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Briefs Encountered
Whoever said the afterlife would be easy?
Noel Coward is the toast of twenties society..... A brilliant playwright, composer and entertainer whose witty songs and pithy lines don't quite tell the full story. Goldenhurst, his house in Kent, England, provides a place where he can be himself and more importantly where he can be with his lover, Jack, without fear of arrest or judgement....
But their romantic idyll is ruined, first by the arrival of Noel's demanding relatives and then a mysterious death...
Many years later, film star and Coward fan Richard Stent buys the house from it's current owner. But Richard has problems of his own. Goldenhurst is supposed to be a respite from all is worries but this is a house with a very rich and not always pleasant history and more than one thing is about to go bump in the night...
A haunting tale of love, obsession and a house full of spirits, not all of them blithe...
Julian Clary is one of Britain's most loved entertainers. His memoir A Young Man's Passage was a Sunday Times bestseller. He is the author of Murder Most Fab and Devil in Disguise, also published by Ebury Press. He lives in Camden and Kent.
Noel Coward is the toast of twenties society..... A brilliant playwright, composer and entertainer whose witty songs and pithy lines don't quite tell the full story. Goldenhurst, his house in Kent, England, provides a place where he can be himself and more importantly where he can be with his lover, Jack, without fear of arrest or judgement....
But their romantic idyll is ruined, first by the arrival of Noel's demanding relatives and then a mysterious death...
Many years later, film star and Coward fan Richard Stent buys the house from it's current owner. But Richard has problems of his own. Goldenhurst is supposed to be a respite from all is worries but this is a house with a very rich and not always pleasant history and more than one thing is about to go bump in the night...
A haunting tale of love, obsession and a house full of spirits, not all of them blithe...
Julian Clary is one of Britain's most loved entertainers. His memoir A Young Man's Passage was a Sunday Times bestseller. He is the author of Murder Most Fab and Devil in Disguise, also published by Ebury Press. He lives in Camden and Kent.
384 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
15 people are currently reading
157 people want to read
About the author
Julian Clary
51 books68 followersJulian Clary is an English comedian and novelist. Clary began appearing on television in the mid-1980s and became known for his deliberately stereotypical camp style. Since then he has also acted in films, television and stage productions, and was the winner of Celebrity Big Brother 10 in 2012.
Clary has released two large format comedy books: My Life With Fanny The Wonder Dog (1989) and How To Be A Man (1992).
Between 2005 and 2008, Clary wrote a fortnightly column for the New Statesman magazine. He has also published an autobiography, A Young Man's Passage, which covers his life and career up to the 1993 "Norman Lamont incident" at the British Comedy Awards. In 2007, Clary released his first novel, Murder Most Fab, published by Ebury Press. His second novel, Devil in Disguise, was published in 2009. His first book for children, The Bolds, was published by Andersen Press in 2015.
Adapted from Wikipedia.
Clary has released two large format comedy books: My Life With Fanny The Wonder Dog (1989) and How To Be A Man (1992).
Between 2005 and 2008, Clary wrote a fortnightly column for the New Statesman magazine. He has also published an autobiography, A Young Man's Passage, which covers his life and career up to the 1993 "Norman Lamont incident" at the British Comedy Awards. In 2007, Clary released his first novel, Murder Most Fab, published by Ebury Press. His second novel, Devil in Disguise, was published in 2009. His first book for children, The Bolds, was published by Andersen Press in 2015.
Adapted from Wikipedia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
May 12, 2023
I DNF-ed at 25%, then skimmed through the rest. I couldn’t get into this. I couldn’t find a plot, or interesting characters, or much humour. I like Julian Clary as a performer, but this book dragged on and didn’t seem to be going anywhere. Although, as I skipped through to the end, it all seemed to get quite dark and violent - so not the funny, frothy story I was looking for. Glad I ducked out early.
March 3, 2012
Briefs Encountered is another wonderfully wicked and camp novel by Julian Clary. The story revolves around Goldenhurst, a big house in the Kent countryside owned by both Noel Coward and his long term partner, Jack and then set in in the present where the house is owned by film star and Noel Coward fan, Richard Stent and his partner Fran.
The novel is set in two time periods the 1920's to 1950's and the present day but indelibly linked by strange goings on and hauntings at Goldenhurst. Julian manages to portray Noel Coward in a wonderfully realistic way trying to make his way in society writing his now famous plays and shows which featured in London's West End and New York's Broadway. Noel's relationship with Jack is very real and full of love which is kindled even further by their life together in idyllic Kent at the wonderful house. Until one summers day Jack spots the handsome gardener, Jude and then slowly seduces him betraying Noel and souring their relationship for good. Their idyll is then completely ruined by a mysterious death which leads to a rather nasty meeting with Detective Inspector Keaton who is tipped off by someone in the village that Noel and Jack are living together "in sin" which in those days was illegal.
The second part of the story set in the present is of Richard Stent, film star and Coward fan, who buys Goldenhurst from Mr Clary. Richard and his partner Fran make a new life there until Albie, The son of Richard's personal assistant, Jess Campbell decides to leave public school and live at Goldenhurst. Whilst Fran is away in the States on business, Albie sneaks into Richard's bed and begins a torrid affair with Richard, one in which he regrets bitterly and is hopelessly entangled in a messy business. It all comes to a climax when Richard is almost killed in a car accident and comes home to Goldenhurst to convalesce when a mentally damaged, Jess trying to get revenge on Richard for seducing her son, drugs Richard and holds him hostage in the cellar and plans to fatally wound him.......
