This exquisitely written, searingly graphic, often hilarious but fundamentally flawed portrayal of life and loves in Regency London, I had looked forward to reading for months. I would take it out of my bookshelf and sniff the pristine pages. It was a beautifully produced volume.
It proved to be a massive disappointment. There were three gigantic flaws (more…)
I read this novel nearly thirty years ago sitting up all night by a wood stove in South Wales. I was about twenty five and recently married. I found it heartbreaking. The love affair Paul has with Michele moved me immeasurably, with the final pages finishing me off. Tearful throughout, I broke down, sobbing. Why this book is so often out of print I will never know. Nor can I understand why no film has been made of it. AE Ellis is not the author’s real name, and apparently wrote nothing else. I advise anyone who can get hold of a copy of The Rack to read it and then pass it on to a friend. I did. The friend never returned it; but I recently came across a first edition in a second hand bookstall for 50 pence. I don’t think I’ll ever read it again, though. It would be pointless. This book still affects me more than anything I’ve read since.
You are currently browsing the archives for the Books category.
