"The Flight from the Enchanter", by Iris Murdoch

Novel, 1956

A novel which starts with a good deal of energy and potential, but which doesn't entirely succeed under the weight of a large number of characters. Most of these are well drawn and interesting, although it's hard to feel much sympathy or connection with any of them, except - perhaps - Rose. The subsequent dreamy detached atmosphere is perfectly enjoyable, though events drift to an unsatisfactory end. Some great scenes and settings, though overall, not especially riveting.