I absolutely loved Briefs Encountered, a wicked, camp page-turner of a novel filled with love, betrayal, ghosts, murder and twists and turns. A wonderful read that had me laughing, cringing and even some tears at the end. Fantastic!
The novel is set in two time periods the 1920's to 1950's and the present day but indelibly linked by strange goings on and hauntings at Goldenhurst. Julian manages to portray Noel Coward in a wonderfully realistic way trying to make his way in society writing his now famous plays and shows which featured in London's West End and New York's Broadway. Noel's relationship with Jack is very real and full of love which is kindled even further by their life together in idyllic Kent at the wonderful house. Until one summers day Jack spots the handsome gardener, Jude and then slowly seduces him betraying Noel and souring their relationship for good. Their idyll is then completely ruined by a mysterious death which leads to a rather nasty meeting with Detective Inspector Keaton who is tipped off by someone in the village that Noel and Jack are living together "in sin" which in those days was illegal.
The second part of the story set in the present is of Richard Stent, film star and Coward fan, who buys Goldenhurst from Mr Clary. Richard and his partner Fran make a new life there until Albie, The son of Richard's personal assistant, Jess Campbell decides to leave public school and live at Goldenhurst. Whilst Fran is away in the States on business, Albie sneaks into Richard's bed and begins a torrid affair with Richard, one in which he regrets bitterly and is hopelessly entangled in a messy business. It all comes to a climax when Richard is almost killed in a car accident and comes home to Goldenhurst to convalesce when a mentally damaged, Jess trying to get revenge on Richard for seducing her son, drugs Richard and holds him hostage in the cellar and plans to fatally wound him.......
I absolutely loved Briefs Encountered, a wicked, camp page-turner of a novel filled with love, betrayal, ghosts, murder and twists and turns. A wonderful read that had me laughing, cringing and even some tears at the end. Fantastic!
April 5, 2013
Oh dear. I was actually quite looking forward to this. It's clear what Clary is aiming for,a humorous homage to Coward and his like. However, this ends up far more like a Carry On "wink, wink, nudge, nudge" film than a clever, wry look at society.
It's not all bad. There were moments that were amusing, but all in all this just didn't work for me.
It's not all bad. There were moments that were amusing, but all in all this just didn't work for me.
October 6, 2019
Interesting premise for this faction novel, and I enjoyed the potted history of Noel Coward's life.
Richard Stent, a fictional successful actor, buys Julian Clary's house, Goldenhurst, which was previously owned by Noel Coward. Richard and Noel's lives seem to run along similar veins; fame, lost love, and betrayal. Ghosts from the past are still in the house, and make their presence felt.
I thought this book would be funnier than it was, so was a bit disappointed. However, it was still a good read.
Richard Stent, a fictional successful actor, buys Julian Clary's house, Goldenhurst, which was previously owned by Noel Coward. Richard and Noel's lives seem to run along similar veins; fame, lost love, and betrayal. Ghosts from the past are still in the house, and make their presence felt.
I thought this book would be funnier than it was, so was a bit disappointed. However, it was still a good read.
December 2, 2015
I enjoyed this book. Julian Clary writes very well and has created an involving novel. It wasn't quite what I expected - given the title and his persona as an ultra-camp purveyor of double entendres I thought it would be a smut-filled comedy. While he doesn't shrink from occasional smut and there are certainly some very funny lines, this is actually a novel about love, trust and betrayal which is touching, thoughtful and quite scary in places.
The story is based around a house in Kent and cuts between its current occupants, a fictional present-day gay actor and his partner, and the 1920s when Noel Coward and his partner lived there. Julian Clary has plainly done a lot of research into Coward, but it is very lightly worn and I thought he painted a very thoughtful and convincing portrait of Coward and his life. The supernatural goings-on which link the two stories are delicately done and work well and I became very involved with the characters and their stories. The prose is a pleasure to read and the structure is very deftly done, but I must say that I thought the first half of the book needed editing. Julian Clary sets the scene and builds up his characters and their relationships very well, but it did go on a bit and I started to get rather bogged down by page 150 or so. It was worth persevering, though, because it all became very involving when the story really got going. I also thought that the touching and well-crafted close of the book was marred by the unnecessary addition of an Epilogue.
These are minor reservations, though. I can recommend this book as a well-written, readable and rewarding novel with a lot more depth than you might expect.
The story is based around a house in Kent and cuts between its current occupants, a fictional present-day gay actor and his partner, and the 1920s when Noel Coward and his partner lived there. Julian Clary has plainly done a lot of research into Coward, but it is very lightly worn and I thought he painted a very thoughtful and convincing portrait of Coward and his life. The supernatural goings-on which link the two stories are delicately done and work well and I became very involved with the characters and their stories. The prose is a pleasure to read and the structure is very deftly done, but I must say that I thought the first half of the book needed editing. Julian Clary sets the scene and builds up his characters and their relationships very well, but it did go on a bit and I started to get rather bogged down by page 150 or so. It was worth persevering, though, because it all became very involving when the story really got going. I also thought that the touching and well-crafted close of the book was marred by the unnecessary addition of an Epilogue.
