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Estella's Fury
Great Expectations meets Killing Eve
To Victorian high society, Estella is the perfect lady. But her fair face hides dark secrets – what has she done with her husband? And will her past crimes come back to haunt her?
Her freedom hanging by a thread, Estella must find a means of independence. Exploring an opportunity to invest in factory, she is horrified to discover an evil beyond even her imagination and feels the old fire for vengeance burning inside her.
Will she risk everything to mete out her own brand of dark justice? Even it means she cannot survive?
A stunningly dark Gothic crime thriller perfect for fans of Anna Mazzola, Jessie Burton and Hester Musson.
To Victorian high society, Estella is the perfect lady. But her fair face hides dark secrets – what has she done with her husband? And will her past crimes come back to haunt her?
Her freedom hanging by a thread, Estella must find a means of independence. Exploring an opportunity to invest in factory, she is horrified to discover an evil beyond even her imagination and feels the old fire for vengeance burning inside her.
Will she risk everything to mete out her own brand of dark justice? Even it means she cannot survive?
A stunningly dark Gothic crime thriller perfect for fans of Anna Mazzola, Jessie Burton and Hester Musson.
377 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2025
1 person is currently reading
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December 20, 2025
Well... I didn't think I could enjoy Estella's Fury anymore than Estella's Revenge, but I did!
As with Estella's Revenge, I went in blind and I suggest you do the same.
Havelocke is a master of twists, big reveals, and cliffhangers; and there are plenty in this dark and evocative tale. As per it's prequel, the writing is exquisite, and a deliciously thrilling read with atmospheric and gothic vibes.
I listened to the audiobook and Daphne Kouma is an exceptional narrator!
I eagerly await the arrival of my hardback copy (on February 10th) for a re-read, perhaps mid autumn 🍂 🍁
As with Estella's Revenge, I went in blind and I suggest you do the same.
Havelocke is a master of twists, big reveals, and cliffhangers; and there are plenty in this dark and evocative tale. As per it's prequel, the writing is exquisite, and a deliciously thrilling read with atmospheric and gothic vibes.
I listened to the audiobook and Daphne Kouma is an exceptional narrator!
I eagerly await the arrival of my hardback copy (on February 10th) for a re-read, perhaps mid autumn 🍂 🍁
November 11, 2025
London, the year is 1835.
Estella is the very definition of what a perfect lady should be; well spoken, knows her place, and heaven forbid she would ever think about going against her husband’s wishes, for isn’t that her station in life?
Well none of that is reality for Estella, no, it is nothing but a gilded mirror held up to those who wish it so. It is a veil placed over her face to ensure her dark secrets stay hidden, never to see the light of day.
What has she done to her husband? What sort of life does she actually lead? And will the crimes of her past come back to haunt her? What would her mother say if she were alive today?
Desperate to shed her old skin of a life, Estella visits her good friend Lady Taykall, a rare gem amongst the rabble who appreciates Estella’s company and the feeling is very much mutual.
This time away is just what she needs, that is until a servant girl goes missing under a heavy, yet ignorant and uncaring moon, and Estella cannot help but get involved even if that means getting caught inside an insidious web of lies, abuse, neglect, and even death. Estella knows she must tread carefully yet the more she uncovers, the angrier she becomes and the old fire for vengeance starts to burn inside her once more.
It is simple what must be done: dark justice must be delivered on swift wings and Estella is willing to risk everything, even if it means she surely cannot come out alive….
The sequel to Estella’s Revenge sees our unlikely heroine take all that she knows and twists it into her own version of justice. And it is delicious! I was cheering Estella on the entire way!
Estella is the very definition of what a perfect lady should be; well spoken, knows her place, and heaven forbid she would ever think about going against her husband’s wishes, for isn’t that her station in life?
Well none of that is reality for Estella, no, it is nothing but a gilded mirror held up to those who wish it so. It is a veil placed over her face to ensure her dark secrets stay hidden, never to see the light of day.
What has she done to her husband? What sort of life does she actually lead? And will the crimes of her past come back to haunt her? What would her mother say if she were alive today?
Desperate to shed her old skin of a life, Estella visits her good friend Lady Taykall, a rare gem amongst the rabble who appreciates Estella’s company and the feeling is very much mutual.
This time away is just what she needs, that is until a servant girl goes missing under a heavy, yet ignorant and uncaring moon, and Estella cannot help but get involved even if that means getting caught inside an insidious web of lies, abuse, neglect, and even death. Estella knows she must tread carefully yet the more she uncovers, the angrier she becomes and the old fire for vengeance starts to burn inside her once more.
It is simple what must be done: dark justice must be delivered on swift wings and Estella is willing to risk everything, even if it means she surely cannot come out alive….
The sequel to Estella’s Revenge sees our unlikely heroine take all that she knows and twists it into her own version of justice. And it is delicious! I was cheering Estella on the entire way!
November 13, 2025
Estella’s Fury is the sequel to Estella’s Revenge. While Estella’s Revenge is a faithful retelling of Great Expectations, Estella’s Fury is an original mystery that was inspired by Charles Dickens’s characters. In order to escape her problems from her bad marriage to Bentley Drummle, Estella has decided to stay a few days with her friend, Lady Taykall. Shortly after her arrival, Estella learns that a servant has mysteriously disappeared. Estella searches to find the truth of what happened to the servant.
