Lady Macbeth

A Novel

By: Ava Reid

Narrated by: Imani Jade Powers

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • From #1 New York Times bestselling author Ava Reid comes a “masterful reimagining” (Publishers Weekly) of Lady Macbeth, Shakespeare’s most famous villainess, giving her a voice, a past, and a power that transforms the story men have written for her.

“Lady Macbeth doesn’t retell Shakespeare so much as slice cleanly through it, revealing what was hidden beneath. I couldn't look away.”—Alix E. Harrow, New York Times bestselling author of Starling House

The Lady knows the stories: how her eyes induce madness in men.

The Lady knows she will be wed to the Scottish brute, who does not leave his warrior ways behind when he comes to the marriage bed.

The Lady knows his hostile, suspicious court will be a game of strategy, requiring all of her wiles and hidden witchcraft to survive.

But the Lady does not know her husband has occult secrets of his own. She does not know that prophecy girds him like armor. She does not know that her magic is greater and more dangerous, and that it will threaten the order of the world.

She does not know this yet. But she will.

©2024 Ava Reid (P)2024 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

“Reid masterfully balances the original narrative with fresh twists, making the familiar story feel new and exciting. . . . Whether you’re a Shakespeare enthusiast or simply a lover of well-crafted fantasy, this novel is sure to captivate and will leave readers yearning for more.”—Booklist

“This stunning, gorgeously rendered work of gothic fantasy goes beyond William Shakespeare’s famous tragedy to closely examine the Bard’s most iconic villainess . . . If there is someone who reads as though they were born to write gothic fantasy and suspense, it’s Ava Reid.”—Bookreporter

“Deftly told and richly imagined, Lady Macbeth is a gothic fever dream with sharpened teeth.”—Hannah Whitten, New York Times bestselling author of The Foxglove King

Shakespeare Would Be Proud

Ava Reid really did her thing with this one! A Shakespearean retelling like no other. A marvelous read—one that envelops you and transports you into the story’s universe. Roscille is a strong woman who uses other strategic methods to devise plans and take control instead of using brute force; she is clever—a woman who thrives in a male dominated society. I really enjoyed this novel. It was just what I needed.

feminine rage

it was a very lose retelling of macbeth, I was expecting more from Ava Reid. The narrator was really great tho

Lots of plot holes

I really enjoyed the first half. The plot holes started to emerge in the third act and never really resolved themselves.

Too much abused women

Not the story I had hoped for No real history. All about abused women and how they fight back. Interesting and a few mythical elements are interesting but unfortunately myth does not stop abuse. Lovely voice kept me listening

Beautiful, poetic, and enthralling

Ava Reid's "Lady Macbeth" is an enthralling retelling that breathes new life into one of literature's most iconic figures. Having waited patiently to read this book, influenced by glowing recommendations, I was eager to dive in—and I’m delighted to say it met all my expectations.

This novel isn't your typical love story. Reid shifts the focus from romance to the complexities of ambition, power, and identity, presenting a narrative that is both gripping and thought-provoking. The journey of Lady Macbeth is one of self-discovery and redemption, as she grapples with her desires and the consequences of her actions. Rather than simply portraying her as a villain, Reid crafts a multi-dimensional character who elicits both sympathy and disdain.

The prose is exquisite, reminiscent of a masterful tapestry woven with rich imagery and profound quotes that resonate deeply. Reid's voice pulls you in, immersing you in a world filled with intrigue and moral ambiguity. Each chapter unfolds with a sense of urgency, making it difficult to put the book down.

Lady Macbeth herself is a fascinating study in contradictions. Initially portrayed as cunning and ruthless, her evolution throughout the story is compelling. Reid skillfully explores her motivations and vulnerabilities, allowing readers to understand her choices while also questioning them. By the end, I found myself cheering for her, invested in her growth and seeking a sense of redemption.

What truly sets this retelling apart is Reid’s ability to manipulate the reader's emotions. One moment, I felt a deep sympathy for Lady Macbeth's struggles; the next, I found myself wishing for her downfall. This emotional rollercoaster is a testament to Reid's talent for creating tension and depth.

In "Lady Macbeth," Ava Reid has crafted a rich, nuanced narrative that challenges perceptions of one of Shakespeare's most maligned characters. It’s a story that lingers long after the final page, inviting readers to ponder the intricacies of ambition, morality, and the human, or in-human condition. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in a fresh perspective on a classic tale, and I can't recommend it highly enough.

Lady Macbeth Retelling

Starts off as a kind of mystery novel, evolves into dark fantasy storytelling. Not what I expected but pleasantly surprised overall.

What is happening in this book?!

Such a weird storyline and not that great. I had to cut my losses in chapter 13. with only 15 chapters in the book.