The Weight of Angels

by John Boyne

A forthcoming book from Henry Holt scheduled to publish in Fall 2026.

Genres: Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical, Ireland, Literary Fiction, Queer, Novels

592 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication September 29, 2026

About the author

I was born in Dublin, Ireland, and studied English Literature at Trinity College, Dublin, and Creative Writing at the University of East Anglia, Norwich. In 2015, I was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Letters by UEA.

I’ve published 14 novels for adults, 6 novels for younger readers, and a short story collection. The Boy In The Striped Pyjamas was a New York Times no.1 Bestseller and was adapted for a feature film, a play, a ballet and an opera, selling around 11 million copies worldwide.

Among my most popular books are The Heart’s Invisible Furies, A Ladder to the Sky and My Brother’s Name is Jessica.

I’m also a regular book reviewer for The Irish Times.

In 2012, I was awarded the Hennessy Literary ‘Hall of Fame’ Award for my body of work. I’ve also won 4 Irish Book Awards, and many international literary awards, including the Que Leer Award for Novel of the Year in Spain and the Gustav Heinemann Peace Prize in Germany. In 2015, I was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from the University of East Anglia.

My novels are published in 58 languages.

My 14th adult novel, ALL THE BROKEN PLACES, a sequel and companion novel to THE BOY IN THE STRIPED PYJAMAS, will be published in the UK on September 15th 2022, in the US and Canada on November 29th, and in many foreign language editions in late 2022 and 2023.

Reviews

[Amina · Rating 3 out of 5]

✰ 3.25 stars ✰

“I'll be remembered long after I'm gone.”

I don't know if it was a wise decision to have John Boyne's latest historical fiction as my second ever read of his, but as someone who has read a few of Oscar Wilde's works, the idea that had I made a different decision, my entire life might have taken a different course certainly sounded intriguing. After the point that would've been the end of Wilde's life, I paused my reading and did a quick Wikipedia read to get a brief insight into true historical facts. It certainly helped a little bit along the way to see how real-life personal events would make their appearance.

And it is an ambitious and creative alternate reality about the life that could've been. But, in attempting to cover such an expansive range, I found it difficult to be immersed in or care about any of the meet-and-greets. Hollywood bored me; some persons mattered little, and it was also aggravating that in the moments that deserved some emotional depth, as in some actual response from Wilde, the author switched to either meta snippets (letters or plays) or time jumps.

Where I could have gone into the heart of Oscar's emotions, it avoided that deep dive, dodging the emotional stages by switching to a different perspective to relay the moments. The painful parts never allowed us to fully feel the weight of certain losses. His admitted folly, the lusting desire for younger men, seemed to merit more of a mention, which makes me wonder, was it deliberate to put him in a bad light or silently admonishing him for his past urges that led to Bosie's eventual fate—the person who replaced him in fiction over reality?

“Love was hard found, after all, and should never be taken for granted.”

It was odd that I only really felt something with Oscar's scenes with Bosie, almost as if there was guilt for having him replace him as the one convicted of the crime he committed. The real-life person - not so much deserving. However, this fight for gay love being recognized and accepted is one of the prevailing themes that follows Wilde over the course of history, amidst his past follies—that not speaking up or taking action is in its own way denying his own existence as a gay man.

The continuous allusion to certain older men's penchant for younger men, if not boys, either for their flattery and admiration or simply companionship, was often perplexing and unnerving, if not sometimes unnecessary. If there was a valid reason, I wasn't able to find it. There was also one totally unrelated bathroom encounter that I could have lived without; I just could not understand the need for its inclusion. It may seem like I'm the kind of person who clutches her pearls at the slightest indecency, which I'm not, but I just saw no reason for it...

“Lengthy novels, I feel, are so self-indulgent. Can it really take six hundred pages to tell a story?”

I couldn't decide if this is sarcasm or some clever tongue-in-cheek from JB addressing the daunting and exhausting length of his own novel. (As if my review isn't exceeding the limits of what a review should be!) While I understand the need to cover a great length of his life had it lived, no way was there any real reason to have it span more than a half a century to allow him the window of opportunity to converse with and encounter various famous figures along the way - an impressive blend of notable literary, political, cultural, and historical figures of the arts and their illustrious careers.

But my heart never felt for these characters that popped in and out. I was never allowed enough time for the feelings and emotions to develop; rather, I was inundated with various vignettes of conversations and meetings, overwhelmed with pithy dialogue and candid smartness. Wilde's own influence and contribution as the years progressed were always depicted with a stifled hand, almost as if even with the what-if scenario, it didn't allow him to have that much of a say. Never an active participant, but restrained, simply watching from the sidelines where everything really is just a matter of opinion with words.

“I wanted to be a writer. And I became a writer. That is how I spent my life. Sometimes loved; sometimes scolded. Sometimes celebrated. Sometimes loathed. Sometimes a force for change; sometimes my own worst enemy. But I was always read.”

Through a lifetime of arguments, laughter, accusations, recriminations, there were some personal relationships that felt sincere and believable. Moments that made me chuckle at the subtle jabs at certain relevant persons; the slight humor in which Oscar poked fun at himself; the referral to the weight of angels that echoed his own heartache and regret, which made my own ache, as well.

It was his final deliverance that yielded his innermost truths that captured the longing for an acceptance of an intimacy so innate that to simply be criminalized for a reciprocal love between men who both desired and treasured each other is actually the only offense, one that serves as a bittersweet reminder of how opinions still have not changed entirely even today.

