PRISONER OF GRACE

by Joyce Cary ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 13, 1952

A new novel which subdues the broad comedy of earlier books to score- with a sharpness which also has its brilliance- the life of a great man as seen through the eyes of the little woman. And the drama here of lives which are defined- and confined- by the impulse to power in public life has a curious and concentrated fascination. Replacing Gulley Jimson, the contemporary artist, is Chester Nimmo, the contemporary politician, a man of inflexible political aspirations and more flexible political principles. He marries Nina Woodville at her aunt's instigation, after her seduction by her cousin, Jim Latter. It is Nina, from her coign of vantage as Chester's wife who recognizes the mask of courtesy which conceals a dangerous, and often vicious, personality. And although she tries to leave him many times, she is kept at his side- a ""prisoner of grace"" to avoid the scandal which might cloud his career, even though it is Jim she loves and whose children she bears... A book which in its situation, and in its handling- which is less prolix, should easily attract a wider American audience for a novelist who has an already established critical recognition of his highly individualistic talent.

Pub Date: Oct. 13, 1952

ISBN: 0811209644

Page Count: -

Publisher: Harper

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 1952

Categories: FICTION