In the serene suburb of Brackenhurst, civil servant Philip Christy’s life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters the enigmatic Bertram Ingledew. Alongside his sister Frida, who is married to affluent Scotsman Robert Monteith, Philip forms a bond with this peculiar stranger. Bertrams unconventional views on society challenge the status quo, leading to a whirlwind of upheaval in their family and community. Who exactly is Bertram, and what drives his unusual beliefs? As the narrative unfolds, author Allen delves into thought-provoking themes that resonate with contemporary issues. The tale begins with an intriguing introduction—a passionate critique of the publishing world that evolves into a philosophical exploration of Allens writing. Though the introduction may seem unrelated at first, listeners are encouraged to embrace it, or they may choose to dive straight into the story. (Summary by Ruth Golding)