These are minor reservations, though. I can recommend this book as a well-written, readable and rewarding novel with a lot more depth than you might expect.
April 13, 2012
Enjoyable little romp around a cottage in England, with two main protagonists, Noel (Coward) and Richard. It was easy enough to imagine Noel’s voice and mannerisms in my head when reading his sections of the story but It took a little while to get Julian Clary’s voice out of my head when reading Richard’s sections, not helped by Julian’s name on every other page. Once I had a well known 50ish Gay (but not camp) Holywood actor in my head I was able to push Julian aside.
That being said I really did enjoy the premise of the story set over two time periods and revolving around the lives and loves of the two successful thespians and a house with a character all of it’s own. Not to mention Julian popping in now and then sending himself up as only he can. Oh and a few ghosts.
As you would expect from Julian it is full of double entendres. Although there is sexual activity it isn’t overly explicit and romance features strongly. Julian has produced a clever little ‘play’ in and around the central character (the house), this could easily translate to the stage in Noel Coward tradition. The action really heats up towards the end with a few unexpected (to this reader) twists and turns. I found it humorous and full of wit and would recommend this as a light entertaining read. I would certainly read more of his work.
That being said I really did enjoy the premise of the story set over two time periods and revolving around the lives and loves of the two successful thespians and a house with a character all of it’s own. Not to mention Julian popping in now and then sending himself up as only he can. Oh and a few ghosts.
As you would expect from Julian it is full of double entendres. Although there is sexual activity it isn’t overly explicit and romance features strongly. Julian has produced a clever little ‘play’ in and around the central character (the house), this could easily translate to the stage in Noel Coward tradition. The action really heats up towards the end with a few unexpected (to this reader) twists and turns. I found it humorous and full of wit and would recommend this as a light entertaining read. I would certainly read more of his work.
July 29, 2012
Fab-u-lous. This is the best of Mr Clary's novels by far. He cleverly weaves the tales of occupiers past and present of Goldenhurst Manor, in the past, the great wit,playwright and actor Noel Coward and his hidden lover Jack and in the present actor and Hollywood sell out Richard Stent and his openly live in lover (who's constantly working away).
Richard buys the house from the awful Julian Clary after becoming obsessed with Coward, whilst playing him, but doesn't bargain for the fact the Mr Coward and several other former occupiers still "live" there and like to make their presence felt.
This is beautifully written in the style of a play and is of course naughty and hilariously funny as we'd from our Mr Clary (rather than the grubby version in this book) but it is also a thriller, who- dunnit and historical commentary and all in all a marvellously un-put-downable romp.
Richard buys the house from the awful Julian Clary after becoming obsessed with Coward, whilst playing him, but doesn't bargain for the fact the Mr Coward and several other former occupiers still "live" there and like to make their presence felt.
This is beautifully written in the style of a play and is of course naughty and hilariously funny as we'd from our Mr Clary (rather than the grubby version in this book) but it is also a thriller, who- dunnit and historical commentary and all in all a marvellously un-put-downable romp.
May 3, 2015
I have read one other Julian Clary novel and I absolutely loved it but I did not enjoy this book as much. For the first two thirds of the book pretty much nothing happens. The writing is good and the characters are well crafted and effective but there just is not enough plot to sustain for most of the book. I also do not like it when an author inserts themselves into the story and especially not when they use it to assassinate their own character in a thinly veiled ‘I’m self aware and can poke fun at an exaggerated version of my persona’ kind of way. There were bits I did like. I liked the way the twin stories had parallels and the juxtaposition of modern and historic attitudes to homosexuality and also the writing was excellent. I think I just didn’t get along with the book rather than there being anything particularly wrong with it.
January 3, 2015
NO SPOILERS!
Iv'e always liked Julian Clary. Growing up watching him on TV, with his make-up, saucy yet harmless innuendos (apart from the infamous Norman Lamont comment which basically finished his career), I'd always found him amusing. Yet to my surprise, when this book was recommended to me by a friend, I had no idea he'd been writing novels! So I decided give him a try.
The story centre's around two gay couples and a large 16th century house they at one point both couples have lived in.
Couple No.1 is the famous actor/playwright Noel Coward and his partner Jack.
Couple No.2 is Richard Stent (a middle aged fading actor) and his partner Fran.
Noel and Jack occupy the house from the 1920s through to the 1950s while Richard and Fran are living there in present day.
The story starts at present day and how Richard aquires the house from Julian Clary. The story then flips back and forth between both couples lifes at the house. You make think this sounds hard to follow but it really isn't. The chapters are short. The couples two stories almost seem to flow in tandem and at the end intertwine together.
Richard is looking for a place in the country side where he and Fran can escape London and get some piece and quiet when desired. Julian Clary is currently occupying the old house and is looking for a buyer. Richard hears of this and decides to take a look. The house is dilapidated and in dire need of repair but Richard can see with expensive renovations the house can be restored to it's former glory. But what really clinches the deal is when Julian reveals that Noel Coward used to live there. Richard is a huge fan of Coward's life and work. There and then he decides to purchase the house.
Within the month Richard has moved in. As the repairs are undertaken the house soon takes shape and Richard falls in love with it and it's surrounding grounds. He even goes so far as to buy the small cottage at the end of the drive so his totally devoted personal assistant and her son can live there in order for her to perform her job close to him rather than in London. As things unfold she becomes a little TOO devoted (all I'm going to say is think Annie Wilkes from Stephen King's Misery...)
