The Empusium – Olga Tokarczuk

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Chosen by Jodie

Mieczysław, a student suffering from tuberculosis, arrives at the Wilhelm Opitz’s Guesthouse for Gentlemen but discovers there are many mysterious goings on, involving deaths, misogyny and the occult. Set in a Polish sanatorium in 1913, The Empusium blends horror, comedy, folklore, and feminist parable.

“Do you know what is the most common mistake people make when they’re in danger? Each one thinks their life is unique, and that death doesn’t affect them. No one believes in their own death. Do you think I believe in my own death?”

●  The Empusium combines a haunting, atmospheric setting with a slow burn narrative, and I was under constant tension that something ominous was about to happen. Tokarczuk hates to define her novels into one genre but included the horror element to portray the topic of hidden violence and misogyny that is rife in our culture. Her use of misogynistic views from famous thinkers was a clever way to represent this. I found it the whole book mesmerising and unsettling and really enjoyed it. I recommend it. – Jodie

●  The Empusium is a brilliant book. It expertly mixes several genres so I could never predict what was going to happen next. There is an air of seductive tension that left me enraged, confused, shocked and on the edge of my seat. I was in disbelief to learn all the misogynistic comments in the book are real quotes from some of the most revered men in history. I am so pleased Tokarczuk called them out and brought to light how these have affected and are still affecting women today. Also, I loved the ending. Tokarczuk is a master! – Rachel

Published in Polish 2022
Translated into English by Antonia Lloyd Jones 2024
Riverhead Books
320 pages