The Illumination of Ursula Flight

One of Stylist''s must-read books of 2018

''Original and charming, joyous and funny.'' Tessa Hadley

''...[this] debut novel sweeps us away to the world of Ursula Flight, wannabe actress and playwright in 17th-century Britain. Ursula is a spirited and funny protagonist.'' Sarah Shaffi, Stylist

''ON THE 15TH DAY OF DECEMBER IN THE YEAR OF OUR LORD 1664, A GREAT LIGHT BLOOMED IN THE DARK SKY...''

Born on the night of a bad-luck comet, Ursula Flight has a difficult destiny written in the stars. Growing up with her family in the country, she is educated by a forward-thinking father who enables her to discover a love of reading, writing and astrology. Ursula dreams of becoming a famous playwright, but is devastated to learn she must instead fulfil her family''s expectations and marry. Trapped and lost, Ursula plots her escape - but her freedom will come at a price.

As Ursula''s dangerous desires play out, both on and off the