Everyman Classics: The Well-Beloved

Jocelyn Pierston takes his beloved with him wherever he goes. Her face lives in his mind's eye; her voice speaks clear in his thoughts.

A brilliant young sculptor, Jocelyn tries to capture her immortal beauty in every goddess, every angel he creates. it is a pity, given the constancy of Jocelyn's love, that its object should prove so changeable. One day she is a willowy blonde, the next she is a statuesque brunette; now an effervescent socialite, then quiet and withdrawn. His passion burns undiminished - for every new woman he sees.

All the beauties of London cannot hold Jocelyn's love; what chance can the be for the sweetheart of his Dorset days, Avice Caro? But maybe dear, naive little Avice has some surprises up her sleeve. Maybe she could effect a transformation or two herself . . .

This is the most comprehensive edition available, with introduction, notes, selected criticism, text summary and chronology of Hardy's life and times.