In Estella’s Revenge, I have found Estella to be a very sympathetic figure. Estella was a woman who had been truly broken by all the tragedy that had surrounded her. In this book, Estella is not only broken but furious. She wants to eliminate men who have harmed women. She vows to be an avenger. I found Estella to be a very strong character. She is very ruthless. She could also be very impulsive and reckless. However, she yearns for justice and to protect those in need. Therefore, I liked Estella. I found to be a very complex and compelling character.
Overall, this book is about secrets, betrayal, and healing. I liked how the characters were faithful to Charles Dickens’s portrayal. I also liked the new characters and thought they were very realistic and complex. There were times that I thought the book was drawn out. Nevertheless, I liked the mystery aspect and found it to be very intriguing. I like how Ms. Havelocke has portrayed the darkness and grittiness of the Victorian era. Estella’s Fury was a very engrossing and suspenseful read! I found it hard to put down! I look forward to more of Estella’s adventures in later installments! Estella’s Fury is an entertaining read for Charles Dickens’s fans! I recommend this for fans of Kathy George, Ronald Frame, and Lorie Langdon!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)
In Estella’s Revenge, I have found Estella to be a very sympathetic figure. Estella was a woman who had been truly broken by all the tragedy that had surrounded her. In this book, Estella is not only broken but furious. She wants to eliminate men who have harmed women. She vows to be an avenger. I found Estella to be a very strong character. She is very ruthless. She could also be very impulsive and reckless. However, she yearns for justice and to protect those in need. Therefore, I liked Estella. I found to be a very complex and compelling character.
Overall, this book is about secrets, betrayal, and healing. I liked how the characters were faithful to Charles Dickens’s portrayal. I also liked the new characters and thought they were very realistic and complex. There were times that I thought the book was drawn out. Nevertheless, I liked the mystery aspect and found it to be very intriguing. I like how Ms. Havelocke has portrayed the darkness and grittiness of the Victorian era. Estella’s Fury was a very engrossing and suspenseful read! I found it hard to put down! I look forward to more of Estella’s adventures in later installments! Estella’s Fury is an entertaining read for Charles Dickens’s fans! I recommend this for fans of Kathy George, Ronald Frame, and Lorie Langdon!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)
December 9, 2025
Super entertaining twisty turny read for fans of Charles Dickens and whodunnits and gothic thrillers!
Havelocke is absolutely unreal at delicious cliffhangers and reveals, got a bit bogged down in the special guest appearances from the Dickens multiverse (almost felt like I could hear the canned applause / surprise track play as some of them appeared...) but a really enjoyable immersive read!!
Havelocke is absolutely unreal at delicious cliffhangers and reveals, got a bit bogged down in the special guest appearances from the Dickens multiverse (almost felt like I could hear the canned applause / surprise track play as some of them appeared...) but a really enjoyable immersive read!!
October 22, 2025
A fantastic novel ! I had loved the first book, but this one is even better. The story reads as if Estella herself is speaking to you. This makes a lively, witty, honest and vivid monologue. As an audiobook, it must be brilliant!
I love Estella ! Even though she has a murderous tendency, she is a good woman. How can that be, one might ask? The brilliancy of her telling takes the reader and keeps her/him on her side all through her original way of thinking....
The plot has many surprises, all leading to an intense development and conclusion.
All characters felt simply alive and very convincing..
I love the clever parallels with Charles Dickens' novels (one of my favourite authors!) which inspired (along with other facts) Estella's dark, atmospheric, stinking London.
An excellent novel which I highly recommend!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
I love Estella ! Even though she has a murderous tendency, she is a good woman. How can that be, one might ask? The brilliancy of her telling takes the reader and keeps her/him on her side all through her original way of thinking....
The plot has many surprises, all leading to an intense development and conclusion.
All characters felt simply alive and very convincing..
I love the clever parallels with Charles Dickens' novels (one of my favourite authors!) which inspired (along with other facts) Estella's dark, atmospheric, stinking London.
An excellent novel which I highly recommend!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
December 1, 2025
I admitted when I reviewed Estella’s Revenge in May last year that Victorian literature has never been my natural habitat. Dickens and co left me cold at school, and I was always itching to sneak back to my well-worn Jackie Collins or Shirley Conran paperbacks. But Estella’s Revenge changed my mind about revisiting those old stories, so when Estella’s Fury landed, I happily dived in
And what a return to Estella’s world this is.
We meet her in 1835 London, polished for high society, yet carrying enough secrets to fill the dustiest attic of Satis House. She may be the perfect lady to those who judge her by the clothes that she wears, but it quickly becomes clear that her marriage has left bruises far deeper than have been noticed.
Barbara Havelocke once again gives Estella the voice she always deserved. We discover a woman who lives, breathes, fights and burns with a fierce intelligence. That perfect lady on the outside, storm of rage and righteousness underneath, make this book really thrilling.
The dual timeline is back, which I love, allowing us to slip between Estella’s present circumstances and the shadows of her past. As she flees her deeply fractured life and takes refuge with Lady Taykall, a missing servant girl sets off a chain of events that drags Estella into a network of crimes more chilling than anything she has faced before.
