The story begins as an economist arrives at a railway hotel, where gothic corridors are being painted. Julian, a 38-year-old economist, learns he has terminal lung cancer and faces the pain and loneliness of impending death. His marriage to Christabel becomes strained as they grapple with his illness. In search of a deeper connection, Julian embarks on a passionate affair with seventeen-year-old Sally Cohen, whose youthful exuberance offers him a fleeting escape from his grim reality. However, this relationship brings devastating consequences for him and the women who love him. James Kennaway, an acclaimed author known for his novels and screenplays, tragically died young, yet he is now recognized as a significant figure in modern Scottish fiction. This edition of his posthumous masterpiece features an introduction by Frederic Raphael and is part of a collection that includes his other notable work. Contemporary reviews praise Kennaway's poetic talent and human insight, highlighting the novel's depth, tenderness, and humor. Critics note its compassionate storytelling and light writing style, which avoids melodrama while tackling a harrowing theme. The work is described as moving and impressive, showcasing Kennaway's ability to convey a sense of reality and truth.
