Carolyn Kirby
- Book: The Conviction of Cora Burns
- Location: Birmingham
- Author: Carolyn Kirby
I was very excited to read this one as Historical Fiction is my favourite genre, especially when it’s a dark, gothic Victorian novel full of mystery.
At the forefront on the story is Cora Burns who is lost and misunderstood and was raised bereft of a loving and affectionate family. It is set in 1885 when Cora leaves gaol to seek employment at the Larches which is the house of a scientist. Here she works as a tweeny.
The narrative is multilayered and flits back and forth in time. This really creates some background information about the protagonist who is fearless, intelligent and ambitious. She is born with bad blood and never really feels like she belongs. The only person she feels a real affection for is her childhood friend Alice Salt who she is desperately trying to get back into touch with.
I particularly enjoyed the medical research into human nature and the debate on nature vs nurture which I found insightful. I have read a lot of historical fiction but this book is unlike any that I have read in this genre.
Overall The Conviction of Cora Burns is depicted beautifully and the writing is flawless. It gives the reader a real insight into life in Victorian times. Initially I was disgusted with Cora however her character was so well written that I really did have a soft spot for her and I desperately wanted her to find solace. Cora is a heroine that I won’t forget about in a hurry.
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