Mondays Book Talk - Landed Estate

Written by Imelda 

Landed Estate by Ben Kesp 

A gripping and enthralling read by an author who is really making his mark. The Landed Estate is an eloquently written tale of the landed aristocracy in Ireland. It is an insightful and critically informed view from the Anglo-Irish perspective that demonstrates the land struggles that took place within families. The characters are wholesome and identifiable, passionate and alive - not restricted by stiff upper class clichés and conformities. The prose could sometimes fall victim to this and let the characters down at times but overall this is a thoroughly enjoyable read. The Irish countryside comes alive in a new and refreshing way for contemporary tales of this time and the paradox of peace and tranquillity is wonderfully created against the backdrop of uncertainty, threat and doom for an era almost at an end.

Kesp has the ability to enthral the reader. He has a clear and unique understanding of family values steeped in tradition and often incomprehensible values. Susanna Westby shines brightly as a much loved character in a world that submerges the female voice. In the same manner, Katherine Villiers triumphs as the love-to-hate villain. Kesp engages in a unique narrative that places the female characters to the fore in a natural and unassuming way. The last 6 chapters of the second part of the book, gain a rich momentum as the reader races ahead to seek their own satisfaction. 

This story is fast-paced, structurally sound with fully developed characters. It transports the reader to another era, swept up in the social norms and fashion of the time. Susanna is a true heroine, worthy of her role. A thoroughly enjoyable read.

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