The Bishop’s Palace
Janet K. Shawgo
Five Ladies Press (2022)
ISBN: 978-1733404532
Reviewed by Ashley Hooker for Reader Views (05/2025)
The Bishop’s Palace by Janet K. Shawgo is a twist on the average thriller novel. Shawgo presents readers with a female protagonist who lets nothing get in the way of getting her story.
Morlanna Miller is a female journalist living in the 1890s. She has uncovered a titillating story about a palace that seems to swallow up anyone who enters. It is an exceptional story, and she wants to share it with her readers. Her boss is not so sure, but lets her go write the story. When Morlanna arrives at her destination, her first act is to find the bishop’s palace and learn more. She is not prepared for what happens when the bishop opens the door.
Shawgo’s writing style is powerful and entertaining. She has created a work that is excellently reflective of the 1890s world. An example of this is portrayed in one of my favorite scenes between Morlanna and her boss. Shawgo writes,
As the owner of the newspaper, his enormous wealth made him a well-respected citizen of San Fransico. His frequent visits to the opium dens and brothels were overlooked by society and his wife.
She does not shy away from diving into the deep end of a story quickly. She wastes no time and adds no fluff to this story. It is fast-paced and full of enlightening moments you did not see coming. Her character development is strong. There is a clear protagonist and antagonist. The setting is clearly described giving readers a chill up their spines.
The Bishop’s Palace also presents as a feminist thriller story. Shawgo clearly uses women to tell the story. Morlanna, Cecile, Elsie, Ann-Marie, and Mama Delphine are women who inspire you. They stood up in the man’s world of the 1890s and proved that when women come together, their power can create momentous change. Shawgo gives us strong female characters, but also gives a glimmer of hope that women will be able to stand equally with men.
If you are looking for a short, rainy day read, you will need to pick up The Bishop’s Palace. Readers who want a page-turner paired with their favorite drink and comfy chair will love this book. The fresh perspective on the paranormal thriller story is refreshing. I must warn you that when you read this one, you may become the next victim of the Bishop’s palace.