The Cloisters by Katy Hays
Book Review by Kristine Madera
In what seems a serendipitous job offer when her summer associateship at the Metropolitan Museum of Art falls through, Ann Stiltwell finds herself working at The Cloisters, a center for medieval art, and with a group of researchers studying the history—and the validity—of Tarot and divination. Ann’s particular skill set and background bring much-needed insight and her presence shifts alliances within The Cloisters. Soon, she wonders if she was handpicked for the job long before she came to New York. When Ann uncovers a secret Tarot card deck that brings hidden powers to light, The Cloisters’ facade unravels in dangerous ways that will change The Cloisters, and Ann, forever.
If you love Tarot, chances are, you’ll love The Cloisters. If you don’t, there is still lots to like. On the light-to-dark scale of characters, the personalities in The Cloisters tip toward the dark, with ambition winning out over collaboration and vengeance over compassion in interesting and even surprising ways.
A unique and worthwhile read!
NOTE: Check out the virtual book club interview with Katy Hays below–warning, it includes spoilers!
About Kristine
Kristine Madera is an Amazon #1 bestselling author who writes fiction and nonfiction shaped by travel, culture, and lived cross-cultural experience.
Inspired while volunteering at Mother Teresa’s Home for the Dying in Calcutta, her novel God in Drag examines what happens when spiritual faith fractures in the sacred city of Varanasi. Read the first chapter of God in Drag HERE
She birthed her upcoming novel, The Snakeman’s Wife, as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Papua New Guinea.
Be on the lookout for her Etiquette Express Guides, a series of short, practical travel guides that help readers understand the customs, social expectations, and everyday dos and don’ts that make travel smoother and more connected.
Her travels have taken her across India, Asia, Europe, Australia, and Papua New Guinea as both a backpacker and Peace Corps Volunteer. A portion of her book proceeds supports cross-cultural education scholarships.