Mrs. Craddock - Paperback

by W. Somerset Maugham (Author), Mint Editions (Contribution by)

Mrs. Craddock (1902) is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham. Controversial for its portrayal of infidelity and marriage across social classes, Mrs. Craddock was instrumental in establishing Maugham's reputation as a leading author of the late Victorian era. Due to its content, the novel appeared exclusively in Bowdlerized form until Maugham saw it republished in 1938. Bertha Ley has always been independent. Orphaned at a young age, she comes into a sizable inheritance at 21 and declares her wish to marry Edward Craddock, a 27-year-old from a working-class background. Despite his initial hesitance, she encourages him to propose and assures him that they can raise a family together. As she signs over control of her fortune to Craddock, ostensibly to give him the confidence he desperately needs, Bertha slowly realizes that she is unattracted to almost everything about him. His morals, interests, and attitudes are all shaped by a way of life she will never understand, and he appears solely dedicated to raising his animals. When their first child is stillborn, things begin to change for the young husband and wife-Bertha retreats while Edward leans into his commitment to work, even taking an interest in local politics. Although Bertha begins to accept her unhappiness, something inside her remains undeterred, longing to be released. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of W. Somerset Maugham's Mrs. Craddock is a classic work of British literature reimagined for modern readers.

Back Jacket

Bertha Ley has been fiercely independent for as long as she can remember. At 21, she inherits her father's fortune and declares she will marry Edward Craddock, a man below her social standing. As their divergent tastes and attitudes begin to clash, however, Bertha begins to regret her hasty decision. Mrs. Craddock is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham.