Category: Paul C W Beatty

Circles of Deceit by Paul CW Beatty – a historical novel of social upheaval featuring the determined and independent Josiah Ainscough

January 26, 2021

Circles of Deceit by Paul CW Beatty

The second novel from the Josiah Ainscough casebook is a revealing historical novel of troubled times in the north of England in the 1840s, seen from the point of view of a young man who is involved in keeping the peace. Although not the first book which features Josiah, this book stands alone in terms of virtually all of the characters and setting. This is a fast paced book which tells some of the stories of the movements calling for reform in workers’ conditions. Not that it is a dry story; those fighting for the Chartist and other causes are given identities and back stories, and Josiah becomes involved in not only the police action to identify their activities, but also finds some sympathy with their cause. Josiah is involved with the newly formed police force in Stockport, but an unfortunate incident means that he is put on very different duties. This is not a long book, but the story it contains is detailed on the strikes or “turn outs” and some of the disturbances both fictional and real are vividly described. The links between people and places, events and disturbances are brought out in this well paced story. The character of Josiah’s particular friend Dianne, his need for full discovery, and much more keep this story as a real page turner, full of twists as not everyone is acting in the best interests of justice. I was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this book. 

The book begins with meetings in which support for the Chartist cause is being solicited from various people. The authorities are nervous of any upheaval in the mills and mines of the north of England- the Peterloo protest was within living memory, and apart from the economic loss represented by strikes and other industrial action, the revolutionary events of France was a source of genuine fear. As different factions clash and the authorities strive to keep control. Josiah finds himself in the midst of a battle in a meeting room, trying to protect some children and then a celebrity rebel. In the process he encounters the amazing Dianne and discovers that her involvement is not a one off, but part of a long term programme to actively protest against the poor pay and conditions experienced by workers. Josiah discovers something of a conspiracy exists, and there is a real danger to those he knows and admires. Experiencing attacks and difficulties, he moves around the area and meets many people of different conditions. With codes and dangers to deal with, Josiah must concentrate all his efforts to make a difference. The mills and other areas are well described, including some places that still exist.

I found that this book was really compelling, and kept me turning the pages as I was keen to find out what happens to Josiah and those he knows to a greater or lesser extent. I also enjoyed the side stories, at least one of which had much to say about the vulnerability of women which is still recognisable today. The character of Dianne is a real revelation, being a vivid character, full of independent thought and determination. I enjoyed the story of Josiah, intelligent understanding of what is really going on, doing the right thing even if that is not always the easiest path. This book is far less mystical than the previous adventure, and the historical research  is impressive though never slows the action. I recommend this to those who enjoy some social historical fiction, with the elements of a thriller and murder mystery featuring a memorable set of characters. 

Children of Fire by Paul C.W. Beatty – a well written historical novel with a large element of crime

November 26, 2019

 

The earliest police force in the person of Josiah Ainscough had many challenges. This particular police officer finds himself in the rural setting of the North West of England in the early days of Victoria’s reign. Industries such as the manufacture of gunpowder for mining and quarrying is still developing.  The religious life of the country is unsettled, and Josiah has been brought up as the adopted son of a Methodist minister and his wife. His background of a solid education and his journey across Europe have not, despite expectations, prepared him for the ministry; instead he has joined a police force which is still trying to find acceptance by society. He also carries a burden of guilt from his travels, but has retained some good and useful friends from his childhood. His first job is unofficial, yet it will soon become a dangerous situation as he is called on to use all his skills, ingenuity and strength to deal with convoluted events. His beliefs and emotions are also challenged as two women, Rachael and Aideen, come to represent two ways of life. I found this a gripping story with many intriguing elements and a great depth of historical research. The characters are memorable and well drawn, and the setting beautifully realised. I really enjoyed reading this book, and am grateful to have the opportunity to review it. 

 

The book opens in February 1841, as an unknown figure observes and narrates an explosion at a mill, which that individual was obviously was responsible for detonating. In June Josiah appears, making a less than impressive showing as a police officer. Fortunately he is sent to an investigation of a wealthy landowner’s son in a nearby area. He is specifically asked to go to a Christian community called “Children of Fire”, where he meets a young woman called Rachael and encounters the impressive Elijah who runs the community. When a tragedy occurs and Josiah resolves to track down those responsible, he is also invited to a dinner party where he meets some strong personalities, including the combative Mr. Arlon, and the enthralling Aideen. He at last meets the young man he was sent to assess, Abram, and begins his investigations at the powder mill. It transpires that the making of gunpowder is a complex procedure, but that innovations have transformed the applications so that blasting in quarries and mines can be more controlled. Danger seems to go with Josiah’s investigations, and those around him become involved in seeking the truth.

 

This is a well written book with plenty of action and events. The character of Josiah is really engaging, with a solid basis of reality and always interesting. He comes from a stable background and has some useful life experience. He is resourceful and determined, with moral concerns but also realistic feelings for both Rachael and Aileen. His guilt over a past relationship affects his life, but does not limit it. The other characters are well drawn, even the minor ones. It is possible to visualise the setting and the countryside around the action of the novel easily. There are minor proofreading issues, but this does not detract from the overall very good writing, plot and characterisation. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a crime element and strong women who change lives.