Old Filth by Jane Gardam (Book 1)

Prior to his retirement to Dorset, Sir Edward Feathers was a successful Hong Kong judge. He was greatly admired in the legal community, a mild wit (rumor had it that he coined the acronym FILTH- Failed In London Try Hong Kong,) and utterly conventional.

But still, there was an aura of mystery surrounding Sir Edward. What went on behind that placid and polished exterior?

Plenty!

Author Jane Gardam tells Sir Edward’s story in a series of flashbacks, from his grim childhood as a Raj orphan, to his war service, and the early years in HK.

I do not want to spoil the pleasure by telling you anything further, but this is a book that when I finished, I was tempted to start again—it is that good.  Subtle, engaging, and masterfully written.

The Old Filth Trilogy

• Last Friends
• The Man in the Wooden Hat