The Fraud: A Historical Novel by Zadie Smith

Zadie Smith discusses her novel, The Fraud, which takes place in 19th century London and centers around a court case concerning a butcher who claims to be the missing heir to a vast estate. Smith explores themes of truth, delusion, and our complicity in lies. She also touches on her initial resistance to writing historical novels and her conflicted relationship with Charles Dickens. Through the character of Eliza Touche, Smith examines societal expectations of women in the 19th century. The novel also delves into the mutability of truth, with the narrative blending both real and fictional elements.