And what triumphs over all my gripes is the preservation of his legacy - that he's more than just a name but a voice that survives. The worth of his literary contribution continues to draw audiences to witness and indulge in the wit and charm that made him the irrevocable and widely regarded and quoted Oscar Wilde.

P.S. A strange thing to point out, but I was happy to find some editing errors. Yes, I know it shouldn't matter in an ARC, but idk, I found it humbling...

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Please, call me Oscar. All my enemies do.”

Before picking up The Weight of Angels, I knew next to nothing about Oscar Wilde’s personal life. After finishing it, I feel like an expert, despite the fact that this book is a reimagining of history. John Boyne explores a fascinating premise: What if Wilde had never spent those two torturous years in prison for his sexuality and didn't pass away as early as he did?

Boyne is a masterclass in writing. This 600-page clunker is essentially one long, brilliant conversation between Wilde and a rotating cast of historical icons. While the dialogue is brilliant, the epistolary sections were the true highlight for me. These letters provided an intimate, raw glimpse into Wilde’s mind that even the grandest dinner party conversations couldn't capture. I found myself in the room with figures I previously only knew from history books, including:

Katherine Hepburn
Bram & Florence Stoker (is it Dracula or Dribula?)
W.B. Yeats (Willie)
Winston Churchill
Rudyard Kipling
Sir Conan Doyle

The book serves as a rich historical tapestry viewed through Wilde’s eyes, spanning from the late 1890s to the mid-1950s. You witness the world change through two World Wars and the birth of new technologies, all while feeling like a literal fly on the wall during champagne soaked discussions of art and global affairs.

“We will drink champagne together, publicly, and discuss global affairs with the intelligence and wit for which we are both celebrated. Then we will make cruel comments about casual acquaintances, focusing on their hairstyles, which we secretly admire, and their infidelities, which we secretly envy.”

Yet, beneath the humor lies a profound sadness. The book highlights the enduring hatred directed toward the gay community, making Wilde’s search for reciprocal love feel both beautiful and tragic.

“A reciprocal love between men who both desired and treasured each other. Even the idea made him feel a wealth of sorrow, for such contentment, he was certain, would surely be impossible to find.”

If I’m being honest, there were times I felt the book might be, too smart for me. At 600 pages, I occasionally found myself confused or drifting, but I recognize that as a personal hurdle rather than a flaw in Boyne’s writing.

Regardless of the length, the book is a treasure trove of quotable gems.

“Happiness, like grammar, are overrated.”

"The modern world is riddled with hypocrisy, and it’s not just the men who suffer.”

"One must never remain too long in the city of one’s birth; it’s so much more romantic to live in exile.”

If Oscar Wilde is your favorite historical figure, this book will be a dream read. It is a stunning tribute to, what could have been, and I suspect Wilde himself would have absolutely loved it.

Thank you Henry Holt for the advanced copy!

[Carly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Of the twenty Boyne texts I have read, to-date, I have loved eighteen. The other two I rated 3/5, and unfortunately this was once of them.

When I saw the initial social media post hinting at this novel, I was so very excited; another Boyne novel – and not just any Boyne novel, an Oscar Wilde Boyne novel! I thought I was its target audience. Needless to say, I was wrong.

I think on some level the fact that some of the 4- and 5-star reviews are from people who hadn’t had much prior exposure to Wilde may account for our different experiences and opinions of this novel. But I entered into this, having come to know Wilde. Through meeting his grandson at an event by the Oscar Wilde Society, visiting Paris solely to see Pere Lachaise… I have lived and loved researching the history of Oscar Wilde. That’s why I was so excited for this book.

I first began to struggle when the fictional trial maintained the confidence and eloquence of the real trial, because it didn’t entirely align with the Lord Alfred Douglas as historical accounts presented him – it still largely felt like Wilde’s trial. When the novel reached Clapham Junction, I again began to question whether the real events there would have played out the same way for Douglas given that he didn’t have the reputation of Wilde – the novel itself, towards its conclusion, notes that Douglas’ name had faded into history.

Initially, historical accuracy was my main concern, but then things… changed.

As we move towards the largely fictional aspects – the post-1900 scene – we’re faced with a gradually growing social commentary on the modern-day told through the actions of a 20th century, historical and parodical fiction. Before reaching half-way we see the holy trinity of ‘rage-bait’ jokes: American intellect, religion (Catholicism), and – of course – gender transitions. Each, more than once. What began as a joke soon became tiresome and predictable.

More than once I found myself thinking that this is not what I’d have expected from one who wrote The Echo Chamber, but by the end, with the multitude of historical figures interposed, it seemed like this book was indeed an amalgamation of The Echo Chamber and Traveller At The Gates Of Wisdom.

I thought it could be me, reading into things, but then I’d face a perfectly transparent line such as: “there is no one quite as fascistic as the self-proclaimed liberal” and “columnists who insist that language itself is violence, I say, put down your quills and hush your moronic tongues.”

Sadly, I grew weary.

This wasn’t quite the book I was expecting it to be.

It’s truly a testament to how excited I was for this book that I’ve sat and written this review at length – it’s a testament to how much I’ve loved other Boyne books (A Ladder to the Sky remains my favourite) that I continued reading Angels to the end. But in the end, I feel that this book just tried far too hard to be reactionary – in fact, it even says as much: “If my work didn’t upset someone, I’d know that I had failed.” I mean, I understand because it’s a tale as old as time – drama sells. Oscar Wilde himself said that the only thing worse than being talked about, was not being talked about. Perhaps it is apt, then, that he was chosen to front this piece. But I understand, because I’ve seen it – it can even be seen in some of the reviews here already - arguments on Twitter gain attention, daring puns and ‘shots fired’ invite readers. But as I say, this book tries far too hard.

