The Wings of the Dove

Apr 22, 2026 5:49 AM

Author:Henry James,Millicent Bell

Emerging from the grit and stigma of poverty to a life of fairytale privilege under the wing of her aunt, the beautiful and financially ambitious Kate Croy is already romantically involved with promising journalist Merton Densher when they become acquainted with Milly Theale, a New York socialite of immense wealth. Learning of Milly's mortal illness and passionate attraction to Densher, Kate sets the scene for a romantic betrayal intended to secure her lasting financial security. As the dying Milly retreats within the carnival splendour of a Venetian palazzo, becoming the frail hub of a predatory circle of fortune-seekers, James unfolds a resonant, brooding tale of doomed passion, betrayal, human resilience and remorse.

Reviews

Done more for the Entente Cordiale than any of our politicians.

—— Daily Mail

Must-have comedy-of-errors diary about being a Brit abroad.

—— Mirror

Edgier than Bryson, hits harder than Mayle

—— The Times

Delicious ... gorgeous humour and the lightest of touches

—— The Sunday Times

A sweet a breezy read - the ideal accompaniment to a long summer's evening

—— The Daily Mail

A witty and generous romance ... Jilly Cooper for the grown-ups

—— The Independent

Top drawer romantic escapism

—— You Magazine

Connelly is fluid and well-paced, and her fictive prison world, set in the actual political hellhole that is present-day Burma, is as affecting as any UN statistical report about the conditions of life in that ruined country.

—— Edmonton Journal

Much more fun than the reader has any right to expect

—— Weekly Standard

It's as fresh as if it were written this morning and as classic as Jane Austen. I'm very happy to have met it

—— Donald Westlake

A good story, flourishing characters, and the most persuasive narrative voice

—— Guardian

A classic tale of the triumph of youthful naivety over middle-aged cynicism

—— Good Book Guide

Classic coming of age novel

—— Oxford Times

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