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These Lost & Broken Things
Girl. Mother. Assassin.
How dangerous is a woman with nothing left to lose?
The year is 1905. London is a playground for the rich and a death trap for the poor. When Sofia Logan’s husband dies unexpectedly, leaving her penniless with two young children, she knows she will do anything to keep them from the workhouse. But can she bring herself to murder? Even if she has done it before…
Emmet Vinsant, wealthy industrialist, offers Sofia a job in one of his gaming houses. He knows more about Sofia’s past than he has revealed. Brought up as part of a travelling fair, she’s an expert at counting cards and spotting cheats, and Vinsant puts her talents to good use. His demands on her grow until she finds herself with blood on her hands.
Set against the backdrop of the Suffragette protests, with industry changing the face of the city but disease still rampant, and poverty the greatest threat of all, every decision you make is life or death. Either yours or someone else’s. Read best-selling crime writer Helen Fields’ first explosive historical thriller.
How dangerous is a woman with nothing left to lose?
The year is 1905. London is a playground for the rich and a death trap for the poor. When Sofia Logan’s husband dies unexpectedly, leaving her penniless with two young children, she knows she will do anything to keep them from the workhouse. But can she bring herself to murder? Even if she has done it before…
Emmet Vinsant, wealthy industrialist, offers Sofia a job in one of his gaming houses. He knows more about Sofia’s past than he has revealed. Brought up as part of a travelling fair, she’s an expert at counting cards and spotting cheats, and Vinsant puts her talents to good use. His demands on her grow until she finds herself with blood on her hands.
Set against the backdrop of the Suffragette protests, with industry changing the face of the city but disease still rampant, and poverty the greatest threat of all, every decision you make is life or death. Either yours or someone else’s. Read best-selling crime writer Helen Fields’ first explosive historical thriller.
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First published May 10, 2020
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About the author
Helen Sarah Fields
25 books2,674 followersWrites crime, mystery and thrillers. Loves historical fiction. Big horror fan. Goes back to one classic novel each month, to save her soul.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
February 9, 2020
This historical drama is a very interesting and enjoyable read from an author I really like. This is the story of Sofia which is told in two parallel timelines which works extremely well. The first is her from the age of 12 in 1891 and the second is the story of how she copes following the death of her much loved husband Tom in 1905. Sofia like many woman at this time does not have an easy life but hers is possibly harsher than many. She is born of Romani parents and is drawn into the world of gambling extremely young and she’s very good at it. However, this leads her into terrible danger in 1891 and from 1905 onwards though she tries her best to resist its pull. As a widow struggling to support her two young children Isaac and Sadie she struggles to find legal, gainful employment. She is lured without realising it, into the sphere and far reaching influence of Emmett Vinsant who forces her through her card debt to become the female early twentieth century equivalent of John Wick. Her world is turned on it’s head as violence and survival become the order of the day. This story is told with apparent honesty by Sofia herself.
I really like the way the story is told. Sofia’s dark past emerges and is interspersed with events from 1905-07. The writing is lively and engaging and is firmly set in its historical context. It vividly portrays the harshness of life, the reality of poverty and the looming evils of the workhouse, the still poor public health systems and the Suffragist and Suffragette movements to improve the lives of women who are powerless in the eyes of the law. The characters are portrayed well though not all are likeable especially Emmett Vinsant who is manipulative and cruel. Despite what Sofia does at Emmett's behest she is feisty, proud, independent, resourceful and clever although it’s also fair to say she does get a kick out of wild and reckless actions. I admit to a sneaking admiration for her as she’s trying to survive in a world where the cards are literally stacked against her. Beatrice Vinsant deserves praise too for her bravery as a suffragette and for her clarity of thinking in understanding exactly what her husband is. That lady ain’t no deluded fool. Constable Charlie Danes is a very likeable character and you have hopes he may be Sofia’s saviour.
This is a gritty, twisty tale with plenty of shocks amidst murders and mayhem. There’s violence and cruelty in Sofia’s past and present which moulds her into what she becomes. She has to make sacrifices especially with regard to her beloved children in order to survive. There is drama and tension and some very pertinent reflections on female status in a very dramatic encounter between Sofia and Beatrice near the end of the book which I think is terrific. I like the ending as it’s ambiguous as things look brighter for Sofia but has she entirely left her past behind???
Overall, an excellent read which I recommend.
Thanks to NetGalley and Wailing Banshee Ltd for the ARC
4-5 stars rounded up.
I really like the way the story is told. Sofia’s dark past emerges and is interspersed with events from 1905-07. The writing is lively and engaging and is firmly set in its historical context. It vividly portrays the harshness of life, the reality of poverty and the looming evils of the workhouse, the still poor public health systems and the Suffragist and Suffragette movements to improve the lives of women who are powerless in the eyes of the law. The characters are portrayed well though not all are likeable especially Emmett Vinsant who is manipulative and cruel. Despite what Sofia does at Emmett's behest she is feisty, proud, independent, resourceful and clever although it’s also fair to say she does get a kick out of wild and reckless actions. I admit to a sneaking admiration for her as she’s trying to survive in a world where the cards are literally stacked against her. Beatrice Vinsant deserves praise too for her bravery as a suffragette and for her clarity of thinking in understanding exactly what her husband is. That lady ain’t no deluded fool. Constable Charlie Danes is a very likeable character and you have hopes he may be Sofia’s saviour.
This is a gritty, twisty tale with plenty of shocks amidst murders and mayhem. There’s violence and cruelty in Sofia’s past and present which moulds her into what she becomes. She has to make sacrifices especially with regard to her beloved children in order to survive. There is drama and tension and some very pertinent reflections on female status in a very dramatic encounter between Sofia and Beatrice near the end of the book which I think is terrific. I like the ending as it’s ambiguous as things look brighter for Sofia but has she entirely left her past behind???
Overall, an excellent read which I recommend.
Thanks to NetGalley and Wailing Banshee Ltd for the ARC
4-5 stars rounded up.
April 25, 2020
I have lots of ambivalent feelings about this story. In all it presented quite a different look into how far a woman would go to protect herself and the people she loved. Having just lost her husband, Sophia Logans is left pondering ways in which she could care for a children when a bizarre opportunity arises.
Sophia's story is told in alternating time periods and as we learn more about her former life and its multiple cruelties and hardships. It seems to be the explanation for the life she finds she is thrust into now. Sophia, has always been good with math and numbers so the world of gambling holds an allure for her. She falls into the tentacles of Emmet Vinsant, a very wealthy man who owns a number of gambling halls and as poor Sophia becomes ensnared by the allure of cards she bets and of course loses. To pay back her loses which Vinsant has covered, he enlists her peculiar services. She becomes an assassin for him, doing his bidding and finding herself descending into a life she never pictured for herself.
The turmoil of the times Sophia lived in with its backdrop of the emerging suffragette movement, pointed out the hard reality that women were totally controlled by men. Sophia has two children who she loves but then in a twist, that seemed hard for this reader to understand, she sent them away to live with the sister and brother in law of her late husband.
All in all I found this story to be a confusing tale, one that while I surely understood about the manipulation and utter vile conduct of Vinsant, I just could not condone the way in which Sophia responded. Of course who knows what one would do to preserve themselves, but I do think the story was a tad convoluted.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for a copy of this story due out May 11, 2020
Sophia's story is told in alternating time periods and as we learn more about her former life and its multiple cruelties and hardships. It seems to be the explanation for the life she finds she is thrust into now. Sophia, has always been good with math and numbers so the world of gambling holds an allure for her. She falls into the tentacles of Emmet Vinsant, a very wealthy man who owns a number of gambling halls and as poor Sophia becomes ensnared by the allure of cards she bets and of course loses. To pay back her loses which Vinsant has covered, he enlists her peculiar services. She becomes an assassin for him, doing his bidding and finding herself descending into a life she never pictured for herself.
The turmoil of the times Sophia lived in with its backdrop of the emerging suffragette movement, pointed out the hard reality that women were totally controlled by men. Sophia has two children who she loves but then in a twist, that seemed hard for this reader to understand, she sent them away to live with the sister and brother in law of her late husband.