The saddest thing for me is that I don’t think Boyne needed to do any of that. He writes brilliantly, and this could have been a good “what if” story about Oscar Wilde and about the journey to repealing Section 28. Alas.

It seems appropriate to end on an Oscar Wilde relevant note, even if he was just a displaced traveller through history here:

In this retelling of ‘what if things were different’… what on earth happened to Robbie Ross?

[Doug · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5, rounded up.

It's a deliciously audacious premise - when Oscar Wilde is accused of posing as a 'somdomite' (sic) by the Marquess of Queensbury, instead of what he did IRL - i.e., suing for libel, losing and spending two years at hard labor in Reading Gaol, which breaks his health and leads to his early death in 1900 - the author decides to ignore it and goes on to live to a ripe old 98 in 1953! His paramour, Lord Alfred 'Bosie' Douglas, the Marquess's son, therefor becomes incarcerated in his stead, and goes on to write The Ballad of Reading Gaol and Other Poems instead of Oscar.

Wilde thereafter becomes a sort of Zelig or Forrest Gump character, being on hand for many of the most important events of the 20th century and meeting with a wide variety of prestigious people - all of the expected literary greats: Yeats, Forster, Kipling, etc.; but also theatrical luminaries: Katherine Hepburn, Gielgud, Olivier, Bernhardt; and political stalwarts, including Churchill, Emma Pankhurst and QE2. He also goes on to write and publish many more plays, novels and essays - some of which are excerpted here, becoming a Lord, and winning both the Nobel Prize and an Academy Award.

It takes major cojones to even attempt to imitate Wilde's wit and offer up a surfeit of clever bon mots - but Boyne is more than up to the challenge, and though perhaps not as LOL funny as his masterpiece, The Heart's Invisible Furies, the book provides ample chuckles along the way.

Boyne has a larger agenda than mere frivolity, however, and much of the book details Wilde's various attempts to repeal England's draconian laws prohibiting homosexuality and thus becomes a beacon in the struggle for gay rights.

My only minor quibble is that some of these adventures stretch the limits of probability, and at 624 pages, it also could have used some judicious editing. A few of the encounters - most notably those with the Woolfs and Mickey Rooney - seem meanspirited and not based on any real facts, and the ending's descent into mawkish sentimentality seemed off to me. I somewhat preferred Boyne's previous work The Elements, which topped my 'Best of ...' list last year.

It will be interesting to see how this is received, after the author's 'cancellation' due to his controversial views on trans people, but if that can be overlooked, perhaps he will finally get some awards recognition by the Bookers and others. Fingers crossed, and my gratitude to Netgalley and Henry Holt for the ARC in exchange for this honest and enthusiastic review.

[Clare · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of The Weight of Angels by John Boyne
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK for this ARC.
John Boyne’s sweeping narrative, covering the years 1895 to 1953, is marked by four coronations and two world wars. It starts on the day the writer, Oscar Wilde, receives the notorious calling card from the Marquis of Queensberry, accusing him of being a ‘somdomite.’ In Boyne’s imagined version of events, Wilde chooses not to challenge the Marquis of Queensberry in court, and from that moment on, history is re-written.
Wilde is the lens through which this alternative history is recounted. Boyne captures the sharp wit, and oblique view of the world, for which Wilde was famous. That wit, however, is also a personal shield. As a gay man in that era, Wilde’s existence remains precarious. Although cushioned by his popular reputation, Wilde’s survival depends on maintaining public acceptability.
At first, I was trying to match what I was reading with what I knew about Oscar Wilde and actual historical events of the period. Some divergences are obvious invention, but as I got deeper into the story, it seemed to matter less. The cast of colourful characters, including politicians, royalty, actors, directors and fellow writers, are engaging and believable, whether based on real people or not.
We meet a plethora of literary figures, brought to life with absorbing details that make for entertaining reading. They often come across as very funny, such as the eccentric Virginia and Leonard Woolf, the whimsical E. M Forster, and the self-absorbed Shaw. Boyne portrays them as Oscar Wilde might have seen them, with hilarious results.
The novel also ventures into more serious territory, particularly around the subject of sexual consent and the ethics of paying for sexual gratification. Boyne’s version of Wilde skirts the edges of these debates, loathe to commit to a standpoint. While he is quietly protective of the small extended family he gathers around him, it is usually others who speak out. Friendly with Mrs Pankhurst, he only half-heartedly supports Women’s Suffrage. But as the years pass, Wilde does change. When his own his own pursuit of sexual pleasure cost him a devoted partner of 17 years, Wilde starts to consider whether he needs to speak out regarding his true nature. The loss of loved ones shifts his priorities, and as he gets older, he takes greater risks with his reputation.
Given the sheer scope of the novel, some subjects receive a lighter touch than they might deserve, edging on flippancy. At times it is unclear what Boyne is saying by re-shaping Wilde’s life in the way he does. The world with Wilde still present does not seem radically different from the world without him, aside from certain event occurring earlier. Rather than changing history, the novel seems to be more Boyne’s personal exploration of the life of a brilliant writer, who must navigate a time of extraordinary changes. In that sense it succeeds. Wilde’s journey is a moving, thought provoking, and thoroughly entertaining perspective on history.

