The Party
A tale of friendship, betrayal, and the elite
Format:Paperback
Publisher:HarperCollins Publishers
Published:5th Apr '18
Should be back in stock very soon
This gripping novel explores the intricacies of friendship, betrayal, and privilege within the elite circles of British society, as seen in The Party.
In The Party, Martin Gilmour and Ben Fitzmaurice have been inseparable since their school days at Burtonbury. Their friendship is an unlikely one, marked by stark contrasts: Martin, the scholarship student with a less privileged background, and Ben, the charismatic scion of an aristocratic family. Despite their differences, they have managed to maintain a deep bond, with Martin safeguarding Ben's closely guarded secret for over twenty years. This connection is tested as they navigate the complexities of adulthood and the expectations that come with their respective social standings.
As Ben's 40th birthday approaches, the exclusive celebration promises to be a lavish affair, drawing the crème de la crème of British society. Amidst the glamour, champagne, and the intoxicating atmosphere, Martin grapples with feelings of inadequacy and alienation. His wife, Lucy, feels a sense of foreboding as they mingle with politicians, celebrities, and a mix of old and new money. The tension builds, leaving Martin to question the true nature of his friendship with Ben, especially when he senses that something is amiss.
The Party delves into themes of betrayal, privilege, and the hypocrisy often lurking beneath the surface of high society. With sharp wit and keen observations, Elizabeth Day crafts a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, leaving readers to ponder the complexities of friendship and loyalty in a world driven by status and ambition.
‘Think Brideshead Revisited meets The Talented Mr Ripley with a dash of The Riot Club. I couldn't put it down’ Louise O’Neill, author of Asking For It
‘An exhilarating and gripping psychological thriller about obsession, betrayal, jealousy and class distinctions. Elizabeth Day’s writing is impeccable, suspenseful and clever. I couldn’t put this down!’ Rosie Huntington-Whiteley
‘Superb – clever, gripping, psychologically acute’ Laura Barnett, author of The Versions of Us
‘What will probably be my book of the year … I loved it’ Sinead Crowley, Irish Independent
'Fast out of the traps, compelling and infinitely believable: but what really got me about The Party was the writing. Stunning' Susie Steiner, author of Missing, Presumed
‘A well-paced slow-burner of a literary thriller – think Donna Tartt’s The Secret History or Alan Hollinghurst’s The Line of Beauty… The Party is a gripping page-turner’ Observer
‘Devious, witty, thrilling' Refinery 29
‘Skilfully constructed, suspenseful narrative … It’s a smart, wittily written riff on class, privilege and power’ Mail on Sunday
‘Echoes of The Secret History and The Talented Mr Ripley thrum through Elizabeth Day’s pacey fourth novel… jolly fun’ Sunday Times
'A sharp, stylish and witty as the perfect guest. Beware: you'll be up far too late’ Lucie Whitehouse, author of Before We Met
‘Elizabeth Day's latest novel is sinister and seductive and nothing short of breathtaking’ Francesca Seagal, author of The Innocents
‘This is a dark and compelling book of lifelong obsessions, jealousies and neuroses … I left this book wanting to read more of Day’s other work’ Guardian
‘I can’t recommend it highly enough’ Aine Toner, Women’s Way
‘The Party is a compelling read, but it’s a lot more than a page turner… We may have seen a hundred stories like this on the news, but Elizabeth Day’s perfectly pitched dialogue and vivid prose brings it all to life’ Catherine Chanter, author of The Well
ISBN: 9780008194307
Dimensions: 198mm x 129mm x 24mm
Weight: 270g
304 pages