All in all I found this story to be a confusing tale, one that while I surely understood about the manipulation and utter vile conduct of Vinsant, I just could not condone the way in which Sophia responded. Of course who knows what one would do to preserve themselves, but I do think the story was a tad convoluted.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for a copy of this story due out May 11, 2020
May 21, 2020
I really felt like I had been on an epic journey with Helen Fields’ “These Lost and Broken Things” once I’d finished reading, this was easily a five star read for me and a one that I was addicted to from the first page.
Switching between two timelines, the first in 1891, we see twelve year old Romani born Sofia and an opening prologue that really does draw you in and captivate you. The second is set in 1905 when Sofia is now married with two children and is running for a doctor to save her husband Tom’s life. We then see the two timelines alternate throughout the story as Sofia’s young life is recounted, giving the reader the insight to maybe why she is the person she is. The story was quite brutal at times, emotional and poignant. I liked how the author brought in the suffragette movement into the storyline and I thought the gambling clubs and card playing were very engaging. The subject of grief, poverty, the workhouses, the lack of health care, bullying, suicide and the harshness of life all played a part in this gritty and engrossing story.
I truly loved the scene between Sofia and Beatrice at the end, I thought the author played it perfectly and an ending that really worked for a potential second book.
This author is more famous for her bestselling D.I. Callanach (‘Perfect’ series) and this is her first historical crime drama. Written and executed perfectly with an ingenious plot and likeable, creative characters, this atmospheric thriller set in London was thoroughly entertaining and I am more than happy to recommend “These Lost and Broken Things” to crime and historical thriller readers, young and old.
5 stars
Switching between two timelines, the first in 1891, we see twelve year old Romani born Sofia and an opening prologue that really does draw you in and captivate you. The second is set in 1905 when Sofia is now married with two children and is running for a doctor to save her husband Tom’s life. We then see the two timelines alternate throughout the story as Sofia’s young life is recounted, giving the reader the insight to maybe why she is the person she is. The story was quite brutal at times, emotional and poignant. I liked how the author brought in the suffragette movement into the storyline and I thought the gambling clubs and card playing were very engaging. The subject of grief, poverty, the workhouses, the lack of health care, bullying, suicide and the harshness of life all played a part in this gritty and engrossing story.
I truly loved the scene between Sofia and Beatrice at the end, I thought the author played it perfectly and an ending that really worked for a potential second book.
This author is more famous for her bestselling D.I. Callanach (‘Perfect’ series) and this is her first historical crime drama. Written and executed perfectly with an ingenious plot and likeable, creative characters, this atmospheric thriller set in London was thoroughly entertaining and I am more than happy to recommend “These Lost and Broken Things” to crime and historical thriller readers, young and old.
5 stars
May 27, 2020
Stepping away from her highly popular police procedural series, Helen Fields offers readers a piece set over a century ago, with a woman who will do anything to keep her family together. Sofia grew up in a family of Romani, luring unsuspecting people and taking their money through various sleights of hand. Amongst them was Sofia’s keen abilities at poker, which has her winning large sums from the dark and dirty men who frequent the gaming houses in the late 19th century. Moving head to 1905, Sofia has married and has two children, a definitely improvement in her life. When her husband, Tom, dies before a doctor can be summoned, Sofia has no choice but to seek employment to ensure there is food on the table. While she finds it hard to do so, Sofia is approached by Tom’s employers, one Emmett Vinsant, who has many businesses he owns. While Sofia is leery, she agrees to work in a gaming house, watching other men lose their money with ease. She is unable to keep her poker addiction under wraps and ends up almost losing everything one night. She’s warned by Vinsant to be more careful and given a final chance, serving as an assassin of sorts. Given instructions by Vinsant or his underling, Sofia Logan is now a cold-blooded killer, but can finally ensure her family’s safety. Between assignments, she is forced to remember some of the horrors of her youth, when she first got a taste for murder to protect herself. As Sofia continues her work, she finds herself gravitating to a new man, one who could topple everything if he were to find out Sofia’s true work. An interesting change for Helen Fields, though the writing is still top notch. Those who enjoy historical fiction may want to get their hands on this piece, as well as long-time fans of the authors other work!
I admit that my fascination with Helen Fields’ novels had me wanting to try this piece, at least for something different. I sought to determine just how versatile Fields could be and this novel helped prove that she has what it takes to write outside of the crime thriller box. Sofia Logan proves to be a wonderful protagonist, though quite unassuming as she keeps her nose down in early 20th century England. Suffering alongside many others, Sofia has the love of her family first, though she cannot forget some of the skills she learned as a child to protect her from the wiles of evil men. As the story progresses, the reader can see some of the epiphanies that Sofia has, both about herself and the lifestyle she is living. Others within the piece complement her and keep the plot moving in a forward direction. The story is quite well-paced with a few plot lines to keep the reader intrigued. The intermixing of flashback chapters helps sketch a more complete story about Sofia Logan and lays the groundwork for the impetus of her need to survive. Those readers who enjoy some of the more modern work might like this extrapolation, if only to remind them why Helen Fields is such a great author. I cannot wait to see what’s to come!
Kudos, Madam Fields, for a great move away from your traditional fare. I think you have the knack for historical fiction and yet am also quite happy with your modern Scottish tales.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
I admit that my fascination with Helen Fields’ novels had me wanting to try this piece, at least for something different. I sought to determine just how versatile Fields could be and this novel helped prove that she has what it takes to write outside of the crime thriller box. Sofia Logan proves to be a wonderful protagonist, though quite unassuming as she keeps her nose down in early 20th century England. Suffering alongside many others, Sofia has the love of her family first, though she cannot forget some of the skills she learned as a child to protect her from the wiles of evil men. As the story progresses, the reader can see some of the epiphanies that Sofia has, both about herself and the lifestyle she is living. Others within the piece complement her and keep the plot moving in a forward direction. The story is quite well-paced with a few plot lines to keep the reader intrigued. The intermixing of flashback chapters helps sketch a more complete story about Sofia Logan and lays the groundwork for the impetus of her need to survive. Those readers who enjoy some of the more modern work might like this extrapolation, if only to remind them why Helen Fields is such a great author. I cannot wait to see what’s to come!
Kudos, Madam Fields, for a great move away from your traditional fare. I think you have the knack for historical fiction and yet am also quite happy with your modern Scottish tales.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
May 22, 2020
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Edwardian England, Sofia Logan has just lost her husband. With two young children to look after, rent to pay, and mouths to feed, she doesn’t have too long to grieve before she has to set out to find work.
Her deceased husband’s boss, Emmet Vinsant makes her an offer to work at his gambling venues of an evening so that she can spot cheats or those that are on a winning streak. At first she tells him no as the venues are no place for a female, however, with no-one willing to hire her she has to accept his offer. The money might be good but Emmett knows all about her past, which seems to be coming back to haunt her.
One thing is for certain her children come first and she will do everything and anything in her power to keep them safe, make sure they are fed and that they have a roof over their heads, no matter the cost to her or others.
Earlier this year I read my first Helen Field’s novel, ‘Perfect Kill‘, and loved it. It is a modern-day thriller, whereas this book is set in 1905. We also hear about Sophie’s younger life as she was brought up in a travelling fair and is a bit of a card shark.
From the very first page, I was hooked on this book. Sophie is a woman who has lost the only man she has ever loved and the only man she has ever trusted. She didn’t have a great start to life and her husband gave her the will to put her life back together and change the direction she was going in. With him no longer on the scene, Sophie finds herself in a hard predicament, the perfect example of between a rock and a hard place. Yes she is cunning and sly at times, but she needs to be to survive.
Emmet is one of those characters that comes across as kind but a little creepy at the start but progressively throughout we see a darker side to him. My favourite character was Sophie’s new neighbour and police officer, Charlie.
The book covers lots of historical subjects from the era and Edwardian England was easily recognisable. The setting of dowdy London, the mannerisms of the residents, and the whole atmosphere of the book had me transported back in time with each chapter.
Sometimes you just connect with a book and lose track of time whilst reading and you don’t want to put it down. For me, this was one of those books. There is so much intrigue, mystery, and action set within this historical fiction that I didn’t want it to end. Sophie was certainly a woman ahead of her time!
Edwardian England, Sofia Logan has just lost her husband. With two young children to look after, rent to pay, and mouths to feed, she doesn’t have too long to grieve before she has to set out to find work.
