Description
Book SynopsisDorothy Richardson is existing just above the poverty line, doing secretarial work at a dentist''s office and living in a seedy boarding house in Bloomsbury, when she is invited to spend the weekend with a childhood friend, Jane. Jane has recently married a writer who is on the brink of fame. His name is H.G. Wells, or Bertie, as they call him. Bertie appears unremarkable at first. But then Dorothy notices his grey-blue eyes taking her in, openly signalling approval. He tells her he and Jane have an agreement which allows them the freedom to take lovers, although Dorothy can tell her friend would not be happy with that arrangement. Not wanting to betray Jane, yet unable to draw back Dorothy free-falls into an affair with Bertie. Then a new boarder arrives at the house- beautiful Veronica Leslie-Jones-and Dorothy finds herself caught between Veronica and Bertie. Amidst the personal dramas and wreckage of a militant suffragette march, Dorothy finds her voice as a writer.
Trade ReviewLouisa Treger’s earnest, carefully researched first novel spotlights a neglected pioneer of 20th-century literature: Dorothy Richardson * Washington Post *
The Lodger is an evocative, beautifully written first novel. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, Louisa Treger conjures up her characters and the turbulence of an era when women were fighting for emancipation with conviction. Dorothy Richardson's journey to finding her own literary feet through her illicit relationship with the novelist H.G. Wells is moving and revealing. A very accomplished debut novel. -- Lucinda Riley
A gripping debut about creativity, forbidden passions and what happens when you break the rules. Dorothy Richardson is a heroine for our time -- Daisy Goodwin
Treger’s writing flows easily and the book is impeccably researched, making this an enjoyable read. * Kirkus Reviews *
Treger certainly whets the appetite to know more of the real-life "Lodger" - and to add Pilgrimage to the reader's wish-list. * The Jewish Chronicle *
Louisa has managed to make not one, but two author gods, completely human, and thus more relatable. It really is an exceptional novel. * Women 24 *
