Maradick at Forty

Maradick at Forty is a book by Hugh Walpole, first published in 1910. The first novel in the Four Fantastic Tales series, this early masterpiece from the prolific British novelist explores the profound psychological shifts of middle age against the atmospheric backdrop of the Cornish coast. Released during a pivotal era in English literature, the novel established Walpole as a rising star of the Edwardian literary scene, showcasing his signature ability to blend domestic realism with a lingering sense of the uncanny. Readers and critics of the time were captivated by the protagonist’s internal struggle as he navigates the "dangerous age," seeking a sense of renewal amidst the rigid social expectations of the early 20th century. This classic work remains a poignant study of self-discovery and the timeless quest for meaning, making it a must-read for fans of psychological fiction and vintage British prose. As a cornerstone of the author's early career, Maradick at Forty offers a window into the transition between Victorian sensibilities and the emerging modern world.