The Quincunx is an epic Dickensian-like mystery novel set in 19th century England, and concerns the varying fortunes of young John Huffam and his mother.A thrilling complex plot is made more intriguing by the unreliable narrator of the book - how much can we believe of what he says?First published in 1989, The Quincunx was a surprise bestseller and began a trend for pastiche Victorian novels.It remains one of the best.