London. 1928. For centuries, the establishment has suppressed public knowledge of lesbian love. Now, a celebrated writer is set to fight back.

 

Award-winning author, Radclyffe Hall, hopes her new novel, The Well of Loneliness, will transform attitudes to same-sex relationships. It soon comes under attack from the right-wing press, concerned about its potential impact on readers. One such reader is Maggie Dillon, a young trainee firefighter, who has been struggling with fears that she is an abomination after kissing another woman at a party. Can The Well transform Maggie’s views about herself and help her to find love? And will Radclyffe Hall keep her book in print long enough to radically change the views of society?

'Sweeping history, deep emotions and lyrical storytelling animate this tender love story that illuminates the inner lives of neglected legendary heroines. I loved it.'

Michelle Gallen

 

'As a Lover is that rare and precious thing, an historical novel whose concerns are every bit as urgent now as they were then. A story of real power, told by a writer of consummate skill. Read it. Do.'

Glenn Patterson

 

'We're gripped immediately by this novel, hooked into the impeccably researched history of the publication of The Well of Loneliness, which acts as backdrop to the coming out experience of Maggie our firefighter, whom we can do nothing but love, as she learns about herself and her world.'

Evelyn Conlon

 

'As a Lover vividly imagines the world of 1920s London, of lives riven with desire, intrigue, and ambition, with fascinating glimpses of lesbian life, full of glorious details and moving encounters. It’s a riveting and immersive novel that makes wonderful links between past and present.

Ger Moane