This book is wonderfully atmospheric. From fog-choked London streets to the unsettling opulence of aristocratic homes, every scene feels alive. Havelocke’s prose is so evocative you can almost taste the tension, smell the candle smoke, and hear the whispers behind the drawing-room doors. The plot twists are sharp, the pacing relentless, and the there are several characters that you will love to hate.
And once again, you don’t need to have read Great Expectations to enjoy a second of this. Estella’s Fury stands so well on its own, with its bold feminist undercurrent and a heroine who refuses to shrink to fit her era. She is flawed, vengeful, at times shockingly ruthless and always compelling.
Highly recommended by me. Prepare to follow Estella into the darkest corners of London. You may not always approve of what she does… but you will absolutely devour her story.
And what a return to Estella’s world this is.
We meet her in 1835 London, polished for high society, yet carrying enough secrets to fill the dustiest attic of Satis House. She may be the perfect lady to those who judge her by the clothes that she wears, but it quickly becomes clear that her marriage has left bruises far deeper than have been noticed.
Barbara Havelocke once again gives Estella the voice she always deserved. We discover a woman who lives, breathes, fights and burns with a fierce intelligence. That perfect lady on the outside, storm of rage and righteousness underneath, make this book really thrilling.
The dual timeline is back, which I love, allowing us to slip between Estella’s present circumstances and the shadows of her past. As she flees her deeply fractured life and takes refuge with Lady Taykall, a missing servant girl sets off a chain of events that drags Estella into a network of crimes more chilling than anything she has faced before.
This book is wonderfully atmospheric. From fog-choked London streets to the unsettling opulence of aristocratic homes, every scene feels alive. Havelocke’s prose is so evocative you can almost taste the tension, smell the candle smoke, and hear the whispers behind the drawing-room doors. The plot twists are sharp, the pacing relentless, and the there are several characters that you will love to hate.
And once again, you don’t need to have read Great Expectations to enjoy a second of this. Estella’s Fury stands so well on its own, with its bold feminist undercurrent and a heroine who refuses to shrink to fit her era. She is flawed, vengeful, at times shockingly ruthless and always compelling.
Highly recommended by me. Prepare to follow Estella into the darkest corners of London. You may not always approve of what she does… but you will absolutely devour her story.
October 22, 2025
What a brilliant sequel to Estella’s Revenge this was. I absolutely loved it! I feel like I’ve been on a roller coaster for last few days, with my heart in my throat, as I read about Estella’s latest exploits in Dickens’ London.
Beneath Estella’s polite and genteel exterior, lies a caring and compassionate woman, who will always try to help the downtrodden and hard-done-by. However, there also lurks a much darker side to her nature - she is capable of undertaking the darkest deeds to protect herself, and others, from the monstrous men who cross their path.
In this story, Estella is visiting a friend when a young, female servant disappears and Estella is convinced something is not right. She decides to investigate and unearths a crime more despicable than any she’d imagined: she is determined to bring those responsible to justice.
Estella spends a lot of time with her own thoughts, constantly trying to justify her actions and remembering Miss Haversham and the way she shaped Estella’s life. This has given Estella the strength to rebel against wrongdoing, and take matters into her own hands at a time when women were not taken seriously.
It’s a journey through the 19th century streets of London: from the rich and glamorous hosting balls for hundreds of people, to the slums where the poorest and lowest in society lived. A time when women answered to their husbands, where outward appearances were all important and where everyone knew their place in the social hierarchy.
Barbara’s writing is an absolute pleasure to read. I adore her writing style and the way she uses descriptive prose to conjure up vivid images and infuse life into her characters. I love the way Barbara has breathed new life into the people Charles Dickens’ wrote about in Great Expectations, and the way Estella shrugs off the constraints of society.
I was sent a proof copy by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Beneath Estella’s polite and genteel exterior, lies a caring and compassionate woman, who will always try to help the downtrodden and hard-done-by. However, there also lurks a much darker side to her nature - she is capable of undertaking the darkest deeds to protect herself, and others, from the monstrous men who cross their path.
In this story, Estella is visiting a friend when a young, female servant disappears and Estella is convinced something is not right. She decides to investigate and unearths a crime more despicable than any she’d imagined: she is determined to bring those responsible to justice.
Estella spends a lot of time with her own thoughts, constantly trying to justify her actions and remembering Miss Haversham and the way she shaped Estella’s life. This has given Estella the strength to rebel against wrongdoing, and take matters into her own hands at a time when women were not taken seriously.
It’s a journey through the 19th century streets of London: from the rich and glamorous hosting balls for hundreds of people, to the slums where the poorest and lowest in society lived. A time when women answered to their husbands, where outward appearances were all important and where everyone knew their place in the social hierarchy.
Barbara’s writing is an absolute pleasure to read. I adore her writing style and the way she uses descriptive prose to conjure up vivid images and infuse life into her characters. I love the way Barbara has breathed new life into the people Charles Dickens’ wrote about in Great Expectations, and the way Estella shrugs off the constraints of society.
I was sent a proof copy by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 20, 2025
Estella's Fury by Barbara Havelock is a Victorian murder mystery and sequel to the wonderful Estella's Revenge. While it is not strictly necessary to have read Estella's Revenge before picking up this book, I really would recommend doing so, both because it is an excellent book in its own right and because it gives the background and character introductions you need to really enjoy this book to its fullest potential.
