The Finishing Touch

Set in a prestigious finishing school, The Finishing Touch explores the chaos that ensues when royal visitors arrive, revealing the characters' true natures.

In The Finishing Touch, readers are introduced to the eccentric Miss Hetty Braid, who holds a deep admiration for her beautiful yet self-centered co-proprietor, Miss Antonia Mount. Together, they run an exclusive finishing school on the sun-kissed shores of the French Riviera, where the young women they teach are anything but ordinary. However, their lack of academic prowess is overshadowed by their unique personalities and the drama that unfolds within the school.

The tranquility of their idyllic setting is disrupted when Antonia excitedly announces that 'Royalty is coming.' This declaration sets the stage for a series of events that initially seem promising but quickly spiral into chaos. As the day of the royal visit approaches, the tension builds, and what begins as a well-intentioned effort quickly devolves into a comedic disaster, leaving both Hetty and Antonia scrambling to maintain their school's reputation.

This edition of The Finishing Touch features a thought-provoking introduction by Brigid Brophy and a new preface by Sir Peter Stothard, adding depth to the narrative. The book has been described as a 'wicked little entertainment,' appealing to those who appreciate sharp wit and clever storytelling. With its delightful mix of humor and social commentary, the novel invites readers to reflect on the absurdities of life amidst the elegance of the Riviera.