Exploring Loyalty and Loss in Angela Tomaski's *The Infamous Gilberts*

Angela Tomaski’s debut novel, *The Infamous Gilberts*, presents a poignant exploration of loyalty and despair set against the backdrop of the crumbling stately home, Thornwalk. As the ancestral estate transitions into a luxury hotel, the narrative unfolds through the eyes of Maximus, the loyal valet, who reflects on the lives of the Gilberts over a century.

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Thornwalk, once a grand family home, is now on the brink of transformation. The last of the Gilberts have passed, leaving only Maximus and two avaricious cousins to navigate the estate's fate. The novel intricately details the lives of the Gilbert family members: Lydia, the love-struck eldest daughter; Hugo, the obstinate eldest son; Annabel, the aspiring writer; Jeremy, the quiet runaway; and Rosalind, the troubled actress. Each character's story is woven into the fabric of Thornwalk, represented through various objects that hold sentimental value.

The Guardian

Tomaski structures the novel around 70 chapters, each corresponding to a specific item or absence, emphasizing the significance of material possessions in preserving memories. Maximus humorously remarks on the original carpet, claiming it contains “fifty per cent Gilbert DNA,” highlighting the deep connection between the family and their belongings. This focus on objects serves as a metaphor for the enduring impact of the past on the present.

The Guardian

Critics have noted the novel's familiar themes and tones, likening it to *The Remains of the Day* but with a lighter touch. The narrative is described as a comfort read, akin to works by Joanna Quinn and Lissa Evans, which also explore family sagas with underlying tensions. Tomaski's skillful rendering of Maximus's voice resonates with readers, creating a sense of nostalgia and familiarity.

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Reviewers have praised Tomaski's ability to evoke a sense of delight rather than surprise, emphasizing the meticulous craftsmanship of the novel. The book is characterized as “impeccable,” with a level of detail that mirrors Maximus's affection for Thornwalk and its history.

The Guardian

While *The Infamous Gilberts* has been well-received, some critics point out that the novel does not break new ground in its genre. Instead, it adheres to familiar tropes of family sagas, which may leave readers seeking innovation somewhat unsatisfied. However, the execution of these themes has been lauded for its diligence and charm.

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• “The lure of the big house has never left us; the lure of the big house in decay is more compelling still.” — Angela Tomaski, Author

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• “This is, in a very real sense, an impeccable book: as precisely rendered as a collector’s doll’s house, as poised and perfect as a diorama in a museum.” — Review Critic

The Guardian

In summary, *The Infamous Gilberts* is a reflective narrative that captures the essence of loyalty and loss through the lens of a decaying estate, inviting readers to ponder the significance of memory and heritage.

The Guardian