The New Life : A daring novel of forbidden desire

Discover Tom Crewe's magnificent debut novel about forbidden desire and the search for freedom in Victorian England...

'Beautifully written' Graham Norton

'Subtle, sexy and beautifully crafted' Sarah Waters

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?

'I loved this book' Zadie Smith

'Some of the best writing on desire I've read' Douglas Stuart

'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