The Fraud by Zadie Smith is a piece of historical fiction set in Victorian England in the 1870s, exploring the Tichborne case, where a lower-class man claims to be the lost heir to an aristocratic fortune. The novel intertwines the stories of Elizabeth Touchet, a white housekeeper, and Andrew Bogle, a formerly enslaved man from Jamaica, examining themes of authenticity, racism, and gender roles. The novel discusses racism and enslavement, including explicitly racist ideas from the 19th century.

Zadie Smith's The Fraud captivates with its intricate narrative and sharp prose. Praised for its rich character development and vivid historical context, the novel is both engaging and thought-provoking. However, some readers find its pacing uneven and plot convoluted. Nevertheless, Smith's literary prowess triumphs, making it a compelling read.

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with rich, multifaceted characters, and intricate plots will love The Fraud by Zadie Smith. Fans of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall or Colson Whitehead’s The Nickel Boys will appreciate Smith’s exploration of complex social themes and her nuanced narrative style.

Informative / Mysterious / Challenging / Contemplative

**Eliza Touchet**  
Eliza Touchet is the central protagonist of *The Fraud*. She is a Scottish Catholic, making her an outsider in certain English settings. Eliza is a woman in a male-dominated society and supports abolitionist and feminist causes. Despite personal hardships, including being abandoned by her husband and losing her son, she remains William's lover, companion, and supporter. Over time, she learns about privilege, including her own complicity in perpetuating racism and oppression.

**Andrew Bogle**  
Andrew Bogle is a Black man born into enslavement and brought to England from Jamaica. He serves the Tichborne family and becomes involved in the Tichborne Claimant case. Andrew is known for his honesty and composure, though he remains a complex and private figure. He conveys the dehumanizing effects of racism and oppression but does not benefit from sharing his story with Eliza.

**Henry Bogle**  
Henry is Andrew Bogle’s son and represents a new perspective on race relations in Britain. A radical thinker, he challenges systemic racism and refuses to conform to societal expectations. Henry helps Eliza understand her privilege and brings her closer to the Black culture and art scene in London.

**William Ainsworth**  
William Ainsworth is an English novelist from a privileged background who fails to achieve the same literary success as his peers. Eliza manages his life and feelings, though he does not regard her as his equal. William symbolizes entitlement within England’s social hierarchy.

**Sarah Ainsworth**  
Sarah is William’s second wife, initially starting as a maid. She comes from a challenging socioeconomic background but remains authentic despite societal disapproval. Sarah's character exposes the privilege of Eliza and William while teaching Eliza about the complexities of social privilege.

**Anaso (“Nonesuch Bogle”)**  
Anaso, also known as "Nonesuch Bogle," is Andrew Bogle’s father and was born into a powerful African tribe. Sold into slavery, Anaso uses his intelligence to ensure his survival and his son’s future. His story contrasts with that of Roger, highlighting racial views of the time.

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Part 1: “Volume 1” - Part 2: “Volume 2”

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Part 7: “Volume 7” - Part 8: “Volume 8”

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