Her deceased husband’s boss, Emmet Vinsant makes her an offer to work at his gambling venues of an evening so that she can spot cheats or those that are on a winning streak. At first she tells him no as the venues are no place for a female, however, with no-one willing to hire her she has to accept his offer. The money might be good but Emmett knows all about her past, which seems to be coming back to haunt her.
One thing is for certain her children come first and she will do everything and anything in her power to keep them safe, make sure they are fed and that they have a roof over their heads, no matter the cost to her or others.
Earlier this year I read my first Helen Field’s novel, ‘Perfect Kill‘, and loved it. It is a modern-day thriller, whereas this book is set in 1905. We also hear about Sophie’s younger life as she was brought up in a travelling fair and is a bit of a card shark.
From the very first page, I was hooked on this book. Sophie is a woman who has lost the only man she has ever loved and the only man she has ever trusted. She didn’t have a great start to life and her husband gave her the will to put her life back together and change the direction she was going in. With him no longer on the scene, Sophie finds herself in a hard predicament, the perfect example of between a rock and a hard place. Yes she is cunning and sly at times, but she needs to be to survive.
Emmet is one of those characters that comes across as kind but a little creepy at the start but progressively throughout we see a darker side to him. My favourite character was Sophie’s new neighbour and police officer, Charlie.
The book covers lots of historical subjects from the era and Edwardian England was easily recognisable. The setting of dowdy London, the mannerisms of the residents, and the whole atmosphere of the book had me transported back in time with each chapter.
Sometimes you just connect with a book and lose track of time whilst reading and you don’t want to put it down. For me, this was one of those books. There is so much intrigue, mystery, and action set within this historical fiction that I didn’t want it to end. Sophie was certainly a woman ahead of her time!
April 15, 2020
3.5 stars
Having enjoyed this author’s Callanach series, I thought I’d give this a try. However, I don’t think I’m the intended audience & it ended up being a simple case of reader-book mismatch.
The story centres around Sofia Logans, a young woman struggling to survive in 1905 London. As she goes from young card sharp to widowed mother, we follow her as she encounters the characters that will alter her fate.
As her life plays out, we’re also treated to the story of London itself. The industrial revolution & suffragette movement are underway as the city moves into the 20th century. But what hasn’t changed is the gap between rich & poor. The author obviously did her homework & includes many period details that lend an atmospheric backdrop to Sofia’s story.
The book is labelled as a thriller but I think historical/women’s fiction may be closer to the mark. If these are your preferred genres, you’ll find much to enjoy here.
Having enjoyed this author’s Callanach series, I thought I’d give this a try. However, I don’t think I’m the intended audience & it ended up being a simple case of reader-book mismatch.
The story centres around Sofia Logans, a young woman struggling to survive in 1905 London. As she goes from young card sharp to widowed mother, we follow her as she encounters the characters that will alter her fate.
As her life plays out, we’re also treated to the story of London itself. The industrial revolution & suffragette movement are underway as the city moves into the 20th century. But what hasn’t changed is the gap between rich & poor. The author obviously did her homework & includes many period details that lend an atmospheric backdrop to Sofia’s story.
The book is labelled as a thriller but I think historical/women’s fiction may be closer to the mark. If these are your preferred genres, you’ll find much to enjoy here.
April 30, 2021
I really enjoy this authors writing especially the DI Callanach series but the standalones are also excellent reads. This is an historical thriller that is set in London 1905.
Sofia Logan is left penniless and struggling to care for her two children when her husband Tom dies suddenly. Sofia fears ending up in the workhouse and promises herself she will do anything to avoid it but does that include murder.
Sofia is offered a job working for a wealthy industrialist Emmet Vinsant in one of his gaming houses. Emmet is aware of Sofia’s past where she spent time in a travelling fair becoming an expert at counting cards and spotting cheats. He wants to use Sofia’s talents to his advantage. The problem is that his demands increase so much that Sofia is left with blood on her hands.
Told from two timelines present day 1905 and 1891 when we learn what made Sofia the woman she is. There are some interesting characters in this book some of which are not very nice at all. A gritty story about a determined woman who is prepared to fight to protect and care for her children. A book full of twists and turns that is a little bit different from the normal offering.
Sofia Logan is left penniless and struggling to care for her two children when her husband Tom dies suddenly. Sofia fears ending up in the workhouse and promises herself she will do anything to avoid it but does that include murder.
Sofia is offered a job working for a wealthy industrialist Emmet Vinsant in one of his gaming houses. Emmet is aware of Sofia’s past where she spent time in a travelling fair becoming an expert at counting cards and spotting cheats. He wants to use Sofia’s talents to his advantage. The problem is that his demands increase so much that Sofia is left with blood on her hands.
Told from two timelines present day 1905 and 1891 when we learn what made Sofia the woman she is. There are some interesting characters in this book some of which are not very nice at all. A gritty story about a determined woman who is prepared to fight to protect and care for her children. A book full of twists and turns that is a little bit different from the normal offering.
May 28, 2020
I loved this book it was so interesting and being a historical read was very different to what I usually read. I’ve never read any by this author but have heard great things about her books and this one was apparently so different to what she usually writes. But, nevertheless I loved this read and know I am keen to read Ms Fields other books which are crime. This one had everything, murder, tension and at times quite scary. My thanks Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
March 19, 2020
When Sofia's husband suddenly dies, leaving her and her children with no source of income, Sofia has to make some difficult choices to keep a roof over heads and food in their bellies. First, she starts working in an illegal gambling club, spotting cheaters and card counters. When Sofia turns into a gambling addict, her life takes a more sinister turn.
This book definitely went in a direction that I didn't expect. I was expecting a story about a victim of poverty and the difficult choices Sofia has to make because of it. But this story is much darker than that. This story is about a monster being unleashed. I struggled to even finish this book, because Sofia is such an unsympathetic main character. She makes stupid choices right and left that made me feel like throwing up my hands in frustration. At times, it was painfully predictable. At other times, it was nearly unbelievable. The biggest bullshit moment I had was when she went from wringing her hands over being "forced" to kill a man, to getting sexually aroused by the memory of it. Um, what? Then she goes into full-on assassin mode, while simultaneously starting up a relationship with a constable. Yeah, sure, that seems like a good idea. So she's not only a monstrous assassin who gets turned on by murdering people, but she's also incredibly stupid. Oh, but we're supposed to be believe that she's got a heart of gold, because she spends so much time worrying about her children, and because she only killed "bad" people. I'm sorry, honey, but no. The "murderer with a heart of gold" character doesn't exist for a reason - because it's complete and utter nonsense.
This book definitely went in a direction that I didn't expect. I was expecting a story about a victim of poverty and the difficult choices Sofia has to make because of it. But this story is much darker than that. This story is about a monster being unleashed. I struggled to even finish this book, because Sofia is such an unsympathetic main character. She makes stupid choices right and left that made me feel like throwing up my hands in frustration. At times, it was painfully predictable. At other times, it was nearly unbelievable. The biggest bullshit moment I had was when she went from wringing her hands over being "forced" to kill a man, to getting sexually aroused by the memory of it. Um, what? Then she goes into full-on assassin mode, while simultaneously starting up a relationship with a constable. Yeah, sure, that seems like a good idea. So she's not only a monstrous assassin who gets turned on by murdering people, but she's also incredibly stupid. Oh, but we're supposed to be believe that she's got a heart of gold, because she spends so much time worrying about her children, and because she only killed "bad" people. I'm sorry, honey, but no. The "murderer with a heart of gold" character doesn't exist for a reason - because it's complete and utter nonsense.
June 18, 2020
Bare-bones historical fiction following the development of a Victorian Villanelle..
As a keen reader of fiction set in Victorian London and having enjoyed one of the author’s crime thrillers I was keen to read Helen Fields’ debut historical fiction novel. The story follows the experiences of twenty-six-year-old Romani widow, Sofia Logan, in the aftermath of the death of her husband, Tom, in 1905. With two children to support, opportunities for employment limited given her gender and class and her savings dwindling fast, Sofia is forced to turn to her husband’s former employer, wealthy industrialist Emmet Vinsant, and pursue her last chance of work. Intent on keeping her family from the workhouse she is surprised that, thanks to Tom, Vinsant knows of her aptitude for numbers and counting cards acquired during a childhood as part of a travelling fair. Offering her a position as a bonnet at one of his three private gaming clubs she rediscovers the addictive thrill of risking everything on the turn of a card.
