Bird of Paradise

<p><I>Bird of Paradise</I> (1914) is a novel by Ada Leverson. Having established herself as a journalist and short story writer Leverson published her debut novel in 1907 to moderate acclaim. Entertaining and effortlessly witty Leverson's prose paints a stunning portrait of the Edwardian era a time when hope and relative peace proved prosperous for many. Often compared to her close friend Oscar Wilde Leverson a pioneering Jewish woman remains a unique and refreshing voice in English literature. Madeline and Bertha share an uncommonly devoted friendship verging on sisterhood in the best and worst of times. Satisfactorily married to the loyal-if a little boring-Percy Kellynch Bertha often serves as Madeline's matchmaker and confidante. In love with Rupert Denison an affectionate aloof young man Madeline wants nothing more than to be swept off her feet. Much to her dismay however Rupert takes romance slow proving at times a difficult man to pin down. Disappointed by a last-minute cancellation Madeline laments her lovelorn woes to Bertha who comes up with a plan. With the help of a devoted ex-lover she invites Rupert and Madeline to dinner and a show unwittingly setting in motion a story of jealousy hilarity and forbidden attraction. <I>Bird of Paradise</I> is a humorous tale of romance and desire from Ada Leverson an underappreciated novelist of the Edwardian era. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript this edition of Ada Leverson's <I>Bird of Paradise</I> is a classic work of British literature reimagined for modern readers.