her to interpret a four-century-old, cryptic manuscript that “could be historical gold in shedding some sort of light on women’s inner worlds.” Like Rosie the Riveter, Milly and others had performed men’s work “to prove their capability as equals.”

Sixty years after Columbus’ Caribbean cruise and her birth, Charlotte Guillard “had been around long enough to understand how the world of men worked.” She encounters Lysbette Angiers, formerly “an orphan girl with no money and no say in her future.” Lysbette wants Charlotte’s printing empire Soleil d’Or, which was established by a late husband, to publish a ciphered script that the church would consider heresy and incinerate it. That, and the author 121 years after Joan of Arc was burned alive. Charlotte “understands that the power of words and ideas can make our earthly realm a better one.”

After Lysbette’s life --- and throat --- are cut short, Charlotte endangers her own life and publishing reputation knowing that “women were forced to encrypt a manuscript because it contained ideas that went against the prevailing ideals.”

Returning to 1952, Milly poignantly realizes that little had changed for women in the four centuries since Charlotte published Lysbette’s inspired work. She couldn’t open her own bank account without her husband’s permission. Not fearing 16th-century religious persecution, Milly’s pseudonym publishes stories gleaned from the deciphered manuscript depicting a utopian life of equality.

But under J. Edgar Hoover’s FBI, a clandestine campaign to purge suspected communist influences included a disproportionate crackdown on women, particularly those involved in civil rights or artistic fields. As part of the broad Red Scare and McCarthyism, the FBI focused on surveillance, infiltration, and “labeling” individuals as security risks, often using guilt-by-association à la Ethel Rosenberg. In view of her children, FBI agents nab Milly for questioning. Women “seem to be no freer than we were four hundred years ago.”

This is a tale of woefully lacking gender equality, the titular forbidden words. “It felt so urgent that people find a new tolerance for one another.” Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose, Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr’s famed 1849 proverb: The more things change, the more they stay the same.

Louise Fein piquantly breathes exquisite life into this period piece. The dynamic enthusiasm of the protagonist trio is a holographic tribute to her poetic passion. Beyond atmospheric, this treasure is…awe-inspiring!

Reviewer’s note: BOOK OF FORBIDDEN WORDS was inspired by the early-15th-century encrypted Voynich manuscript. Real-life people populate the pages, including publishing icons Charlotte Guillard and Yolande Bonhomme, and aristocrat Thomas More. When referring to a book, “treasure” signifies a story deeply cherished for its sentiment. It indicates that the book is highly regarded as a “jewel” of personal, historical or intellectual worth.

Reviewed by L. Dean Murphy

[Susan McAulay · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading The London Bookshop Affair, one of Ms. Fein’s previous books, I knew that I would need to read this one. I am a fan of historical fiction, especially those with a dual timeline. I have not read all of her novels because many relate to World War II and the Holocaust and I have read a few too many of those in the last few years. This one was different; the two timelines were in 1552 in Paris and the other in 1952 in New York, during the height of McCarthyism. Ms. Fein focused on the roles and expectations of women, embodies in tracts that were printed by a woman later researched by another in 1952. The parallels between the two time periods and how women were viewed were striking. I have no doubt that Ms. Fein meticulously researched the history involved.
I think the book grew stronger as it went. It started a bit slow and one needs to have patience. I am not as inherently interested in the 1500s as I am in the McCarthy era so that it took me some time and effort to read those parts of the book. I liked the protagonists in both eras but I wished that they were a bit more compelling. I also think that the males in the book were a bit flat and Milly’s (1952) husband seemed to be supportive at first and different from other husbands during that era but then grew less so, and then he switched at the end again. Now, it may have been the circumstances presented but I think in order to understand, it would have been helpful to see him a bit more. I think, perhaps, the author was trying to make a statement about the roles of women being somewhat similar in both time periods. My own take is that the message may be somewhat at the expense of fully understanding the characters in the novel.
In any case, this was an enjoyable historical fiction book about one time period which I knew little about (especially with respect to women) and another that I have always found fascinating. Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with the opportunity to read this novel. All of the opinions expressed herein are my own.

[beckys_book_blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first novel by Louise Fein, although I already have The London Bookshop Affair waiting on my TBR pile. After finishing this, I’m very much looking forward to reading more of her books.

