View of the Empire at Sunset

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 21 June 2018
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

Award-winning author Caryl Phillips presents a captivating and poignant novel that delves into the life of Jean Rhys, the acclaimed author of Wide Sargasso Sea.

Set against the backdrop of London's vibrant Bloomsbury neighborhood, the story revolves around Gwendolen, a young woman who, despite her lack of fame, possesses a remarkable talent for writing. Her husband's unexpected inheritance presents her with the opportunity to return to the island of her childhood, Dominica, a place she associates with freedom and beauty.

However, this visit home forces Gwendolen to confront the events of her past, and to reflect on their profound impact on her present and future. Phillips' novel explores the themes of being and becoming, memory, and the mythology of writers and writing, creating a profound and mesmerizing narrative.

Niven Govinden, the author of All the Days and Nights, praises this literary masterpiece as a "gift of a book." Govinden describes the novel as "dark, shimmering beauty," that penetrates the English mist, illuminating the past and present while offering a glimpse into the life of a great writer.

Amy Bloom, another renowned author, praises Phillips' writing as "subtle and piercing," noting that he consistently takes risks and tells powerful stories. The Times Literary Supplement also commends Phillips for his "risk-taking and powerful storytelling," highlighting the novel's ability to captivate readers and leave a lasting impression.

Through Gwendolen's journey, Caryl Phillips paints a vivid portrait of a woman struggling to find her place in the world, navigating the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery. The novel's rich prose and evocative descriptions transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Dominica and the emotional depths of Gwendolen's soul.

Wide Sargasso Sea is not only a tribute to Jean Rhys's remarkable life and work but also a testament to Caryl Phillips' exceptional talent as a writer. This captivating novel invites readers to explore the complexities of human nature, the power of memory, and the enduring legacy of great writers.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 131 x 197 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784709013