With a cover design by Lucienne Day When Mrs Hawkins tells Hector Bartlett he is a 'pisseur de copie', that he 'urinates frightful prose', little does she realise the repercussions. Holding that 'no life can be carried on satisfactorily unless people are honest' Mrs Hawkins refuses to retract her judgement, and as a consequence, loses not one, but two much-sought-after jobs in publishing. Now, years older, successful, and happily a far cry from Kensington, she looks back over the dark days that followed, in which she was embroiled in a mystery involving anonymous letters, quack remedies, blackmail and suicide.
Muriel Spark
Muriel Spark was a Scottish novelist, best known for her satirical and darkly humorous writing style. Her most notable works include "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie," "The Driver's Seat," and "Memento Mori." Spark's novels often explore themes of power, identity, and morality, with sharp wit and keen insight into human nature. She is credited with revitalizing the psychological novel and pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling techniques. "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" remains her most famous work, portraying the complex character of a charismatic and controversial schoolteacher. Spark's contributions to literature have solidified her as a key figure in 20th-century fiction, influencing generations of writers with her unique voice and storytelling prowess.