The Fraud

Zadie Smith's The Fraud is a historical novel set in 1873, during the Tichborne Trial. The novel explores themes of truth, justice, and manipulation, and is based on real historical events. It has received critical acclaim from critics such as the New York Times, the Guardian, and the Washington Post, and has been shortlisted for several awards.

Format: Hardback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2023
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Book of the Year 2023 according to various prestigious publications

New York Times, New Yorker, Guardian, Economist, Observer, The Spectator, Financial Times, Vogue, The Times, The Oldie, i Paper, The Standard, Washington Post, Independent, Daily Express have all shortlisted the novel "The Fraud" for their prestigious Book of the Year 2023 awards. This remarkable recognition showcases the book's exceptional quality and its place among the finest literary works of the year.

Shortlisted for Waterstones Book of the Year 2023

The novel "The Fraud" has been shortlisted for the prestigious Waterstones Book of the Year 2023 award. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the book's literary excellence and its ability to captivate readers worldwide. Being shortlisted for this award is a significant achievement and a testament to the author's talent and dedication.

Shortlisted for the Writers Prize for Fiction 2024

The novel "The Fraud" has been shortlisted for the prestigious Writers Prize for Fiction 2024. This prestigious award is one of the most esteemed in the literary world and recognizes outstanding works of fiction. Being shortlisted for this award is a significant milestone for the author and a testament to the book's literary merit.

One of Sarah Jessica Parker's Best Books of 2023

Sarah Jessica Parker, a renowned book critic and author, has included "The Fraud" in her list of "Best Books of 2023." Her endorsement further highlights the book's exceptional quality and its appeal to a wide audience. Parker's recommendation is a significant recognition and a testament to the author's literary prowess.

Longlisted for the Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction 2024

The novel "The Fraud" has been longlisted for the prestigious Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction 2024. This award is dedicated to recognizing the finest works of historical fiction and is highly regarded in the literary community. Being longlisted for this award is a testament to the author's ability to transport readers to different times and places while delivering a compelling and historically accurate narrative.

A writer at the peak of her powers

The Telegraph has praised the author, Zadie Smith, for her exceptional writing skills and described "The Fraud" as a work of art. The publication has noted that Smith is a writer at the peak of her powers and that the novel showcases her exceptional talent and creativity.

Truth and fiction. Jamaica and Britain. Who gets to tell their story?

"The Fraud" is a historical novel that explores the intersection of truth and fiction, specifically in the context of Jamaica and Britain. The novel delves into the complex dynamics of power, identity, and cultural heritage, asking important questions about who gets to tell their story and how the truth is shaped by historical narratives.

The Tichborne Trial

The novel takes place in 1873 during the Tichborne Trial, a notorious legal case that captivated England. The trial revolves around the identity of a man named Roger Tichborne, who claims to be the missing heir to a wealthy family. The novel explores the complexities of the trial, including the suspicions of fraud and the power dynamics at play.

Mrs. Eliza Touchet

The central character of the novel is Mrs. Eliza Touchet, a widowed Scottish housekeeper who becomes deeply invested in the Tichborne Trial. Mrs. Touchet is a woman of many interests, including literature, justice, abolitionism, class, and her novelist cousin and his wives. However, she is also skeptical and suspects that England is a land of facades, where nothing is quite what it seems.

Andrew Bogle

Andrew Bogle, another central character, is an enslaved person who grew up on the Hope Plantation in Jamaica. He becomes the star witness in the Tichborne Trial and his future depends on telling the right story. Bogle knows the human cost of sugar production and the rich's deception of the poor. He also understands the power of manipulation and how people can be easily led astray.

Dazzling novel about deciding what's true in a world of hypocrisy and self-deception

"The Fraud" is a dazzling novel that delves into the complexities of deciding what's true in a world of hypocrisy and self-deception. The novel combines brilliantly researched and detailed history with intensely imagined fiction, creating a rich and immersive narrative that is both captivating and thought-provoking. The author's ability to seamlessly blend fact and fiction is a testament to her exceptional talent and craftsmanship.

One of the great historical novels

The novel has been praised for its exceptional historical accuracy and its ability to bring the past to life. The author has done extensive research to ensure that the historical details are meticulously portrayed, and the reader is transported back to the era of the Tichborne Trial with a sense of authenticity and detail. The novel has been described as one of the great historical novels, combining the depth of historical research with the richness of literary fiction.

Combined brilliantly researched and detailed history with intensely imagined fiction

"The Fraud" has been praised for its ability to combine brilliantly researched and detailed history with intensely imagined fiction. The author has created a rich and complex world that is both historically accurate and deeply emotional, allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in the story. The novel has been described as a masterpiece that showcases the author's exceptional talent and creativity.

A testament to the author's talent and dedication

The novel "The Fraud" is a testament to the author's talent and dedication. Zadie Smith has crafted a masterpiece that is both captivating and thought-provoking, and her dedication to her craft is evident in every page of the book. The novel has received critical acclaim from reviewers and readers alike, and its success is a testament to the author's ability to create a novel that resonates with readers on a deep level.

In conclusion, "The Fraud" is a remarkable novel that has been shortlisted for numerous prestigious awards and has received widespread critical acclaim. The novel's exceptional quality, combined with its thought-provoking themes and captivating storytelling, makes it a must-read for anyone who appreciates literary fiction and historical narratives. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or simply seeking a novel that challenges your perspective on the world, "The Fraud" is a must-read that will leave you impressed and inspired.

Weight: 690g
Dimension: 166 x 244 x 47 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241336991