Just as Stephen finishes moving his and Fran's belongings in he is paid a visit from his agent. Immediately on entering the house she emphatically declares that the house is haunted! She tells Richard she is slightly psychic and from her bag produces two small metal divining rods and proceeds to explore the house and in various rooms, stops and appears to have small conversations with someone. On reaching what will be Richard and Fran's bedroom and after some questions to nobody in particular she stops and tells Richard that Noel Cowards spirit is in the house.
With this news, Richard becomes even more enthrawlled by the house. He listens for him that night in bed, wishing for him to appear but all that occurs are some unexplained scuttling, creaking, groaning and banginging sounds...
Further strange experiences occur and once the house is completed and furnished Richard's longtime partner Fran moves in. Things seem idyllic to start with. Their love seems to grow stronger and they couldn't be happier but soon the dynamics of their relationship alter when Fran is called to L.A on business.
During Fran's absence, temptation is placed in Richards life with the most unlikely person...
I'm not going to say anymore about Richard and Fran's quality of time at the house, except that through the duration , amongst other things, they suffer very turbulent times.
I'll now move onto some of Noel and Jack's stay at the house.
It is the 1920s. The witty Noel is young, at the height of his fame and living the hectic glamorous lifestyle in London. He has found his life partner in the equally young, good-looking American, Jack. Although preferring the finer things in life Jack is not in awe of Noel's fame and circle of celebrity friends, but it's clear he is in love with Noel. However this is the 1920s, when homosexual relationships were illegal and the guilty parties could be imprisoned. Both realize that should their affair ever become public it would be the end of Noel's career.
Noel becomes exasperated that he and Jack can't display their love for one another and decides to find a country retreat away from prying eyes where they can express themselves naturally together. He discovers the old house in Kent and that it's up for rent. On seeing it he falls for it's charms and instantly takes out a several month lease on it.
He drives Jack to the house and he is equally stunned by it's rustic beauty.
They start off by staying at weekends. Their relationship blossoms and the love between them intensifies. The author conveys this so eloquently, beautifully and touching that regardless of whatever gender a couple is comprised of; love is love. Due to the fact they are enable to express their physical desire for one another with limitless abandon, their is the necessity for some sexual scenes. Now, I'm no prude but I have to say the author handles this in an extremely delicate way. The scenes are in noway graphic, only the inference is there yet the passion between two men is sincerely portrayed. I felt great pride for Julian in using this style (let's face it, he has been known to be a little smutty in the past), as he could so easily have gone into needless carnal detail that would have lowered the tone of a beautifully descriptive novel.
Noel and Jack are so happy at the house that Noel decides to buy it. They soon move in and employ house staff to attend to their every needs.
The unnerving bangs and groans quickly begin. Noel becomes curious about the house's history and previous residents. He questions the housekeeper on these matters and she nervously attempts to start to tell the story of a woman that previously inhabited the house but trails off fearing she's said too much. Noel decides not to press her about it.
Similarly like Richard and Fran, Noel and Jack's relationship begins to slowly change. Noel is increasingly huddled up in his study writing his plays, forever wishing to be undisturbed, causing Jack to become bored and to start drinking heavily. It's not long before Jack is also presented with a distraction from someone that is surprisingly unlikely (due to Jack's extremely high social standing).
Noel has an extremely intense bond with his mother and to Jack's annoyance moves her, his dad and his two Aunties into the home. Again the house starts behaving very oddly at the beginning of these additions.
Just as with Richard and Fran, things become out of control as life in the Coward household progresses.
That's all I feel I can say without spoiling the story.
In essence the story is about love, having to share love, the way in which (depending on the strength of love) certain obstacles in a relationship can be overcome and how other obstacles can destroy a different relationship no matter how long they've been together. And of course is this old house responsible for the obstacles encountered...
It's not a simple ghost story by any means but it does touch on the afterlife in an extremely optimistic way.
Julian Clary cleverly inserts himself into the story, only when absolutely necessary and without glorifying himself.
I was extremely impressed and surprised by this page turner of a novel and without sounding condescending, I didn't think Julian had it in him! I hope he continues writing.
If you are open-minded to gay relationships this book is definately worthy of your time.
Iv'e always liked Julian Clary. Growing up watching him on TV, with his make-up, saucy yet harmless innuendos (apart from the infamous Norman Lamont comment which basically finished his career), I'd always found him amusing. Yet to my surprise, when this book was recommended to me by a friend, I had no idea he'd been writing novels! So I decided give him a try.
The story centre's around two gay couples and a large 16th century house they at one point both couples have lived in.
Couple No.1 is the famous actor/playwright Noel Coward and his partner Jack.
Couple No.2 is Richard Stent (a middle aged fading actor) and his partner Fran.
Noel and Jack occupy the house from the 1920s through to the 1950s while Richard and Fran are living there in present day.
The story starts at present day and how Richard aquires the house from Julian Clary. The story then flips back and forth between both couples lifes at the house. You make think this sounds hard to follow but it really isn't. The chapters are short. The couples two stories almost seem to flow in tandem and at the end intertwine together.
Richard is looking for a place in the country side where he and Fran can escape London and get some piece and quiet when desired. Julian Clary is currently occupying the old house and is looking for a buyer. Richard hears of this and decides to take a look. The house is dilapidated and in dire need of repair but Richard can see with expensive renovations the house can be restored to it's former glory. But what really clinches the deal is when Julian reveals that Noel Coward used to live there. Richard is a huge fan of Coward's life and work. There and then he decides to purchase the house.
