THE KELSEY OUTRAGE | Kirkus Reviews

Hubbard’s historical novel, loosely based on a true story, transforms a 19th-century scandal into a multifaceted detective story with modern resonances.

Charles Kelsey, a “small, eccentric” poet “with long hair and mismatched clothing,” is an outcast in the community of Huntoria, New York, in 1872. He takes an interest in Lucy Jane Hanson, who’s engaged to a prominent member of the esteemed Royals family, and they have a secret, months-long affair. Lucy Jane, overwhelmed, concocts a malicious (and fictitious) rumor about Charles, which swiftly spreads through town. One night, Charles, while waiting outside of Lucy Jane’s window, is dragged off, tarred, feathered, and made to disappear. The town’s elite, eager to bury the scandal, claim he was merely sent away on a boat to Connecticut. However, Cathleen, Charles’ resolute sister, suspects a more sinister truth. Teaming up with the weary and aged local constable, Alexander Ruggles, she embarks on a quest for answers, delving into the murky depths of small-town politics and social stratification. As the investigation deepens, the narrative seamlessly shifts through multiple, third-person perspectives and timelines, each adding depth to the well-crafted cast of characters. The narrative structure skillfully melds the familiarity of a crime procedural with historical insights into a real-life scandal that once shocked the citizens of Huntington, New York. The stark contrast between the poor Kelsey and rich Royals families not only captures the era’s class dynamics, but also echoes relevant, contemporary themes of social inequality. Although the story’s pace occasionally slows, and reader engagement may fluctuate among the different characters, the steadily unraveling mystery maintains a consistent momentum. As Hubbard fills in more backstory with each chapter, readers will root for Cathleen to finally uncover the truth.

A captivating journey that offers historical intrigue and modern social commentary.