Emma Donoghue builds her novel on a real Victorian scandal, the Codrington divorce case of 1864. Emily Faithfull, known as Fido, is a London printer and a feminist who runs a press that employs women. She has been close to Helen Codrington, an old friend whose husband, a naval officer, begins divorce proceedings over her affair. Fido finds herself drawn into the case and into Helen's chaotic life, and the novel follows the court proceedings and the way the women are judged.
It is for readers of historical fiction who like Victorian settings and complicated friendships. It shows how law and reputation controlled women's lives.
Thought-provoking; a moderate read.
Best for readers like The Story Seeker. Which reader are you?
- Published
- 2008
- Language
- EN
