A novel that follows the life of Eliza Touchet, a young widow who, in her middle age, is caught in a court case, but the story is not narrated chronologically. Eliza’s life takes various twists and turns, and the novel moves back and forth in time. The narrative explores her early memories of living with the Ainsworth family after her husband abandoned her and took their child, who later died from a fever.
Eliza seeks refuge with her cousin-in-law, William Ainsworth, an aspiring writer who lives in north-west London with his wife, Anne-Francis, and their daughters Franny, Emily, and Anne-Blanche. Eliza finds solace in this new family, especially in her relationship with Anne-Francis, who introduces her to the world of political activism. Eliza becomes aware of the horrors of the slave trade, and she refuses to accept money from her late husband’s estate, knowing that the Touchet family profited from the slave trade.
A complicated love affair develops between Eliza and William, and they embark on travels together. William also shares his writing with Eliza, and their unconventional sexual relationship adds another layer of complexity to their bond. Anne-Francis falls ill and eventually passes away, leaving her daughters without a mother. Eliza continues to stay with the Ainsworth family, helping with household duties and acting as a governess to the girls. She often reflects on what her life could have been like if she had the freedom to choose her own path, much like a man in society.
As William’s novels gain popularity and he becomes well-regarded in literary circles, including by figures like Charles Dickens, Eliza is allowed to join their gatherings and act as a hostess. While she has mixed feelings about some of William’s creative friends, she appreciates the perspective of Sarah, the maid turned William’s new wife, who comes from working-class roots.
In contrast to the successful literary career of their father, William’s three daughters from his previous marriage remain unmarried, facing the prospect of spinsterhood. Sarah becomes obsessed with an ongoing court case involving Sir Rodger Ticheborne, a young aristocrat who had been missing for years but suddenly reappears in Australia, claiming his inheritance. The extended Ticheborne family believes he is an impostor, a butcher named Arthur Orton, attempting to steal their fortune. Sarah and Eliza attend the court proceedings, with Sarah passionately supporting Sir Rodger’s claim, while Eliza aims to understand this peculiar case.
As the court case unfolds, both sides present compelling evidence. Mr. Bogle, the former Ticheborne family butler who met Sir Rodger in Australia, claims he is indeed the real Sir Rodger. Eliza becomes fascinated by Mr. Bogle’s life story, which includes his family’s history of slavery in Jamaica, his work for the Tichbornes, and his eventual reunion with Sir Rodger in Australia.
The court eventually finds Sir Rodger guilty of fraud, leading to criminal charges and a second court case. William collapses and dies, leaving Eliza and his daughters to manage the household. Despite his later works not achieving the same level of acclaim as his earlier ones, William is still regarded as a successful writer. Eliza, now free from the constraints of men, contemplates various pseudonyms under which to publish her own work inspired by the Ticheborne case.
The historical setting of “The Fraud” is vividly portrayed, with detailed world-building that brings locations and events to life. The characters are multi-faceted, and the narrative follows their individual journeys and personal growth, such as Eliza’s awakening through her relationship with Anne-Francis. Eliza herself is an insightful protagonist who is quick to form judgments but also quick to change her mind when she realizes she’s mistaken.
However, the novel can be initially challenging to navigate due to its numerous characters, time shifts, and shifts between locations. The dense prose at times makes the narrative feel impenetrable. A television adaptation might provide more space to explore the interwoven stories and timelines, allowing the characters and their relationships to flourish.