The New Life

*Shortlist, Debut Fiction, 2023 Nero Book Awards * The Sunday Times Novel of the Year * A Times and Guardian Book of the Year *

London, 1894. John and Henry have a vision for a new way of life. But as the Oscar Wilde trial ignites public outcry, everything they long for could be under threat.

‘Beautifully written’ Graham Norton
’Clever and kind… A book of wonderful generosity and compassion’ Alice Winn
‘Subtle, sexy and beautifully crafted’ Sarah Waters

After a lifetime spent navigating his desires, John has finally found a man who returns his feelings. Meanwhile, Henry is convinced that his new unconventional marriage will bring freedom.

United by a shared vision, they begin work on a revolutionary book arguing for the legalisation of homosexuality.

Before it can be published however, Oscar Wilde is arrested and their daring book threatens to throw them, and all around them, into danger. How high a price are they willing to pay for a new way of living?

‘Lavishly imagined’ Sunday Times
‘A very fine new writer’ Kate Atkinson
‘I loved this book’ Zadie Smith
‘Some of the best writing on desire I’ve read’ Douglas Stuart
‘Filled with nuance and tenderness … charting the lives of men and women who inspired not only political progress but an entire new way of living and loving’ Colm Tóibín