Mad Mabel - Sally Hepworth

 Mad Mabel - Sally Hepworth

Pub. Date: April 21, 2026

She read

Eighty-one-year-old Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick has resided on her small street for sixty years. A feisty curmudgeon to her neighbors, she has tried to keep her history hidden from them. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a neighbor dead in his house. The police suspect her, as she indeed has been known as “Mad Mabel”, the youngest person in Australia ever convicted of murder. However, as the story unfolds, the reader discovers her true history and character.

 Can a novel be a delightfully entertaining read with wit and sass and yet be heartbreaking? Read Mad Mabel to find out.

This clever and insightful story is told in two timelines: then and now. The characters are memorable, and there are twists and turns. I loved Mabel, a quirky, grumpy, endearing woman and Persephone, an annoying, yet captivating child. Despite some heart wrenching parts, this book was a joy to read. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @stmartinspress for the DRC.

*****