Review: Henrietta Street by J.D. Oswald

In the year 1780, Eve Martin watches as a fire consumes the Knowle Manor in Devon England, the home of her friends, the Crosse family. They move to their home in London on Henrietta Street and James-one of the brothers- invites Eve to stay. As she arrives to London, she meets a man on the streets named John Stuart, a freed-slave. She soon discovers John is an Anti-Slavery Campaigner. Eve is exposed to a whole new world and as her feelings change and as the story unfolds, James and Eve has a secret they have not shared. When the secret is finally revealed, you begin to wonder if the Crosse family will be able to move past the struggles they face.

Henrietta Street is a moving story that explores the bond between family and the heartbreaking evils of slavery. This story also brings you a powerful tale of a boy named Ado and his brother who were taken from their home and forced into slavery. Ado and his brother’s experiences is woven in beautifully and brings a new reality of slavery. They are moved to different places under horrible conditions and the author’s detail to their ill treatment is so vivid and realistic, you feel you are right beside them experiencing the events for yourself.

The author’s rendition of the historical characters comes alive with depth and feeling. There is lyrical prose throughout which adds beautifully to the story. I recommend this story to those who enjoy reading this period of the late Georgian era.

Stephanie
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