A wonderfully rich and absorbing historical novel following the fortunes of a struggling artist around the courtly world of Elizabethan London.

Norfolk, the 22nd year of Elizabeth I's reign. An ambitious young painter strikes out from his humble beginnings for the teeming City of London. Haunted by the image of his bride's gruesome death, and fuelled by his desire to portray the splendour of life, he sets his sights on a place at the Queen's glittering court.

Yet talent alone does not open the doors to royal favour, and the artist is thrown into the petty intrigues and rivalries of the English portrait schools. Here he meets Kat, a legendary courtesan with an unusual proclivity for paint. Their complex alliance leads them into a world of bribery, politics and power, and a court peopled by the celebrated figures of the age.

A Likeness is a masterly portrayal of Elizabethan England, the lives of noblemen and servants, artists and courtesans. It is also a deliciously erotic tale of two young people's desires and a thriller of intrigue and double-dealing.

About the Author

Sonia Overall grew up in Ely and later moved to Canterbury, where she studied Literature and Philosophy. She lives in Kent, with her husband, a fine artist. This is her first novel.

Reviews

'Portraiture, courtiers and a courtesan called Kate Joyce all play their part in Overall's debut historical novel. A treasure chest of detail, A Likeness is all about love and art.' Elle

'In terms of its visceral resonance, Sonia Overall's dazzlingly accomplished historical debut is likely to get under the skin. It's a vivid tale, part-political thriller, part-potent account of the perils of ambition and desire, but while its plot is pacy enough, it is Overall's rich language that intoxicates.' Observer

'Ripely written and unconventionally erotic ... stuffed with period atmosphere and court intrigue. This is a book that wants to ravish the daylights out of you' Daily Telegraph

'Overall's writing is a potent and rich brew ... A Likeness is an excellent, beautifully written and very entertaining novel' Booktrust

Book Information
ISBN 9780007164745
Author Sonia Overall
Format Paperback
Page Count 336
Imprint HarperPerennial
Publisher HarperCollins Publishers
Weight(grams) 227g
Dimensions(mm) 198mm * 129mm * 20mm