Book Review: The London Séance Society: A Novel by Sarah Penner
In an age where the line between science and superstition often blurred, the allure of the occult becomes both captivating and chilling. That’s exactly what The London Séance Society by Sarah Penner delivered to me as I dived into its pages. Having thoroughly enjoyed her previous work, The Lost Apothecary, I was eager to see how Penner would weave the threads of mystery and the supernatural into this historical tapestry.
Set against the backdrop of 1873, the narrative introduces us to Lenna Wickes, a woman determined to uncover the truth behind her sister’s untimely death. Accompanying the renowned medium Vaudeline D’Allaire, Lenna is thrust into the elite yet secretive circle of the London Séance Society, a realm dominated by men. As the plot unfolds, we are met with a vivid exploration of gender dynamics, societal constraints, and the darker aspects of spiritualism. Penner deftly infuses historical context, keeping the reader engaged with not just the story but the very setting itself.
One of the most striking aspects of Penner’s writing is her evocative prose. The way she describes the intimate nuances of a séance—the flickering candlelight, the hushed whispers, the palpable tension in the air—made me feel like I was right there, teetering on the edge of reality and the unknown. The pacing initially felt slow, but as I continued to read, I found that the buildup added depth to the characters and made their motivations all the more compelling. It’s a slow burn that eventually ignites into a gripping tale full of twists and turns.
Dialogue is another powerful tool in Penner’s arsenal. Notably, the interplay between Lenna and Vaudeline indicates not only a mentor-student relationship but hints at a deeper, almost romantic connection, which intrigued me deeply. The themes of empowerment and the quest for truth amid societal challenges made me reflect on how far we’ve come—and how far we have yet to go.
Penner’s ability to tackle heavy themes like misogyny and the struggle for justice through the lens of a fantastical mystery is commendable. A particular quote that resonated with me was a reflection on the lengths women would go to defend those they love, encapsulating the book’s core essence: “What risks are we willing to take for those we care about?” This lingering question echoed throughout my reading, inviting both contemplation and connection.
Who would find joy in this novel? If you are someone who revels in atmospheric historical mysteries, enjoys a touch of the supernatural, or appreciates strong female leads navigating societal constraints, The London Séance Society is a treasure just waiting for your embrace. For those who are curious about historical interpretations of the occult or enjoy a nuanced look at the intricacies of friendship, love, and betrayal, this book is a captivating ride.
In conclusion, The London Séance Society not only kept me turning pages late into the night, but it also left me considering the complexities of truth, love, and societal expectations long after I closed the book. Sarah Penner has solidified her place on my must-read list, and I can’t wait to see what she conjures up next in her future endeavors.