[Sal · Rating 4 out of 5]

"To live is the rarest thing in the world"
This is an ambitious novel charting the imagined life of an Oscar Wilde who doesn't sue the Marquess of Queensbury, stays out of prison and lives a long and full life. We get to imagine the plays and books he might have written, the people he interacted with and opinions he might have gone on to change if only he had the chance to do so.
The early part of the book was full of familiar characters from Wilde's life and it was fascinating to see events play out differently, particularly the fate of Bosie. However, it was the central section of the book that was the real heart of the story, giving Wilde a depth of character beyond his public persona. This is an Oscar who falls deeply in love and builds a rich life with a created family of wonderful characters, an Oscar who feels increasingly real. I found myself researching some of the real life characters on Wikipedia and wondering why their biographies didn't mention Wilde! It is often deeply moving, particularly when dealing with the tragedy of the Great War when petty rivalries are put to one side and people as dissimilar as Wilde and Kipling are united in grief.
The book is often hilarious and John Boyne captures Wilde's voice beautifully without falling into caricature. I loved his rivalries with other Irish writers, his inability to remember anyone's names, the entertaining interactions at the various coronations he attends and the way he breezes through life with champagne and verve. But underlying the humour is a much darker underbelly of hidden homosexuality, prostitution and the threat of prison if discovered. Wilde's life falls apart when he fails to resist temptation and to me, the novel became weaker after losing the strong central family. The last section of the book was entertaining but it felt less real. It became more about imagining Oscar Wilde meeting all sorts of historic and literary figures. He becomes involved with the abdication, has an unlikely adventure in Hollywood and becomes part of the establishment. The length of the book and the length of Wilde's life began to tell at this point because the interactions became a little superficial and the Oscar who had felt so real began to fade a little.
I did enjoy the very last part of the book as the very elderly Oscar finally has the courage to tell the world the truth about who he is and challenge the criminalisation of homosexuality. I loved his relationship with Winston Churchill and his reconciliation with the important people in his life. It did become a little mawkish right at the very end but I was crying so much at this point it would be hypocritical to pretend it didn't move me. I so wanted this to have been the life that Oscar Wilde had been able to live and John Boyne has done a terrific job of bringing that possibility to life.
Thankyou to NetGalley and the publishers for the advanced copy of this book.

[Josh Talbot · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Random House UK and NetGalley for this ARC of “The Weight of Angels” by John Boyne. Having been a fan of Boynes work for many years, I was keen to read this and delighted to have had the chance to do so in advance.

Often the trope in historical fiction of “but what if?…” is used, and often it can be a disastrous attempt to twist the narrative in a way that can be confusing and disappointing. I’m glad to say this was most firmly not the case, but an interesting parable (though definitely not as short as that word usually references) on where and what Wilde may have gone on to do and influence.

This is not a small novel, to quote the book itself “Lengthy novels, I feel are so self-indulgent” gave me quite a chuckle at the size of this book itself. However, to fully explore the “what if” storyline, it is needed. How else could Boyne fully expand on what could have been without the length of such a novel. It flickers through so many different worlds and possibilities though, that once I was into the story I never questioned its length. The various parts all felt needed and I wanted to know what would happen into the next year and so on. I will say that we met so many characters and people from history, that I would have enjoyed if more of the length of this book had allowed us to dive into their characters and the emotional toll it took on Wilde. Some were so fleeting that it seemed a shame to not fully explore them, my favourite of these pop up characters being Emmeline Pankhurst. The dialogue between the two of them was exciting and paced well.

There has never been much debate about Wildes sexuality and his situations with men of various ages,and I appreciated that this take on his life didn’t sugar coat that. Back then, there were so many awful things that did happen and referencing and using those in this book gave it that sharpness and honesty. Bringing Bosie in was a beautiful moment, that was sadly so bittersweet once we realised what would happen. His link with this character, maybe because they are documented and that relationship was true, brought the most beautiful scenes in the book. When we later met Gus, I felt myself still wanting that love and connection we felt with Bosie, which maybe is what the author wants us to feel. That if Wilde had met someone, we permanently would be judging it against that earlier love.

Whether you have read Boynes work before or not, know much about the life of Wilde or are a novice to that side of history, this book is weighted with a beautiful story, that will truly make your heart ache for what could have been.

[Gary · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Weight of Angels, is the latest novel by one of my favourite authors John Boyne. This is an historical novel that is a what if imaginary story featuring the literary genius of Oscar Wilde that proved to be an emotional journey. John Boyne has created an alternative reality in this “what-if” epic that rescues Oscar Wilde from the crushing weight of history, offering him a second act that is as exhilarating as his first was celebrated.

In actual history, February 1895 marked the beginning of the end for Wilde. When the Marquis of Queensbury left a card at the Albemarle Club calling Wilde a “posing Somdomite,” Wilde’s decision to sue for libel backfired spectacularly, leading to his arrest for gross indecency and his eventual death in a Parisian hotel room at just forty-six. John Boyne creates the premise hinging on a single moment of restraint, What if Wilde had simply ignored the insult? By bypassing the trial that destroyed him, Wilde avoids the spiral of public disgrace and humiliation, instead stepping into a 20th century that is just beginning to roar.

The story extends Oscar Wilde’s life so that he experiences the changes of the early 1900s, allowing him to influence the world rather than be erased by it. There are many historical characters that feature in the novel, such as Winston Churchill, Houdini and Katherine Hepburn that add humour and interest. John Boyne has written an historical novel that is interesting, humorous and thought provoking. We are allowed to read a what if account of what Oscar Wilde’s life may have been if he had lived in this dramatic and tumultuous period, witnessing events he was never supposed to see. The second part of the book is almost a tribute to a life he never got to live.

