Tessa Hadley’s most recent book is based in London and follows a group of friends whose dynamics are altered when one of them unexpectedly passes away. Zachary, a wealthy and outgoing art gallery owner, leaves behind his wife Lydia, her best friend Christine, who is a painter, Christine’s husband Alex, a close friend of Zachary’s, and the grown children of both couples. Lydia, beautiful and grieving, moves in with Christine and Alex, which leads to predictable consequences. The story focuses on accepting the inevitable rather than surprising twists. When Christine discovers her husband’s affair with Lydia, she simply thinks to herself, “I knew, I knew.”
Hadley makes it clear early on that trouble is on the horizon. Lydia’s striking beauty is repeatedly mentioned, emphasizing her meticulous grooming and alluring appearance. The attention to detail in Lydia’s attire and appearance highlights her commanding presence. Alex, on the other hand, shows impatience towards Lydia, revealing his internal struggle against his attraction to her. The familiarity between Lydia and Alex is evident as they navigate their complicated emotions after Zachary’s death.
The eventual romantic involvement between Alex and Lydia is not meant to catch the reader off guard. Hadley provides a backstory detailing how Christine and Lydia met Alex in university, where Lydia strategically pursued Alex. The narrative continually emphasizes Alex’s intellect, often portrayed through the admiration of others, like his daughter Isobel who praises his brilliance during a date. The children in the story—Isobel, Sandy, and Grace—serve as reflections of their mothers, embodying certain traits or behaviors that mimic them.
Christine’s focus on her art intensifies after her marriage ends, demonstrating her longing to fully dedicate herself to her creative pursuits. The novel delves into themes of love, marriage, and the complexities of relationships. Hadley’s vivid descriptions capture the sensory experiences, from the taste of lemon on veal to the ambiance of a morning on a balcony. The narrative unfolds through various flashbacks, adding layers to the characters and their inevitable paths.
As the story progresses, Christine’s commitment to her art becomes a source of solace and empowerment amidst personal challenges. Hadley skillfully portrays Christine’s journey of self-discovery and resilience, culminating in her reclaiming her creative space. “Late in the Day” is a narrative that meticulously explores human emotions, relationships, and the enduring pursuit of artistic fulfillment.