Quickly indebted to Vinsant after falling prey to her latent gambling addiction Sofia is reduced to accepting his terms for repayment and turning into an assassin when he reveals that he knows more about her past that she can imagine and has a crucial piece of leverage that is guaranteed to make her his puppet. What Sofia doesn’t anticipate is the uncontrollable desire for deciding whether people live or die that her ‘work’ unleashes and the adrenaline rush that killing provides. Increasingly blind to everything that she has to lose Sofia’s behaviour becomes baffling as she pinballs between pangs of conscience, reliving the pleasure that killing brings and loses sight of her children’s welfare with her predilection for shedding blood. Her inconsistency baffled me at times.
A dual timeline proceeds and along with a present day narrative detailing Sofia’s hits and growing blood lust, a second narrative, opening in 1891, tells the story of a twelve-year-old Sofia, her initial downfall with cards and the harsh years that follow as a farmhand. Seeing the experiences that have shaped Sofia certainly explains the ease with which she adjust to her new occupation and gives an insight into how far she is prepared to go to obtain vengeance. Whilst the novel was certainly readable it never had the tension of a thriller, perhaps because Sofia’s behaviour goes rather haywire in the second half of the novel and I failed to understand her motivation or rationale. Character development was the most disappointing aspect of the novel for me and whilst I had no issue with protagonist Sofia being hugely flawed I was utterly bemused and totally unconvinced by her overnight transition from devoted mother to a ruthless predator who risks her children and liberty with abandon. Her increasingly self-destructive and haphazard actions never really rang true and were one implausibility too far for me after my initial empathy for her predicament.
The blurb on the back of the book recommends the novel as perfect for fans of Elizabeth Macneal and Sarah Waters but I would disagree with this comparison given the lack of atmosphere and at times questionable portrayal of the era, particularly relating to the likelihood, safety and ability of a woman alone navigating the nighttime streets with little trepidation and taking audacious risks. At times the prose and particularly Sofia’s forthright attitude and expectation of being treated as an equal in the company of men above her own class is at odds with the bigger picture of a country in which the Suffragettes are still campaigning for the right to vote.
As a keen reader of fiction set in Victorian London and having enjoyed one of the author’s crime thrillers I was keen to read Helen Fields’ debut historical fiction novel. The story follows the experiences of twenty-six-year-old Romani widow, Sofia Logan, in the aftermath of the death of her husband, Tom, in 1905. With two children to support, opportunities for employment limited given her gender and class and her savings dwindling fast, Sofia is forced to turn to her husband’s former employer, wealthy industrialist Emmet Vinsant, and pursue her last chance of work. Intent on keeping her family from the workhouse she is surprised that, thanks to Tom, Vinsant knows of her aptitude for numbers and counting cards acquired during a childhood as part of a travelling fair. Offering her a position as a bonnet at one of his three private gaming clubs she rediscovers the addictive thrill of risking everything on the turn of a card.
Quickly indebted to Vinsant after falling prey to her latent gambling addiction Sofia is reduced to accepting his terms for repayment and turning into an assassin when he reveals that he knows more about her past that she can imagine and has a crucial piece of leverage that is guaranteed to make her his puppet. What Sofia doesn’t anticipate is the uncontrollable desire for deciding whether people live or die that her ‘work’ unleashes and the adrenaline rush that killing provides. Increasingly blind to everything that she has to lose Sofia’s behaviour becomes baffling as she pinballs between pangs of conscience, reliving the pleasure that killing brings and loses sight of her children’s welfare with her predilection for shedding blood. Her inconsistency baffled me at times.
A dual timeline proceeds and along with a present day narrative detailing Sofia’s hits and growing blood lust, a second narrative, opening in 1891, tells the story of a twelve-year-old Sofia, her initial downfall with cards and the harsh years that follow as a farmhand. Seeing the experiences that have shaped Sofia certainly explains the ease with which she adjust to her new occupation and gives an insight into how far she is prepared to go to obtain vengeance. Whilst the novel was certainly readable it never had the tension of a thriller, perhaps because Sofia’s behaviour goes rather haywire in the second half of the novel and I failed to understand her motivation or rationale. Character development was the most disappointing aspect of the novel for me and whilst I had no issue with protagonist Sofia being hugely flawed I was utterly bemused and totally unconvinced by her overnight transition from devoted mother to a ruthless predator who risks her children and liberty with abandon. Her increasingly self-destructive and haphazard actions never really rang true and were one implausibility too far for me after my initial empathy for her predicament.
The blurb on the back of the book recommends the novel as perfect for fans of Elizabeth Macneal and Sarah Waters but I would disagree with this comparison given the lack of atmosphere and at times questionable portrayal of the era, particularly relating to the likelihood, safety and ability of a woman alone navigating the nighttime streets with little trepidation and taking audacious risks. At times the prose and particularly Sofia’s forthright attitude and expectation of being treated as an equal in the company of men above her own class is at odds with the bigger picture of a country in which the Suffragettes are still campaigning for the right to vote.
June 22, 2020
I absolutely adore the author’s Luc Callanach series, which meant the moment I heard Helen Fields was releasing a standalone novel, I was all over that. Add in the fact this was a historical book and I was doubly excited.
Although These Lost & Broken things was a quick and addictive read, filled with plenty of twists and turns to keep me hooked, I’m going to be honest and say it’s my least favourite book from the author. The author’s Luc Callanach series have been four-star reads with some five-star moments, whereas this one had a few points where it wasn’t quite a full four-star rating. It was certainly a gripping read that had me hooked, but I never quite felt the connection with the characters that I had hoped.
There is no doubt that Helen Fields has provided another story that you cannot put down. It keeps you guessing, you’re sucked right into the events of the story, and you find yourself desperate to see how everything comes together. I simply would have liked to feel a stronger connection with the characters, as I found it was the events of this one that held my attention and there were certain elements of the story I didn’t care for because they were more personal to the characters and the connection was lacking.
All in all, another addictive read from the author and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Although These Lost & Broken things was a quick and addictive read, filled with plenty of twists and turns to keep me hooked, I’m going to be honest and say it’s my least favourite book from the author. The author’s Luc Callanach series have been four-star reads with some five-star moments, whereas this one had a few points where it wasn’t quite a full four-star rating. It was certainly a gripping read that had me hooked, but I never quite felt the connection with the characters that I had hoped.
There is no doubt that Helen Fields has provided another story that you cannot put down. It keeps you guessing, you’re sucked right into the events of the story, and you find yourself desperate to see how everything comes together. I simply would have liked to feel a stronger connection with the characters, as I found it was the events of this one that held my attention and there were certain elements of the story I didn’t care for because they were more personal to the characters and the connection was lacking.
All in all, another addictive read from the author and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
May 19, 2020
I cannot put into words how much I loved this book, I loved every single moment, from the back blurb I was instantly fascinated but the moment I started reading, those first few pages had me gripped, I went flying through the pages devouring every word with greed. I was hooked like a fish on a line with Sofia and her sad and sorry tale of hardship and turmoil.
I have always been a fan of darker and gritter historical’s add-in that it is set in one of my favourite era’s; the late Victorian/Edwardian with a backdrop of the women’s rights movement; the Suffragette’s March. Plus, it really shows just how far a woman will go to protect her children when she has nothing left.
Full disclosure that I hadn’t read anything by Helen Fields before, I have heard so many great things about her work though and I know for a fact that after reading this amazing book, I will be reading more from her – maybe this is the time I started delving back into crime thrillers?
The story opens when Sofia is a mere child of twelve who sneaks away from her camp to play a few rounds of cards, something she is rather good at, even at this young age she is a brilliant card counter. Unfortunately, her plan goes wrong, and in that moment her life changes forever. Faster forward to 1905 where she is happily married to the man she did love, with two little children, lives isn’t perfect but at least she always thought she would have her husband; Tom by her side, until he passes away and she is left destitute facing the dreaded workhouse.
You really get a sense of just how hopeless she sees life to be, she has lost everything but the clothes on her back and her children, but would she still have those if she stepped foot into the workhouse, an awful place of death and decease? She finds herself rescued again by a man who wants more from her than she initially thought, but how far will he push her and what exactly will she do to keep her children safe?
