'I have only recently met Lucienne and when talking to her about her writing we have focused on her non-fiction and the recently published
The Bristol Suffragettes. However, this is her fiction, a story set in the late 18th century and it was recommended by a friend. It is wonderful. Populated by intriguing characters and told from a number of different points of view, it keeps you guessing about the truth of the background to a story written about 'The Fair Land' (a seemingly idyllic newly discovered country) – who wrote it, why and the consequences of the events it recounts – almost to the end. Set against the backdrop of the Bristol docks it oozes seafaring atmosphere. A terrific read. 5 of 5 stars.'
– Suzie Grogan — Presenter on Talking Books, 10 Radio'Lucienne Boyce paints a vivid picture of eighteenth century life in London through the use of description to produce a tale of mystery, romance and adventure...What is initially an innocent search for an author transcends into a secret involving incest, murder, betrayal and suicide. The charm of the book lies in the mystery and ambiguity of the voyage and the character of Sarah Edgcumbe.
'– LiteratureWorks.org.uk
'From the first page, this extraordinary book plunges the reader into late 18th century London and its theatres and coffee-houses and far beyond ... It put me in mind of Conan Doyle in this respect: a stimulating chase that leaves you pondering on the human condition long after you’ve finished the final page.'
– Debbie Young — author, blogger, and book promotion consultant
A gripping, thrilling mystery... the plot is complex, exciting, and has a high degree of suspense maintained right to the end.
– Sarah Cuthbertson — Historical Novel Society
Lucienne Boyce writes in a style that makes you want to savour every word and the soak up the atmosphere created by her descriptions of the characters and their surroundings. As the story unfolds, you realise that the gentle pace is compelling and each new facet of the story creeps up on you, gripping your imagination.
– Sir-Read-A-Lot — Historical Fiction Reviews
The story is unpredictable and unusual and I didn’t see the twists coming – which is a refreshing change. The main characters are rounded well enough to ‘know’ them but not too deep as to be shocked or disappointed by the twists they are involved in. I think that some of the characters were kept at arm’s length deliberately and in my opinion, this was a clever ploy on the part of this clever author. I was very taken with the story and enjoyed it to the extent that I was disappointed when I had reached the end – I didn’t want it to finish! I would read more books by this author with the greatest of pleasure.
– Historical Novel Society Reviews
To the Fair Land was a thoroughly enjoyable read. Boyce takes the reader on an adventurous journey with Ben, an extremely likeable character. Mysteries abound, calumnies are committed, lives are forever changed and one young man must make a momentous decision.
– Darlene Williams — historical fiction author
