Plot Summary

Last Friends

Jane Gardam
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Last Friends

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1963

Book Brief

Jane Gardam

Last Friends

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1963
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 20th Century

Publication Year

1963

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Last Friends by Jane Gardam, the final book in her historical fiction trilogy set in post-World War II Hong Kong, focuses on Terry Veneering as he navigates his complex relationships with lawyer Edward Feathers and Edward's wife, Betty. The story is told through the memories of Old Dulcie and Sir Frederick Fiscal-Smith, delving into Terry's humble beginnings and his rise to prominence, as well as exploring themes of love, rivalry, and British social class. Notably, the novel contains depictions of injury and potential espionage.

Bittersweet

Melancholic

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.0

7,500 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jane Gardam's Last Friends is lauded for its eloquent prose and rich character development, offering a poignant conclusion to the Old Filth trilogy. Critics praise Gardam's wit and depth in exploring themes of aging and friendship. However, some suggest the narrative may feel slow to those unfamiliar with the previous books. Overall, it's a heartfelt and reflective read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Last Friends?

A reader who enjoys Last Friends by Jane Gardam likely appreciates intricate character studies, subtle humor, and themes of aging and legacy. Fans of Kazuo Ishiguro's The Remains of the Day or Elizabeth Strout's Olive Kitteridge will find this novel's exploration of complex relationships and personal histories engaging and rewarding.

4.0

7,500 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 20th Century

Publication Year

1963

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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