Within the month Richard has moved in. As the repairs are undertaken the house soon takes shape and Richard falls in love with it and it's surrounding grounds. He even goes so far as to buy the small cottage at the end of the drive so his totally devoted personal assistant and her son can live there in order for her to perform her job close to him rather than in London. As things unfold she becomes a little TOO devoted (all I'm going to say is think Annie Wilkes from Stephen King's Misery...)
Just as Stephen finishes moving his and Fran's belongings in he is paid a visit from his agent. Immediately on entering the house she emphatically declares that the house is haunted! She tells Richard she is slightly psychic and from her bag produces two small metal divining rods and proceeds to explore the house and in various rooms, stops and appears to have small conversations with someone. On reaching what will be Richard and Fran's bedroom and after some questions to nobody in particular she stops and tells Richard that Noel Cowards spirit is in the house.
With this news, Richard becomes even more enthrawlled by the house. He listens for him that night in bed, wishing for him to appear but all that occurs are some unexplained scuttling, creaking, groaning and banginging sounds...
Further strange experiences occur and once the house is completed and furnished Richard's longtime partner Fran moves in. Things seem idyllic to start with. Their love seems to grow stronger and they couldn't be happier but soon the dynamics of their relationship alter when Fran is called to L.A on business.
During Fran's absence, temptation is placed in Richards life with the most unlikely person...
I'm not going to say anymore about Richard and Fran's quality of time at the house, except that through the duration , amongst other things, they suffer very turbulent times.
I'll now move onto some of Noel and Jack's stay at the house.
It is the 1920s. The witty Noel is young, at the height of his fame and living the hectic glamorous lifestyle in London. He has found his life partner in the equally young, good-looking American, Jack. Although preferring the finer things in life Jack is not in awe of Noel's fame and circle of celebrity friends, but it's clear he is in love with Noel. However this is the 1920s, when homosexual relationships were illegal and the guilty parties could be imprisoned. Both realize that should their affair ever become public it would be the end of Noel's career.
Noel becomes exasperated that he and Jack can't display their love for one another and decides to find a country retreat away from prying eyes where they can express themselves naturally together. He discovers the old house in Kent and that it's up for rent. On seeing it he falls for it's charms and instantly takes out a several month lease on it.
He drives Jack to the house and he is equally stunned by it's rustic beauty.
They start off by staying at weekends. Their relationship blossoms and the love between them intensifies. The author conveys this so eloquently, beautifully and touching that regardless of whatever gender a couple is comprised of; love is love. Due to the fact they are enable to express their physical desire for one another with limitless abandon, their is the necessity for some sexual scenes. Now, I'm no prude but I have to say the author handles this in an extremely delicate way. The scenes are in noway graphic, only the inference is there yet the passion between two men is sincerely portrayed. I felt great pride for Julian in using this style (let's face it, he has been known to be a little smutty in the past), as he could so easily have gone into needless carnal detail that would have lowered the tone of a beautifully descriptive novel.
Noel and Jack are so happy at the house that Noel decides to buy it. They soon move in and employ house staff to attend to their every needs.
The unnerving bangs and groans quickly begin. Noel becomes curious about the house's history and previous residents. He questions the housekeeper on these matters and she nervously attempts to start to tell the story of a woman that previously inhabited the house but trails off fearing she's said too much. Noel decides not to press her about it.
Similarly like Richard and Fran, Noel and Jack's relationship begins to slowly change. Noel is increasingly huddled up in his study writing his plays, forever wishing to be undisturbed, causing Jack to become bored and to start drinking heavily. It's not long before Jack is also presented with a distraction from someone that is surprisingly unlikely (due to Jack's extremely high social standing).
Noel has an extremely intense bond with his mother and to Jack's annoyance moves her, his dad and his two Aunties into the home. Again the house starts behaving very oddly at the beginning of these additions.
Just as with Richard and Fran, things become out of control as life in the Coward household progresses.
That's all I feel I can say without spoiling the story.
In essence the story is about love, having to share love, the way in which (depending on the strength of love) certain obstacles in a relationship can be overcome and how other obstacles can destroy a different relationship no matter how long they've been together. And of course is this old house responsible for the obstacles encountered...
It's not a simple ghost story by any means but it does touch on the afterlife in an extremely optimistic way.
Julian Clary cleverly inserts himself into the story, only when absolutely necessary and without glorifying himself.
I was extremely impressed and surprised by this page turner of a novel and without sounding condescending, I didn't think Julian had it in him! I hope he continues writing.
If you are open-minded to gay relationships this book is definately worthy of your time.
January 16, 2024
I thought this might be quite an entertaining read when I picked it up in the library, and so it turned out to be. About one third of the way through I wondered where it was going, and if it was just a bit too silly (and gay) for me to continue with, but I'm glad I did. In fact, I was quite sorry to finish it.
Is this original Julian Clary - to construe Noel Coward as the 'man with the golden pun'? Very clever if it is. Anyway, I assume that the research into Noel Coward's life has been thorough, and reflected accurately in this work, especially the role of Jack Webster.
