2001*1st* On Green Dolphin Street - Sebastian Faulks(Hutchinson)

**On Green Dolphin Street** by Sebastian Faulks is a historical novel set in the late 1950s and early 1960s. The story revolves around Mary van der Linden, the wife of Charlie van der Linden, a British diplomat stationed in Washington, D.C., and Frank Renzo, a New York journalist. The novel captures the tensions of the Cold War era, the complexities of political life, and the personal struggles of its characters.

Mary van der Linden leads a seemingly perfect life but feels increasingly isolated and discontented with her marriage. Her husband, Charlie, is dedicated to his work but struggles with alcoholism, which strains their relationship further. Amidst this personal turmoil, Mary meets Frank Renzo, a charismatic and passionate journalist who is also dealing with his own disillusionment and the fallout of his failed marriage.

As Mary and Frank's paths cross, they form a deep connection that blossoms into a clandestine love affair. Their relationship offers Mary an escape from her stifling existence and rekindles a sense of purpose and excitement in her life. However, their love affair is fraught with complications, including the constant threat of exposure and the ethical dilemmas posed by their respective commitments.

The narrative interweaves historical events, such as the rise of the civil rights movement, the space race, and the political atmosphere of the Cold War, with the personal lives of the characters. Faulks meticulously details the settings, from the diplomatic circles of Washington to the vibrant streets of New York, creating a vivid backdrop for the story.

**On Green Dolphin Street** is a poignant exploration of love, loyalty, and the search for identity against the backdrop of a turbulent historical period. Faulks delves into the emotional depths of his characters, examining the choices they make and the consequences that follow, ultimately crafting a narrative that is both intimate and expansive.