Societatea londoneză de spiritism

In 1873, Lenna Wickes goes to Paris to solve her sister Evie’s murder. She studies with Vaudeline D’Allaire, a famed medium. Vaudeline calls on the spirits of murder victims to name their killers. Families in grief and those who solve crimes seek her help. Yet Lenna trusts reason. She doubts that the living can reach the dead. Evie once studied with Vaudeline and had no such doubts.

Sarah Penner’s novel blends a Gothic mystery with a tale of the past. It also tells a story of love and desire. It suits fans of crime tales with ghosts, twists and a dark mood. The story starts with a séance, a bid to reach the dead. It takes place in an empty castle outside Paris. A letter with a black border then calls Vaudeline to London. Lenna goes with her to learn her craft.

There, they seek the truth about the death of Vaudeline’s friend, Mr Volckman. He led the London Seance Society, a group of men only. Rumours about the group put the good name of spiritualism at risk. This is the belief that the living can reach the dead. Vaudeline seeks to defend it. Lenna hopes to learn who killed Evie. Their search lays bare the secrets of men with power. It puts both women’s lives at risk.

The novel draws on the Victorian wish to reach spirits. It tests belief against proof, and truth against illusion. Lenna seeks justice for her sister and learns about herself. The original title of this work in translation is The London Seance Society.