Queen of Clubs by Beezy Marsh

*** Review ***

In the intoxicating realm of 1950s London, Beezy Marsh takes you on a thrilling journey into the shadowy world of all-female gangsters in her latest installment, Queen of Clubs. As the gripping sequel to Queen of Thieves, this novel resuscitates the captivating narrative of Nell, a former underdog turned professional thief, navigating the perilous alleys of post-war London. Marsh’s masterful storytelling skillfully intertwines history, crime, and the indomitable spirit of women in a mesmerizing dance that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Before delving into the intricate web of betrayal, crime, and redemption that Queen of Clubs weaves, a word of advice: if you haven’t explored the pages of Queen of Thieves, consider immersing yourself in that world first. Marsh attempts to provide a quick recap, but the nuances and suspense from the first book may be diluted if you start with the sequel.

The narrative unfurls against the backdrop of 1957 London, where Nell, having risen against the formidable Alice Diamond, enjoys a life of crime that transcends the slums of her East End upbringing. By day, she’s a skilled thief, targeting high-end department stores for luxury goods, and by night, a glamorous nightclub owner draped in stolen silks and furs. However, a betrayal and a botched robbery send Nell’s world into a tailspin, with her old nemesis, Alice, resolute on revenge. The story also introduces Zoe, a nightclub dancer seeking refuge from a poverty-stricken past, but luxury comes at a steep price.

What sets Queen of Clubs apart is its focus on the stranglehold the mafia had on 1950s Soho, delving into the ruthless control exerted over clubs and property investments. Marsh skillfully incorporates historical events, leading readers down a compelling path that unveils the dark underbelly of post-war London. The notorious Kray twins make an appearance, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative, reminiscent of their reign in 1950s-1960s London.

Unlike its predecessor, Queen of Clubs leans heavily into its plot, making it a suspenseful ride that propels the story forward. However, the detailed character exploration that defined the first book takes a backseat, leaving you less connected to the new characters introduced in this installment. The heart of the book lies in the complex dynamic between Nell and Alice, two formidable women engaged in a high-stakes game of one-upmanship.

Returning readers will find the grittier, nastier, and more scheming characters from the first book, this time navigating the streets of Soho, Notting Hill, and Elephant and Castle. The narrative takes unexpected turns, steering away from conventional happy endings, showcasing the cutthroat nature of the 1950s underworld, especially for women. Harrowing themes are explored, revealing the ruthlessness that some of these women possess.

The book’s addictive quality is not lost on readers, echoing the sentiments of one who aptly describes it as “just as addictive as Book 1.” The characters, both familiar and new, leave a lasting impression, and the shocking outcomes of certain storylines add a layer of unpredictability that keeps the pages turning.

Beezy Marsh’s meticulous research and storytelling prowess shine through, offering a glimpse into a bygone era with authenticity and flair. The lengthy author’s notes at the end, a fascinating inclusion, provide additional depth to the narrative. As one reader expresses, the voices of Alice Diamond and other 1950s English gangland characters come to life, transforming the reading experience into a cinematic journey.

In conclusion, Queen of Clubs is an entrancing and tragic sequel that transports you to a world of crime, betrayal, and resilience. Beezy Marsh’s ability to breathe life into her characters and the vivid depiction of 1950s London make this a must-read. As the story concludes with an open-ended finale, the anticipation for the next installment is palpable. Highly recommended for those seeking an immersive and captivating historical crime novel that transcends the boundaries of time and genre.