Lady Audley's Secret

Rating:
Summary: A Forgotten Gem
Review: This book is a wonderful forgotten gem. Although it was written nearly half a century before, this book belongs on the shelf next to stories such as Du Maurier's "Rebecca." It is a mystery that takes place at a manor much like Manderly, but the characters are different and the reader wonders who is really the hero (or herione). Mary Elizabeth Bradden wrote her best for this book. In fact, the author always thought of this book as her favorite. I know it is one of mine.

Rating:
Summary: Wonderful, rich characters and a page turning plot!
Review: This novel tells the story of a beautiful woman whose secret becomes her undoing.
She uses her beauty, helplessness, and coquettish manner to achieve her end desires, but behind the innocent facade is a woman who is clever, manipulative and ruthless.
Lucy's secret and her extreme desire to keep it ruins the lives of the people around her (as most closely guarded secrets do).
I can't say anymore without giving the plot away.
The secret may be obvious, but the actual path to its discovery, its revelation, and aftermath shape the novel.
I could hardly put this book down and will certainly re-read it to see if I missed something the first time. A marvelous read - you will enjoy it if you like Victorian novels.

Rating:
Summary: Absorbing read!
Review: True, the book is not of the same speed as John Grisham but the careful dance between the hero and the villainess is sublime. The protagonist's frustrations are vividly portrayed and the novel serves not just as a fascinating tale of crime but an interesting insight into gender relations/politics of the time. Should not be missed by any 19th century Brit lit fan!!!

Rating:
Summary: Absorbing read!
Review: True, the book is not of the same speed as John Grisham but the careful dance between the hero and the villainess is sublime. The protagonist's frustrations are vividly portrayed and the novel serves not just as a fascinating tale of crime but an interesting insight into gender relations/politics of the time. Should not be missed by any 19th century Brit lit fan!!!