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Passionate about history and the written word, Deborah is the author of five historical novels and a teen Trilogy. Long fascinated by Pepys's Diary - arguably our most important insight into the 17th century, Pleasing Mr Pepys is Deborah's way of bringing the women of the diary out of the shadows and into the limelight. Deborah's books have been described as 'full of action and sparked with romance' and this one is no exception. It features Pepys's long-suffering wife, his feisty maid, and his neighbour - an actress and a spy for the Dutch.
Reviewed by Arya Fomonyuy for Readers' Favorite
Pleasing Mr. Pepys by Deborah Swift is a compelling novel featuring a historical personage with powerful political undertones. Inspired by the famous Samuel Pepy’s diary, this novel explores some of the key players in the historical events that took place in Pepys’ time. Deb Willet can’t stand her aunt’s overbearing attitude anymore, so she accepts the post of a maid to Elisabeth Pepys, hoping to find respite from her troubles, but she gets caught up in a web of intrigue and manipulation, geared at accessing government files at Pepys’ house. She is targeted by the actress Abigail William, who is a cunning Dutch spy and who blackmails her into stealing Pepys’ documents. While Pepys continues to feed his lust for his new maid, Abigail exerts more pressure for information. But things spiral out of control when she demands his diary. It’s for the reader to find out how the conflict develops and how it climaxes to reach a satisfying denouement.
Laced with emotional intensity and drama, Pleasing Mr. Pepys is a novel with an intriguing setting, interesting and well-developed characters, and an intricate plot that features red herrings, unexpected twists, and surprises that will take readers on a very delightful ride. Deborah Swift has re-imagined historical characters in a way that brings them back to life, making readers interact with them and feel like the action is taking place in front of their very eyes. The historical references are relevant and compelling, neatly woven into the plot, and coated with a realism that hits readers with great force. This is one of the best historical novels I have read in a while that combines drama, humor, and the masterful art of storytelling to transport readers into the heart of history. A very delightful read!