The Estella referred to in the title is the Dicken's character from Great Expectations, adopted by the jilted Miss Havisham and brought up to manipulate and use men as Havisham's revenge. Now grown up and unhappily married Estella appears to polite society to be the perfect lady, but below the beautiful facade something darker is brewing and she is determined to free herself from the trap she married into. A visit to a friend turns to mystery when a young servant girl disappears and when Estella is moved to try to figure out what happened to her she stumbles into a dangerous web that connects her unknown past to her undetermined future.
I really enjoyed Estella's revenge, the titular character was so well crafted, strong and determined but also desperate to know the truth of where she came from, and I was glad to see not only the same strong woman but also some revelations about the mystery of her past. I do think the pacing was a little slow to begin with, but the author was trying to set a lot of pieces in motion, and when the payoff is revealed it was worth it. I also really appreciated how well the author brought the dark and gritty side of Victorian London to life on the page, and there were a few Easter Eggs for Dickens fans sprinkled through the book too, which were fun to spot.
A strong second book that leaves me looking forward to more from this author.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
The Estella referred to in the title is the Dicken's character from Great Expectations, adopted by the jilted Miss Havisham and brought up to manipulate and use men as Havisham's revenge. Now grown up and unhappily married Estella appears to polite society to be the perfect lady, but below the beautiful facade something darker is brewing and she is determined to free herself from the trap she married into. A visit to a friend turns to mystery when a young servant girl disappears and when Estella is moved to try to figure out what happened to her she stumbles into a dangerous web that connects her unknown past to her undetermined future.
I really enjoyed Estella's revenge, the titular character was so well crafted, strong and determined but also desperate to know the truth of where she came from, and I was glad to see not only the same strong woman but also some revelations about the mystery of her past. I do think the pacing was a little slow to begin with, but the author was trying to set a lot of pieces in motion, and when the payoff is revealed it was worth it. I also really appreciated how well the author brought the dark and gritty side of Victorian London to life on the page, and there were a few Easter Eggs for Dickens fans sprinkled through the book too, which were fun to spot.
A strong second book that leaves me looking forward to more from this author.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
October 6, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I LOVED Barbara's previous book, Estella's Revenge, and have been excited about this sequel ever since. I've said before, as a Dickens obsessive, I can be wary of modern adaptations because I feel they can never live up to the original. But Barbara isn't trying to live up to Dickens. She is putting her own spin on it, her own voice, whilst maintaining the heart of Dickens. She is the closest to matching the pedestal I put Dickens on.
It has 63 chapters which means they're relatively short quick chapters which I prefer.
Because I read the first book a while ago, I was worried I'd forget my place. When you read 350+ books a year, it's impossible to remember everything from every single book just in case there's a sequel. And yet this held your hand and dragged you back into this world that was instantly familiar.
The first book felt very close to the original work because it had the familiar characters and whatnot, whereas this book is completely anew. It has characters not in the original Great Expectations; it still has the heart of Dickens but with her own story which was nice as it didn't feel completely like a rewrite. She balanced it well.
There's a nice couple of Easter Eggs dotted about. I'm not going to say what about, but Dickens fans will enjoy it.
It's got a bit of everything - there's history and it's based off a classic, but it's also a thriller, with a hint of whodunnit. There's a lot going on. There's a lot of very unsavoury subjects and plot lines. It's not pretty, but in the way that Dickens' work was also not pretty.
I planned to take my time with this, read it slowly, savour it. But truth be told, I flew through it in a day because I just had to know what happened next.
It ends in a very satisfying way but I do hope she's got more planned as there's most definitely scope for at least one more tale, if not more.
I LOVED Barbara's previous book, Estella's Revenge, and have been excited about this sequel ever since. I've said before, as a Dickens obsessive, I can be wary of modern adaptations because I feel they can never live up to the original. But Barbara isn't trying to live up to Dickens. She is putting her own spin on it, her own voice, whilst maintaining the heart of Dickens. She is the closest to matching the pedestal I put Dickens on.
It has 63 chapters which means they're relatively short quick chapters which I prefer.
Because I read the first book a while ago, I was worried I'd forget my place. When you read 350+ books a year, it's impossible to remember everything from every single book just in case there's a sequel. And yet this held your hand and dragged you back into this world that was instantly familiar.
The first book felt very close to the original work because it had the familiar characters and whatnot, whereas this book is completely anew. It has characters not in the original Great Expectations; it still has the heart of Dickens but with her own story which was nice as it didn't feel completely like a rewrite. She balanced it well.
There's a nice couple of Easter Eggs dotted about. I'm not going to say what about, but Dickens fans will enjoy it.
It's got a bit of everything - there's history and it's based off a classic, but it's also a thriller, with a hint of whodunnit. There's a lot going on. There's a lot of very unsavoury subjects and plot lines. It's not pretty, but in the way that Dickens' work was also not pretty.
I planned to take my time with this, read it slowly, savour it. But truth be told, I flew through it in a day because I just had to know what happened next.
It ends in a very satisfying way but I do hope she's got more planned as there's most definitely scope for at least one more tale, if not more.
December 16, 2025
I adored this.
