Member Review

Title & Author: Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth

Rating: 4.5 stars 

Genre: Women’s Fiction

Release Date: 23rd April

Publisher: Pan Macmillan

This bittersweet dramedy blends a present day mystery with a compelling look at the past. We follow Elsie, an irresistibly sharp witted 81-year-old whose quiet life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers her neighbour dead and inconveniently becomes the main suspect. Alongside her long-time friend Daphne, a chaotic but endearing 7-year-old named Persephone, and the ever watchful Kenny Lane neighbours, Elsie’s story unfolds alongside the mysterious tale of the infamous “Mad Mabel.”
This is character driven storytelling at its best, full of emotional insight, humour, and heart.
What I loved most was the intergenerational dynamic. The bond between Elsie and Persephone is funny, and surprisingly touching. Nugget the dog also deserves a special mention for loving Elsie far more than she loves him.
The AdLib true crime podcast element was such a fun addition, giving Elsie a chance to finally set the record straight. While this wasn’t the thriller I initially expected, it’s instead a warm, layered story exploring loneliness, resilience, neglect and found family with a few twists.
I’d recommend this to anyone who loves character driven fiction with humour and heart, emotional, but not heavy.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sally Hepworth and Pan Macmillan for the ARC.