Historical
Field Lane is a book about a place where the literary worlds created by Charles Dickens and Mark Twain collide. A place where real-world people cross over with established fictional characters and newly imagined ones. It tells a story of revenge, redemption and rights.
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Charley Bates was an outsider. Always the third wheel to the Artful Dodger and Oliver Twist’s double-act in Fagin’s gang. Then he became the redeemed thief who managed to turn himself into ‘the merriest young grazier in the whole of Northamptonshire.’ But would he remain on the straight and narrow or go back to his criminal ways? What he needed was a mission to keep himself honest. And then he got one: a chance to bring justice to bear on a villain from his past, Monks, the half-brother of Oliver Twist. Getting even would mean a trip from the Thames to the Mississippi and help from old friends to right the wrongs done by the ‘creature’ as Charley thought of him.
Field Lane reflects a 19th century world filled with social injustice, slavery, drug abuse and Royal privilege. Its fictional characters become intertwined with real-life historical figures such as the Duchess of Kent (the mother of Queen Victoria), the scientist Michael Faraday and Sam Clemens, the boy who would become Mark Twain. At the climax justice is indeed served in line with Charles Dickens’ wish. But by whom?
Here's what readers have to say about this book....
Mr. Sodeau’s evocative account of the adventures of Charley Bates transported me to the underbelly of 19th century London where familiar literary and historical figures commingle with his artfully created cast. Like it or not, the reader is dragged into the murky streets of London where all manner of corruption exists. The role of the apothecary and the origins of Tanquery Gin are just two topics that are effectively woven into this tale. You will be disgusted by child prostitution, and appalled by the ingredients in Royal Caribbean Cream. The novel is not without humor as Charley and the gang run scams, including their crude take on Shakespearian performances. Although distant from our current society, parallel themes of addiction and social injustice are explored both in London and New Orleans. The rescue of Oliver Twist, and Charley’s pursuit of Monks brought light into otherwise bleak surroundings. This is a realistic depiction of a world where Oliver Twist emerged, and it both entertains and enlightens. Looking forward to the next installment!
