Frances Welch chronicles tragic lives of Queen Victoria's granddaughters

Recent literature showcases a trend towards strong female characters involved in schemes and deception, as seen in Alex Hay's novel 'The Queen of Fives,' which features a clever con woman navigating romance and crime in a male-dominated Victorian era. The protagonist, Quinn le Blanc, is entangled with a wealthy family and faces challenges from formidable women, marking a feminist narrative that resonates with contemporary themes. This trend is mirrored in other recent works, such as 'The Other Side of Mrs. Wood' and 'The Square of Sevens,' which also highlight female characters engaging in deception for personal gain. The shift toward complex female leads reflects a growing recognition of women's roles in historical narratives and literature. These novels not only entertain but also challenge traditional gender roles and societal expectations. The revival of interest in such stories emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives in literary representation.