In her award-winning debut novel, Jess Armstrong introduces us to Ruby Vaughn, a compelling American protagonist navigating the moody landscapes of post-WWI Cornwall. Winner of the Minotaur Books/Mystery Writers of America First Crime Novel Award, The Curse of Penryth Hall marks the beginning of the Ruby Vaughn series, with its sequel The Secret of the Three Fates eagerly anticipated by readers who’ve fallen under Armstrong’s spell.
Setting & Atmosphere
Armstrong excels at creating a richly atmospheric world that feels both historically authentic and deliciously gothic. The brooding Penryth Hall, with its dark corridors and forgotten secrets, becomes a character in its own right. The author’s depiction of 1922 Cornwall is masterfully done, capturing both the physical landscape and the deeply ingrained superstitions of its inhabitants. The juxtaposition between Ruby’s modern American sensibilities and the ancient Cornish beliefs creates an engaging tension throughout the narrative.
Character Development
Ruby Vaughn emerges as a refreshingly complex protagonist. A woman ahead of her time, she’s independent, educated, and delightfully flawed. Her background as a rare book dealer and her experiences as an ambulance driver during WWI add depth to her character without feeling forced. However, some readers might find her occasional recklessness frustrating, particularly when it puts her in unnecessary danger.
The supporting cast is generally well-drawn, particularly:
- Ruan Kivell, the enigmatic Pellar whose supernatural abilities blur the line between folklore and reality
- Tamsyn Chenowyth, Ruby’s former friend whose complicated past drives much of the plot
- Mr. Owen, Ruby’s elderly employer whose paternal relationship with her provides emotional anchoring
Plot Analysis
The mystery unfolds at a measured pace, beginning with the death of Sir Edward Chenowyth and expanding into a deeper exploration of ancient curses, family secrets, and revenge. Armstrong skillfully weaves together multiple narrative threads:
- The current murders and attacks
- The historical curse of Penryth Hall
- Ruby’s personal history with Tamsyn
- The folklore surrounding the Pellar tradition
While the plot is generally engaging, there are moments where the pacing feels uneven. The middle section occasionally meanders, and some readers might find the supernatural elements either too prominent or not prominent enough, depending on their genre preferences.
Writing Style & Technique
Armstrong’s prose is both elegant and accessible, with a particular talent for:
- Atmospheric description that engages all senses
- Natural dialogue that reveals character
- Integration of historical detail without overwhelming the narrative
However, there are occasional instances where the modern sensibilities of characters feel slightly anachronistic for 1922, and some plot revelations rely perhaps too heavily on coincidence.
Strengths
- Rich, atmospheric setting
- Complex female protagonist
- Skillful blend of historical mystery and supernatural elements
- Strong character relationships
- Engaging exploration of post-WWI themes
Areas for Improvement
- Pacing issues in the middle section
- Some plot developments feel contrived
- Secondary character motivations sometimes unclear
- Occasional anachronistic elements
Genre Context
The Curse of Penryth Hall sits comfortably alongside works by authors like Simone St. James and Deanna Raybourn, while carving out its own unique space in the historical mystery genre. Armstrong’s integration of Cornish folklore and post-WWI themes helps distinguish her work from similar titles.
Thematic Elements
The novel explores several compelling themes:
- The tension between rationality and supernatural belief
- The impact of war on both individuals and society
- Female friendship and betrayal
- The power of the past over the present
- Class divisions in post-war Britain
Final Verdict
Despite some minor flaws, The Curse of Penryth Hall is a strong debut that promises great things for the Ruby Vaughn series. Armstrong has created a memorable protagonist and a richly detailed world that readers will want to revisit.
Recommendations
This book is ideal for readers who enjoy:
- Historical mysteries with supernatural elements
- Strong female protagonists
- Post-WWI settings
- Gothic atmosphere
- British country house mysteries
Looking Forward
With The Secret of the Three Fates on the horizon, readers can anticipate further development of Ruby’s character and her unique relationship with the supernatural. Armstrong has laid a strong foundation for a series that could become a standout in the historical mystery genre.
Similar Works
Readers who enjoy The Curse of Penryth Hall might also appreciate:
- The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware
- The Haunting of Maddy Clare by Simone St. James
- A Curious Beginning by Deanna Raybourn
- The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
Reading Experience
The book is best enjoyed on a rainy evening with a cup of tea, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the atmospheric Cornish setting. While some plot elements may be predictable for seasoned mystery readers, the unique blend of historical detail and supernatural elements provides fresh entertainment value.
The Curse of Penryth Hall marks a promising start to what could become a beloved historical mystery series, provided future installments build on its strengths while addressing its weaknesses. Armstrong’s talent for creating atmosphere and complex characters suggests exciting possibilities for Ruby Vaughn’s future adventures.