The Anointed

Michal, Abigail and Bathsheba: three women trapped by circumstance.

They are the property of husbands, fathers and grandfathers; their own lives are out of their control. When they meet David, he seems to offer each of them an escape – but life with the king is far from what they had imagined.

In a society dominated by men, The Anointed gives a voice to three formidable women. Overshadowed by King David, the biblical hero who defeated Goliath, cured King Saul and wrote the poetic book of Psalms, his wives must fight to make themselves heard. Behind the image of their lauded husband lies a dark and troubled man, capable of shocking cruelty. Their courage, determination and cunning have the power to change history forever.

Michael Arditti's eye-opening new novel presents this ancient tale of brutality, lust and manipulation in a startling new light. A stark and timely reminder of the corrupting influence of power, The Anointed is, above all, a testament to the enduring power of love.

'Arditti is a master storyteller who uses his theological literacy sparingly to deliver a challenging but enthralling read.' – The Guardian

'Our best chronicler of the rewards and pitfalls of present day faith.' – Philip Pullman

'Anyone who is afraid that the English novel is sliding into a backwater of domestic anecdote should find their anxieties assuaged by the writing of Michael Arditti.' – The Times