A Desirable Husband, first published in 1987, was the third novel by the prodigiously gifted Frances Vernon (1963-91).

Finola Molloy - first introduced to readers as the daughter of the bohemian Alice in Vernon's acclaimed debutPrivileged Children (1982) - has grown up and married Gerard Parnell, barrister and heir to a Derbyshire estate. They are living happily in London with two small children when Gerard, quite unexpectedly, comes into his inheritance. And yet this gracious living - however fortunate it initially appears - will prove to be unexpectedly challenging to both partners in the marriage.

'Frances Vernon is an absolute wonder.' Sunday Mirror

'Subtle hints of Barbara Pym or Ivy Compton-Burnett.' The Lady