The Essex Serpent: from the Booker-longlisted author of Enlightenment
As seen:
By Sarah Perry
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1 review
London, 1893. When Cora Seaborne’s controlling husband dies, she steps into her new life as a widow with as much relief as sadness. Along with her son Francis – a curious, obsessive boy – she leaves town for Essex, in the hope that fresh air and open space will provide refuge.
On arrival, they hear rumours that the mythical Essex Serpent, once said to roam the marshes claiming lives, has returned to the coastal parish of Aldwinter. Cora, a keen amateur naturalist, is enthralled, convinced that what the locals think is a magical beast may be a yet-undiscovered species. As she sets out on its trail, she is introduced to William Ransome, Aldwinter’s vicar, who is also deeply suspicious of the rumours, but thinks they are a distraction from true faith.
As he tries to calm his parishioners, Will and Cora strike up an intense relationship, and although they agree on absolutely nothing, they find themselves at once drawn together and torn apart, affecting each other in ways that surprise them both.
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Read as part of Gloucester Book Club. Set in the Victorian era, it’s a tale of love, friendship and superstition. Beautifully written. It took a while to get into the story so I would suggest sticking with it, then it blossoms but it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. However if you like Sunday night TV period dramas this could suit.... it may well end up on our screens in the future. Recommended but with reservations.
