Madeline was an incredibly interesting character and the perfect center for a story like this. I enjoyed her quirks, personality and her story. However I struggled with the pacing, some moments seemed dragged out whereas others went too fast when I wish there was more exploration or something else. This read more as a character driven book which thankfully worked for the most part thanks to the richly detailed characters and their actions.

Possible spoilers


At times I felt I could have happily committed the murder myself. What a piece of work Emile was, and how foolishly young Madeline was.
Madeline was a spirited character for sure. I particularly enjoyed her relationship with Christina.
An enjoyable tale over 2 timelines, with plenty of information on the true crime at the end of the story.
Definitely stay for that bit.

It's 1857 and Madeleine Smith stands accused of murdering her lover,.

Then she disappears. In 1927 Harry Townsend believes he has found and wants to tell her story.

Oh how i loved this book. based on a true story I loved madeleine. Her bohemian lifestyle and people connections was just divine to read. As a dressmaker I especially liked the William Morris connection.

The setting is amazing, The rich descriptive writing of 1920 made me wish I could travel back in time.

I urge readers to adore this book.