Under False Pretences: A Novel - A Deep Dive Review

by Adeline Sergeant (Author)

Updated at: 21/01/2025

In Adeline Sergeant's Under False Pretences, the year is 1854, and Edward Luttrell, an English gentleman, seeks respite from the Italian heat in a picturesque villa nestled in the Apennines. Accompanied by his wealthy Scottish wife, their young son, and servants, he hopes the tranquil setting will improve his wife's delicate health. However, beneath the idyllic facade simmer tensions. Edward, warm and generous, stands in stark contrast to his cold and unpredictable wife. Their vastly different personalities, coupled with Edward's financial dependence on his wife's considerable inheritance, create a delicate balance threatening to shatter their seemingly peaceful existence. A story of secrets and simmering resentments unfolds amidst the beauty of the Italian landscape.

4 / 14 ratings

Review Under False Pretences

Oh, "Under False Pretences," what a ride! Adeline Sergeant's 1854 tale, set amidst the picturesque Italian hills, immediately captivated me with its intriguing premise: Edward and his seemingly chilly wife, a Scottish heiress, find themselves ensconced in a villa, dealing with health concerns and, as it turns out, a whole lot more. The initial setup, with its descriptions of the family and their surroundings, is beautifully evocative. I could almost feel the warm Italian sun and the gentle breezes mentioned in the description.

The characters, however, are where this book truly shines, even if some reviewers found them one-dimensional. While Edward is presented as a warm and amiable gentleman, almost too good to be true, his wife remains a fascinating enigma. Her coldness is a carefully crafted facade, hinting at a complex inner life that unfolds slowly, revealing layers of strength, resentment, and, ultimately, unexpected tenderness. This slow reveal is a big part of the book's charm, making the reader question her motives and actions throughout the story. The diverse cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motivations, keeps the story constantly engaging.

The plot itself is a delightful labyrinth of coincidences, misunderstandings, and cleverly concealed secrets. As one reader mentioned, it feels like several storylines interwoven into one, creating a richly textured narrative. While some might find this slightly convoluted, I personally found it kept me guessing and turning the pages. There's a real sense of suspense as the story unravels, leading to a satisfying, if somewhat predictable, conclusion. The "REALLY? Now THIS is happening?" moment some reviewers mentioned certainly happened to me as well! There are enough twists and turns to keep you engrossed, but I agree that the author could have tightened the pacing a bit in certain sections. Some plot lines felt like they lingered a little too long.

The book also offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century life, with its social customs and class distinctions playing a significant role in the unfolding drama. The wet-nurse plotline, as one reviewer pointed out, is particularly relevant to the era and adds another layer of intrigue to the already complex narrative.

Overall, "Under False Pretences" is a captivating, if somewhat lengthy, read. It's a classic example of Victorian melodrama, complete with secrets, misunderstandings, and a dash of divine providence (as one reviewer accurately notes, Sergeant clearly believes in it!). While the pacing could be improved and some might find the coincidences a bit much, the strength of its characters, its evocative setting, and its intricate plot make it a worthwhile journey. If you enjoy period dramas and intricate mysteries with a touch of melodrama, you'll likely find this book a satisfying, if occasionally over-the-top, experience. Just be prepared for a few "REALLY?" moments along the way!