The Square of Sevens by Laura Shepherd-Robinson

Read Time:2 Minute, 35 Second

In 1730 Cornwall, a young fortune-teller named Red embarks on a journey to uncover her mother’s identity and her father’s mysterious enemies. Raised amidst Georgian luxury in Bath, Red’s quest takes her through London, Devon, and the Bartholomew Fair, leading to high society and grave danger. Laura Shepherd-Robinson weaves a gripping tale with audacious twists, transporting readers to a Dickensian world of intrigue and mystery.

Book review of The Square of Sevens

“The Square of Sevens” is a captivating blend of mystery and fortune-telling set in 18th-century England. Red, a young woman with an enigmatic past, inherits the Square of Sevens technique and a potential fortune. Laura Shepherd-Robinson masterfully constructs a narrative filled with intrigue and suspense.

Red’s expertise in fortune-telling using the Square of Sevens draws her into the De Lacy family’s complex world. The story unfolds like an intricate puzzle, with unexpected twists and enigmatic turns that keep readers engaged.

Shepherd-Robinson skillfully portrays the dichotomy of English society, from the seedy underbelly to the opulent estates of the wealthy. Red’s determination and resourcefulness make her a compelling character, and her pursuit of her birthright adds depth to the narrative.

The Square of Sevens, while complex, becomes a fascinating element of the story, and Shepherd-Robinson provides historical context in her endnotes, enhancing the reader’s understanding. The novel skillfully navigates themes of deception, hidden documents, and disputed inheritances.

Readers will find themselves on the edge of their seats, though some may wish for a slightly shorter book. The author’s ability to maintain suspense throughout the narrative is commendable, and the unexpected ending leaves much to ponder.

Final verdict

“The Square of Sevens” offers a vivid portrayal of 18th-century England, from its rough streets to grand estates. Red’s journey from obscurity to uncovering her heritage is a thrilling adventure filled with tension, mystery, and the intricacies of fortune-telling. Laura Shepherd-Robinson’s storytelling prowess shines in this spellbinding and clever novel. It’s a must-read for those who enjoy historical mysteries with a touch of the mystical.

9
Our Score

Pros

  • Engaging Mystery: “The Square of Sevens” offers a complex and engaging mystery that keeps readers intrigued from start to finish, with numerous unexpected twists and turns.
  • Well-Developed Characters: The novel features well-rounded and compelling characters, particularly the protagonist Red, whose boldness and determination make her a captivating lead.
  • Rich Historical Setting: Laura Shepherd-Robinson expertly transports readers to 18th-century England, providing vivid descriptions of both the gritty and opulent aspects of the time.

Cons

  • Lengthy Narrative: The book’s length, approximately 500 pages, may be daunting for some readers, and the pacing might feel slow at times.
  • Complex Plot: The intricate plot, while engaging, can be challenging to follow due to its numerous subplots, red herrings, and intricate connections.
  • Ambiguous Ending: Some readers may find the ending of the book to be somewhat ambiguous, leaving certain questions unanswered and requiring personal interpretation.
Specifications
The Square of SevensPublisher ‏ : ‎ Atria Books (September 5, 2023)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 528 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1668031124
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1668031124
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.55 pounds
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 1.1 x 9 inches

About Article Author

Jenna Carter

Jenna Carter spends most of her time immersed in the imaginary worlds that authors construct. Her favorite place in the world is a library full of old books where she hopes to one day find a hidden door to the world of Narnia.
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