The book alternates chapters between present day and days in the life of Coward, from the 1920's to late in his life. The protagonist, Richard, is a great admirer of Coward, and purchases a large house that was once the home of Coward. The seller is one Julian Clary; he appears several times in the book, more often than not being portrayed as beneath contempt. Obviously Clary thoroughly enjoys putting himself down.
The parallels between Richard's and Noel's characters and careers are explored, but not boringly so, but enough to make you realise how things have changed, especially the risks homosexuals took in Coward's day.
Some very clever writing, a murder or two, a car crash, relationships going from ecstatic to dangerously poisonous, some supernatural events, and some scenes from the afterlife make this a fun read and quite a page-turner.
Is this original Julian Clary - to construe Noel Coward as the 'man with the golden pun'? Very clever if it is. Anyway, I assume that the research into Noel Coward's life has been thorough, and reflected accurately in this work, especially the role of Jack Webster.
The book alternates chapters between present day and days in the life of Coward, from the 1920's to late in his life. The protagonist, Richard, is a great admirer of Coward, and purchases a large house that was once the home of Coward. The seller is one Julian Clary; he appears several times in the book, more often than not being portrayed as beneath contempt. Obviously Clary thoroughly enjoys putting himself down.
The parallels between Richard's and Noel's characters and careers are explored, but not boringly so, but enough to make you realise how things have changed, especially the risks homosexuals took in Coward's day.
Some very clever writing, a murder or two, a car crash, relationships going from ecstatic to dangerously poisonous, some supernatural events, and some scenes from the afterlife make this a fun read and quite a page-turner.
July 12, 2023
Although I wasn't wildly excited by Clary's The Bolds book I read a few years ago, this is a totally different kettle of fish. At 360 pages, this is quite a long tale which follows the going-on at a large manor house in Kent, by flitting between the 1930s-1950s when Noel Coward was the owner, and the modern day, when the fictional actor Richard Stent was the owner, having bought it from Julian Clary, playing a fictional version of himself in the story. This peculiar inclusion brings about arguably the best parts of the book, where the author sends himself up and is occasionally quite hilarious, especially in the first 100 pages or so. Around the middle of the book, things turn a little romantic, bitchy and unseemly, with adult scenes and strong language. The whole book is very gay oriented, and were it not for that slant on events, this Blithe Spirits inspired story about a spooky house would be very humdrum indeed. I almost gave up around page 150-250. However, Clary writes rather well with some amusing dashes of wit and Coward-esque turns of phrase, plus his digs at minor celebrities are fun too. I'm not sure I would embark on reading another such inconsequential tome, but it was alright this once. 3.75/5
April 13, 2022
I'm not entirely sure *what* I was expecting from this novel written by The Artiste Formerly Known As The Joan Collins Fan Club. However, what I got was a charmingly mischievous tale of love, scandal, ghosts, and Noël Coward, set both in Coward's life-time and the modern day.
Vividly written and well-researched (Clary is a massive Coward afficianado), the story drew me in and kept me hugely entertained with its cast of extraordinary characters. Names are dropped (David Tennant, Dame Judi Dench, Stephen Fry and Eamon Holmes, e.g.), and Paul O'Grady and Julian himself appear as cartoon versions of themselves.
This is an often surprisingly dark, touching and romantic tale, full of colour and incident. It's also delightfully light and romps along at a steady pace: a great book for the beach or a sunny summer garden.
Vividly written and well-researched (Clary is a massive Coward afficianado), the story drew me in and kept me hugely entertained with its cast of extraordinary characters. Names are dropped (David Tennant, Dame Judi Dench, Stephen Fry and Eamon Holmes, e.g.), and Paul O'Grady and Julian himself appear as cartoon versions of themselves.
This is an often surprisingly dark, touching and romantic tale, full of colour and incident. It's also delightfully light and romps along at a steady pace: a great book for the beach or a sunny summer garden.
November 26, 2019
Blithe Spirit is one of Noel Coward's most famous plays. I actually saw the production in London a few years ago with the iconic Angela Lansbury and was blown away with how incredible it is... How then can you transport that world into the modern world? Julian Clary succeeds in Briefs Encountered. A real page turner with laughs and shocks a plenty. The only thing I didn't enjoy was his casting of himself and the way he puts himself down. You'll understand what I mean if you read the book. I think Julian deserves more than that. He's a brilliant artist and writer but from reading what he wrote about himself, maybe he doesn't have a lot of self-confidence, which is a real shame as he is incredibly talented.
August 25, 2021
If there are any unquiet forces in Goldenhurst Manor, I hope they are harassing Julian Clary to write more novels. There are so many reasons why this shouldn't work: the two timelines requiring very different voices, the plot centering around Noël Coward, that it's about the author's own house and that the author himself makes frequent appearances. Yet work it does. That it would be an entertaining, witty read seems a given considering the author, but this book also contains a great deal of heart too. It may be a forlorn hope, but I do hope the muse visits Goldenhurst Manor once more.
November 25, 2025
Absorbing!
I really should read his books in order, I'm jumping from one to another without any due care and attention!
Really good fun, several different voices telling the story of the latter years of a glorious but troubled house. Some lovely snarky third party references to Julian Clary, renowned homosexual, whoever he is!!
Right, next!
I really should read his books in order, I'm jumping from one to another without any due care and attention!
Really good fun, several different voices telling the story of the latter years of a glorious but troubled house. Some lovely snarky third party references to Julian Clary, renowned homosexual, whoever he is!!
