42 pages • 1 hour read
Elizabeth BowenThe Heat of the Day
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1948A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Heat of the Day by Elizabeth Bowen is set in WWII London and centers on Stella Rodney, who learns from a counterspy, Harrison, that her lover, Robert, might be a Nazi spy. As Stella investigates, she grapples with trust, love, and loyalty amidst the turmoil of war. The narrative emphasizes the impact of wartime on personal relationships and social interactions.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Heat of the Day by Elizabeth Bowen is praised for its atmospheric portrayal of wartime London, intricate character development, and psychological depth. Critics commend Bowen's lyrical prose and ability to capture human emotion. However, some find the plot slow and complex, potentially challenging for casual readers. Overall, it remains a compelling study of loyalty and betrayal in a historical context.
Who Should Read The Heat of the Day?
The ideal reader of The Heat of the Day by Elizabeth Bowen appreciates literary fiction featuring complex characters and rich prose. Fans of Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway and Graham Greene's The End of the Affair will enjoy Bowen's evocative portrayal of World War II-era London and her exploration of loyalty, love, and betrayal.