Brideshead Regained Continuing the Memoirs of Charles Ryder

At the end of 'Brideshead Revisited', where was Charles Ryder going and what happened next? 'Brideshead Regained', the unauthorised 'sequel' gives us some answers. Opening in 1945 at the funeral of Nanny Hawkins, which brings the characters together, this event triggers Ryder's dramatic account of the intervening years. Appointed a War Artist, he is sent to North Africa to paint Allied war leaders including de Gaulle and Eisenhower. On a painting excursion with Churchill he rediscovers Sebastian -- almost too late. Invading Europe armed with a sketchbook, he witnesses the horrors of Belsen and saves the life of a friend. His artistic reputation rises as his personal life and health collapse. The book ends on a moment of high and very human drama. Written with polished style, accomplished characterisation, very English humour and a compelling plot, Michael Johnston moves the Brideshead story on and leaves the reader hoping for even more.