This compelling dual-timeline historical novel opens in 1552 Paris, where Lysbette Angiers arrives at the printing shop of Charlotte Guillard, determined to preserve her manuscript in the face of growing censorship. As religious and political tensions threaten free thought and expression, Lysbette’s story highlights the dangers faced by those who dared to write, print or distribute controversial ideas.

The second timeline moves to 1952 New York, where Milly Bennett has recently relocated and is struggling to find her place among the other mothers in her community. When she is given the opportunity to decipher a 400-year-old manuscript, she is instantly intrigued. However, as the shadow of McCarthyism looms large and fear of communism grips her neighbourhood, Milly soon discovers that even engaging with the wrong ideas can carry serious consequences.

I was immediately engrossed and equally invested in all three women’s perspectives. I particularly enjoyed learning about Lysbette’s earlier life and her time as a ward of Thomas More, which added further historical depth and emotional resonance to her journey.

It is clear that Louise Fein has researched both time periods meticulously. The parallels between the suppression of women’s voices across four centuries were powerfully drawn, as was the theme of censorship- banned books, controlled printing presses and the silencing of dissent. The way the narratives gradually intertwined was very cleverly done.

Overall, this is an absorbing, intelligent and beautifully layered historical novel that explores courage, authorship and the enduring fight for intellectual freedom. A thoroughly enjoyable read that I would happily recommend to fans of character-driven historical fiction.

[mrsbookworm5 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Synopsis—1552, PARIS: The print­ing press is quickly spreading new ideas across Europe, threatening the power of church and state and unleashing a wave of book burning and heretic hunting. When frightened ex-nun Lysbette Angiers arrives at Charlotte Guillard’s famous printing shop with her manuscript, neither woman knows just how far the powerful elite will go to prevent the spread of Lysbette’s audacious ideas. 1952, NEW YORK: Milly Bennett is a lonely housewife struggling to find her way in her new neighborhood amidst the paranoid clamors of McCarthy’s America. She finds her life taking an unexpected turn when a relic from her past presents her with a 400-year-old manuscript to decipher, pulling her into a vortex of danger that threatens to shatter her world.
From the risky backstreets of sixteenth-century Paris to the unpredictable suburbs of mid-twentieth century New York, the stakes couldn’t be higher when, 400 years apart, Milly, Lysbette, and Charlotte each face a reality where the spread of ideas are feared and every effort is made to suppress them.

#mythoughts
In Paris, 1552, Charlotte meets Lysbette very briefly — yet that encounter changes the course of her life.

In New York, 1952, Millie makes a decision that will also alter her future forever.

Lysbette fights to have her words preserved, while Charlotte is determined to honour them — even when doing so places her in grave danger. Meanwhile, Millie struggles through post-war England and America. Her previous life was one of secrets, working at Bletchley Park, and in many ways her story mirrors that of Lysbette and Catherine.

This is a novel about words, manuscripts, and women denied a voice — women threatened simply for thinking, writing, and daring to be heard.

Blending the world of Bletchley Park coders with the rarefied atmosphere of rare books and manuscripts, The Book of Forbidden Words is a compelling read and a must for historical fiction fans.

[Trudy Dowling · Rating 4 out of 5]

I requested Book of Forbidden Words after reading The London Bookshop Affair. I didn't even check to see what the book was about. Needless to say, I was a bit confused when the Prologue took place in 1552. What in the world would Milly, in 1952, have to do with something from four centuries earlier?

I was intrigued by MIlly's story. She struggled, like so many ex-pats when she came to America. After working at Bletchly Park, being a mother and housewife in a strange place must have been difficult. Her life gave me glimpses into the attitudes, beliefs and suspicions towards others in the 1950's. With a word, everything a person was could be under suspicion. Being rewarded for telling on others was rapid.

Milly's talent for puzzles gives her a new life, a new pupose. How could she say no to her ex-boss when he brings her a manuscript written in a cypher that has never been broken? He thinks if anyone can break it she can. In her spare time, in secret, she brings the manuscript to life not even sharing it with her husband. She shares pieces of what she finds with the world, publishing in My Life.

In a world built on fear, words have power. Her stories grabbed readers. Her stories brought suspicions. It was a time where innocence didn't matter. LIves were torn apart because of fear and the power of a few. My heart broke for all of the Millys during the 1950's.

