Sin Eater

Bookseller recommendation

“Sin Eater takes a little-known historical role and expands it in this imaginative novel set in an alternate Elizabethan England. For stealing a loaf of bread, teenage orphan May is forced to become a sin eater—shackled with a metal collar proclaiming her status to all she meets and with a black "S" tattooed on her tongue. Shunned by society, sin eaters must only speak to the dying, who tell them their sins. Each sin corresponds with a food item—raisins for adultery, mustard seeds for lies, etc. By eating the "sins," the sin eater takes them on as their own, releasing the dead person's soul. At first distraught from the isolation and contempt her new lot in life brings, May gradually realizes that it isn't without its benefits. One of those benefits is access to the court of Queen Bethany (a thinly veiled Queen Elizabeth I), where courtesans are being murdered and accusations of witchcraft are flying. Fans of Uprooted, Spinning Silver, and Godshot will find similar themes in this fast-paced, high-stakes adventure.”

— Haley • Phinney Books

Bookseller recommendation

“Here is an original captivating piece of historical fiction that will stay with you long after; beautifully narrated on audio.”

— Jane • Rediscovered Books

Bookseller recommendation

“Oh my. Megan Campisi’s Sin Eater completely took me by surprise. It is a wholly unique combination of fantasy, mystery, and historical fiction. Filled with intriguing characters and vivid imagery, this inventive tale will immerse readers in the deceit and intrigue of the royal court. Campisi’s narrator is what really sets this novel apart — the sin eater, a woman called to hear the sins of the dying and consume the foods that represent them. A dark, thrilling read!”

— Anderson McKean • Page and Palette

Bookseller recommendation

“I loved this book! Even though it was grim and I felt so horrible for May, it was beautifully written and I keep thinking about it weeks after reading it. I listened to it as an audiobook and it was fantastic. I cannot recommend this book enough.”

— Realy Ann • Rediscovered Books