4th Estate

Miss Garnet’s Angel

Salley Vickers

Julia Garnet is a teacher. Just retired, she is left a legacy which she uses by leaving her orderly life and going to live – in winter – in an apartment in Venice. Its beauty, its secret corners and treasures, and its people overwhelm a lifetime of reserve and caution. Above all, she’s touched by the all-prevalent spirit of the Angel, Raphael. The ancient tale of Tobias, who travels to Media unaware he is accompanied by the Archangel Raphael, unfolds alongside Julia Garnet’s contemporary journey. The two stories interweave with parents and landladies, restorers and priests, American tourists and ancient travellers abounding. The result is an enormously satisfying journey of the spirit – and Julia Garnet is a character to treasure.

Reviews of Miss Garnet’s Angel

‘Subtle, unexpected and haunting.’ Penelope Fitzgerald

‘Very kind, very funny.’ John Bayley

‘Rich, complex and haunting…she makes the ancient story as riveting as Miss Garnet’s own adventures.’ Sunday Times

Reveals itself as a surprising exploration of the mysteries of imagination and faith.’ Joanna Trollope, Daily Telegraph, Book of the Year

‘A subtle, witty tale.’ John de Falbe, Spectator