The Shadowy Third: Love, Letters, and Elizabeth Bowen - 'Beautifully written and fascinating' John Banville

In the critically acclaimed biography "The Shadowy Third," Julia Parry discovers a hidden love triangle between novelist Elizabeth Bowen and her grandparents, revealing a life-changing quest to understand the affair's profound repercussions for her family. The book follows three different characters through 1930s Oxford, Ireland, Texas, Calcutta, and World War II, exploring complex attitudes to love, sex, duty, and ambition.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 17 February 2022
Publisher: Prelude

Unveiling the captivating love triangle between renowned novelist Elizabeth Bowen and her grandparents, the esteemed author's own kin, this meticulously researched biography unveils a trove of never-before-seen letters that intricately detail the affair. For those who have been captivated by Laura Cummings' On Chapel Sands, Daniel Mendelsohn's An Odyssey, and Francesca Wade's Square Haunting, this captivating narrative promises to transport readers to a realm of intrigue and emotional depth.

In the wake of a family tragedy, Julia Parry receives a box of weathered letters, their contents revealing a profound secret: a love affair between the celebrated novelist Elizabeth Bowen and her grandfather, the esteemed academic Humphry House. This revelation sets Julia on a transformative quest to unravel the intricate tapestry of the affair, which had far-reaching consequences for her family, particularly her grandmother, Madeline.

Julia embarks on a captivating journey, tracing the lives of these three distinct individuals across the vibrant landscapes of 1930s Oxford, Ireland, Texas, Calcutta in the twilight days of Empire, and even into the tumultuous backdrop of World War II. Along the way, she encounters a supporting cast of notable figures, including Isaiah Berlin and Virginia Woolf, who add depth and complexity to the narrative.

Through the lens of The Shadowy Third, readers are invited to explore a world where love, sex, duty, and ambition intertwine in intricate ways. The novel delves into the complex attitudes towards these subjects, offering a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience. It sheds light on the sacrifices and compromises made in the pursuit of love and the transformative power of writing itself.

With its captivating prose, rich historical detail, and profound emotional resonance, The Shadowy Third is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling and the complexities of human relationships. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Elizabeth Bowen and her profound impact on the literary world.

Weight: 342g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780715654491