Not THAT Elizabeth Taylor…this one has been called “one of the best English novelists born in this century (20th)” and “one of the most underrated writers of the 20th century”.

Mrs. Palfrey at the Claremont by Elizabeth Taylor is a sharply written, insightful study of the end of life in the 20th century.  Mrs. Palfrey has come to London to live out the end of her life at a hotel suited for this purpose.  The other residents are all holding their own death watch, staving off boredom and loneliness at a level that makes death seem welcome.  Mrs. Palfrey forms a relationship with an aspiring writer and she impacts his life as he does hers in this cross generational friendship.  This is not written in a sickly sweet manner at all.  It is an open and honest look at people, aging, and friendship.  I am glad I finally read it and would highly recommend it.

The movie starring Joan Plowright is very good as well!