The story was a definite eye opener. I didn't realize how frequently neighbor turned on neighbor. I didn't realize how some had the ability to rationalize off their actions thinking they knew what was best for others. We all need to read and learn. We need to stop repeating history before it is too late.

[Debbi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book grabbed me from the very beginning! Set in Paris im 1552, this time slip novel takes us from 16th century Paris to New York 1952, 400 years later. Both timelines follow women fighting against oppression, one by the church and the other in the McCarthy era.

Charlotte Guillard, a real woman with a printing press who prints but religious texts but also those that the church doesn't like, meets a mysterious woman who has run away from a convent. The woman, Lysbette, has written a book that she wants printed and protected that many people would find heretical. Also hot on Lysbette's trail is her ex-husband, as well as the church. What Lysbette has written could upend society.

Four hundred years later, Milly Bennett is a young housewife with a past - she was involved in super secret work during WW2, which she can tell no one about, including her husband. When a former colleague comes to her with a book that he needs translated, she is thrilled to have the project. No one has been able to crack the code the book seems to be written in, but Milly gives it a try. Unbeknown to her, there are others who want the book for malign purposes, who would take the book back at any cost, if they could find it.

Lysbette's story is both courageous and heartbreaking. Charlotte walks a very fine line in printing (and then hiding) copies of the book for a future time. And Milly is the perfect one to bring their stories to light. They are all strong, courageous women, willing to buck the systems that keeps them oppressed even at a potentially great personal cost. This is one of those books that lingers in your thoughts long after you have turned the last page!

[Michelle Combs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Louise Fein's "Book of Forbidden Words" masterfully weaves together the stories of three resilient women across two timelines, one in the 1500s and the other in the 1950s. This gripping historical fiction novel explores the consequences of speaking out against societal expectations and the treatment of women in both eras.

In the earlier timeline, the women conspire to document their truths in an encoded manuscript meant only for the eyes of future women, using a strategy that would be more apparent to female readers. As the story unfolds, the women in the earlier timeline face persecution, while their counterpart in the 1950s discovers that the world has not changed as much as one might hope over the intervening centuries.

Filled with strong and intelligent female characters, "Book of Forbidden Words" is a thought-provoking read that will resonate with fans of historical fiction and those who enjoy piecing together narratives. Fein's intricate and engaging writing keeps readers enthralled as they explore the connections between the two eras. While I found myself wanting to re-read the ending for clarification on one character's fate, the novel's overarching themes of female solidarity and resilience are unmistakable.

In conclusion, Louise Fein's "Book of Forbidden Words" is a compelling tale of women fighting against the constraints of their time, with powerful parallels drawn between the past and present. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate a well-crafted story with rich historical detail and engaging characters.

[MicheleReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

In 1952, Milly Bennett is living in suburban New York with her husband, George, and their two children. During the war, she served as a codebreaker in a highly confidential operation, so secretive that she never disclosed her work to her husband. But now she is bored and longs to find something fulfilling. When her former boss tracks her down, he asks Milly's help in deciphering the contents of a 400-year-old encrypted manuscript, and she becomes inspired by the story she uncovers. Amidst the paranoia of the McCarthy-era Red Scare, Milly is unaware that her activities could be problematic. The story shifts to Paris in 1552, Paris where former nun Lysbette Angiers brings her writings to Charlotte Guillard's printing shop. Charlotte agrees to print the manuscript, which contains radical thoughts of female equality, in the hope that one day, people will be open to nonconformist ideas. 

Book of Forbidden Words by Louise Fein is a thought-provoking story that explores important themes such as equality, free-thinking, censorship, book banning, and the strength of resilient women. Fein incorporates historical figures into this impactful story, inspired by the real-life encrypted Voynich manuscript, which remains undeciphered. Having read Fein's previous three books, including Daughter of the Reich, I was pleased to find her latest work to be another interesting and compelling read. 

Review to be posted on MicheleReader.com.

[Dina Ovando-Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my 1st book by author Louise Fein and I will definitely be reading more from her. I thought it would be more of a book burning/banning themed book.
What I read instead was a very intriguing and inspiring historical story that is so unique in how it weaves together the lives of 3 women-a former nun and a woman printer in 1552 in Paris, with a British house wife in the suburbs of New York in 1952.
While at a first the commonality isn't seen, how the stories are connected are uniquely unveiled in a seamless manner while building suspense and plot twisting scenes along the way.
The author's research shines through the details of the historical context of both eras, pulling you into not only the rich descriptions of the environment, you also find yourself immersed in the oppressive worlds of King Henry VIII's "heretic" witch hunts and the McCathy-ism paranoia. The women are flawed yet courageous, finding ways in a limiting society to help create possibilities for others through the written word. There is suspense, betrayal and loyal friendships that are anchors along the way. There is some crude language and violence congruent with the themes presented. The authors notes were also a wonderful addition to the story.
I highly recommend this fascinating and thought provoking historical book, you don't just gain historical knowledge, it also illuminates how the themes are still relevant today.
A huge note of gratitude to William Morrow Publishers and NetGalley for the ARC, it was a pleasure and a privilege. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Sue - Recos and Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel I should start this review be saying that I’m not that girl who is ‘wrecked’ by a book. I have a hard time remembering even one book that made me shed the odd tear, but this one… I went through an entire box of tissues in the final chapters. This book will stay with me for a long time!

The novel weaves together the lives of three women across two timelines: the 1550s and the 1950s. One lives in England under the dangerous King Henry VIII, another in France during fierce religious repression, and the third in suburban America at the height of McCarthyism. Though separated by continents and centuries, they face eerily similar battles.

Lysbette writes a manuscript that Charlotte is entrusted to protect and Milly is sourced to translate. Each woman risks everything for the words on those pages, and each is forever changed by the choice to protect them

What hit hardest for me was how relevant it felt. Reading about censorship and the silencing of ideas in 1550 and 1950, then thinking about the headlines in 2025, was unsettling and profound. This book isn’t just historical fiction, it’s a mirror.

This is an absolute must-read, and I will be recommending it to everyone I know, Its beautifully written, meticulously researched, and a powerful reminder that history has a way of repeating itself if we aren’t paying attention

Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for this ARC.

[Abbie Riddle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author and I found myself immediately drawn in to a story that spans hundreds of years. And yet it seems the themes of this book still echo even in todays world. I think that is what made this book so relatable to women in general - but also what will shape it to be a timeless book that will not lose its place among literary works of this age.

Many WWI and WWII books read the same. The themes usually about courage, persistence, survival against odds, the enduring human spirit. If any time in the modern world holds sway still it is the time during and between these wars that shaped the world, crushed some and yet showed that even in the crushing circumstances the human spirit is resilient. However, this book, although sharing some of these themes, shows us more about the spirit of women in history.

400 years seperates the three women in this book, 400 years of culture changes, wars, politics, government changes. Four-hundred years ..... yet we find that one thing remains the same. Change, or even the hint of change causes problems. And it is often women that shoulder the burden of carrying the secrets and quietly ushering change while keeping secrets close. For women understand the risk, the challenge and the issues - and they seem build for endurance.

The character arcs are great in this book. The writing is immersive. The story line is well written and the relatable. Over all this is an excellent read.

[Rae Franco-Rowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

The time is 1552 in Paris, the printing of books is here and across Europe. Charlotte Gulliard inherited her press shop from her decased husband. An ex-nun, Lysbette Angiers walks into her shop and would like her book printed. And she wants it urgently done. Her ideas in her book may not be accepted in the world as it is today, in their time era.

Now, we travel back and forth to the year 1952, in New York. Milly Bennet lives with her husband and two young children. Milly has a person visit her she has known from her past, and her husband does not know of. He brings her a book that is 400 years old and seems to be written in a type of secret code. You see in her past she had a job that was untold to others. She accepts this person challenge to decipher the book. She will keep this a secret for all even her husband. She does find the way to decode it, then finds the ideas of this writer we unacceptable in the 1500's and they are today in the 1950's. Milly comes into some life choice issues because of her choice to do this job offered to her.

I found this book very interesting as it goes back and forth in time. The history of this era is amazing in how Louise Fein wrote this book of "Book of Forbidden Words". It lets us know not are peoples ideas are accepted, but we learn of great history in the reading of this book. I love how Louise Fein did her reasearch for the book.

