I have to say from the start that I love big books. I remember reading and relishing all those by Jackie Collins, Shirley Conran, Wilbur Smith, Judith Krantz and many more, way back when I had considerably more time to read. There is such a richness to big books, such an indulgence. The writer can truly explore characters and settings. They can weave multiple plots and allow the storylines to twist and turn, interweaving and overlapping in a way that’s simply not possible with a short book. I am therefore delighted that one of my favourite writers has a new big book out. The paperback looks gorgeous but he’s also split it into a trilogy of eBooks which will suit todays readers well.
I bought the first part of this trilogy, The Fabulous FitzHenrys: The Wedding as soon as it was available and finished it yesterday. It was a joy to read, I expected nothing less, and there is just so much going on it in. Colourful characters. Delicious dialogue. And it’s fun.
As with many good family sagas this one centres around one of the most historic families in Great Britain. The father, and head of the family, is in a coma and has left a living will to be read. His long-suffering wife and his ex (because of course they live under the same roof) attempt to be civil to each other. While one daughter, Natasha, runs the family business, a Trust, which comes under severe attack from her old mentor.
The living will is an attempt to bring the family back together. This involves bringing his son Harry, a lovable rascal newly released from prison, and his estranged daughter, Sophie, back to the family home within a few short weeks or the entire family fortune will be turned over to the Crown. Jeopardy indeed.
This first part of the trilogy focuses on Harry. On his release from prison. On his reconnection with an old friend, Giles, and new connection with gangster, Terry Valentine. Oh, and on the upcoming wedding of his previous girlfriend, Flo, to sworn enemy, Archie.
Harry made his plans in prison, on his release he puts them into action.
How will it all work out? Fortunately parts 2 and 3 are already available so you don’t have to wait to find out. I am off to dive into The Fabulous FitzHenrys 2: Chocolate Mimosa, right now and in due course I will tell you what I think. In the meantime I highly recommend you treat yourself to Part 1: The Wedding. You can thank me later.
[…] reviewed the first part of this trilogy HERE if you want to get up to speed with what I’ve thought about the series so […]