Codex Regenesis: Five Fables of Magick Misused

Unlock the secrets of a mystical tome through gorgeous illustrations, clever paper mechanics, and a mysterious story. This interactive book will keep you and your friends immersed for hours!

You have been cast as an expert on occult texts and tasked with solving a literary mystery. An antiquarian bookseller recently vanished under strange circumstances, leaving only a copy of Codex Regenesis behind. This intriguing volume contains five fables from across time and geography, each of which holds a clue. You'll need all five clues to solve the final riddle, unlock a secret compartment, and discover the full story of the book's mysterious powers.

Author, artist, and paper engineer Hannah Batsel has concocted a delight for bibliophiles packed with striking linocut illustrations and clever interactive mechanics. Codex Regenesis blends elements of myths, fairy tales, and legends within a deeply moving story about seeing things as they really are and living true to yourself. After the mystery is solved, the book remains a beautiful art object to be treasured and shared for years to come. This fantastically original work is for anyone who loves browsing in antiquarian bookshops on the off chance they might find a book of actual magic. . . .

INTERACTIVE MYSTERY BOOK: With five fiendish puzzles to solve, using clues from the narrative, the illustrations, and the paper mechanics, Codex Regenesis captures the excitement of an escape room in the form of a book. It's perfect for cozy solo puzzling or as an analog group activity for friends and families.

MUST-HAVE FOR MODERN MYSTICS: Batsel blends deep historical research and timely themes with a generous sprinkling of magical and occult aesthetics. This book is a must-have for tarot fans, antique book collectors, and fans of all things witchy and arcane.

RISING STAR CREATOR: Hannah Batsel has earned a devoted following on TikTok, where she shares her historically inspired prints, intricate paper designs, and other distinctive creations. Her handmade artist books and children's books are beloved for their clever construction, mesmerizing artwork, and meaningful stories.

ENGAGING STORY: Codex Regenesis turns the classic cautionary tale about eternal youth on its head, questioning who deserves to relieve their youth (with a particular nod to the queer experience). The story delivers memorable characters and vivid settings that span history and geography, offering a fully immersive reading experience.

Perfect for:

• Fans of logic puzzles, brain teasers, crosswords, or seek-and-find books
• Anyone who enjoys Murder Most Puzzling or Murdle books
• Escape room players
• Readers of dark, magical, witchy stories
• LGBTQ+ readers
• Art book and vintage book collectors
• Fans of Hannah Batsel's books and online content
• Halloween and holiday gift shoppers

Author: H. M. Batsel
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Published: 10/07/2025
Pages: 84
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 2.00lbs
Size: 10.00h x 7.50w x 1.10d
ISBN: 9781797227238

About the Author
H. M. Batsel is a book artist, writer, and illustrator. Her handmade work can be found in library and museum collections around the world, and her previous books include A is for Another Rabbit and The Knight of Little Import. She lives with her partner and friends in a spooky old Chicago house filled with books and taxidermy.