Following on from his previous novel, Jericho, and re-evoking the manifold themes and compelling rural French atmosphere of its predecessor, A Period of Adjustment tells the story of James Caldicott. His ruined marriage spurred him on to obey his estranged Brother's letter, which compelled him to take his house in the south of France. Upon discovering the tragic fate of his brother James, William, accompanied by his son Giles, attempts to rebuild his life only to find it being attacked from another, far too personal front.
It is an entertaining read emblazoned with Bogarde's usual winning combination of wit and charm.
First published in 1994, this is Dirk Bogarde's fifth novel.