71 pages • 2 hours read
The Fraud
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Book Brief
464
Novel • Fiction
England • 19th Century
2023
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
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.
Informative
Mysterious
Challenging
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
29,127 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read The Fraud?
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.
29,127 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
464
Novel • Fiction
England • 19th Century
2023
Adult
18+ years
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