Privilege

In 1766 Paris, Delphine Vimond is forced to seek refuge in the city after her father's violent arrest and his library of books is burned. She works as a housekeeper for Monsieur Diderot and is disrupted by the arrival of Chancery Smith, a printer's apprentice sent from London to hunt down the mysterious author of revolutionary papers marked with the initial D. Pursued by the brutal French censor Henri Gilbert, Delphine and Chancery set off on a frantic and deadly search to catch up with D before Gilbert catches up with them.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2023
Publisher: John Murray Press

"Promised Lands" is a tightly plotted and hugely readable novel by Jane Rogers that delves into the captivating world of immersive historical fiction set in the 18th century. The author skillfully weaves together a tapestry of characters, intricate plotlines, and a touch of peril to captivate readers who have a penchant for historical fiction, the 18th century, French culture, and a dash of excitement.

The novel opens in 1766, Paris, where ten years have passed since Delphine Vimond last saw her father. Following his violent arrest and the burning of his extensive library of books, Delphine, now a young woman, finds herself forced to seek refuge in the city. She takes up a job as a housekeeper for the radical Monsieur Diderot, where her settled life is abruptly disrupted by the arrival of Chancery Smith.

Chancery, a printer's apprentice sent from London to hunt down the mysterious author of revolutionary papers marked only with the initial D, holds the key to a dangerous conspiracy that could change the course of history. Pursued by the brutal French censor, Henri Gilbert, Delphine and Chancery embark on a frantic and deadly search that takes them across the country. Their mission is to catch up with the author of the revolutionary papers before Gilbert catches up with them.

Throughout their journey, Delphine and Chancery face numerous challenges and obstacles. They navigate through a volatile world of impoverished attic rooms and gilded literary salons, where they encounter a diverse range of characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. The novel explores themes of power, privilege, and the consequences of pursuing knowledge and freedom in a society that values conformity and control.

"Promised Lands" is a masterfully written novel that showcases the author's exceptional storytelling abilities. The prose is elegant and evocative, transporting readers to the vibrant streets of 18th-century Paris. The characters are well-developed, with their flaws, strengths, and complex relationships adding depth and dimension to the story. The plot is meticulously crafted, with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers engaged and guessing until the very end.

In conclusion, "Promised Lands" is a must-read for fans of immersive historical fiction, the 18th century, French culture, and a thrilling adventure. Jane Rogers has created a captivating world that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

Weight: 248g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529342925