Book #7: Golden Hill by Francis Spufford

I finally figured out just how far behind I am! Two weeks to go and 3 books yet to be read. I just picked up Life’s Work from the library, which was recommended to me by a friend. I have family in town after just having returned from Europe and will have more family in town over the next 2 weeks, so wish me luck on getting through my reading!

But first, Golden Hill. I mentioned this book early on in the challenge here and managed to read it! It definitely met and perhaps even exceeded my expectations. The book is based in 1746– Manhattan– and is a hoot. The protagonist gets into serious trouble continually and New York being New York (even though leaning on the new) the crowd is rowdy and looking for a fight, nearly always. There is a ton of drama– a great pace– and much to consider when we think back to the time before American Independence. Some examples: he goes to jail for fraud and is harassed by another inmate; he duels in the middle of winter and is not a trained sword fighter; he acts in a play and sleeps with one of the actresses (who is described as being rather disgusting) and the entire city finds out immediately.

I loved the female characters– they were mouthy and fiery, just as we stereotype NYC women today. I am from New Jersey, but a few miles across the Hudson, so the whole image resonated deeply with me.

The story is fun- I don’t want to give away too much because there is some mystery. But, I highly recommend this read.

If you love New York and want to feel like you’re there in the mid 1700’s, give this book a chance. You will not be let down!

Overall rating: 5/5