This is a fascinating read by an author who manages to make any subject entertaining. This is not the first book by John Boyne that at first look is not to my taste, yet I have enjoyed every word when reading it. The story explore how Wilde’s genius might have reacted to the changes in the new century, such as the suffragette movement and the impending world wars.

The Weight of Angels is more than just a historical fantasy; it is an emotional story of a literary genius in a “what-if” premise.

The Weight of Angels is a poignant, witty, and deeply moving novel that reimagines the life of a literary genius whose life was cut short.

I would like to thank both Netgalley and Random House UK for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

When people ask me who my favourite author is, I often deflect the question choosing instead to give a list of 5 or 6 writers, refusing point blank to narrow it down to just one. How can avid readers be expected to name just a single person? Well, after reading The Weight of Angels I will, from this day forward, be able to answer that question with a single name - John Boyne.

In The Weight of Angels, Boyne takes on the life of the iconic Oscar Wilde. I have to admit, much to my shame, I was not particularly familiar with the details of Oscar's life, knowing him only through his writings and acerbic wit. The details of his tumultuous private life and the ensuing disgrace were largely beyond my knowledge.

In real life, the Marquess of Queensbury (the father of Wilde's lover) left a calling card for Oscar at the Albemarle Club saying only 5 words: "For Oscar Wilde. Posing somdomite (sic)." Against the advice of friends, Wilde pursued a private prosecution for libel against Queensbury who was arrested for criminal libel. With his only way of avoiding prosecution to prove the allegations, the Marquess hired private detectives to find evidence of Wilde's homosexuality.

During the trial, details of Wilde's private life came out detailing his association with prostitutes and attendance at brothels leaving Wilde with no option but to drop the charges with the Marquess being found not guilty. This led to Wilde being charged for gross indecency, spending time in prison and leaving the UK on his release.

What Boyne undertakes here is a historical 'what if' moment? What if Wilde didn't respond to the Marquess's calling card? What if he ignored it and didn't end up bringing charges or ending up in prison himself? What if he lived through the key moments of the early 20th century, influencing key events, meeting key people like Emmeline Pankhurst and Winston Churchill.

At 624 pages, this book is epic however I could have read on and on. Sometimes with books of this length, I find myself scanning to get through it more quickly, however, much like Wilde, Boyne's writing is so clever and witty than I devoured every word on every page.

I couldn't recommend this book enough.

Thanks to Netgalley, and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Definitely my favourite book of the year so far, and it will taken something special to beat it.

[Genevieve Hogan · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "The Weight of Angels", John Boyne once again takes on social complexities, topics, and structures that a lesser writer might shy away from. In “The Weight of Angels” Boyne creates an alternative history where Oscar Wilde lives to the ripe old age of 98. This allows Boyne to bring Wilde together with many of the important people who lived during his now extended life span, thus creating an interesting commentary on history and the issues of our time.

What worked well were the relationships between the central characters. The band of people who Boyne creates or borrows from history to share the stage with Wilde are interesting. The more important players are given depth and complexity, and the reader is given enough information to imagine them having lives outside the limited stage where the lights shine directly on Wilde.
The novel is 600 pages long and some of the Oscar Wilde style wit begins to feel sharp and cutting a fraction of the way into the novel. It made me think that perhaps this sort of humor is best served in small quantities. That said, there was a lot of humor and wit in this novel. There was also cruelty, egotism, and often a lack of compassion. Some of this felt real to the characters. However, some of it felt gratuitous, included to create a laugh, a punchline, or a timed emotional response. I imagine the Oscar Wilde portrayed in this novel giving it a scathing review, especially if he perceived the author as a threat to his revered reputation.

I enjoyed much of this novel, and I had the sense Boyne enjoyed writing it. There was often a sense of play, at times a sense of humor, and always a strong imagination aligning possibilities for maximum impact. However, it could have been tightened and edited so the story shone even brighter.

Perhaps Boyne deliberately wrote this imagining a very long play. Each line is meant to create an effect. The humor cuts like a sword and the audience laughs on cue. The lights shine on Oscar, always on Oscar. It’s Wilde. It’s “Lord Wilde”. It’s all in the delivery – we can only hope Fionn doesn’t get the lead.

Not Boyne’s best book, but a daring literary experiment. If it were shorter, I would highly recommend reading it to see Boyne’s renditions of the historical figures and to think about the juxtaposition of language and wit on the realities of relationships, egoism, and public image.

Thank you to NetGalley and Henry Holt & Co for access to this ARC.

[Sarah Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow just wow I adored this book I’m sad it’s finished

