The New Life: A daring novel of forbidden desire

The Sunday Times Novel of the Year

London, 1894. John and Henry have a vision for a new way of life. But as the Oscar Wilde trial ignites public outcry, everything they long for could be under threat.

After a lifetime spent navigating his desires, John has finally found a man who returns his feelings. Meanwhile, Henry is convinced that his new unconventional marriage will bring freedom.

United by a shared vision, they begin work on a revolutionary book arguing for the legalisation of homosexuality.

Before it can be published however, Oscar Wilde is arrested and their daring book threatens to throw them, and all around them, into danger. How high a price are they willing to pay for a new way of living?

'Beautifully written' - Graham Norton, presenter and comedian

'Subtle, sexy and beautifully crafted' - Sarah Waters, best-selling author of Tipping the Velvet

'Filled with nuance and tenderness ... charting the lives of men and women who inspired not only political progress but an entire new way of living and loving' - Colm Tóibín, author of The Blackwater Lightship