This book really tugs at the heart-strings at times, Sofia is a complex and troubled young woman, she starts of hugely naïve, she is vulnerable and fragile throughout and I suspect there is a serious and deeply ingrained mental health illness something which is lurking just beneath the surface and when it shows itself it is as though Sofia is a completely different person. It is in those moments when her ‘other self’ appears where the story takes a real darker and uglier turn, she isn’t the faithful wife and devoted mother, she is something else altogether. I have to say that her split personality is so brilliantly written, there are some moments where I genuinely felt goose-bumps.
I cannot say a single negative word about this, it has so much to love; gripping, atmospheric and complex storyline. This is captivating and riveting, the writing is flawless, its full of gritty and richly layered detail that will knock your socks off.
This really is an absolutely amazing book, and I can’t wait to read more from Helen Fields.
This was a complimentary copy from the author, which I voluntarily reviewed as apart of this blog tour. Thank you, Helen and Kelly, from Love Books.
I have always been a fan of darker and gritter historical’s add-in that it is set in one of my favourite era’s; the late Victorian/Edwardian with a backdrop of the women’s rights movement; the Suffragette’s March. Plus, it really shows just how far a woman will go to protect her children when she has nothing left.
Full disclosure that I hadn’t read anything by Helen Fields before, I have heard so many great things about her work though and I know for a fact that after reading this amazing book, I will be reading more from her – maybe this is the time I started delving back into crime thrillers?
The story opens when Sofia is a mere child of twelve who sneaks away from her camp to play a few rounds of cards, something she is rather good at, even at this young age she is a brilliant card counter. Unfortunately, her plan goes wrong, and in that moment her life changes forever. Faster forward to 1905 where she is happily married to the man she did love, with two little children, lives isn’t perfect but at least she always thought she would have her husband; Tom by her side, until he passes away and she is left destitute facing the dreaded workhouse.
You really get a sense of just how hopeless she sees life to be, she has lost everything but the clothes on her back and her children, but would she still have those if she stepped foot into the workhouse, an awful place of death and decease? She finds herself rescued again by a man who wants more from her than she initially thought, but how far will he push her and what exactly will she do to keep her children safe?
This book really tugs at the heart-strings at times, Sofia is a complex and troubled young woman, she starts of hugely naïve, she is vulnerable and fragile throughout and I suspect there is a serious and deeply ingrained mental health illness something which is lurking just beneath the surface and when it shows itself it is as though Sofia is a completely different person. It is in those moments when her ‘other self’ appears where the story takes a real darker and uglier turn, she isn’t the faithful wife and devoted mother, she is something else altogether. I have to say that her split personality is so brilliantly written, there are some moments where I genuinely felt goose-bumps.
I cannot say a single negative word about this, it has so much to love; gripping, atmospheric and complex storyline. This is captivating and riveting, the writing is flawless, its full of gritty and richly layered detail that will knock your socks off.
This really is an absolutely amazing book, and I can’t wait to read more from Helen Fields.
This was a complimentary copy from the author, which I voluntarily reviewed as apart of this blog tour. Thank you, Helen and Kelly, from Love Books.
March 21, 2020
Thank you for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’m a big Helen Fields fan, which is probably the only reason I went for this book as it’s not my typical genre. I’m glad I decided to try because it was very good.
Sofia’s husband dies and leaves her with no money to feed her children. She asks for help from his boss, but he knows about her past and uses it to his advantage. Soon she is playing a dangerous game, one which turns her into an assassin!
Can’t beat a strong female lead in a book and Sofia doesn’t let us down. I really enjoyed this and would recommend to anyone.
I’m a big Helen Fields fan, which is probably the only reason I went for this book as it’s not my typical genre. I’m glad I decided to try because it was very good.
Sofia’s husband dies and leaves her with no money to feed her children. She asks for help from his boss, but he knows about her past and uses it to his advantage. Soon she is playing a dangerous game, one which turns her into an assassin!
Can’t beat a strong female lead in a book and Sofia doesn’t let us down. I really enjoyed this and would recommend to anyone.
April 4, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and Wailing Banshee for a copy of These lost and broken things by Helen Sarah Fields. I was intrigued to get a copy of this as I am aware of her D.I. Callanach series but, I wasn’t aware that she wrote historical crime. So, I was curious to see how this book pans out.
It’s 1905 in London, Sofia Logan’s husband dies, and she left penniless with two children. She is desperate for a job to provide for her children when she meets Tom’s old boss Emmett Vinsant who is a local dignitary and a sinister character who gives her a job in a gambling den. But, things don’t go well for Sofia ends up getting into further debt. So, Emmett gives her a chance to clear her debt by asking her to commit murder.
I must admit that I have not read any of the authors novels and I really enjoy historical crime novels of this type and this is no exception. The was well written dark, atmospheric novel set in Victorian times. With a backdrop story about the suffragette movement. A story about one woman and mother. How far she will go to provide for her children. I really enjoyed this 5 stars from me.
It’s 1905 in London, Sofia Logan’s husband dies, and she left penniless with two children. She is desperate for a job to provide for her children when she meets Tom’s old boss Emmett Vinsant who is a local dignitary and a sinister character who gives her a job in a gambling den. But, things don’t go well for Sofia ends up getting into further debt. So, Emmett gives her a chance to clear her debt by asking her to commit murder.
I must admit that I have not read any of the authors novels and I really enjoy historical crime novels of this type and this is no exception. The was well written dark, atmospheric novel set in Victorian times. With a backdrop story about the suffragette movement. A story about one woman and mother. How far she will go to provide for her children. I really enjoyed this 5 stars from me.
Read
May 19, 2020Some things scare me. Mosquitoes, stupid and reckless drivers, unexpected things springing up at me. And historical fiction. My knowledge of history is lacking, and my interest varies depending on the period the authors focus on. This is why I stare at the genre with a mix of fascination and trepidation.
I would like to tell you my picking up These Lost and Broken Things has everything to do with me mustering the courage to dive into the unknown, but I would be lying. The truth is I can’t resist a book written by Helen Fields. I trust her with my heart, imagination, and sanity. Her crime fiction novels are among the staples of my collection. When I heard about her exploring historical fiction, I did not hesitate. If someone is able to make me enjoy a jump to the past without making me feel like an idiot because I don’t ‘get’ the atmosphere and codes of the time, it’s her.
That’s how I met Sofia. Yes, when I spotted the date on the very first page – 1891 – I shivered. But then something strange happened. Through a character’s breaths and actions, I was transported to another time, just as if I’d stepped out of the TARDIS. I saw this first chapter, set in the final years of Queen Victoria’s reign, and felt relief. I have studied and enjoyed this part of history. So I felt more confident when I met Sofia again in 1905, this time under Edwardian ruling. The transition to my 21st century life to this harsh reality was seamless. Helen Fields recreated a world with detailed descriptions that allowed me to breathe the stale air of poor London neighboroods and be in awe of the ritzy parts of town. I felt the unfairness of social classes, the cold of the night, and the dangers of life.
When Sofia’s husband suddenly passes away, she must leave her duties of housewife behind and get a job to keep a roof over her two small children’s heads. Here comes Emmet Vinsant, Sofia’s late husband’s boss, with an offer she can’t turn down. Sofia has a knack for card games. It led her to bad situations when she was younger, but her abilities can now help her get enough money to survive… I knew it wouldn’t turn well and soon enough, Sofia’s fight for survival turned deadlier. Sofia discovers she has more resources that she thought. I didn’t always agree with her choices, but I couldn’t help admire her resilience in a world I would probably not have survived myself!
Blood and dangerous missions against a backdrop of poverty, illness, industrialization, and the suffragette protests kept me reading long after bedtime. Helen Fields brought history alive with a thrilling and compelling read from which I learned. These Lost and Broken Things is a stunning historical novel that doesn’t flood you with information. It gives all you need to connect to the characters, to make to part of the events, and to take your mind off everything else around you with an engaging plot.
