An Experiment in Love by Hilary Mantel - 3 stars (Subdue)

[Joy D]

An Experiment in Love by Hilary Mantel - 3* - My Review

Coming of age story set in England in the 1960s-1970s told by protagonist Carmel, a girl from a poor family. At the urging of her mother, she earns an opportunity to apply for a Catholic girls’ school, which puts her on the road to university in London. It is told by an older Carmel looking back on her experiences as a youth and young woman. She has known Karina from an early age, and Karina gains the same educational opportunities; however, they are more competitors than friends. At university in London, Karina rooms with Lynette, and Carmel with Julianne. The storyline follows the interactions among these characters, as they deal with money matters, eating disorders, friendships, rivalries, relationships, and politics.

The early parts of this book are slow in developing. The narrative moves back and forth among the school experiences – primary, secondary, and university. It builds to a dramatic, unexpected, and disquieting ending. It is focused on the personality traits of the characters, and they are well-drawn. The writing is strong. Themes include class differences, the challenges faced by women of the era, and body image. It kept my attention, but I much prefer Hilary Mantel’s historical fiction.