I really enjoyed the last one, but this was even better. Free of the framework of Great Expectations, the author is able to plot her own course for Estella and create her own story, while still remaining true to her character as we see her. She is trying so hard to be 'normal', to not let her bloodlust out, but when faced with such injustice and terrible crimes as happen in the book, Estella feels she has no choice but to take action. And what a wonderfully dark set of actions they end up being.
There were so many delicious twists and turns. There were also times when I wanted to shake Estella because I was a step or two ahead of her in what was going on, but I can't hold that against her. She got there in the end and it was a delicious journey.
It also doesn't shy away from the badness, terrible things happen to people who do and don't deserve it. The horror, grime and unfairness of Victorian London really come to life in these pages, which I eagerly devoured. The bleak setting was perfect for the story and really added another layer, as she matched wits with some truly fiendish men.
I need another book in this series, pretty much yesterday, I am dying to know what happens next, especially after how this one ends. There are still moments of her life we need to see, people who need to be dealt with. The revenge and fury is not spent yet!
This is one of those books I fully plan to buy a physical copy of, when it comes out in paperback, to match the previous one. And while I don't normally comment on covers, I had to add a note for this one, it is stunning.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
I really enjoyed the last one, but this was even better. Free of the framework of Great Expectations, the author is able to plot her own course for Estella and create her own story, while still remaining true to her character as we see her. She is trying so hard to be 'normal', to not let her bloodlust out, but when faced with such injustice and terrible crimes as happen in the book, Estella feels she has no choice but to take action. And what a wonderfully dark set of actions they end up being.
There were so many delicious twists and turns. There were also times when I wanted to shake Estella because I was a step or two ahead of her in what was going on, but I can't hold that against her. She got there in the end and it was a delicious journey.
It also doesn't shy away from the badness, terrible things happen to people who do and don't deserve it. The horror, grime and unfairness of Victorian London really come to life in these pages, which I eagerly devoured. The bleak setting was perfect for the story and really added another layer, as she matched wits with some truly fiendish men.
I need another book in this series, pretty much yesterday, I am dying to know what happens next, especially after how this one ends. There are still moments of her life we need to see, people who need to be dealt with. The revenge and fury is not spent yet!
This is one of those books I fully plan to buy a physical copy of, when it comes out in paperback, to match the previous one. And while I don't normally comment on covers, I had to add a note for this one, it is stunning.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
October 23, 2025
Estella's Fury by Barbara Havelocke
UK Release date 13th November 2025
'Violence had always lived in my heart, curled like a half asleep cat that watched the world through slitted eyes....'
Charles Dickens was and will always remain a literary genius. His knack for storytelling was and still is unmatched and his character development absolutely second to none. With this in mind, it takes a brave author to take one of his most famous characters from one of his most famous books, develop her further and give her her own story and I can honestly say that no-one has done this better than the the fabulous Barbara Havelocke. I didn't think anything could beat her first book, Estella's Revenge, but this one went above and beyond expectations.
This excellently plotted, brilliantly written, rich, elegant and vivid story pays homage to Dickens and many of his works, including Bleak House and Oliver Twist. It highlights so many social issues of the time, scientific developments and the rise of the New Woman, with our clever, beautiful and very dark Estella being a perfect example of the fight against social constraints. She is full of rage and hatred and obsessed with avenging the woman who adopted her, Miss Havisham. Dark, atmospheric, chilling and full of dark humour i absolutely loved this story. She is the perfect heroine with vengeance in her head, love in her heart and zero tolerance for those who cross her. I can't wait to continue on this journey with her. Fans of Dickens, Gothic fiction and amazing storytelling will love this ..... its just brilliant..🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
UK Release date 13th November 2025
'Violence had always lived in my heart, curled like a half asleep cat that watched the world through slitted eyes....'
Charles Dickens was and will always remain a literary genius. His knack for storytelling was and still is unmatched and his character development absolutely second to none. With this in mind, it takes a brave author to take one of his most famous characters from one of his most famous books, develop her further and give her her own story and I can honestly say that no-one has done this better than the the fabulous Barbara Havelocke. I didn't think anything could beat her first book, Estella's Revenge, but this one went above and beyond expectations.
This excellently plotted, brilliantly written, rich, elegant and vivid story pays homage to Dickens and many of his works, including Bleak House and Oliver Twist. It highlights so many social issues of the time, scientific developments and the rise of the New Woman, with our clever, beautiful and very dark Estella being a perfect example of the fight against social constraints. She is full of rage and hatred and obsessed with avenging the woman who adopted her, Miss Havisham. Dark, atmospheric, chilling and full of dark humour i absolutely loved this story. She is the perfect heroine with vengeance in her head, love in her heart and zero tolerance for those who cross her. I can't wait to continue on this journey with her. Fans of Dickens, Gothic fiction and amazing storytelling will love this ..... its just brilliant..🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
November 26, 2025
The sequel to Estella's Revenge and I think even better than the first book. This is a reimagining of the Charles Dickens classic Great Expectations and could be read as a stand-alone although I strongly recommend reading both books in order. If you are going to read the first book, don’t read any further as there may be spoilers. For anybody who doesn’t know Estella is the young girl adopted by Miss Haversham in the original novel and brought up believing that men were all bad.