I would like to tell you my picking up These Lost and Broken Things has everything to do with me mustering the courage to dive into the unknown, but I would be lying. The truth is I can’t resist a book written by Helen Fields. I trust her with my heart, imagination, and sanity. Her crime fiction novels are among the staples of my collection. When I heard about her exploring historical fiction, I did not hesitate. If someone is able to make me enjoy a jump to the past without making me feel like an idiot because I don’t ‘get’ the atmosphere and codes of the time, it’s her.
That’s how I met Sofia. Yes, when I spotted the date on the very first page – 1891 – I shivered. But then something strange happened. Through a character’s breaths and actions, I was transported to another time, just as if I’d stepped out of the TARDIS. I saw this first chapter, set in the final years of Queen Victoria’s reign, and felt relief. I have studied and enjoyed this part of history. So I felt more confident when I met Sofia again in 1905, this time under Edwardian ruling. The transition to my 21st century life to this harsh reality was seamless. Helen Fields recreated a world with detailed descriptions that allowed me to breathe the stale air of poor London neighboroods and be in awe of the ritzy parts of town. I felt the unfairness of social classes, the cold of the night, and the dangers of life.
When Sofia’s husband suddenly passes away, she must leave her duties of housewife behind and get a job to keep a roof over her two small children’s heads. Here comes Emmet Vinsant, Sofia’s late husband’s boss, with an offer she can’t turn down. Sofia has a knack for card games. It led her to bad situations when she was younger, but her abilities can now help her get enough money to survive… I knew it wouldn’t turn well and soon enough, Sofia’s fight for survival turned deadlier. Sofia discovers she has more resources that she thought. I didn’t always agree with her choices, but I couldn’t help admire her resilience in a world I would probably not have survived myself!
Blood and dangerous missions against a backdrop of poverty, illness, industrialization, and the suffragette protests kept me reading long after bedtime. Helen Fields brought history alive with a thrilling and compelling read from which I learned. These Lost and Broken Things is a stunning historical novel that doesn’t flood you with information. It gives all you need to connect to the characters, to make to part of the events, and to take your mind off everything else around you with an engaging plot.
May 25, 2020
Helen Fields has shown her versatility by switching from crime thrillers to historical thrillers and this is a fabulous read.
Through flashbacks from Sofia’s childhood and to her life as a young woman with a family the story tells of life in Edwardian London for a young widow trying to find a way to keep her family out of the workhouse with no traditional skills useful for employment. Except for one. And that one skill will have consequences for her and her children.
Sofia is in dire straits when she goes to her late husband’s wealthy employer Emmet Vinsant for help. Although Emmet had helped with paying for a doctor when Tom was dying, he is a hard man and not known for giving favours however he gives Sofia a job in one of his gaming clubs. Sofia is no stranger to card games, as a Romani child she was taught well and it is this talent that Vinsant puts to good use until Sofia finds herself out of her depth and her life spirals out of control.
This book had me hooked from the start. Sofia’s devastation at Tom’s sudden death, her hopelessness at trying to find employment and the desperation she feels at having to go to Vinsant for help. Doing a job that she is good at, she grows in confidence and sadly it is that which brings her down. Unfortunately she is forced to turn to Vinsant again and this time he wants more from her.
My feelings towards Sofia were certainly conflicted. Her childhood had been hard and at times brutal, but she had found happiness with her husband and children. She was at heart a likable person, although clearly troubled, and I felt so much sympathy for her, even when her pride and determination seemed to be guiding her to bad decisions. The grip of addiction however is a strong one and at times I found it difficult to reconcile the kind and gentle mother of two young children with this person that was she turning into.
Set during the early 1900’s the story is also partly woven around the suffragette movement and the historical research involved comes through clearly. Atmospheric and vividly described, the poverty and the brutality of the workhouses is in stark contrast to the comfortable lives of the rich. I was fully immersed in Sofia’s story and desperately hoping that it would end well for her.
These Lost and Broken Things was a thoroughly enjoyable read. It was well paced, with an absorbing storyline and some thoroughly unlikeable characters and for those who enjoy their crime a little on the hard side (including me!), some dark and murderous scenes. I do hope there is another book in this genre from Helen Fields.
Through flashbacks from Sofia’s childhood and to her life as a young woman with a family the story tells of life in Edwardian London for a young widow trying to find a way to keep her family out of the workhouse with no traditional skills useful for employment. Except for one. And that one skill will have consequences for her and her children.
Sofia is in dire straits when she goes to her late husband’s wealthy employer Emmet Vinsant for help. Although Emmet had helped with paying for a doctor when Tom was dying, he is a hard man and not known for giving favours however he gives Sofia a job in one of his gaming clubs. Sofia is no stranger to card games, as a Romani child she was taught well and it is this talent that Vinsant puts to good use until Sofia finds herself out of her depth and her life spirals out of control.
This book had me hooked from the start. Sofia’s devastation at Tom’s sudden death, her hopelessness at trying to find employment and the desperation she feels at having to go to Vinsant for help. Doing a job that she is good at, she grows in confidence and sadly it is that which brings her down. Unfortunately she is forced to turn to Vinsant again and this time he wants more from her.
My feelings towards Sofia were certainly conflicted. Her childhood had been hard and at times brutal, but she had found happiness with her husband and children. She was at heart a likable person, although clearly troubled, and I felt so much sympathy for her, even when her pride and determination seemed to be guiding her to bad decisions. The grip of addiction however is a strong one and at times I found it difficult to reconcile the kind and gentle mother of two young children with this person that was she turning into.
Set during the early 1900’s the story is also partly woven around the suffragette movement and the historical research involved comes through clearly. Atmospheric and vividly described, the poverty and the brutality of the workhouses is in stark contrast to the comfortable lives of the rich. I was fully immersed in Sofia’s story and desperately hoping that it would end well for her.
These Lost and Broken Things was a thoroughly enjoyable read. It was well paced, with an absorbing storyline and some thoroughly unlikeable characters and for those who enjoy their crime a little on the hard side (including me!), some dark and murderous scenes. I do hope there is another book in this genre from Helen Fields.
May 2, 2020
As a huge fan of Helen’s crime series I wanted to give this book a try, and I really enjoyed it.
Sofia is left shocked when her husband suddenly dies, leaving her with two young children to care for and provide for.
She looks for a job but in the early 1900s, well paid jobs are hard to come by for a woman.
Her husband’s employer makes her an offer that she at first refuses but soon realises she has no choice but to accept.
Sofia has a knack for counting cards so is put to work as a spotter in a gambling club but soon she gets tangled up in the games and her life starts to unravel.
We learn of Sofia’s childhood and find out she had to kill a man, and her new employer uses this against her as her husband had shared the details with him.
Sofia wants to have a safe, happy family but something dark within her is pulling her down.
This is a great historical thriller that had me hooked from the first few pages.
Thanks to Wailing Banshee Ltd and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Sofia is left shocked when her husband suddenly dies, leaving her with two young children to care for and provide for.
She looks for a job but in the early 1900s, well paid jobs are hard to come by for a woman.
Her husband’s employer makes her an offer that she at first refuses but soon realises she has no choice but to accept.
Sofia has a knack for counting cards so is put to work as a spotter in a gambling club but soon she gets tangled up in the games and her life starts to unravel.
We learn of Sofia’s childhood and find out she had to kill a man, and her new employer uses this against her as her husband had shared the details with him.
Sofia wants to have a safe, happy family but something dark within her is pulling her down.
This is a great historical thriller that had me hooked from the first few pages.
Thanks to Wailing Banshee Ltd and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
May 17, 2020
This story covers the whole spectrum of English history in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. Socio-political issues merge with crime fiction to produce a memorable and chilling tale.
Sofia Logan is a wife and mother in 1905 when tragedy strikes and the dark doors of the workhouse beckon. A widow, she seeks help from her husband's former employer with devastating results.
Sofia will do anything for her family but how reliable a protagonist is she? Damaged by her past the story darkens. Sofia struggles with a dangerously immoral employer and her worsening mental health.
The graphically described abuse and violence are hard to read but integral to Sofia's mindset and story. You empathise with Sofia despite her murderous intent. The characters are believable and coupled with historically authentic settings make this story real and vibrant.
A harrowing but riveting book that is impossible to put down.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Sofia Logan is a wife and mother in 1905 when tragedy strikes and the dark doors of the workhouse beckon. A widow, she seeks help from her husband's former employer with devastating results.
