Subscribe and get 10% off!
Be the first to know about new collections and special offers.
The House of Doors is a captivating tale set in the vibrant backdrop of 1921 Penang, where the lives of three individuals intertwine in profound ways. Robert Hamlyn, a lawyer, and his wife Lesley extend their hospitality to the renowned but troubled writer, Willie Somerset Maugham. As Willie grapples with personal turmoil, including an unhappy marriage and ill-health, he is also struggling to write.
Amidst the idyllic yet turbulent setting, Lesley’s burgeoning friendship with Willie unveils layers of his masked identity and hidden vulnerabilities. As the days pass, their conversations deepen, allowing Lesley to reveal her own secrets. Among them is how she came to know the charismatic revolutionary Dr Sun Yat Sen and, more scandalous still, her connection to an Englishwoman's murder trial in the Kuala Lumpur courts.
Tan Twan Eng’s narrative is rich with atmospheric detail and emotional depth, exploring themes of identity, isolation, and the complexities of human relationships. Through beautifully crafted prose, the novel delves into the interplay of art and life, reflecting on the burdens of creativity and the weight of personal history.
Readers who appreciate intricate character studies and historical drama may find themselves enthralled by Tan Twan Eng’s storytelling.
With each turn of the page, The House of Doors invites readers into a world of introspection and revelation, leaving a lasting impression long after the final chapter is closed.
Be the first to know about new collections and special offers.
Delivery: In-stock orders are dispatched within 1 working day (Monday–Friday). Standard UK delivery is £2.99, free on orders over £35, and usually takes 2–4 working days after dispatch. Express International delivery is available to 21 more countries — see our Shipping Policy.
Returns: Free 30-day returns on UK orders. If a book arrives damaged, faulty or not as described, we'll refund or replace it free of charge — you usually won't need to send it back. Changed your mind? Contact us within 30 days of delivery. International orders also have 30 days: damaged or faulty books are refunded or replaced free; if you change your mind, the return postage is yours. Refund policy.
Sourcing: All books are brand new, sourced direct from UK publishers and distributors. We buy in bulk to pass the savings on to you.
Free 30-day returns on UK orders. If a book arrives damaged, faulty or not as described, we'll refund or replace it free of charge — you usually won't need to send it back. Changed your mind? Contact us within 30 days of delivery. International orders also have 30 days: damaged or faulty books are refunded or replaced free; if you change your mind, the return postage is yours. Read our refund policy.
In-stock orders are dispatched within 1 working day (Monday–Friday), and UK delivery usually takes 2–4 working days after dispatch. For Express International delivery to 21 more countries, see our Shipping Policy.
Yes. Seen the same new book (same ISBN and format) cheaper at a UK retailer? Email support@foxandfable.com before you buy and we'll send you a code to match their price. Delivery charges aren't included. See our Price Match Guarantee for eligible retailers.
Standard UK delivery is £2.99, and free on orders over £35. We also offer Express International delivery to 21 more countries — see our Shipping Policy for rates.
Yes — all of our books are brand new, sourced direct from UK publishers and distributors. By buying in bulk direct from publishers and distributors, we secure lower trade costs and pass those savings on to you.