Shrewsbury, in the early 20th century? The decision to read this book was a no-brainer. Number 81 by Christine Bhasin is a brilliant book about a family living in a Georgian townhouse in Shrewsbury. The book addresses the different realities of those living in early 20th-century England: mothers losing several very young children, prejudice against the Irish and Catholics, the need for immigration for poorer families, and more. However, the reader will notice (as indicated by the title) that the main character is the house itself, not the individuals. The story spans almost a century, and as it oscillates back and forth in time, the reader ponders the characters' connections.

The book's primary strength lies in the psychological development of the characters, especially the protagonist William Tate. The depiction of past events in England during the last century, particularly the precarious conditions of the lower classes, is so vivid that it evokes sympathy for some characters even when they act in morally ambiguous ways. William Tate often fails to fulfill his role as a family man, but various passages in the book reveal that he is not inherently evil. This book reminded me of Emile Zola's works, where the environment significantly influences the characters' behavior.

Anyone who has read many books knows how challenging it is to tell a story that moves back and forth in time. This difficulty is heightened when dealing with dozens of characters spanning nearly a century. The risk of confusing the reader or creating inconsistencies is substantial. Christine Bhasin was brilliant here, and it is impressive that this was the first book she had written. The narrative is not only free from plot flaws, but it is also impeccably edited, without a single grammatical error.

Number 81 has everything a classic historical fiction book requires: historical accuracy, compelling characters, and a certain amount of suspense. This book's meticulous attention to historical detail, from the social issues of the time to the cultural norms, will leave readers feeling well-informed and immersed in the period. Given its flawless execution, it deserves 5 out of 5 stars. Achieving such a feat in her debut novel is a testament to Christine Bhasin's talent and potential as a writer.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction set in England. Additionally, the narrative delves deeply into the social and cultural issues of the time, providing a rich context that enhances the reader's understanding of the characters' motivations and struggles. This added layer of depth makes Number 81 not just a story about a house and its inhabitants but a profound exploration of human resilience and societal change.

******

Number 81

View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon