Maude Horton’s Glorious Revenge by Lizzie Pook

*** Review ***

Lizzie Pook’s historical mystery, Maude Horton’s Glorious Revenge, takes us on a captivating journey through the gritty streets of Victorian London in 1850, where a determined young woman, Maude Horton, embarks on a quest for justice following the suspicious death of her sister, Constance, on an Arctic exploration ship. The Admiralty dismisses Constance’s demise as a tragic accident, but Maude, armed with her sister’s diary and a fierce determination, refuses to accept this explanation. Pook’s narrative skillfully unravels a tale of sisterhood, conspiracy, and vengeance, offering a blend of historical accuracy and gripping fiction.

The novel opens with the heartbreaking news of Constance’s death aboard the Makepeace, a vessel bound for the Arctic. Constance, who had disguised herself as a ship’s boy to join the expedition, becomes the center of Maude’s relentless pursuit for the truth. Pook paints a vivid picture of the societal constraints on women during this era, as Maude faces skepticism and indifference when seeking answers from the Admiralty. The intricate historical details bring Victorian London to life, creating a backdrop that immerses the reader in the stark beauty of the Arctic and the bustling streets of London.

Maude’s character evolves from a grieving sister to an indomitable heroine, challenging the conventions of her time. The novel explores her relentless quest for justice as she delves into the murky underworld of London, unravels conspiracies, and confronts a cast of well-drawn characters. Edison Stowe, the manipulative former scientist of the Makepeace, stands out as a weaselly and obnoxious antagonist, adding layers to the narrative.

The multiple points of view in the storytelling enhance the complexity of the plot, revealing hidden truths and challenging historical narratives. Pook skillfully weaves fiction into well-researched historical details, highlighting the discrepancy between reported history and the reality of events. The book’s exploration of public hangings as entertainment, the underworld of London, and Madame Tussauds adds depth to the historical context, making the novel an educational and immersive experience.

The pacing of the story, coupled with a well-executed twist at the end, makes the book an unputdownable read. Pook’s attention to historical accuracy and her ability to blend facts with a compelling narrative shine through, creating a captivating story that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. The characters, including the weaselly Edison Stowe and the intriguing Lady Westbury, contribute to the richness of the storytelling.

While some readers may find the animal cruelty elements distressing, the author’s decision to address such harsh realities of the time adds authenticity to the historical setting. The dual timelines and perspectives contribute to the novel’s immersive quality, creating a compelling read for fans of historical fiction.

In conclusion, Maude Horton’s Glorious Revenge stands as a testament to Lizzie Pook’s storytelling prowess, seamlessly blending historical accuracy with a gripping narrative. The novel explores themes of conspiracy, blood, and gore against the backdrop of Victorian London, offering a unique perspective on justice, vengeance, and the unbreakable bond of sisterhood. Despite varying opinions on character connection and pacing, Pook’s ability to uncover hidden truths and challenge historical narratives makes this book a worthwhile addition to the historical mystery genre. As a reader, I find myself eagerly anticipating Lizzie Pook’s future works, eager to delve into more historical mysteries that unravel the layers of the past.