The missing lord of the manor looms large in this quirky novel by an author who offers “a fresh, original, witty interpretation of England’s social history” (The New York Times). Lady Graham is anticipating the long-awaited appearance of Sir Robert, finally retiring from his glorious military career and globetrotting adventures a decade after the end of World War II. In the meantime, life at Holdings goes on and Lady Graham’s youngest, eighteen-year-old Edith, has her pick of suitors. It is unclear, however, if she will make up her mind about them any time soon—and if she will exit Holdings before her father enters . . . “Where Trollope would have been content to arouse a chuckle, [Thirkell] is constantly provoking us to hilarious laughter. . . . To read her is to get the feeling of knowing Barsetshire folk as well as if one had been born and bred in the county.” —Kirkus Reviews

Story of Lady Graham, her only unmarried daughter, Edith, and Edith's two suitors.

Play 1: Indulge in the wit and social satire of Oscar Wilde with “An Ideal Husband by Oscar Wilde.” Wilde's play explores the themes of morality, political intrigue, and the complexities of human relationships. Filled with sparkling dialogue and clever repartee, this comedy of manners reflects Wilde's keen observations of the societal norms and values of his time. Prose Work 2: Plummet into the depths of Oscar Wilde's introspection with “De Profundis by Oscar Wilde.” Written during Wilde's imprisonment, this extended letter to his former lover provides a poignant and introspective exploration of his life, suffering, and spiritual growth. It stands as a powerful testament to Wilde's resilience and his reflections on the human spirit. Novel 3: Delve into the dark and decadent world of “The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde.” Oscar Wilde's only novel is a Faustian tale of a young man who remains eternally youthful while a portrait of him ages and bears the marks of his moral degradation. This Gothic masterpiece explores the consequences of hedonism, the nature of beauty, and the price of eternal youth.