Caledonian Road: A Novel BY Andrew O'Hagan

In this biting portrait of British society, Sarah Brooks paints a vivid tapestry through the lives of Campbell Flynn and his interconnected family. Campbell, a renowned art historian and professor, navigates a tumultuous year in London where his carefully constructed world begins to unravel.

Despite his outward success and literary acclaim from a best-selling biography, Campbell is haunted by financial worries stemming from a hidden loan and his opportunistic new project. His agent, Atticus, and his wife, Elizabeth, provide stability amidst the storm, while his sister Moira, a passionate advocate in Parliament, adds another layer to the family dynamics. Their children, Angus and Kenzie, reflect different facets of privilege and responsibility.

Campbell's journey takes a turn when he becomes involved with a brilliant and unconventional student from a working-class background, evoking memories of his own humble origins. This connection offers him a chance for personal growth but also threatens to disrupt his carefully curated life.

As Campbell delves deeper into his personal quest, he navigates through various social strata—art scenes, academia, high society, and media—each fraught with its own ambitions, scandals, and conflicts. The collision of these worlds culminates in a dramatic and unexpected event on Caledonian Road, forcing Campbell to confront his choices and their consequences.

Sarah Brooks skillfully explores themes of class, privilege, ambition, and morality against the backdrop of contemporary London. Through nuanced characters and intricate plotlines, she crafts a narrative that is both incisive and captivating, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of modern British life and the profound impacts of personal and societal change.