From the author of The Good Wife of Bath comes this brilliant recreation of the vibrant, optimistic but politically treacherous world of London’s Restoration theatre, where we are introduced to the remarkable playwright Aphra Behn, now a feminist icon but then an anomaly, who gravitated to the stage – a place where artifice and disguise are second nature and accommodates those who do not fit in.
It’s 1679 and into the tumult, politics and colour of Restoration London and its lively theatre scene comes the fierce and opinionated Tribulation Johnson. Cast out from her family as ungodly and unworthy, Tribulation is determined to forge her own remarkable path.
Arriving in London, Tribulation is astonished to discover that the widowed cousin she’s been sent to live with is none other than the most infamous woman in London: the former spy and traitor’s mistress, the playwright and polemical poetess, Aphra Behn.
Tribulation cannot believe her good fortune as she is thrust into city life and the heady, mercurial milieu of the theatre. Under Aphra’s guidance, Tribulation is encouraged to write, think and speak for herself. But women aren’t supposed to have a voice, or ideas, let alone wield a pen and write for a living, and there are harsh consequences for those who don’t obey society’s rules.
Together, Aphra and Tribulation must not only face vilification and mockery but terrible danger as plots to overturn the monarchy gather pace. When someone from Aphra’s complicated past reappears, the women’s loyalties – to King, country, and ultimately each other – are bitterly tested. Can their relationship survive the burning fires of religious hatred, suspicion and deceit?
When everyone plays a part, and all the world’s a stage, who do you trust?
Karen Brooks has created the most joyous and triumphant of romps in this revealing, illuminating and enchanting read.
Tribulation has been ‘trouble’ since her birth. With her indomitable spirit, we travel with her in a Dickensian getting-of-wisdom tale, delighting in her experiences. I revelled in Tribulation’s triumphant, though challenging union with fellow trailblazer and guide, Aphra Behn; this novel offers a dazzling and delicious insight into a formative time in her story.
Brooks’ prose is masterful and generous. She possesses the uncanny ability to revisit and reframe history, imparting her deep understanding of women’s roles and the political minefields of the day in a way that’s irresistible.
The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson is a tour de force of a tale, equal parts riveting and uplifting. If you love historical fiction, The Good Wife of Bath or Aphra Behn, this one’s for you.
Leave a Reply