Mr Loverman

This novel tells the story of Barrington, a man caught between his family life and his secret love for his childhood friend, Morris, in Mr Loverman.

In Mr Loverman, Bernardine Evaristo introduces us to Barrington Jedidiah Walker, a 74-year-old man leading a double life. Born in Antigua and residing in Hackney since the 1960s, Barrington is a vibrant character known for his stylish retro suits and a penchant for Shakespearean quotes. He is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, but beneath this facade lies a secret: he is in a romantic relationship with his childhood friend, Morris. This hidden truth complicates his life, especially as his deeply religious wife, Carmel, suspects him of infidelity with women.

As Barrington grapples with his identity, the tension in his marriage escalates, leading him to contemplate divorce. However, after years of living in fear and deception, he faces the daunting question of whether he can truly break free and embrace his authentic self. Evaristo's narrative is a poignant exploration of love, identity, and the struggles faced by those in the older Caribbean community in Britain.

Mr Loverman is more than just a story about a man's secret life; it challenges cultural myths and highlights the consequences of living inauthentically. Through Barrington's journey, Evaristo sheds light on the complexities of love and the importance of being true to oneself, making this novel a significant contribution to contemporary literature.