Cakes and Ale is the book that roused a storm of controversy when it was first fublished. It is both a Wickedly satirical novel about contemporary literary poseurs and s skilfully crafted study of freedom. It is also the book by which Maugham most wanted to be remembered, and probably still is. As he traces the fortunes of Edward Driffield and his extraordinary wife Rosie, one of the most delightful heroines of twentieth-century literature, Maugham's sardonic wit and lyrical warmth expecterly combine in this accomplished and unforgettable novel.