Greed, deceit and murder abound in this gripping, transportive tale.
Feature image credit: Penguin Books Australia
Lizzie Pook’s Maude Horton’s Glorious Revenge is a masterful dive into the murky depths of 19th-century London—a murder mystery that envelops the reader in a web of intrigue and suspense from the first page to the last. Set against the backdrop of 1850s London, this tale of familial loyalty, deceit, and revenge is both thrilling and immersive.
At the centre of the story is the unsettling disappearance of Constance Horton, a young woman who seemingly abandons her home and family. Disguised as a boy, she boards a ship bound for the Arctic. The story pivots around her older sister, Maude Horton, whose world is shattered when the Admiralty informs her of Constance’s “tragic accident.” Maude, however, is not one to accept such a simplistic explanation. Driven by an unshakable bond with her sister and an intuitive sense that something is amiss, Maude embarks on a perilous quest to uncover the truth.
As Maude delves deeper into the mystery, she is given Constance’s journal—a pivotal element that shifts the narrative into a higher gear. The journal, written by Constance under the guise of Jack Aldridge, leads Maude to sinister forces, involving dangerous and powerful men who lurk in London’s darkest corners. These men, who exploit the city’s horrors for their gain, form an intricate web that Maude must navigate. From the infamous Newgate Prison to the macabre displays of Madame Tussaud’s waxworks, Pook paints a vivid and chilling picture of a city where shadows conceal more than just darkness.
The dual narrative structure, encompassing Constance’s harrowing shipboard life in the Arctic and Maude’s determined pursuit of justice in London, enriches the story. Pook’s vivid descriptions of the Arctic voyage offer a stark contrast to the grimy streets of London. Through Constance’s journal entries, readers are transported to the icy, perilous world aboard the ship.
Pook’s portrayal of Maude is a standout feature of the novel. Maude is a compelling protagonist whose determination and resourcefulness are immediately apparent. Her journey is fraught with danger, but her intuition and skills make her a formidable force and create a character who is both relatable and admirable.
The setting of London in 1850 is more than just a backdrop; it is a character in its own right. Pook’s detailed and atmospheric descriptions bring the city to life, capturing its grimy streets, fog-laden alleys, and the pervasive sense of unease that lingers in every corner. The historical context is meticulously researched, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. Readers are transported to a time when the city was a labyrinth of secrets and dangers.
Pook’s writing is both lyrical and gripping. Each page is infused with a sense of urgency and suspense, compelling the reader to piece together the clues alongside Maude. The pacing is expertly managed, with each revelation adding another layer to the intricate plot. The tension builds steadily, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Maude Horton’s Glorious Revenge is more than just a murder mystery; it is a story about the lengths one will go to for family and justice. Pook explores themes of loyalty, deception, and the quest for truth with a deft hand, creating a narrative that is as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling. Maude’s journey is not just about uncovering the mystery of her sister’s fate, but also about discovering her own strength and resilience.
Lizzie Pook has crafted a remarkable novel that will captivate readers from start to finish. This is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and mystery, offering a rich and immersive experience that lingers long after the final page is turned. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring quest for justice in a world rife with shadows and secrets.
Reviewed by Leanne Caune
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Penguin Books Australia
Released: January 2024
RRP: $34.99
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