In this sweeping drama, Coleridge (A Much Married Man
) zeroes in on a charismatic tycoon whose desires and drive know no bounds. As a godfather of six, wealthy and domineering Marcus Brand is largely absent, except for his occasional invitations to visit him at his enchanting island getaway. What develops is a confounding routine; at unexpected intervals, Brand summons his godchildren, only to wreak havoc on their lives and complicate their already conflicted opinions of him. The kids include arrogant and selfish Charlie, enthralled with Brand’s billions; lovable but drifting Jamie, out to score with his godfather’s girlfriends; beautiful Saffron, intermittently enamored with and indifferent to Brand’s romantic attentions; sweet Mary, yearning for Charlie’s affection; Stuart, plagued by his father’s role in the death of Marcus’s wife; and overweight, self-conscious Abigail, mesmerized but largely ignored by Brand. Told through the godchildren’s eyes over the course of three decades, Brand’s illicit passions and activities come to startling life, as well as the extraordinary impact he has on his charges, despite the paucity of their interactions. Coleridge’s latest family epic will hold readers spellbound. (Sept.)
