Praise for Anticipation
Named one of the Most Anticipated New Reads of Fall 2021 by Off The Shelf! Read More Here
Named a Publishers Weekly Pick of the Week Read More Here
Listed in 48 New Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books to Keep You Cozy This November by Gizmodo Read More Here
Named One of the Best Books of November by Buzzfeed Books Read More Here
“Winawer enthralls with this unique combination of history, romance, and the supernatural. Readers will be riveted from the first page.”
—Publishers Weekly (read full review)
“WOW! The contemporary viewpoint combined with the historical throwbacks all interwoven with the subplot of the Lusignan family exemplify how much of an extraordinary undertaking this book was.”
—With a Book in Our Hands (read full review)
“If the greatest praise comes by seeking out an author’s previous books, then I’m off to find a copy of The Scribe of Siena.”
—The Historical Novel Society (read full review)
“A sweeping saga spanning multiple centuries, Anticipation enthralled me with its scope. Yet Winawer’s gift as a writer also shines brightly in the small moments, like the shared joy between a mother and a child, or the meditations on loss of a grieving widow. Truly magical.”
—Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Lions of Fifth Avenue
“Melodie Winawer’s Anticipation is a compelling novel that weaves fantasy, philosophy, science, medicine, romance, and madness into a tapestry of intrigue and mystery. And, fittingly for a physician, Winawer ultimately writes a story of healing and hope. I loved every word and did not want it to end.”
—Robin Oliveira, bestselling author of My Name is Mary Sutter and Winter Sisters
“Melodie Winawer’s Anticipation is the perfect mix of an original setting, an emotional journey, and a deep, immersive dive into the past. The ruined city of Mystras—once an important Byzantine capital—is as much a character as Helen and Elias in this epic tale. I rushed to this book after dinner each evening to experience the sweeping chain of events unfolding across centuries of love, loss, tragedy, and triumph. A truly original story that—much like its characters—will stand the test of time.”
—Laura Morelli, USA Today bestselling author of The Night Portrait
“An ambitious and beautifully written saga of science, history, and romantic mysticism spanning eight centuries, Melodie Winawer’s Anticipation resurrects the Byzantine city of Mystras in a sweeping manner reminiscent of Elizabeth Kostova’s The Shadow Land. Prepare to be transported.”
—Kris Waldherr, author of The Lost History of Dreams and Doomed Queens
“From the first page to the last, I was captured by this suspenseful story of centuries of turmoil, underscored by love and loss. This is a truly original novel that weaves together fascinating medical research with stories from Greece’s past, creating a historical thriller that stands above the usual fare.”
—Nancy Bilyeau, author of The Blue
“Winawer’s knack for bringing distant worlds to life is evident in her latest novel. Anticipation is a rich tapestry, meticulously researched, and woven with the threads of a sweeping romance, a wild ride through history, and a fascinating medical mystery, all set against the backdrop of an ancient Byzantine city. Settle in for a luxurious read!”
—Crystal King, author of The Chef’s Secret and The Feast of Sorrow
“This wise, many-layered novel made me fall in love with Greece all over again. On the one hand, this is a pacy thriller, a historical tale of pursuit and murder across the centuries. On another level, [it’s] thought-provoking…I found myself re-considering my views on medical ethics, reincarnation, and military occupation. Before reading Anticipation I knew nothing of Mystras or its history but am now inspired to learn more! I highly recommend this novel.”
—Jean Gill, author of The World Beyond the Walls and Song at Dawn