The Leviathan

Thomas Threadneedle returns from the civil war to reports from his sister that his father is having an improper relationship with his servant, who his sister accuses of witchcraft. This is a beautifully written, really different historical fiction novel which incorporates elements of mystery, magic realism and the gothic with a gripping plot and some well realised characters, particularly Thomas, the servant and the sister. I loved how the mysteries were revealed slowly and unexpectedly, this is not the kind of book where you can guess the plot easily. As historical fiction, it gave a good sense of the post civil war period, where there is a sense of society changing, particularly the role of women. I will be eagerly recommending this.

A well-written and well-researched book.

The author paints a skilful picture of the past, and there are also some references to historical figures thrown in for good fun. I required a dictionary for some words, but nothing was so opaquen as to not be understood from context.

The prose, especially in the first half of the book, is very atmospheric and evocative. As the book transitions into more of an action packed style, this slowly falls off- but does not disappear.

The author is very good at surprising the reader and subverting expectations. The surprised and reveals were a joy to read.

It was perhaps a bit too short to fully explore the fantasy aspect of the setting, or perhaps it was left unexplored for the mystery. Even at the end of the book, we are left with some unanswered questions, which was slightly unsatisfying.

The characters, too, are not very well explored, except the protagonist Thomas. The Moores' life stories do not explain how they are the way they are, nor other characters explained beyond what is needed. It is not too egregious, but it happens.

On the whole, a nice book.