Unquiet Women

In a fascinating journey of rediscovery, Max Adams brings to life the forgotten experiences – and voices – of some of the most extraordinary women in history.

Unquiet Women is an exquisitely crafted patchwork of the forgotten lives of some of the most remarkable women in history. History is polyphonic; it must be told by many voices. In Unquiet Women, Max Adams brings to life the voices and experiences of women living between the last days of Rome and the Enlightenment, whose stories of creativity, intellect and influence are all too rarely told. From Wynflæd, the Anglo-Saxon noblewoman who owned male slaves and badger-skin gowns, to Mary Astell, the philosopher who out-thought John Locke, this is a kaleidoscopic study of women's history before the Enlightenment changed everything. In this rigorous work of rescue and recovery, their voices can be heard across the centuries – still passionate and still strong. Reviews: 'A centuries-spanning study that rescues women's lives from the margins of history' BBC History Magazine 'Illuminating and wise... An important book' Herald 'A timely work which is beautifully designed and executed, embodying the charm and power of the remarkable women within its pages' All About History