I want to thank Harper Collins Publishing for giving me this opportunity to read prior to its publishing. Hoping many of our historical fiction genre lovers will enjoy it as well.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book set in multiple timelines, largely Paris in 1552 following former nun Lysbette Angiers and New York in 1952 following housewife Milly Bennett. The story is inspired by the real-life encrypted Voynich manuscript, an illustrated codex written in an unknown script and language. Cue me off to google. Fascinating. The author has clearly undertaken a lot of research for this book and it shows.

Briefly, opening in the earlier timeline where Lysbette has brought her manuscript to Charlotte Guillard’s printing shop, dedicated in protecting it and its contents from censorship. In 1950’s American the fear of communism and unsubstantiated accusations are rife, led by U.S. Senator Joseph McCarthy. Milly formerly worked as a codebreaker at Bletchley Park and so when she was asked to look at a 400 year old manuscript that needed decoding she was excited. But standing out in these times is not wise.

This historical novel highlights the shocking truth about how women, in both timelines, are persecuted. Milly, Lysbette, and Charlotte are great characters. Despite the threats against them these women showed courage and fortitude and this book pretty much ticked all my boxes. A compelling, well written and at times intricate but always intriguing read. Great book.
4.5⭐️

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An important work of fiction that emphasizes intellectual freedom and the freedom to read and write. The timelines include two from the 1500’s in England and France, and the 1950’s in America, all times where the written word is challenged for spreading ideas that went against official thought. Lysbette is orphaned and accepted into the home of Sir Thomas More, a thinker and writer, who believed in educating all in his household. Options for a woman without rich relations was to marry or become a nun, which Lysbette did, becoming part of an all female monastery run by the nuns. Charlotte is a real historical figure, a woman who continued her husbands’ printing presses, printing mostly religious texts, but also the writings of Erasmus, considered to be radical. Milly is British, married to an American GI. Milly was a decoder in Bletchley Park, but tied to the official secrets act. When her old boss asks her to decode an old manuscript he believes was written in the 1500’s by women, Milly gets caught up in the McCarthy era accusations of Communism and illicit thoughts. The stories weave together, leaving the reader understanding the importance of the written word and the freedoms that are essential, to democratic thought. I recommend this most absorbing work of historical fiction. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

[Hijabi_booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gripping tribute to the power of the written word! 📚✨

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

In The Book of Forbidden Words, Louise Fein delivers a vivid, atmospheric journey into the early 15th century. It’s a time when information was the ultimate currency and "dangerous" ideas could cost you your life.

What caught my attention:

The Atmosphere: Fein’s world-building is top-tier. I felt completely immersed in the grit and tension of the Middle Ages.

The Theme: The battle for literacy and the right to think for oneself is handled with such grace. It feels incredibly relevant, even centuries later.

The Protagonist: A resilient lead you can’t help but root for as she navigates a world determined to keep her silent.

Why not 5 stars? The middle section slowed down a bit for me with some dense political maneuvering. While the historical accuracy is impressive, a slightly faster pace in the second act would have made it a perfect 5-star read.

Bottom Line: If you loved The Name of the Rose or enjoy stories about women defying the odds in historical settings, put this on your TBR immediately. It's a beautiful, haunting reminder that books have always been our most powerful weapons.

#HistoricalFiction #LouiseFein #BookReview #ReadingCommunity #TheBookOfForbiddenWords

[Helen H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book of Forbidden Words is an astounding work of historical fiction. Meticulously researched; so cleverly constructed; and teeming with wisdom and intrigue.

Three intelligent, remarkable women. Each one trying to make their mark in a man’s harsh world.
In 1552, Lysbette struggles desperately to have her written words preserved and Charlotte is determined to publish them despite the danger. In 1952, Milly is entrusted with deciphering a 400-year old encrypted manuscript.
Three courageous women, centuries apart, striving to live beyond the roles assigned to them; to achieve intellectual and personal freedom; risking everything for the written word. And still in 2026, there is fear of new ideas, censorship and the banning of books; the freedom to read and publish is restricted.

“A truly free, democratic nation at ease with itself should allow unrestricted access to knowledge.”

“How can we live without freedom to read? How poor, how narrow this life if only one point of view is allowed to exist?”

There is another way.

Relevant, powerful and thought-provoking. Certain to be one of my favourite books this year. I urge everyone to read Book of Forbidden Words.