Sometimes reviewing novels is such a joy and I was absolutely delighted to be granted access to this novel early on NetGalley UK.
This novel looks at the intriguing prospect that instead of being imprisoned for homosexuality and dying at a young age disgraced that Oscar’s life took on a different path where he survived and thrived Living into his 90s his homosexuality only becoming known to the public when he’s extremely elderly and when public opinion has changed dramatically and he is able to influence a change in law to decriminalise homosexuality.
Joan Boyne is one of my favourites novelists I have yet to read a book of his that I didn’t absolutely adore. Starting to read, I have high expectations for this book.
The First chapter is set at a dinner party where Oscar Wilde and his lover Boise and other friends are discussing the fact that Oscar has been sent a calling card saying for “Oscar Wilde posing sodomite” .In our world this is the trigger to Oscar’s ultimate arrest and imprisonment in the world of the novel the insult is ignored and his life continues
I loved the scene of the conversation between Elgar and Oscar Wilde at the Coronation.
The author really does nail Oscars wit and his language is perfect so that you really feel that you are listening to the way the author of the importance of being Ernest would actually speak and behave
After reading several of the authors shorter novellas recently it’s a delight to be able to read a full length novel I really didn’t want this one to end and read it in one sitting. This is quite a chunky book it took me a few days to read but I was cross when it was over.
I was amused by the section where he discusses the negative implications of writing long novels because of course this was a long novel
there’s lots of discussion about famous Irish writers and potential animosity between them and this very amusing considering of course that the author himself is now a famous Irish novelist
Of course with Oscar Wilde being the centre of the novel there is a lot of discussion about homosexuality. I was rather glad when I discovered that the author himself is gay I felt probably lived experience as necessary in order to write this novel.
I loved this line and I hope it goes for all my friends and family who are avid readers
“People who read lead the happiest lives”
I read an early copy of the novel on NetGalley UK in return for an honest review. The book is published in the UK on the 24th of September 2026 by random house UK Transworld publishers/double day.
This review will appear on NetGalley UK, Goodreads, StoryGraph, my book blog bionicSarahSbooks.wordpress.com after publication it will also Care on Amazon UK and Waterstones online

[Kirsten · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely masterful and deeply thought-provoking, The Weight of Angels reimagines the life Oscar Wilde might have lived, seamlessly blending historical reality with rich speculation as the narrative unfolds.

As the title suggests, the novel explores the value of our actions and the consequences they carry. Through a compelling “what if…” premise, John Boyne crafts a sweeping story that spans nearly a century, offering a nuanced reflection on societal change, attitudes toward sexuality, and the enduring weight of moral judgement. It is both provocative and illuminating in its themes.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its portrayal of Wilde’s voice, capturing his trademark wit and sparkling wordplay with echoes of The Importance of Being Earnest. The text is rich with literary allusion, and its reimagining of historical figures is both vivid and engaging. Bosie, in particular, is rendered with complexity and humour. The epistolary elements—especially the letters to and from Florence Stoker—serve as an effective anchor, offering insight into Wilde’s character while subtly reinforcing themes of transgression. They also hint at a fascinating connection between Wilde and the publication of Dracula.

Here, Wilde’s journey is beautifully realised, populated by characters who feel timeless and authentic. Gus and Parsnip are especially memorable—deeply human, sympathetic, and richly drawn. Each could easily sustain a novel of their own. While readers familiar with Wilde’s life will find much to appreciate, no prior expertise is required; the world Boyne creates is immersive and captivating in its own right.

Though the novel is expansive, it is utterly absorbing—I found myself devouring it in just a few days, completely transported. As the text suggests, it feels like “a perfect final adventure” for this imagined Wilde: a luxurious, champagne-soaked delight that is as moving as it is memorable.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

"There are moments when I feel suffocated beneath the weight of angels, and I wonder whether, when my own time comes, those same seraphim will carry me to my reward, or simply watch as I am punished for my sins"

I was first drawn to this book due to the author. I have read (and LOVED) The Hearts Invisible Furies, and Earth. Both were emotional and moving.

This book imagines what would have happened if Oscar Wilde had chosen NOT to response to the Marquess of Queensbury (which ultimately led to his imprisonment and eventual death) and instead carried on with his life. The characterisation of Oscar Wilde in this books is simply perfection. I initially found his character hard to like - he was egotistical, callous at times, came across rude - but ultimately, it became clear that Wilde was a person in progress, and this book takes the opportunity to show you that progress and what could have been.

The cast of characters that Wilde meets is endless. He converses with and strikes up relationships with a whole host of well-known figures (Yeats, the Woolf’s, Keats and so on.) There is also a humorous rivalry with George Bernard Shaw that crops up frequently. Oscar's dealings with other writers, playwriters and actors prove to be engaging and interesting.

At the centre of this book is the question of homosexuality and its legality. Oscar Wilde is well known to have been gay (as per his imprisonment), so it was interesting to see how that story was dealt with after he was not imprisoned for it.

But I think the strongest aspect of the book was Boyne's ability to write the dialogue of Wilde and those around him. It was humous and witty, making me grin often. If you enjoyed other books by Boyne, I would absolutely recommend this. It is fabulous literary fiction.

Thanks to Netgalley for an early copy!

[Pippa Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book that touches on the soul of a man.
The Weights of Angels is an alternative history of what might have happened had Oscar Wilde lived into old age. The story opens at a sliding doors moment, where instead of taking the Marquis of Queensbury to court over an insult, Wilde turns the other cheek and walks away. This moment is crucial because in reality the law suit ruined Wilde financially, he was convicted, and sent to jail which ruined his health. In this alternative story, the question “what might Wilde have achieved had he lived?” is answered.
This is a moving read that starts strongly, dips slightly in the middle, and then exceeds expectations at the end. I can almost see this becoming a classic book read in schools, with the moving account of historical attitudes to homosexuality and what it took to change the law.
This is a book to stand back and take in the big picture, as the beauty lies in the changes Wilde undergoes over his lifetime, and self-realisation about how his actions impacted and hurt other people. This is underpinned by the realisation that love is more important than lust, and the maturity required to recognise this. Oh, and in case you were wondering the ‘weight of angels’ refers to Wilde’s conscience and those he loved who passed away.
Now I want to go back and reference the historical events mentioned, to see how they actually came about and how they differ from the fictional version with the addition of Wilde. A thought provoking read, but please don’t think this is code for dull, because the book evokes powerful emotions and is engrossing and enjoyable in equal measure.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I loved this with every fiber of my being. Oscar Wilde has written some of my all-time favorite works, so digging into this reimagining of his life (what would have happened if he wasn't imprisoned) was such a treat. Somehow, Boyne managed to characterize the writer exactly as I would have imagined him to be - witty, lively, and not at all modest. I found the dialogue endlessly amusing and highlighted handfuls of quotes. It's been a while since a book cracked me up so much.

