Review: Wideacre, by Philippa Gregory

Its too bad that some readers can't get past the sex in this book, and take a look at what Wideacre really is: a brilliant debut novel by a woman who has really written some fine historical fiction. It seems that those who have read Philippa Gregory's later works (a la The Other Boleyn Girl) are disappointed by the way she wrote this novel. While it is true that The Other Boleyn Girl is a finer book, Wideacre is commendable as well.

I for one found this to be an insightful and intriguing book. The heroine is much different that most heroines are: every reader hates her. I don't think that Philippa Gregory meant for Beatrice Lacey to be likeable. Yet no one within the novel seems to understand the real heart and soul of Beatrice, the young woman who will do anything to keep control of her beloved home. However, things seem to go very wrong, and in the end Beatrice finds herself asking, "is it all worth it?" I found myself asking the same question right from the get-go. Is Wideacre worth all the plotting and scheming that Beatrice does? As the book's cover has stated, there's a fine amount of death and incest, but they aren't the point of the book. At least three people in the book are the victims of murder, and Beatrice seems to show no shame or remorse with regards to death- even her father, who she loved as the Squire of Wideacre.

Wideacre isn't your typical romance novel; the main characters have a lot more personality and drive than those which appear in other books. Beatrice Lacey, despite her vile deeds, is an admirable (though certainly not commendable) woman

I was astounded at the way in which she very coolly was able to set traps for and lie to anyone who stood in her way. Although she loves her brother, he is only a prawn in the game she plays. In some ways I felt sorry for John MacAndrew and Celia Lacey, both also pawns in the game that Beatrice feels she must play in order to secure Wideacre for her children, Richard and Julia. It thought it was amazing how Beatrice let everything go to pieces around her in the end, even though she thought she was still in control. The book ends with a frightening climax, in which a character from her past comes back for revenge.

Philippa Gregory draws the world of late- 18th century with a fine eye for detail, never missing the things that are most important. I highly recommend this book, though I warn that it is not for the weak at heart. Wideacre is not your typical romance novel, and should not be treated as such.