This novel of 1950s Britain offers “a sound reading of the political, moral, ideological temper of the times; a substantial achievement” (Kirkus Reviews). An ambitious MP and cabinet minister, Roger Quaife has strong opinions about the nuclear arms race that’s been escalating in the postwar era. Lewis Eliot agrees with him on the issue, despite the hostile reaction Quaife’s position has received. But Quaife has also been having an extramarital affair—and when the threat of blackmail looms, Eliot is faced with a difficult choice, in this thought-provoking novel, part of a series that “presents a vivid portrait of British academic, political and public life” (Jeffrey Archer, The Guardian). “A master craftsman in fiction.” —The New York Times “An extremely shrewd observer of men and society.” —Commentary