I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher, in return for an honest review. This review is based entirely on my own thoughts and feelings.

Overall rating : 3*
Writing skill : 4*
Plot: 3*
Characters: 2*

I must admit that I requested this book knowing absolutely nothing about the story or any of the characters. I haven't read anything by Thomas Hardy, nor do I know anything about his life. So this was a strange one for me. Having read a few of the 'classics' and knowing the typical writing style I thought Wilkins did a great job of making it feel like it was a true historical fiction, rather than one written in 2016. But I got lost along the way and I didn't have a clear understanding of the narrative. It was written in the perspective of one of the maids, Nellie, but she was often narrating situations she wasn't there for, which I found bizarre and hard to follow. The characters were not described in a way that I could picture any of them clearly and they were very forgettable (except Alex and his teeth). If you really love Hardy and/or historical fictions you'll probably favour this much more strongly for me. In hindsight Ill stop requesting books that are not my cup of tea.

"1928: Thomas Hardy is dying in the upstairs room of Max Gate, the house he built in his beloved Dorset. Downstairs, his literary friends are locked in a bitter fight with local supporters. Who owns Hardy’s remains? Who knew him best? What are the secrets of Max Gate?

Housemaid Nellie Titterington narrates this earthy and emotionally-charged novel about ambition, duty, belonging, and love. "

Upstairs, Downstairs but with the death of a famous writer? And Thomas Hardy at that! Yes please!

I found this a really compelling and enjoyable read. It’s a fictionalised account of the last days of Thomas Hardy, dying upstairs at his home Max Gate. Downstairs arguments rage about what’s to happen with his body – Westminster Abbey? Beside his first wife in Stinsford churchyard? His own wishes or those of his admirers? Narrated by Nellie Titterington, the maid, in her inimitable voice, we watch the proceedings unfold, gradually piecing together the back story that has led to this last week in the life of one of our most acclaimed novelists. A thoroughly enjoyable and well-researched reimagining that manages to feel both authentic and convincing.