Absent Friends [Import] [Paperback]

Gillian Linscott (Author)

Product Details

• Paperback: 282 pages
• Publisher: UK: Virago; New Ed edition (1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1860497241
• ISBN-13: 978-1860497247
• Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 3.9 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,450,398 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great historical mystery, May 31, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Absent Friends (Hardcover)

In 1918 England, feminists rejoice that for the first time women can vote and run for public office. Nell Bray wants to be one of the few female candidates, but one month before the election Nell remains an independent, still seeking party support and the backing of her friends. Without a party, Nell knows she has no chance of winning a seat in Parliament.

As Nell tries to obtain backing, a member of Parliament Charles Sollers sets off fireworks at a celebration. However, a tragic accident occurs and Charles dies. Charles's widow Lucinda believes the political rival of her spouse murdered him. Lucinda backs Nell with financial support. Meanwhile, even as she runs for office, Nell begins to investigate what really happened to Charles.

The Nell Bray historical mysteries represent some of the sub-genre's best works of this decade. The current tale, ABSENT FRIENDS is an entertaining look at the point where success has visited the suffragette movement in England. Nell remains a warm, intelligent protagonist who cannot resist amateur sleuthing. Though the story line may meander a bit too long from its main plot, Gillian Linscott brings to her readers the detail and fervor of the era wrapped inside an enjoyable novel.

Harriet Klausner