Plot Summary

The Book of Evidence

John Banville
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The Book of Evidence

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1989

Book Brief

John Banville

The Book of Evidence

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1989
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 1980s

Publication Year

1989

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Book of Evidence by John Banville tells the story of Freddie Montgomery, an unreliable narrator and amoral scientist, who recounts the events leading to his imprisonment for the murder of a young servant girl and the theft of a valuable painting. While pretending to address a judge or jury, Freddie explains his motivations and the circumstances, hoping for understanding or empathy.

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Contemplative

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

3.8

6,410 ratings

62%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

John Banville's The Book of Evidence offers a compelling blend of dark humor and existential dread. Critics praise its elegant prose and psychological depth, though some find the protagonist's lack of remorse alienating. This thought-provoking narrative excels in style and introspection but may not resonate with all readers due to its bleak tone.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Book of Evidence?

A connoisseur of psychological thrillers and literary fiction, reminiscent of Nabokov’s Lolita or Camus’s The Stranger, would relish John Banville’s The Book of Evidence. This novel offers a deep dive into the psyche of its protagonist, blending eloquent prose with a dark, introspective narrative.

3.8

6,410 ratings

62%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 1980s

Publication Year

1989

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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