Books
by Penny Vincenzi
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An Absolute Scandal |
The newest and thickest in the series of Vincenzi's sophisticated, worldly-wise and entertaining tales of manners and morals in pampered society, this is more serious than most. Her most difficult book to date, as she says, she tackles the events around Lloyd's of London in the 1980s, the crashes, the fiddles, the effect on the Names involved and their families. Psychologically plausible, impeccably researched, a relaxing but stimulating read.
(Kathie Somerwil Ayrton - bwl 40 June 2007) |
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Another Woman |
Vincenzi is at her best with her novels in the fashion and beauty world but this one, almost a whodunit, is not quite up to her usual standard. However, it is well-written and entertaining, she has a flair for the unusual typifying adjective, the descriptions are sharply drawn and the plot original although slightly implausible at times. Her distinctive technique of setting the pace keeps the reader in thrall. No boredom possible with this novel.
(Kathie Somerwil Ayrton - bwl 21 November 2003) |
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Forbidden Places |
An enormously complex, beautifully constructed novel, fast-paced and fascinating for the sharp analysis of class distinction in English society just before and during WW II. Its sensitivity to many of the varied issues in human relationships, especially marriage, is remarkable, and the evocation of England at the beginning of the war and women's place in it is not to be missed. To those of us who have lived through those times, it is most recognisable.
(Kathie Somerwil Ayrton - bwl 22 February 2004) |
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Love in the Afternoon |
An unexpected departure from all her blockbusters, this recent small book includes ten short stories and ten articles and interviews. Short these tales might be but they are finely-wrought, very clever and original, whilst her journalism is up there with the best. Not least, Vincenzi's outlook on life is realistic, understanding and refreshing.
(Kathie Somerwil Ayrton - bwl 81 Summer 2016) |
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The Best of Times |
For Vincenzi fans - her latest big, fat, entertaining novel. A traffic accident on a crowded motorway, a split second that changes everything in many lives, Although the diverse situations in which the characters find themselves are scarcely original, the author handles the colourful forces she creates with more than enough strength to pull it off satisfactorily. Not the highest of literature but a gripping read in the best Vincenzi tradition.
(Kathie Somerwil Ayrton - bwl 58 Autumn 2010) |
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The Dilemma |
Another good read, its 884 pages make it marvelous value for holiday or travel! There is a very intriguing plot and many subplots, which the author manages to weave very well together in surprising directions. For a book of its length, she keeps up the pace and the ending is unusually forthright. Vincenzi has a refreshingly pragmatic outlook on life and a sharp eye for the nuances of human relations. One of her best books.
(Kathie Somerwil Ayrton - bwl 22 February 2004) |
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Wicked Pleasures |
Although the plot of Wicked Pleasures is a tad more improbable than usual, and the characters flatter, it is a marvelous book to take on holiday, a long train journey or to relax with after a hard day's work. Intelligently written, it is 'wickedly' sophisticated and frothy, without being stupid. The pace is very fast, the situations inventive. If not a 'must', certainly a 'worthwhile'.
(Kathie Somerwil Ayrton - bwl 23 April 2004) |
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Windfall |
Vincenzi novels are well-plotted and intelligently written and this is one of her best. Placed in the world of the rich and fashionable, it could seem very artificial but as Vincenzi's career started in the top fashion and beauty magazines, she has a wide knowledge of and respect for the various problems experienced by the spoiled and not-so-spoiled. A delight as 'a breather' for holidays, relaxing evenings and a much-needed change from heavy brainwork.
(Kathie Somerwil Ayrton - bwl 21 November 2003) |
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