Briefly, London, 1835 and Estella is married to Bentley Drummle. However, after the events of the previous book this is clearly not a happy marriage and Estella has taken her revenge. A visit to her friend Lady Taykall soon gets Estella’s ‘bad man’ antenna working and when the young girl appointed as her lady’s maid disappears, and she is not the first, Estella vows to find out what is happening to all the girls that have gone missing.
Surprisingly, I found Estella to be a character with whom I had much sympathy. Although her revenge is lethal and without compunction, there is a kind and gentle side to her and to be fair the men she targets deserve everything they get! Estella is obviously a damaged person, largely thanks to her upbringing, but she does have some morals and cares about the children being abused. This is a dark and at times disturbing gothic story which had me glued to the pages. I enjoyed it a lot.
Briefly, London, 1835 and Estella is married to Bentley Drummle. However, after the events of the previous book this is clearly not a happy marriage and Estella has taken her revenge. A visit to her friend Lady Taykall soon gets Estella’s ‘bad man’ antenna working and when the young girl appointed as her lady’s maid disappears, and she is not the first, Estella vows to find out what is happening to all the girls that have gone missing.
Surprisingly, I found Estella to be a character with whom I had much sympathy. Although her revenge is lethal and without compunction, there is a kind and gentle side to her and to be fair the men she targets deserve everything they get! Estella is obviously a damaged person, largely thanks to her upbringing, but she does have some morals and cares about the children being abused. This is a dark and at times disturbing gothic story which had me glued to the pages. I enjoyed it a lot.
October 4, 2025
Estella’s Fury is a deliciously dark plunge into the underbelly of Victorian London, where appearances deceive and vengeance simmers beneath silk and lace. Barbara Havelocke reimagines the Gothic heroine with thrilling boldness—Estella is no passive figure in a corset, but a woman forged by secrets, betrayal, and the quiet fury of survival.
Set in 1835, the novel unfolds like a shadowed waltz through drawing rooms and cellars, where every whisper carries weight and every disappearance leaves a scar. When Estella seeks refuge with Lady Taykall, she finds herself drawn into a chilling mystery that awakens the fire she thought she’d buried. What follows is a reckoning—of past crimes, present danger, and the cost of justice when the law is not enough.
Havelocke’s prose is rich and evocative, echoing the spirit of Dickens with a modern edge. The comparisons to Great Expectations and Killing Eve are well-earned: this is a tale of elegance and brutality, of masks worn too long and truths clawing their way to light.
For readers who crave Gothic thrillers with emotional resonance and a heroine who refuses to be tamed, Estella’s Fury is a triumph.
With thanks to Barbara Havelocke, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
Set in 1835, the novel unfolds like a shadowed waltz through drawing rooms and cellars, where every whisper carries weight and every disappearance leaves a scar. When Estella seeks refuge with Lady Taykall, she finds herself drawn into a chilling mystery that awakens the fire she thought she’d buried. What follows is a reckoning—of past crimes, present danger, and the cost of justice when the law is not enough.
Havelocke’s prose is rich and evocative, echoing the spirit of Dickens with a modern edge. The comparisons to Great Expectations and Killing Eve are well-earned: this is a tale of elegance and brutality, of masks worn too long and truths clawing their way to light.
For readers who crave Gothic thrillers with emotional resonance and a heroine who refuses to be tamed, Estella’s Fury is a triumph.
With thanks to Barbara Havelocke, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
October 29, 2025
Secrets, lies, betrayals, Estella’s Fury has it all. The novel is a gripping Gothic historical thriller written from the POV of Estella Havisham, who has stepped out of Miss Havisham’s shadows to become a rounded and intriguing character of her own. The novel is faithful to the Dickensian world (and slips in a few cross-referenced nuggets for those eagle-eyed readers). The author vividly creates Estella’s world, and the research shows her character growth beautifully throughout. Although she has a dark side, she is a likable character with a moral compass leading her to seek revenge against men who do women harm. This comes in bucketloads as she visits her good friend Elizabeth at Wynerton Manor, and the plot thickens with gripping chapter-ending hooks and plot twists galore. Estella's journey leads her through high-society and the mire of London low-life to become the unlikely heroine who thwarts a dreadful crime.
The chapters are fairly short, which I liked. I was hooked and just had to read another chapter before putting the novel down. A worthy tribute to the great man. Many thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
The chapters are fairly short, which I liked. I was hooked and just had to read another chapter before putting the novel down. A worthy tribute to the great man. Many thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
November 11, 2025
My thoughts
I loved Estella’s Revenge when it came out and wondered if I’d love Estella’s Fury. I need not have been concerned. This is a brilliant instalment and sticks to the origin of Miss Havisham and her adopted daughter Estella. It simply moves ahead in her life.
Estella is an accomplished mistress of darkness. How could she not be, brought up by Pandora Havisham? Yet, I like her. She’s dark, deplorable at times, but she has certain lines she will not cross. We find out more about her past, along with her. This book is deeply gothic without moving away from the original story into unbelievable depth. Even if you think you won’t like Estella she has something that makes you will her to win at all her dastardly adventures. Barbara’s writing is sublime and immersive, deeply emotive and affecting. Do read it.
With thanks to canelo and Kate Shepherd for the advanced reading copy of this lovely book. Out on 14th November.
