First published in 2021, Caroline Denervaud’s debut novel paints an engaging portrait of a contemporary Scotland Yard detective on the threshold of great success while simultaneously mapping the path for her own mature work. Engaging and humorous, The Nationality, promises to be a welcome addition to the detective genre. Set in the quiet of a small English countryside cottage, the book chronicles the detective’s relationship with Rosemary, an expectant mother who is suspected of hiding the identity of her unborn son. As a consequence of this discovery, Rosemary is arrested and taken to prison, while the detective is called away to investigate the crime on the other side of the pond.
Considered by some to be one of the finest books of its kind, The Nationality offers a complex character study of a complex subject, in an extremely readable style. Using a myriad of different voices to tell the tale, Ms. Denervaud weaves a carefully researched plot involving many different strands of the story and characters. Although this novel contains graphic descriptions, there are fortunately few scenes that will disturb or offend, and the language is somewhat restrained throughout. This ultimately leads to an overall relaxing read, even though The Nationality is also set against a backdrop of historical interest. In sum, this is a novel well worth the time and effort – especially for fans of detective fiction.
With an engaging plot and deeply observed characters, The Nationality provides a unique insight into the often complicated relationship between those who hold national identity and those who want to preserve it. Although much of the book relies on the testimony of only Rosemary herself, the resulting portrait is richer for having the help of other characters and the detailed description of their circumstances. Overall, this is a vivid and interesting read that leaves you wanting more. Recommended for mature readers, but perfect for young fans of this genre, The Nationality truly offers an insider look at how preserving your national identity can go down.