The Art of a Lie by Laura Shepherd-Robinson
Set in 18th-century London, Hannah Cole, after the murder of her husband, faces struggle of keeping her confectionary shop open with bare profits and men conspiring against her. As Chief Magistrate, Henry Fielding, investigates the case of her husband’s murder and holds her savings, she tries to hold her own.
When
William Devereux presents at her shop and claims to be her late husband’s
friend, putting claim to some investments, it gives her hope. To present
himself even more believable, he gives her recipe of an Italian delicacy called
iced cream. Their new friendship draws some attention to speculation and
gossip.
The story
begins with Hannah’s narrative, and then alternates with William’s narrative,
making the story very absorbing as they reveal nuances of their stories. Both
backstories are fascinating, with Hannah’s passion for new creations in the
world of confectionary. And William’s sad story of his mother who made iced
cream for him and was badly mistreated by his father. William’s story can make
one feel sympathetic toward him, but Hannah’s uncovering can make one change
the mind.
As the
story progresses, it becomes even more gripping as both characters try to
outwit each other. At the same time, bringing to the surface true colors’ of
Hannah’s late husband.
This
well-crafted story feels authentic, exploring the characters that represented
the middle-class tradespeople who grew substantially in number during the 18th
century Georgian London. Also, revealing the Georgian craze for ice cream and
the curious method for making it.
Henry
Fielding is a historical character, novelist and playwright, later becoming Chief
Magistrate of Westminster, who was battling political and judicial abuse of
power. Hannah Cole is a fictional character but she represents the ten percent
of women who ran businesses in Georgian London despite being disadvantaged by
the inheritance laws.
This
fast-paced story is filled with twists and turns ruled by corruption, lies and
deception led by characters that are complex and intriguing.
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