(8.5) I have had this book for some years but following the death of this author last week, it seemed like it was time to read one of his books.
I mostly start reading a book without reading what it is about, as in this instance. All I knew was that he was an openly, gay writer, well-respected in the local literary scene.
I was surprised therefore to find myself transported to Napier in the Hawkes Bay, famous for its Art Deco architecture and wineries, in the 1870's.
My first impressions were appreciation for his wonderful use of language in depicting settings and characters. I also became absorbed in the tale of newly arrived Samuel Barton from London, who is struggling to adapt to the small provincial town. It becomes obvious that he left London under a cloud and I immediately assumed that he was, in fact homosexual as proved to be the case. The second section takes us back to London and provides the events which lead to his departure from London and society. It was well-written and reminiscent of [[Sarah Waters]] novels. Be warned however, that there are several sexually explicit passages.
It demonstrates how far we have come in our acceptance of gay and transgender relationships and that these people are no longer demonized. ( )