Right, next!
September 16, 2017
A wonderful, whimsical romp through just about every literary genre possible. Made a horrible few days so much better, and I look forward to reading or, even better, listening to more., especially if read by the inimitable author!
September 15, 2019
I was amazed that I really enjoyed this.
Julian Clary appears a little too often and is put down.
However, the research into Noel Coward has obviously been very thorough, and it holds together very well.
Julian Clary appears a little too often and is put down.
However, the research into Noel Coward has obviously been very thorough, and it holds together very well.
May 28, 2023
I was expecting a book with crazy ghosts annoying people. What I got was crazy people having to deal with their ghosts. More mature than his other books, lulls a bit in the middle but light hearted humour keeps it going.
August 23, 2020
Much to my surprise I loved it - very clever & well written.
July 20, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. The Noel Coward references are great and made me want to look into his life a bit more.
August 7, 2023
Fun, light hearted, camp story which was needed after reading a few heavy going ones!
August 14, 2023
Loved this - his voice is soothing and suited the characters perfectly. Interesting facts and fiction along the way.
September 22, 2024
A wicked novel. Full of action, romance, horror and humour.
November 13, 2024
I never found anything wickedly witty as promised in the blurb, and gave up entirely on page 246.
October 18, 2016
Lots of plot twists. Very funny.
November 4, 2023
The audio was such a joy - with Julian Clary reading his own work, all the jokes and inflections landed perfectly. And somehow the last couple of chapters made me cry in the middle of the supermarket. Better not listen to audiobooks while doing the groceries anymore.
March 9, 2012
I adored Julian Clary’s last novel, the deliciously bitchy Devil in Disguise, so was very excited to get my hands on his new offering and wasn’t in the least disappointed; this is, if anything, even better than his last.
Set simultaneously in the present day and the 1930s, Briefs Encountered parallels the real-life story of Noel Coward’s doomed love affair with the love of his life, Jack Wilson - and a fictional tale, of successful actor Richard Stent and his lover, Fran. Fran’s acting career is taking off in America as ageing Richard’s is losing momentum back home in England. Is history about to repeat itself? Well yes… and no - and to say more would spoil the book completely.
The house itself – Goldenhurst, once Cowards home and now Clary’s – is almost a character in its own right, it certainly seems to have a mind of its own and opinions on the behaviour of its inhabitants. Julian Clary writes himself in as the former owner, driven away –in a delicious parody of Coward’s famous comedy, Blithe Spirit - when a drunken séance shakes a host of ghosts awake, ghosts who continue to haunt the new owner, including Noel Coward himself. It seems the ghosts know something Richard doesn’t; are they trying to scare him off, or warn him?
As well as Clary himself, other celebs make guest-appearances, most notably Paul O Grady ( the author’s close personal friend and neighbour). Most of the comedy is to be found in these passages, and the comedy is pure Julian Clary, all bitchy observation and camp-asides, all of it gloriously laugh-out-loud funny.
But, delicious as the comedy is, it's just the froth, resting lightly on the surface of a much darker tale, of betrayal, madness, jealousy and revenge that spans the decades.
Packed with humour, wit, warmth, pathos, dark tragedy and a pleasing twist at the end, this is a rattling good read; wonderful material for a TV miniseries or film. Julian Clary is proving himself to be a first class novelist, I can’t wait to see what he writes next.
Set simultaneously in the present day and the 1930s, Briefs Encountered parallels the real-life story of Noel Coward’s doomed love affair with the love of his life, Jack Wilson - and a fictional tale, of successful actor Richard Stent and his lover, Fran. Fran’s acting career is taking off in America as ageing Richard’s is losing momentum back home in England. Is history about to repeat itself? Well yes… and no - and to say more would spoil the book completely.
The house itself – Goldenhurst, once Cowards home and now Clary’s – is almost a character in its own right, it certainly seems to have a mind of its own and opinions on the behaviour of its inhabitants. Julian Clary writes himself in as the former owner, driven away –in a delicious parody of Coward’s famous comedy, Blithe Spirit - when a drunken séance shakes a host of ghosts awake, ghosts who continue to haunt the new owner, including Noel Coward himself. It seems the ghosts know something Richard doesn’t; are they trying to scare him off, or warn him?
As well as Clary himself, other celebs make guest-appearances, most notably Paul O Grady ( the author’s close personal friend and neighbour). Most of the comedy is to be found in these passages, and the comedy is pure Julian Clary, all bitchy observation and camp-asides, all of it gloriously laugh-out-loud funny.
But, delicious as the comedy is, it's just the froth, resting lightly on the surface of a much darker tale, of betrayal, madness, jealousy and revenge that spans the decades.
Packed with humour, wit, warmth, pathos, dark tragedy and a pleasing twist at the end, this is a rattling good read; wonderful material for a TV miniseries or film. Julian Clary is proving himself to be a first class novelist, I can’t wait to see what he writes next.
April 16, 2012
I read an article about this book a while back in the Mail and knew I just had to read it. It really has lived up to my expectations and in fact exceeded them. It is a great read! The twists and turns will make the hairs on your neck stand on end! It takes you to places you never would have imagined it would go - past, present and even the future.