Amusing as it was, there were also several tough, emotional moments, and one where I really wanted to give Oscar a good shaking. The book gave a wonderful look into a long life, both the highs and lows. I enjoyed the touches of history woven in and could have easily pictured an esteemed Oscar Wilde making moves with some of the most famous politicians, actors, and writers that the book included.

The day-to-day characters also stole my heart. Gus, Nancy, Parsnip, and Esha were able to ground the man who had no hesitation calling himself the world's greatest playwright. I enjoyed watching their growth (for better or worse) almost as much as I loved Oscar's. 

I loved this, and I'm tempted to immediately break out the classics and dip into his novel and plays once again. I'm sure I'll revisit The Weight of Angels down the line as well.

[Judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This ultimate what if story, a telling of the life Oscar Wilde might have had, is superbly written, the witty wordplay of the dialogue continuing with humour and intellect throughout. The what if being what might Oscar Wilde’s life have been if he hadn’t tried to redress the insult from the Marquis of Queensbury and sue him for libel, and as a result dying at the early age of 46.

Real life literary, artistic and political personages of the time are introduced into the narrative in a believable way maintaining the what if premise. Historical events and technical progress appear as they actually occurred and show how they might have affected his life. Having read about Bram Stoker and his wife Florence recently it was pleasing to meet Florence again here advocating on behalf of the publication and promotion of Dracula. But I think my favourite characters have to be Gus and Nancy.

I like the ingenious way some of the dialogue is written in the fashion of the script of a play, cleverly relating to Oscar Wilde’s achievements as a playwright.

Many thanks to John Boyne, Random House and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy, it is much appreciated, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[John MacLeod · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘The Weight of Angels’, by John Boyne, is a reimagining of an extended life of Oscar Wilde.This novel takes us through an alternate version of his times and travels with a far ranging perspective on his personal relationships and world changing events. It is deliciously crammed full of witty banter,pithy comments and sparkling gauche dialogue. There are harsh realities and beautiful truths shared during a humanly imperfect search for love that endures despite mortal frailties and poor choices.The writer’s travails are enhanced by a narrative that shimmers through the truth of complicated relationships lived privately at times in the shadows and then the glare of celebrity. Historical characters from the arts,royalty,politics and beyond are resurrected immaculately, allowing for meetings of some like minded individuals and other complete opposites in some unforgettable and at times unforgiving exchanges.

Thank you to Random House UK,Transworld Publishers ,for an Advance Readers Copy for review.

[Alyson · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting read and I was pleased to receive an early copy of The Weight of Angels from the publishers as I have enjoyed many of John Boyne's previous works.
I knew very little of Oscar Wilde before reading this book, and found myself googling his life and that of the people mentioned, in order to check what was real and where The Weight of Angels takes up the tale.
Whilst I found Boyne's version of Wilde clever and witty, he comes across as a very selfish man and for the most part I did not find him at all likeable.
It was with Nancy, Gus, Esha and Albert that Boyne's Wilde was at his best, and I enjoyed the interactions between these characters. When, however Wilde was meeting other literary greats or mingling with the Hollywood crowd, he was quite obnoxious and entitled.
Boyne's writing is effortless and the text is easy reading, even for such a long novel but ultimately I did not bond with Wilde enough to fully enjoy this book.
With thanks to the author, Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers for an early copy in return for an honest review.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oscar Wilde winds his way through a life of glamour, celebrity and champagne in The Weight of Angels. No celebrity of worth, particularly those who were gay, are omitted. Four Coronations, awards, controversy...some will feel that there were too many names of note referenced, but if Wilde had survived is this not exactly how his life would have played out?
Boyne portrays Wilde beautifully, a man of flamboyance, of huge appetites both physical and sexual: a man who is determined to plot his own route, but who is fallible, making some dreadful life choices, a man who lives through the loss of so many who are dear to him but managed to bounce back eventually.
In preparation for this book, I watched Stephen Fry's 'Wilde' and felt it useful as a backdrop to this work.
We can't turn back the events of time, but if we could, Boyne's excellent portrayal of a man who was larger than life but had feet of clay is an impressive rendering of what might have been.
A large tome but every page well written
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC

[André LR · Rating 4 out of 5]

A second life for Oscar Wilde, paid for by everyone else.

Full review: https://www.notesonbooks.net/the-weig...

At the Albemarle Club in February 1895, Oscar Wilde is handed the insult that ruined him in life and saves him in John Boyne's The Weight of Angels.

Queensberry's card still arrives. Bosie still urges retaliation. The difference is that Wilde tears the card apart, drops it into the champagne bucket and lets the insult stand. The life continues.

The premise sounds like indulgence. Boyne treats it as a moral test. Wilde escapes the trial, prison and public destruction that history assigned to him. He writes on. He ages. He receives honours. He moves through war, modernism, early homosexual law reform, royal scandal, Hollywood and the altered politics of the twentieth century. Boyne grants him the decades he never had, then makes those decades morally expensive.

Advacend readers copy provided by NetGalley and Random House UK / Transworld Publishers / Doubleday ARC

[Judy Hale · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this ARC of The Weight of Angles by John Boyne. I've read his most famous works: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas and The Hearts Invisible Furies, both of which I gave 5 stars.

