Age Group:
Young Adult

Genre:
Historical Fiction, International, Mystery, Realistic Fiction, Suspense

Summary:
Grace must endure the unmentionable. At the vulnerable age of 15, Grace must bury her newly born illegitimate child at the famed Brookwood cemetery, carefully hiding it in a rich lady’s coffin. Grace and her sister are orphaned paupers and this is the only way the baby might receive a proper burial. It is at the cemetery where she meets the lecherous, deceitful Unwin family – funeral directors who offer her a job as a mute. At first Grace is reluctant to take on such a depressing job, but when she and Lily fall on hard times, she is forced to seek their employment. She will soon find out that the Unwins are less than charitable; in fact they are dangerous adversaries.

With the help of a young lawyer, Mr. James Solent, Grace might just have her chance at redemption and a life she’s always dreamed of.

My Thoughts:
Set in 1861 London, I enjoyed Mary Hooper’s rich use of details and historical references. Hooper paints a meticulously accurate portrayal of social hierarchies, showcasing the great poverty and wealth of the time. Grace is a pitiable character who suffers through no fault of her own.

Hooper skillfully unravels three mysteries simulataneously: the true intentions of the Unwin family, the secrets surrounding Grace’s baby, and the whereabouts of Grace’s father. Overall, an interesting novel from a prolific young adult writer.

Borrow Fallen Grace from your local Vaughan Library today!