BRIDESHEAD REGAINED

continuing the Memoirs of Charles Ryder

Michael Johnston

'A compelling narrative, beautifully written' Hon Simon Howard of Castle Howard

Listen to Michael Johnston talking about this book on a recent One Word Radio broadcast

(MP3 player required)

THIS SEQUEL IS NOT AUTHORISED
BY THE EVELYN WAUGH ESTATE

At the end of Waugh's Brideshead Revisited, where was Charles Ryder going and what happened next? Brideshead Regained, the unauthorised 'sequel' gives us some answers. Opening in 1945 at the funeral of Nanny Hawkins, which brings the characters together, this event triggers Ryder's dramatic account of the intervening years. Appointed a War Artist, he is sent to North Africa to paint Allied war leaders including de Gaulle and Eisenhower. On a painting excursion with Churchill he rediscovers Sebastian - almost too late. Invading Europe armed with a sketchbook, he witnesses the horrors of Belsen and saves the life of a friend. His artistic reputation rises as his personal life and health collapse. The book ends on a moment of high and very human drama.

Written with polished style, accomplished characterisation, very English humour and a compelling plot, Michael Johnston moves the Brideshead story on and leaves the reader hoping for even more.

Price: £14.95 HB
ISBN 0-9542901-0-0

About the author

Michael Johnston began his involvement with literature by interviewing Françoise Sagan for the BBC when both were teenagers but his own literary output to date has been radio documentaries and non-fiction book reviews in learned journals. Inspired by several visits to Castle Howard and an admiration for Evelyn Waugh, he wrote this first novel as a tribute on his centenary in 2003.

What they're saying about Brideshead Regained.

'A fine sequel to one of the greatest stories ever told - Michael Johnston writes with elegance, charm and a deep love of his subject.' Sheridan Morley, author and critic.

'Sequels are always a dangerous business and to write a sequel to one of the best written books in the business is almost certainly a literary suicide.' Roy Hattersley

'A compelling narrative, beautifully written, bringing out how important 'Brideshead' is to everyone. Would make wonderful television!' Hon Simon Howard of Castle Howard - the television Brideshead.