Sofia will do anything for her family but how reliable a protagonist is she? Damaged by her past the story darkens. Sofia struggles with a dangerously immoral employer and her worsening mental health.
The graphically described abuse and violence are hard to read but integral to Sofia's mindset and story. You empathise with Sofia despite her murderous intent. The characters are believable and coupled with historically authentic settings make this story real and vibrant.
A harrowing but riveting book that is impossible to put down.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
May 23, 2020
My biggest soapbox with fiction is characters who are flawlessly good, or bad without redemption. Sofia Logan is a perfect example of how to get a character right. She is troubled and damaged beyond belief with a sense of morality, yet a willingness to disregard that to achieve her ends.
It's 1905 in London, and Sofia is left with her two young children to support when her husband Tom dies. Unable to find work that will cover her household expenses and desperate to keep her family out of the workhouse, she is forced to accept a job from Tom's old employer Emmet Vinsant.
Vastly wealthy with a multitude of businesses, Vinsant offers Sofia a job in one of his clubs watching the players and alerting him to anyone who wins more than they should. However, when Sofia's childhood gambling addiction surfaces, Sofia is left without money to pay her rent and in deb. She goes begging to Vinsant for a loan. After all, she is just on a losing streak, she just needs one good win and she will get it all back. Vinsant does not extend loans to his employees. Moreover, he no longer trusts her to work in the club as she can not manage her own finances. He offers her a new position that awakens deadly darkness within Sofia.
This is historical fiction at its best. I was gripped all the way through and found myself unable to put the book down without itching to return and find out what happens next. Such a magnitude of issues is dealt with from motherhood to women's rights with the suffragette movement marching in the backdrop of the story.
Full of intrigue and passion, this is a book I will happily recommend to other readers. It is a fantastic read. Concisely and intelligently written; you can tell that this period is a historic passion for the author and that she did a lot of very thorough research as part of the process for this book.
I don't give a massive amount of 5-star ratings - but for the genre and style of this book, it's effortlessly flawless and is deserving of nothing less than 5 stars in my opinion. I can't think of anything I wish were different.
It's 1905 in London, and Sofia is left with her two young children to support when her husband Tom dies. Unable to find work that will cover her household expenses and desperate to keep her family out of the workhouse, she is forced to accept a job from Tom's old employer Emmet Vinsant.
Vastly wealthy with a multitude of businesses, Vinsant offers Sofia a job in one of his clubs watching the players and alerting him to anyone who wins more than they should. However, when Sofia's childhood gambling addiction surfaces, Sofia is left without money to pay her rent and in deb. She goes begging to Vinsant for a loan. After all, she is just on a losing streak, she just needs one good win and she will get it all back. Vinsant does not extend loans to his employees. Moreover, he no longer trusts her to work in the club as she can not manage her own finances. He offers her a new position that awakens deadly darkness within Sofia.
This is historical fiction at its best. I was gripped all the way through and found myself unable to put the book down without itching to return and find out what happens next. Such a magnitude of issues is dealt with from motherhood to women's rights with the suffragette movement marching in the backdrop of the story.
Full of intrigue and passion, this is a book I will happily recommend to other readers. It is a fantastic read. Concisely and intelligently written; you can tell that this period is a historic passion for the author and that she did a lot of very thorough research as part of the process for this book.
I don't give a massive amount of 5-star ratings - but for the genre and style of this book, it's effortlessly flawless and is deserving of nothing less than 5 stars in my opinion. I can't think of anything I wish were different.
February 9, 2020
Thank you to Helen Fields, Wailing Banshee and Net Galley for the ARC.
A very enjoyable historical fiction. Sofia is sent to live on a farm by her Romani parents after a card game goes horribly wrong and she finds herself in a position only saved when her father intervenes . At 12 she is an experienced gambler and card counter. She also has a taste for the power killing gives her. Her wish to be a good mother to her two children and live in a cottage by the sea sits in a strange juxtaposition against her life of a willing assassin. Very enjoyable read, set against a background of poverty, criminal wealth and the suffragette movement.
A very enjoyable historical fiction. Sofia is sent to live on a farm by her Romani parents after a card game goes horribly wrong and she finds herself in a position only saved when her father intervenes . At 12 she is an experienced gambler and card counter. She also has a taste for the power killing gives her. Her wish to be a good mother to her two children and live in a cottage by the sea sits in a strange juxtaposition against her life of a willing assassin. Very enjoyable read, set against a background of poverty, criminal wealth and the suffragette movement.
May 16, 2023
It took me a while to get into this story to be honest but.
Finally glad I read on.
It unfolds in a special historical thriller about a
woman with nothing left to lose?
When her husband dies unexpectedly, leaving her penniless with two young children, she knows she will do anything to keep them from the workhouse.
Even if it means she has to kill again......
Finally glad I read on.
It unfolds in a special historical thriller about a
woman with nothing left to lose?
When her husband dies unexpectedly, leaving her penniless with two young children, she knows she will do anything to keep them from the workhouse.
Even if it means she has to kill again......
August 21, 2021
Helen tries her hand at historical crime. Set in Edwardian England, we journey through the trials and tribulations of young, newly widowed Sophia and how she survives her harsh life. Wonderful as are all her books, this one was just a bit long for me. Nice change from modern day Edinburgh though.
October 19, 2024
Is dit boek iets voor jou?
JA, als je op zoek bent naar een historische roman met een vrouwelijk hoofdpersonage dat een strijd voert tegen haar eigen natuur.
NEE, als je de Perfect-reeks van Fields gelezen hebt en op zoek bent naar een gelijkaardige thriller. Officieel past dit boek misschien wel binnen de categorie 'thriller', en er vallen links en rechts inderdaad doden dankzij het hoofdpersonage, maar doordat je het volledige verhaal leest door de ogen van Sofia, krijg je geen klassieke thrillerstructuur voorgeschoteld. Fields omschrijft eerder de tragische achtergrond die ervoor zorgt dat een jong meisje opgroeit tot een moordenaar. Eerst uit noodzaak, later omdat ze de drang niet langer kan onderdrukken. Het boek leest fijn weg, maar is zeker niet te vergelijken met de pageturners over D.I. Callanach.
JA, als je op zoek bent naar een historische roman met een vrouwelijk hoofdpersonage dat een strijd voert tegen haar eigen natuur.
NEE, als je de Perfect-reeks van Fields gelezen hebt en op zoek bent naar een gelijkaardige thriller. Officieel past dit boek misschien wel binnen de categorie 'thriller', en er vallen links en rechts inderdaad doden dankzij het hoofdpersonage, maar doordat je het volledige verhaal leest door de ogen van Sofia, krijg je geen klassieke thrillerstructuur voorgeschoteld. Fields omschrijft eerder de tragische achtergrond die ervoor zorgt dat een jong meisje opgroeit tot een moordenaar. Eerst uit noodzaak, later omdat ze de drang niet langer kan onderdrukken. Het boek leest fijn weg, maar is zeker niet te vergelijken met de pageturners over D.I. Callanach.
May 10, 2020
I have said it before, Helen Fields knows how to write a serial killer. And in her first historical fiction thriller, she continues with the dark, twisted manipulations and machinations of one person willing to inflict the ultimate pain against other humans. These Lost and Broken Things, set in 1905, examines the extremes that one woman, a widowed mother of two young children, will pursue to feed her needs, both physical and psychological.
Set against a backdrop of London at the turn of the century, Fields provides the reader with a sense of the wide division between rich and poor, and the deprivation that the poor experienced on a daily basis. While exciting changes would come in the next few years (electricity in more homes, more access to motor cars, improved education opportunities), the suffragette movement was in its infancy, and the world of a single woman was harsh and unrelenting.
Fields’ ability to write murder scenes is again evident in this book, and I squirmed with some of her descriptions. And her writing style ensures that the bad guys are portrayed as despicable and cold.
I struggled with the portrayal of the main character, Sofia. The move from grieving widow to blood-thirsty murderer was a bit extreme to me, but more unsettling was the attempts to offer her redemption, and explain her actions away. I did not connect with Sofia as a character, either as a woman who I could admire, or as a killer that I could fear and despise. I predicted the final interactions between Sofia and her employer early on, and felt some disappointment at this. The ambiguous ending... is she done with this part of her life... was more satisfying, and felt true to the writer’s style in other works.
