The Wildes

In The Wildes: A Novel in Five Acts, bestselling author Louis Bayard explores the profound impact of Oscar Wilde's imprisonment for homosexuality on his wife, Constance, and their two sons amidst the turmoil of Victorian England and World War I. Set against a backdrop of societal change, the narrative unfolds during a seemingly idyllic summer in 1892, where Constance confronts her husband's infidelity with Lord Alfred Douglas. As the story progresses, it delves into themes of exile, identity, and the pursuit of self-understanding, culminating in a poignant reunion that examines the enduring human condition. Through sparkling dialogue and deep character insight, Bayard crafts a moving and engaging tale inspired by true events.