
TheSerpent'sTaleAnnabel Du Boulay
An inspiring journey of spiritual transformation rooted in pagan mythology, Gnosticism and the wisdom of the Black Goddess Sophia
An allegorical novel, The Serpent’s Tale explores my search for meaning in response to my daughter Sophia’s suffering. Through a matryoshka set of storytellers, three interwoven tales lead the reader on an inspiring journey of spiritual transformation rooted in pagan mythology, Gnosticism and the wisdom of the Black Goddess Sophia.
The Mother’s Tale
Following my autobiographical account of my daughter’s birth, I am sitting beside her incubator, wondering why she has to endure such suffering.
The Nurse’s Tale
In response, an Italian nurse tells me a story that was told to her ancestors by a travelling storyteller in 1645.
The Storyteller’s Tale
It is 1583 and Italy is at the mercy of the Roman Inquisition. Driven by his desire for revenge, the storyteller Alessandro arrives in Santa Sofia and conspires with the villagers to overthrow the Bishop. During the ensuing seven days, their lives are changed forever as they fight to protect their wisewoman from the fires of the Inquisition.
- A truly magical book! The Serpent's Tale is one of those books that lingers long after you've finished it. It was very easy to read and very gripping (I couldn't put it down!). The story is both very personal and very universal at the same time, telling the story of women and men of the old (Goddess) tradition in their struggle to survive in a patriarchal world with so many prejudices and fears to fight against. It's the story of truly believing and, even more, sticking to what you believe to be good and worthy for yourself and the community. A very inspiring book and absolutely recommended!M Van Eupen, Amazon
- This is a story which sticks to your fingers, I found it un-put-down-able. A beautifully woven tale, full of description which pulls you right into the pages and illustrates the setting. Ever since reading the book, I have found my mind returning to the location depicted and can see it so clearly, such a rare find in a story today. Characters who become friends during the reading, the tale of old and new, light and dark, reflections from our shared past and visions of a future are all held within these precious pages. Highly recommended.Shoshana, Amazon