Thank you to NetGalley, Wailing Banshee Ltd., and the author for this ARC provided in exchange for my honest review.
Set against a backdrop of London at the turn of the century, Fields provides the reader with a sense of the wide division between rich and poor, and the deprivation that the poor experienced on a daily basis. While exciting changes would come in the next few years (electricity in more homes, more access to motor cars, improved education opportunities), the suffragette movement was in its infancy, and the world of a single woman was harsh and unrelenting.
Fields’ ability to write murder scenes is again evident in this book, and I squirmed with some of her descriptions. And her writing style ensures that the bad guys are portrayed as despicable and cold.
I struggled with the portrayal of the main character, Sofia. The move from grieving widow to blood-thirsty murderer was a bit extreme to me, but more unsettling was the attempts to offer her redemption, and explain her actions away. I did not connect with Sofia as a character, either as a woman who I could admire, or as a killer that I could fear and despise. I predicted the final interactions between Sofia and her employer early on, and felt some disappointment at this. The ambiguous ending... is she done with this part of her life... was more satisfying, and felt true to the writer’s style in other works.
Thank you to NetGalley, Wailing Banshee Ltd., and the author for this ARC provided in exchange for my honest review.
May 11, 2020
These Lost & Broken Things by Helen Fields
Compelling, complicated and rather creepy this book grabbed me and kept me reading without pause. Well, perhaps pauses were made to contemplate just how what happened could come about and how it could, though gruesome and gritty still make almost complete sense when the story was finally told. It made me consider whether a murderer is born or made and what might compel someone to commit murder. I wonder if I, faced with the life that Sofia lived, would have done what she did or if I would have chosen a different course.
What I liked:
• Sofia: strong, intelligent, willing to do what it took to keep her family together - definitely not perfect and with some serious problems to overcome.
• Nora: Sofia’s neighbor who was there for her and her children – had a heart of gold.
• Charlie: the constable neighbor that might have been too good for Sofia – or just what she needed.
• The real feel to the story…I felt I was there making decisions, feeling the grime, smelling the odors, experiencing it all…
• The telling of Sofia’s past in snippets throughout the book. I don’t usually like flashbacks in stories, but they worked well in this book.
• That some of the bad guys were not totally bad even though they did bad things
• The plot, writing and pace of the story.
• Being left with that niggling question that left me wondering what the future might or might not hold for the people I came to care about.
What I did not like:
• Watching one evil man manipulate those around him
• Being reminded of the sorry lot of women before they had rights
• Feeling unsettled – but also kind of liked it
• Kind of wanting an epilogue though I know it is better to leave the reader unsure of what will happen.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Wailing Banshee for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Compelling, complicated and rather creepy this book grabbed me and kept me reading without pause. Well, perhaps pauses were made to contemplate just how what happened could come about and how it could, though gruesome and gritty still make almost complete sense when the story was finally told. It made me consider whether a murderer is born or made and what might compel someone to commit murder. I wonder if I, faced with the life that Sofia lived, would have done what she did or if I would have chosen a different course.
What I liked:
• Sofia: strong, intelligent, willing to do what it took to keep her family together - definitely not perfect and with some serious problems to overcome.
• Nora: Sofia’s neighbor who was there for her and her children – had a heart of gold.
• Charlie: the constable neighbor that might have been too good for Sofia – or just what she needed.
• The real feel to the story…I felt I was there making decisions, feeling the grime, smelling the odors, experiencing it all…
• The telling of Sofia’s past in snippets throughout the book. I don’t usually like flashbacks in stories, but they worked well in this book.
• That some of the bad guys were not totally bad even though they did bad things
• The plot, writing and pace of the story.
• Being left with that niggling question that left me wondering what the future might or might not hold for the people I came to care about.
What I did not like:
• Watching one evil man manipulate those around him
• Being reminded of the sorry lot of women before they had rights
• Feeling unsettled – but also kind of liked it
• Kind of wanting an epilogue though I know it is better to leave the reader unsure of what will happen.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Wailing Banshee for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
May 4, 2020
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
A gripping dark tale set in the 1900’s London
Sophia’s world takes a devastating turn when her beloved husband suddenly dies. Leaving her without any means to support herself and her small children.
In desperation she takes a position at one of London’s gaming houses working for her deceased husband‘s employer, Mr Emmett Vinsant.
She utilizes her talents with cards counting and becomes an ideal employee for spotting dodgy gamblers. Having a gypsy background also exposed her to card playing at an early age. Sophia’s overly confident and recklessness behavior has gotten her in to trouble one before. Thinking to increase her earnings she does the unthinkable and takes on Lady Luck once again.
This places her at the mercy of a villainess man, and she becomes embroiled into something more sinister.
Forced to take on a new occupation, that she seems to have a knack.
But has far more devastating consequences.
A cleverly executed gothic historical fiction, that takes into the underbelly of the criminal world in London. Expertly atmospheric details makes for a riveting storyline.
I throughly enjoyed this wicked tale.
A gripping dark tale set in the 1900’s London
Sophia’s world takes a devastating turn when her beloved husband suddenly dies. Leaving her without any means to support herself and her small children.
In desperation she takes a position at one of London’s gaming houses working for her deceased husband‘s employer, Mr Emmett Vinsant.
She utilizes her talents with cards counting and becomes an ideal employee for spotting dodgy gamblers. Having a gypsy background also exposed her to card playing at an early age. Sophia’s overly confident and recklessness behavior has gotten her in to trouble one before. Thinking to increase her earnings she does the unthinkable and takes on Lady Luck once again.
This places her at the mercy of a villainess man, and she becomes embroiled into something more sinister.
Forced to take on a new occupation, that she seems to have a knack.
But has far more devastating consequences.
A cleverly executed gothic historical fiction, that takes into the underbelly of the criminal world in London. Expertly atmospheric details makes for a riveting storyline.
I throughly enjoyed this wicked tale.
June 22, 2020
So this is my first Helen Fields book as I haven’t read the much raved about series yet! Shame on me! But I did really enjoy this one.
I went in completely blind so I had no idea how the MC Sofia was going to turn out and her character development throughout this book was written wonderfully.
I would have like there to have been a more likeable version of Sofia toward the end and I found that I was starting to dislike her which for me made it hard to connect with her book.
Spanning over years from late 1800s to early 1900s there was a lot of plot based around the suffragette movement which was really interesting.
Held my interest as a good piece of historical fiction but I personally would have preferred a different plot towards the end.
I went in completely blind so I had no idea how the MC Sofia was going to turn out and her character development throughout this book was written wonderfully.
I would have like there to have been a more likeable version of Sofia toward the end and I found that I was starting to dislike her which for me made it hard to connect with her book.
Spanning over years from late 1800s to early 1900s there was a lot of plot based around the suffragette movement which was really interesting.
Held my interest as a good piece of historical fiction but I personally would have preferred a different plot towards the end.
May 11, 2020
I am a massive fan of this author but always a little unsure about this new branch out into historical fiction but I needn’t have been.
I picked it up and was hooked with in pages, it was clear who the characters where and what was going on and I was immersed in Sofia’s world immediately. I like that it flipped from the current time to her childhood to explain her past and how she became the woman she was.
This is a great piece of historical fiction for those who like a gritty read with a interesting storyline. The descriptions are detailed and meaty and not for the faint hearted!!!
I picked it up and was hooked with in pages, it was clear who the characters where and what was going on and I was immersed in Sofia’s world immediately. I like that it flipped from the current time to her childhood to explain her past and how she became the woman she was.
This is a great piece of historical fiction for those who like a gritty read with a interesting storyline. The descriptions are detailed and meaty and not for the faint hearted!!!
May 3, 2020
The author's first historical mystery is a success. Due to the untimely death of her husband, Sofia becomes indebted to his boss. She is a gypsy, adept at card playing and counting cards. The novel takes off from there building suspense as murder ensues. What will Sofia have to do to provide for her two children? At first, I didn't care for Sofia as she is vulnerable and emotional but by the end I was rooting for her. With a background setting of women's suffrage the story evolves into a bit of empowerment for the time period. A quick read.
Copy provided by the Publisher and NetGalley
Copy provided by the Publisher and NetGalley
September 11, 2021
Good audio, …
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