The Glassmaker’s Wife
The Glassmaker’s Wife is a novel of murder by arsenic, an illicit paramour, religious zealots, bewitched cows, and revenge. The murder is based on the true story of the Betsey Reed case in 1844 Illinois. Eveline is a hired girl for the Reeds, caught up in the fallout following the murder of her master, Leonard, and the implication of her mistress, Betsey. She was devoted to both and yearned for their familial love and affection. Leonard was a glassmaker, and Eveline’s happiest times were in the glass house, assisting him craft beautiful and functional glass objects. She also enjoyed her time with Betsey, reading lovelorn letters in the Godey Lady’s Book together. When Leonard becomes ill and dies from a stomach complaint, Betsey is accused of his death—primarily because the villagers believe her to be a witch. While Betsey is imprisoned, Eveline is called before the coroner’s jury to testify to the events of that day. She testifies that Betsey put a white powder in Leonard’s coffee. The author is able to make the reader question the truth of Eveline’s testimony while still convincing us that she is truthful because of her agony over betraying Betsey.
Also featured in the novel is the Millerite movement and their belief in a Second Advent when Christ will return for the faithful on October 22, 1844. Eveline is a devoted member of the group, but when the highly anticipated Advent doesn’t transpire, she questions her beliefs. The author incorporates Christian beliefs into this novel. As Eveline’s faith dies, Betsey becomes a devoted believer as she awaits her trial and judgement. The suspense of not knowing what really happened to Leonard keeps the pages turning. This is an absorbing read of small village life and the people with their intertwined lives full of gossip and superstition.
