The Affair
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1960
328
Novel • Fiction
Cambridge, England • 1950s
1960
Adult
18+ years
In The Affair by C. P. Snow, Lewis Eliot, a distinguished lawyer and government official, returns to Cambridge University in 1953 to investigate the wrongful termination of physicist Donald Howard, who is accused of falsifying scientific data. As Eliot navigates the conservative college's internal politics and reexamines the evidence, he must decide between emotional detachment and personal involvement to pursue justice.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Emotional
Suspenseful
Challenging
298 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Reviews of C. P. Snow's The Affair note the author's adept depiction of academic politics, with a compelling exploration of ethical dilemmas. Positive feedback highlights the realistic, nuanced characters and engaging prose. However, some reviews criticize its slow pacing and dense narrative. Overall, it offers a thought-provoking read despite occasional sluggishness.
Fans of academic mysteries and character-driven narratives such as Gaudy Night by Dorothy L. Sayers or The Secret History by Donna Tartt will enjoy The Affair by C. P. Snow. Ideal for readers who appreciate intellectual drama and moral complexity within the backdrop of university life.
298 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
328
Novel • Fiction
Cambridge, England • 1950s
1960
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!