Publisher: 11th July 2023 by Hachette Australia
Pages: 390 pages
Genre: historical fiction, mystery, heist
Rating: 3 cups
Synopsis:
The night of London's grandest ball, a bold group of women downstairs launch a daring revenge heist against Mayfair society in this dazzling historical novel about power, gender, and class.
Mrs. King is no ordinary housekeeper. Born into a world of con artists and thieves, she’s made herself respectable, running the grandest home in Mayfair. The place is packed with treasures, a glittering symbol of wealth and power, but dark secrets lurk in the shadows.
When Mrs. King is suddenly dismissed from her position, she recruits an eclectic group of women to join her in revenge: A black market queen out to settle her scores. An actress desperate for a magnificent part. A seamstress dreaming of a better life. And Mrs. King’s predecessor, with her own desire for vengeance.
Their plan? On the night of the house’s highly anticipated costume ball—set to be the most illustrious of the year—they will rob it of its every possession, right under the noses of the distinguished guests and their elusive heiress host. But there’s one thing Mrs. King wants even more than money: the truth. And she’ll run any risk to get it…
After all, one should never underestimate the women downstairs.
My Thoughts
Housekeeper Mrs King is dismissed and has revenge on her mind. She brings together a team of female associates to plan a robbery and all whilst the house is in the throes of a party during the season. Laughs and mysteries abound in Alex Hay’s, The Housekeepers.
‘I pledge allegiance to this plan, and to the bonds herein defined - with firm intent, free will, in ridicule of all doubt and fear.’
I was intrigued by the plot, setting and period - the promise of a good heist from a wealthy London mansion - all very ‘upstairs and downstairs’ vibes. There are secrets and revelations to keep readers engaged as the countdown to the big day plays out. How are the various characters connected? Why is Mrs King so driven? Is this plan feasible? The rich house descriptions and eclectic group of characters are certainly unique.
‘You shouldn't forget where you come from,' said Mrs King thoughtfully. She took out her pen, signed the first letter with a flourish. ' The Housekeepers will do nicely.'
Unfortunately, for me, it did not all add up. It is largely a character driven book and with a long (read, ‘huge’) cast of characters to contend with. The pace is slow in places and the heist itself falls a little flat for me. There was a great deal more going on than the premise suggested and with that large cast, I found it difficult to not only keep tabs but also be invested and therefore thrilled by proceedings.
‘She kept her eyes fixed on the green baize door at the top. It was a partition between worlds. On the other side the air thinned and the light became frosted around the edges.’
Still, if you are intrigued and looking for a fun read with elements of mystery, robbery and an eclectic cast then this may well be the book for you.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
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