Fondie

By Edward C. Booth

Published by Putnam: London 1957

"Fondie, by Edward C. Booth, was published by Putnam in London in 1957. Set in a vividly rendered English provincial town, this finely observed novel follows the life of Fondie, a gentle, eccentric blacksmith whose simple outlook and quiet humanity contrast sharply with the moral pretensions and social hierarchies around him. Booth's narrative blends humour, compassion, and understated tragedy as Fondie's unassuming goodness becomes both his strength and his undoing within a world increasingly shaped by ambition and hypocrisy.

Written in clear, lyrical prose, Booth captures the rhythms of rural life and the subtleties of character with a sensitivity reminiscent of Thomas Hardy and George Eliot. The story's emotional depth lies in its portrayal of innocence confronting the complexities of love, faith, and class expectation.

Fondie stands as one of Edward C. Booth's most enduring novels, admired for its warmth, realism, and moral insight. It would appeal to readers of classic mid-twentieth-century English fiction, those drawn to character-driven narratives, and collectors of quietly profound literary works set in the English countryside."

Minor fading to cover and spine as shown. No prior owner marks or stamps. Pages typically clean and bright. Very good condition overall. Please study photos to understand condition. Happy to provide more photos on request.