I loved Estella’s Revenge when it came out and wondered if I’d love Estella’s Fury. I need not have been concerned. This is a brilliant instalment and sticks to the origin of Miss Havisham and her adopted daughter Estella. It simply moves ahead in her life.
Estella is an accomplished mistress of darkness. How could she not be, brought up by Pandora Havisham? Yet, I like her. She’s dark, deplorable at times, but she has certain lines she will not cross. We find out more about her past, along with her. This book is deeply gothic without moving away from the original story into unbelievable depth. Even if you think you won’t like Estella she has something that makes you will her to win at all her dastardly adventures. Barbara’s writing is sublime and immersive, deeply emotive and affecting. Do read it.
With thanks to canelo and Kate Shepherd for the advanced reading copy of this lovely book. Out on 14th November.
November 14, 2025
I loved Estella’s Revenge so I felt a little trepidation starting Estella’s Fury. How could I love it as much! Fear not, I’m delighted to report it’s just as good, perhaps even better as Estella’s character grows.
There was a lot going on in this book but it all came together beautifully with clever writing and entertaining storytelling. There are some fascinating characters, none more so than Estella who I love - she’s feisty and furious, knows what she wants and how she’s going to get it!
Don’t worry if you haven’t read Dickens Great Expectations - I haven’t! And you don’t have to have read Estella’s Revenge to enjoy this second book but I strongly recommend that you do as it’s so good!
From the stunningly beautiful cover to the gasp out loud ending, this hugely entertaining gothic thriller will keep you turning the pages and begging for the next instalment of Estella’s story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hera Books for an eARC of this book.
There was a lot going on in this book but it all came together beautifully with clever writing and entertaining storytelling. There are some fascinating characters, none more so than Estella who I love - she’s feisty and furious, knows what she wants and how she’s going to get it!
Don’t worry if you haven’t read Dickens Great Expectations - I haven’t! And you don’t have to have read Estella’s Revenge to enjoy this second book but I strongly recommend that you do as it’s so good!
From the stunningly beautiful cover to the gasp out loud ending, this hugely entertaining gothic thriller will keep you turning the pages and begging for the next instalment of Estella’s story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hera Books for an eARC of this book.
October 11, 2025
I loved Estella’s Revenge and waited eagerly for Estella’s Fury. It was well worth the wait. This is a gripping Gothic thriller, skilfully written in Barbara’s original but authentic style which shadows Dicken’s expertly. In Estella's Fury, which can be read as a stand alone and has new, original characters, we are plunged back in Victorian London where Estella is caught up in a dangerous web of murder and lies in her quest to avenge a diabolic deed. Barbara has masterfully captured the essence of Dicken’s Great Expectation and the Victorian London World and created a compelling read with vivid, credible characters. I shall be buying a hardback to go on my shelf alongside Great Expectations and Estella’s Revenge.
November 13, 2025
From the first page, Barbara Havelocke transports you to a busy and vibrant Victorian London. Estella’s Fury is a sumptuous modern addition to the story that began with Great Expectations. Estella is a heroine who, despite all her evil doings, you want to succeed. She seeks justice for all the women whom privileged men have persecuted. I loved her!
Estella’s Fury is a top-notch Gothic thriller. The prose is rich and multi-layered, full of darkness and fear. It seamlessly continues Estella’s story. If you haven’t read the first in the series (or even Great Expectations), this novel also works as an exciting standalone.
From dark satanic mills to the prisoner in the attic, this is a journey that isn’t for the fainthearted. Roll on the next instalment.
Estella’s Fury is a top-notch Gothic thriller. The prose is rich and multi-layered, full of darkness and fear. It seamlessly continues Estella’s story. If you haven’t read the first in the series (or even Great Expectations), this novel also works as an exciting standalone.
From dark satanic mills to the prisoner in the attic, this is a journey that isn’t for the fainthearted. Roll on the next instalment.
December 21, 2025
A dark, dazzling twist on a classic. Estella's Fury is a brilliantly sharp and subversive tale that recasts Dickens’ famous ice queen into a heroine of delicious darkness and vengeance.
Barbara Havelocke masterfully blends Gothic suspense with a modern thriller’s pulse, giving us an Estella who is both ruthless and riveting. Behind the impeccable manners of Victorian society lies a woman forged by betrayal, driven to exact her own justice no matter the cost.
With prose that crackles and a moral complexity that grips you until the final page, this is Great Expectations meets Killing Eve in the most satisfying way. A must-read for anyone who loves their historical fiction fierce, feminist, and flawlessly executed. Estella doesn’t just step out of the shadows she owns them.
Barbara Havelocke masterfully blends Gothic suspense with a modern thriller’s pulse, giving us an Estella who is both ruthless and riveting. Behind the impeccable manners of Victorian society lies a woman forged by betrayal, driven to exact her own justice no matter the cost.
With prose that crackles and a moral complexity that grips you until the final page, this is Great Expectations meets Killing Eve in the most satisfying way. A must-read for anyone who loves their historical fiction fierce, feminist, and flawlessly executed. Estella doesn’t just step out of the shadows she owns them.
December 2, 2025
This is a mixed feeling read for me.
It dragged, I thought it went on far too much about estella being a murderer and the poor me sinarios, which pretty much filled half the book.
It did eventually pick up with a brief appearance of a couple of characters from “ Oliver “
I miss-judged two characters , one a major player.
