June 2025 Book Club - "Our Hideous Progeny" by C. E. McGill

Join Next Chapter Society Book Club on Thursday, June 27 at 6:30 p.m. as we meet to discuss "Our Hideous Progeny" by C. E. McGill. Check out the Nashville Public Library's online catalog or reserve a physical copy for pickup at your local branch!

Mary is the great-niece of Victor Frankenstein. She knows her great uncle disappeared under mysterious circumstances in the Arctic, but she doesn’t know why or how. . . .

The 1850s are a time of discovery, and London is ablaze with the latest scientific theories and debates, especially when a spectacular new exhibition of dinosaur sculptures opens at the Crystal Palace. Mary is keen to make her name in this world of science alongside her geologist husband, Henry—but despite her sharp mind and sharper tongue, without wealth and connections their options are limited.

When Mary discovers some old family papers that allude to the shocking truth behind her great-uncle’s past, she thinks she may have found the key to securing her and Henry’s professional and financial future. Their quest takes them to the wilds of Scotland; to Henry’s intriguing but reclusive sister, Maisie; and to a deadly chase with a rival who is out to steal their secret.

A queer, feminist masterpiece inspired by Mary Shelley’s classic, Our Hideous Progeny is a sumptuous tale of ambition and obsession, of forbidden love and sabotage and a twisty Gothic adventure that may forever change your view of human nature.

A LAMBDA Literary finalist for Lesbian Fiction and a Triangle Publishing finalist for Debut Fiction

Where are we meeting: Diskin Cider
Cider and food menu: available here
Parking: There’s street parking and the building at 1300 Martin St. allows patrons to use their parking lot after hours.

Gather with some of Nashville's fellow book lovers and learn more about the Next Chapter Society, the Nashville Public Library Foundation's emerging leaders group. Even if you haven't read the book, you are still welcome to join us!