A compulsive page turner about Mabel Waller, a misunderstood 81 year old woman recounting her difficult past, after she is perhaps unfairly investigated for the death of her elderly neighbour.

• Published: 2025
• Completed: 26/04/2026
• Pages: 342

This is the second Sally Hepworth novel I’ve read for book club. Where before I was dismissive of her basic writing style, I now recognise her considerable skill in being able to convey quite complex plot and characterisation so simply. Each frictionless chapter is short and ends on a mini cliff hanger, making it perfect reading on public transport or loo breaks. 

“Mad Mabel” is a plot driven novel that doesn’t demand much of the reader and there’s nothing wrong with that. Things are wrapped up neatly in the end, even if I’ve already forgotten what that was only two days after reading it. Accessible, inoffensive and easy.

Questions & Thoughts

• Very easy, precise prose
• Love the ethnic stereotypes and observations. Pete, the Greek with a fondness for concrete, the Nguyen’s with the hardworking woman and lazy man
• Is Peter’s father Mr Loukas or Christos?

Restaurant

Victoria Hotel

(Because the book was based in Victoria, Australia)