Mapp & Lucia by Edward Benson

…a great example of English humour

Who would have thought the quiet seaside town of Tilling in 1930’s Britain would be quite an adventure. Elizabeth Mapp and Emmeline Lucas (Lucia) are far from the quiet sort, seeking to reign supreme socially and respectably over the residents.

Lucia coveys grace, style and intelligence even if, the more dowdy Mapp, is the only one who can see through it. As they both scheme and plot to outdo each other an accidental encounter during a storm leads to a stint at sea on a table top. An unforgettable part of the book and a great climax for all the fighting, but will this finally end the feud? Don’t count on it.

Benson demonstrates his power of weaving a good tale with plots unravelling throughout the book from squabbling over garden produce to sabotaging an art fair.

With the faithful Georgie, who won’t be parted from Lucia’s side, to the gossiping Diva who encourages Mapp’s antics, all the colourful characters of Tilling secretly enjoy watching the competition unfold. 

Mapp & Lucia has a quaint English feel about it similar to Woodhouse’s Jeeves and Wooster. Full of humour, it is a joy to read and perfect accompaniment to lazy days in the garden. Before you know it, you’ll be saying ‘au reservoir’ every time you leave a room.

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