The revelations towards the end saved this read but it made the read feel rushed, and by then I really just wanted to get it finished.
I can also see the possibility of a 3rd instalment in the writing.
Would I read this again….NO
Would I recommend it….yes if you have patience
A ⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating
It dragged, I thought it went on far too much about estella being a murderer and the poor me sinarios, which pretty much filled half the book.
It did eventually pick up with a brief appearance of a couple of characters from “ Oliver “
I miss-judged two characters , one a major player.
The revelations towards the end saved this read but it made the read feel rushed, and by then I really just wanted to get it finished.
I can also see the possibility of a 3rd instalment in the writing.
Would I read this again….NO
Would I recommend it….yes if you have patience
A ⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating
November 22, 2025
A very clever and quick witted sequel to Estella’s Revenge. Barbara’s writing is second to none and her love of all things Dickens shines throughout. We’ve got a little Dickensian Easter egg too and meeting some of the many characters we see traits of how Dickens would present them. He was a great lover and watcher of people and their mannerisms and Barbara continues this talent seamlessly. Really enjoyed it and can’t wait for more.
November 28, 2025
I was over the moon when Barbara announced she was writing a sequel to Estella’s Revenge. I loved the first one and I enjoyed this one just as much. Estella has a fire in her belly for justice, determined to help women who have been wronged by men. I loved the atmospheric feel of the story the gritty streets of Victorian London, my favourite time and place to read about. A dark and intriguing read filled with mystery, I can't wait for the next instalment!
December 17, 2025
Estella sees the cruelty faced by women and children, and deals out her own brand of dark justice in this Victorian Gothic novel.
While on the outside she is a proper society lady, on the inside she is tired of pretending to be like the others.
I didn't even realise it was a sequel until I saw the first review, so it can be read as a stand alone even though it does seem to have quite a few references to past events.
(ARC provided by NetGalley)
While on the outside she is a proper society lady, on the inside she is tired of pretending to be like the others.
I didn't even realise it was a sequel until I saw the first review, so it can be read as a stand alone even though it does seem to have quite a few references to past events.
(ARC provided by NetGalley)
December 19, 2025
Absolutely brilliant. I loved this story. It is really fast paced, a real page turner. Estella's character is really well written, there is so much more to her character that I hope there will be another installment. It is really clever the way the author uses things that we know about Estell from the original Charles Dickins story. The descriptions of London and the thick fog, the noise and the smells are so good you feel like you are there. A really clever book.
November 11, 2025
What a fantastic sequal to Estellas Revenge. It had been a while since I read the first book and I did contemplate giving it a re read to refresh my memory, but there really was no need as Barbara Havelocke soon drew me back in to the streets of London onto a rollercoaster of the unknown to witness Estellas latest escapades.
You'll soon come to learn that Estella outwardly is courteous, passionate and has a fiercely caring nature however dig a little deeper you'll see the darkness within which she will put to good use to protect herself and those less fortunate from the men who think they hold all the power.
I loved how theres the essence of a whodunit alongside being based around a historical classic tale. Definitely was lots going on throughout that kept me engaged from the beginning.
The ending was rounded off nicely but it seemed Havelocke has left room perhaps for maybe one more Estella adventure...
Thank you to the Author and publisher for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You'll soon come to learn that Estella outwardly is courteous, passionate and has a fiercely caring nature however dig a little deeper you'll see the darkness within which she will put to good use to protect herself and those less fortunate from the men who think they hold all the power.
I loved how theres the essence of a whodunit alongside being based around a historical classic tale. Definitely was lots going on throughout that kept me engaged from the beginning.
The ending was rounded off nicely but it seemed Havelocke has left room perhaps for maybe one more Estella adventure...
Thank you to the Author and publisher for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
October 2, 2025
3.5 I think I’d have enjoyed this a whole lot more if I’d have read the 1st book in the series; Estella’s Revenge and Great Expectations. It was not my choice to read this but I’ve had to for an interview, it was enjoyable despite not having read the aforementioned mentioned books.
October 27, 2025
interesting reimagining of estella in a well-made addition to the classic tale. I do wish I had read the other book Havelocke wrote about the same chars beforehand, though. 4 stars. tysm for the arc.
November 12, 2025
She’s the daughter of Miss Havisham X Sweetpea…Dark, twisty and absolutely thrilling, I adored this second glimpse into the secret life of Charles Dickens’s most glittering heroine.
November 13, 2025
A very enjoyable gothic adventure in which Estella Havisham continues her quest to destroy cruel men.
Estella is a fascinating character, and the author clearly relishes the opportunity to explore the mixture of darkness and compassion in her. Estella’s sense of justice drives her to commit terrible acts and to face her worst fears. It was a terrific, well-paced story with a deliciously Dickensian feel and plenty of twists and turns.
It also feels relevant to today, given that sex trafficking and enslavement still takes place in the modern world.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Estella is a fascinating character, and the author clearly relishes the opportunity to explore the mixture of darkness and compassion in her. Estella’s sense of justice drives her to commit terrible acts and to face her worst fears. It was a terrific, well-paced story with a deliciously Dickensian feel and plenty of twists and turns.
It also feels relevant to today, given that sex trafficking and enslavement still takes place in the modern world.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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