The premise of the story is actually loosely based on reality. You meet Richard Stent who is a rich and famous actor known for amongst other things his portrayal of Noel Coward. He gets so under Noel's skin that he starts to collect all things Coward-esq. He discovers that none other than Julian Clary lives in Mr Cowards old house, Goldenhurst Old Manor and as luck would have it is looking to sell up. Julian has written himself into the book BRILLIANTLY. He is so self deprecating and writes himself in as his worst critic might view him, to hilarious ends...
The relationships of Noel and his partner Jack in the 30s and Richard and Fran in the present day are beautifully written. You really get a feel for their relationships and also how they had to live in those times compared to the lives we lead today. Julian very cleverly switches between these two times frames, taking it a chapter in turn.
Once Richard has moved into the house, it soon makes its feelings known. I will of course not give anything away, just to say that I had no idea where the book would take me but very much enjoyed the journey. It comprises of comedy, horror, people, life really as we know it now and knew it then.
I highly recommend it.
The premise of the story is actually loosely based on reality. You meet Richard Stent who is a rich and famous actor known for amongst other things his portrayal of Noel Coward. He gets so under Noel's skin that he starts to collect all things Coward-esq. He discovers that none other than Julian Clary lives in Mr Cowards old house, Goldenhurst Old Manor and as luck would have it is looking to sell up. Julian has written himself into the book BRILLIANTLY. He is so self deprecating and writes himself in as his worst critic might view him, to hilarious ends...
The relationships of Noel and his partner Jack in the 30s and Richard and Fran in the present day are beautifully written. You really get a feel for their relationships and also how they had to live in those times compared to the lives we lead today. Julian very cleverly switches between these two times frames, taking it a chapter in turn.
Once Richard has moved into the house, it soon makes its feelings known. I will of course not give anything away, just to say that I had no idea where the book would take me but very much enjoyed the journey. It comprises of comedy, horror, people, life really as we know it now and knew it then.
I highly recommend it.
October 21, 2012
I’ve never read any of the previous books written by Julian Clary and so I turned to the first page with open eyes.
This is story is written about two Gay actors in two-time periods. Set in the present day you meet Richard Stent as he purchases a run down house that is on the market by no other than Julian Clary! The other part of the story starts the 1920′s when Noel Coward buys the very same house. Richard is so fascinated with Noel that he puts up with the strange goings on in the house just to be near his idle.
There is so much more to the house that just a past! Very cleverly written with comical elements and name dropping like you’ve never seen before. This book follows two lives at two different time periods but the two are so connected. It’s very interesting to read about an Actor that I’ve heard so much about and whilst I don’t know how accurate Julian Clary has portrayed Noel Coward, I was so captivated as I read about how being Gay in his time was totally out of the question and the extent that he went to try to hide it.
There are lots of chapters where the story will surprise you about as you turn the pages, with a haunted elements running all the way through. I throughly enjoyed this book and was hooked from page one – Fabulous read!
Very cleverly named book!
This is story is written about two Gay actors in two-time periods. Set in the present day you meet Richard Stent as he purchases a run down house that is on the market by no other than Julian Clary! The other part of the story starts the 1920′s when Noel Coward buys the very same house. Richard is so fascinated with Noel that he puts up with the strange goings on in the house just to be near his idle.
There is so much more to the house that just a past! Very cleverly written with comical elements and name dropping like you’ve never seen before. This book follows two lives at two different time periods but the two are so connected. It’s very interesting to read about an Actor that I’ve heard so much about and whilst I don’t know how accurate Julian Clary has portrayed Noel Coward, I was so captivated as I read about how being Gay in his time was totally out of the question and the extent that he went to try to hide it.
There are lots of chapters where the story will surprise you about as you turn the pages, with a haunted elements running all the way through. I throughly enjoyed this book and was hooked from page one – Fabulous read!
Very cleverly named book!
no-intention-of-reading
August 1, 2016Sometimes I buy a book purely based on the cover. It doesn't happen very often but some covers just scream: 'Pick me! I'm so beautiful!'.
Still it happens often enough that it is not that unusual for me.
But to be repulsed with a cover... that happens almost never. To see it and think: 'Yeah, no.'
This was one of those covers.
To me it was so obviously meant for the female audience. Like all those covers a few years back on the books of the 'chicklit' genre. I was so glad to see those gone. So my repulsion is partly a personal taste.
But also... In our masculine society would a man buy this book? I mean kuddo's for every man who would buy this without shame. But realistically... would they? I say this because, you know the book is about two men loving each other. In my head that means that men are also the targeted audience. And this cover is not very gender neutral is it? Not in our society as it is today.
I don't know why this specific cover bugs me so much because I see the same thing in urban fantasy over and over again.
Still. It does and just like that I have no intention of reading this book.
Still it happens often enough that it is not that unusual for me.
But to be repulsed with a cover... that happens almost never. To see it and think: 'Yeah, no.'
This was one of those covers.
To me it was so obviously meant for the female audience. Like all those covers a few years back on the books of the 'chicklit' genre. I was so glad to see those gone. So my repulsion is partly a personal taste.
But also... In our masculine society would a man buy this book? I mean kuddo's for every man who would buy this without shame. But realistically... would they? I say this because, you know the book is about two men loving each other. In my head that means that men are also the targeted audience. And this cover is not very gender neutral is it? Not in our society as it is today.
I don't know why this specific cover bugs me so much because I see the same thing in urban fantasy over and over again.
Still. It does and just like that I have no intention of reading this book.
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