Author:Paul Scott

BOOK TWO OF THE RAJ QUARTET
India, August 9th 1942. The morning brings raids and the arrest by British police of Congress Party members. Amongst the prisoners is the distinguished ex-Chief Minister Mohammed Ali Kasim. Loyal to the party's central vision of a unified free India, his incarceration is a symptom of the growing deterioration of Anglo-Indian relations.
For the long-serving British family, the Laytons, the political and social ramifications are immediate, disturbing and tragic. Some, like Ronald Merrick, believe that true intimacy between the races is impossible; others, such as Sarah Layton, struggle to come to terms with their Anglo-Indian past. With growing confusion and bewilderment, the British are forced to confront the violent and often brutal years that lie ahead of them.
An achievement of unusual dimensions and power
—— ObserverI can't think of anything worth knowing about the Raj in India that Scott hasn't told me... His contribution to literature is permanent
—— New York TimesBeautifully constructed... An even richer tapestry of Indian and British character than its predecessor
—— Sunday TimesForster is remarkably honest, skilful and perceptive
—— ObserverMargaret Forster has a remarkable gift for taking huge social issues and welding them into minutely observed human dramas that are perfect portraits of the way we live now...The story grips and the heart bleeds for these good mothers who are, like all mothers, never good enough
—— Polly Toynbee , Sunday Express'McAdam's narrative weaves in virtuoso dialogue as well as genuine warmth-Exhilarating'
—— Observer'Impressive and ambitious'
—— Independent'A highly intelligent and moving book'
—— Time Out