Laura Spence-Ashe is set to release her new novel, “The Thing You Most Wanted,” which offers a contemporary take on Edith Wharton’s classic work, “The Age of Innocence.” The book, scheduled for publication next year by William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, has garnered attention not only for its fresh perspective on a literary masterpiece but also for the author’s familial connection to Wharton herself.
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At the heart of “The Thing You Most Wanted” is Virginia Bowman, whose seemingly stable life is overturned when her daughter announces her engagement. This development compels Virginia to confront a secret she has guarded for decades. The narrative begins in the vibrant New York City of the 1960s, where Virginia first arrived as an aspiring media personality, newly engaged to Don, a member of a prominent family. However, a fateful encounter at the Metropolitan Opera alters the course of her life after she meets Leonard, Don’s cousin and an unconventional painter.
The relationship that blooms between Virginia and Leonard stands in stark contrast to the life she shares with Don. As Virginia finds herself torn between societal expectations and her own desires, the plot encapsulates a modern spin on the love triangle that characterised Wharton’s original tale. This fresh retelling reexamines the themes of love, betrayal, and the choices women face, particularly in the context of shifting societal norms.
Spence-Ashe’s connection to Wharton adds an intriguing layer to the novel. Wharton, who was the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction with “The Age of Innocence,” is not just a literary ancestor; she is also a distant relative of Spence-Ashe, with the two linked through their families. This personal connection drives the author’s desire to reimagine a story that has endured for over a century.
“I loved writing this novel,” Spence-Ashe stated in an interview. “It was a joy spending time with Edith Wharton’s classic tale of the Gilded Age, and to figure out how to reimagine it for the world of New York City in the 1960s. I can’t wait for readers to meet Virginia, Don, and Len!”
The novel promises readers an engaging exploration of the complexities of love and identity against the backdrop of a city constantly in flux. With its modern twist, “The Thing You Most Wanted” aims to resonate with contemporary audiences while honouring the original themes that Wharton so masterfully articulated.
Laura Spence-Ashe made her literary debut with the highly praised novel “Beyond That, The Sea,” which was released in 2023. With this new work, she continues to build her reputation as a compelling storyteller with a keen ability to weave personal narratives into the fabric of broader literary contexts.
Set to be released on June 1, 2027, “The Thing You Most Wanted” is already available for preorder at various book retailers. Given Spence-Ashe’s solid track record and the intriguing premise of the novel, it is likely to generate significant interest among readers looking for their next gripping read.
As there is a growing appetite for retellings and modern adaptations of classic literature, Spence-Ashe’s novel is poised to attract both fans of Wharton and new readers alike, eager to delve into the lives of Virginia, Don, and Leonard amid the rich tapestry of 1960s New York City.
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