The wonderful novel by Gray that inspired the award-winning masterpiece film by Yorgos Lanthimos.

“Visionary, intricate, and outrageous!” The Independent

A life without the freedom of choice is not worth living.

The ambitions of Theonikos Baxter to create the perfect companion take shape when he discovers the body of the beautiful Bella, whom he brings back to life with a scientific miracle reminiscent of Frankenstein. However, his dream is shattered by the tempestuous love of Doctor Archibald McCurry for her.

But Bella has her own desires to pursue. Thus, she indulges in passions and yearnings, on a journey that takes her from aristocratic casinos to the dens of Alexandria and the fringes of Paris. Exploring her position as a woman in the shadow of patriarchy, Bella knows that it is up to her to conquer her freedom and decide what true love means in her life.

The most popular book by Alasdair Gray is a story about the essence of love and scientific boldness, but primarily about the value of the freedom of our choices in life.

A modern classic novel that Mary Shelley, Lewis Carroll, and Arthur Conan Doyle would have adored.