Bred in the Bone   By: James Payn (1830-1898)

Bred in the Bone by James Payn is a riveting novel that delves into the complex themes of greed, deception, and family dynamics. Set in the 19th century, Payn skillfully weaves a tale of a wealthy and influential family with a penchant for selfishness and betrayal.

The story revolves around the main character, Ferdinand Conyers, who becomes entangled in a web of lies surrounding his family's vast fortune. As he navigates through a maze of secrets and half-truths, Ferdinand's character begins to develop and evolve, revealing layers of vulnerability and resilience.

Payn's writing style is engaging and descriptive, painting vivid landscapes and characterized by attention to detail. The author masterfully creates a sense of time and place, allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in the story's Victorian backdrop.

The cast of characters in Bred in the Bone is diverse and well-drawn. From the cunning and manipulative family matriarch to the endearing and loyal servant, each character adds depth and richness to the narrative. The complexities of their relationships and the dynamics between them provide constant intrigue, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish.

One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is Payn's exploration of the consequences of greed and the lengths people go to protect their interests. The examination of the nature versus nurture debate throughout the story adds thought-provoking layers to the plot, forcing readers to question the true essence of character and whether it can be changed or inherited.

While the pacing of the novel can sometimes be slow, Payn compensates with his meticulous attention to detail, giving readers a deeper understanding of the characters' motives and desires. The intricate plot twists and unexpected revelations keep the reader guessing, eager to unravel the next layer of the story.

Overall, Bred in the Bone is a captivating read that balances rich character development with an engaging plot. James Payn's masterful storytelling brings to life a world of secrets, deceit, and moral dilemmas. This book is a must-read for lovers of historical fiction and those who enjoy unraveling intricate family sagas.

First Page:

Had you lived in Breakneckshire twenty years ago, or even any where in the Midlands, it would be superfluous to tell you of Carew of Crompton. Every body thereabout was acquainted with him either personally or by hearsay. You must almost certainly have known somebody who had had an adventure with that eccentric personage one who had been ridden down by him, for that mighty hunter never turned to the right hand nor to the left for any man, nor paid attention to any rule of road; or one who, more fortunate, had been "cleared" by him on his famous black horse Trebizond , an animal only second to his master in the popular esteem. There are as many highly colored pictures of his performance of this flying feat in existence as there are of "Dick Turpin clearing the Turnpikegate." Sometimes it is a small tradesman cowering down in his cart among the calves, while the gallant Squire hurtles over him with a "Stoop your head, butcher." Sometimes it is a wagoner, reminding one of Commodore Trunnion's involuntary deed of "derring do," who, between two high banks, perceives with marked astonishment this portent flying over himself and convoy... Continue reading book >>