42 pages • 1 hour read
The Heat of the Day
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Book Brief
415
Novel • Fiction
London • 1940s
1948
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Heat of the Day by Elizabeth Bowen is set in WWII London and centers on Stella Rodney, who learns from a counterspy, Harrison, that her lover, Robert, might be a Nazi spy. As Stella investigates, she grapples with trust, love, and loyalty amidst the turmoil of war. The narrative emphasizes the impact of wartime on personal relationships and social interactions.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Melancholic
Dark
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
2,937 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Heat of the Day by Elizabeth Bowen is praised for its atmospheric portrayal of wartime London, intricate character development, and psychological depth. Critics commend Bowen's lyrical prose and ability to capture human emotion. However, some find the plot slow and complex, potentially challenging for casual readers. Overall, it remains a compelling study of loyalty and betrayal in a historical context.
Who Should Read The Heat of the Day?
The ideal reader of The Heat of the Day by Elizabeth Bowen appreciates literary fiction featuring complex characters and rich prose. Fans of Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway and Graham Greene's The End of the Affair will enjoy Bowen's evocative portrayal of World War II-era London and her exploration of loyalty, love, and betrayal.
2,937 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
415
Novel • Fiction
London • 1940s
1948
Adult
18+ years
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