Colm Tóibín’s fifth novel opens with a tremendously assured description of an already famous Henry James awaiting the opening night of his first play in London. He does so with lurching sensations of dread and anticipation. The venture, if successful, will launch him on a new and profitable course: ‘He foresaw an end to long, solitary days: this new world was now within his grasp.’

Blackwell Bookshop

Purchase your copy here, 10% off RRP