WITH AN INTRODUCTION BY NICHOLAS SHAKESPEARECakes & Ale is both a wickedly satirical novel about contemporary literary poseurs & a skilfully crafted study of freedom As he traces the fortunes of Edward Driffield & his extraordinary wife Rosie one of the most delightful heroines of twentieth-century literature Maugham's sardonic wit & lyrical warmth expertly combine in this accomplished & unforgettable novel