Patrick Gale was born on the Isle of Wight. He spent his infancy at Wandsworth Prison, which his father governed, then grew up in Winchester before going to Oxford University. He now lives on a farm near Land's End. One of this country's best-loved novelists, his most recent works are A Perfectly Good Man, the Richard and Judy bestseller Notes From An Exhibition, and the Costa-shortlisted A Place Called Winter. His original BBC television drama, Man In An Orange Shirt, was shown to great acclaim in 2017 as part of the BBC's Queer Britannia series, leading viewers around the world to discover his novels.
He hovers between social comedy and apocalyptic tragedy without the move appearing artificial or contrived. Just a wonderful, wonderful read - Stephen Fry Sexy, joyous, funny and tender. I relished it. - Sarah Winman Joyous and full of light. I gobbled the whole lot in one go. He is a beautiful and empathetic writer. - Cathy Rentzenbrink Safe in the arms of Patrick Gale's beautiful writing again. I could weep with joy. - Joanna Cannon A fascinating story, gripping, moving and exquisitely written, this is a wonderful gift of a book from one of the best writers working today - S J Watson A mesmerising storyteller - The Times A writer with heart, soul, and a dark and naughty wit, one whose company you relish and trust - Observer What Gale does so well is to delineate the unpremeditated consequences of actions...The final chapter left me with a lump in my throat - Guardian