This one I gave 3.75 ⭐️

Because it is Oscar Wilde, he has the same wit and humor as his plays did. This humor had me literally chuckling throughout the book. Oscar although funny, is a deeply flawed character. I found it difficult to truly connect with him. I loved some of the side characters and the book did make me cry...I am a very easy to cry 😅 And I always enjoy seeing glimpses into time periods as well, especially from a unique POV.

The reason I couldn't give it a higher ratings is because I'm not sure I'd recommend this book to many people. It's a historical fiction, but a slow paced one. It also has deeply uncomfortable moments in the book. A big majority of the book I felt like the story wasn't going anywhere. It is very long...too long IMO. If it was edited down from the current 600 pages I think the humor, unique POV and lovable side characters would make it a more impactful read.

[Viv Maclaren · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a review of The weight of angels by John Boyne. Thanks to Random House UK for ARC.

An alternative history of Oscar Wilde, who, had he not sued the Marquis of Queensberry for libel, could have avoided prison and lived a long life.
In this imagined version, Wilde’s lover Bosie instead sues his own father and languishes in Reading gaol, which breaks him and leads to his early death.
Oscar finds great continued success in the theatre, and as a novelist, and also finds true love with one Gus Boone. Happy endings are not to be found, however, his inability to stay faithful destroying his relationship with Gus.
Such an enjoyable companion in what is a long book, Boyne inhabits his character with wit and verve, and not a little acid.
Real life characters abound, and their fictional interactions with Wilde are fabulously entertaining; Zelig-like he is not!
In cahoots with Winston and Clemmie Churchill, Oscar devises his final great work in attempts to challenge the laws and views on homosexuality.
Recommend highly.

[Louise · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

What a clever idea.
I knew very little of Wilde before this book, and I suppose I still know very little of him, since this is mostly imagined.
Yet I feel I know him well
Clever, witty, sarcastic, and quite a lot of the time too full of himself and not particularly pleasant.
Yet moments when he shines. His love for his son's really comes through .
He is surrounded by some great characters, Nancy, Gus, Esha and Albert to name a few, and they were the ones I mostly enjoyed.
The historical figures, not so much.
Boyne has a way of writing that makes reading feel effortless, and for such a chunky book, it felt I'd only just started, and I was done.
It made me smile a fair few times, and now I'm left wondering if I would have actually liked Wilde, or this version of him.

Thanks to netgalley for the free digital copy

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

John Boyne is an exceptional writer and this book doesn't disappoint. I knew very little of Oscar Wilde before I started reading it, but I became fascinated by the way his character was portrayed by Boyne.  The idea of imagining Wilde's life had he not died so young was ingenious and really emphasised the tragedy of his death.

At times I had actually forgotten that this book is pure fiction which shows how well it was written and how much I was drawn into the character of Oscar Wilde. This is such a clever book and I felt a tad lost when I got to the end and this vibrant, flamboyant character had disappeared from my life.

This is a lengthy book at 624 pages, but every page is exquisitely written. This is a great read and I highly recommend it.

 
My thanks to NetGalley and Random House UK for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
 

 

 

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three and one-half stars

Review of Uncorrected Digital Galley

A “what if” reimagining that gives Oscar Wilde an alternative life [to the ripe old age of 98] and, thus allows for his interaction with many of historical touchstones. Strong, complex characters fill the pages, interacting with Wilde. Historical events, emotions, societal issues, humor, and sadness all play a part in this intriguing speculation that is likely to remain with the reader long after the final page has been turned.

Readers who enjoy historical fiction, who are fans of Oscar Wilde’s works, and who enjoy speculative fiction will find much to appreciate here.

Recommended.

I received a free copy of this eBook from Henry Holt & Company / Henry Holt and Co. and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#TheWeightofAngels #NetGalley

[Misty Gardner · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a historian I generally avoid historical fiction and, when this landed, wondered quite why I had requested it - until I saw the magic words 'Oscar Wilde'...
This is a brilliant story/concept and I was totally absorbed throughout - so many 'what ifs?', such a great mixture of real and fictional characters - I loved it and will almost certainly re-read it at some time
If I had any reservations they would be the length - it is a hefty read but, given all the 'cameo performances', that is inevitable. Also, as with any stories of real people, there will be readers who will probably end up believing the whole thing to be historically-accurate which, very sadly, it isn't!!

[Miruna · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Weight of Angels by John Boyne is a powerful, emotional, and beautifully written story that completely pulled me in. The characters feel deeply human, with all their flaws, pain, and hope, and the writing carries so much heart.

I loved how the story balances heavy themes with tenderness and compassion. It’s the kind of book that makes you feel deeply and think long after you’ve finished. Every moment felt meaningful, and the emotional impact stayed with me. An unforgettable read and an easy five stars.

[Fiona McG · Rating 4 out of 5]

John Boyne takes on Oscar Wilde, what could be better? loved the idea of this book. Oscar's wit and charm were a delight throughout and the ending was beautiful and poignant, however there were a few too many elements that didn't really go anywhere and it sometimes felt like a task to write in as many famous names as possible. That said, his swan song was beautiful. An absolute delight of a book, just maybe a tad long.

[Chris Chanona · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had recently read a couple of Gyles Brandreth’s mysteries set in the world of Oscar Wilde which are historically faithful so I wondered at the beginning of John Boyne’s novel if I was rereading what I knew. At some point, though, I realised Boyne had departed from the true narrative, I won’t insert a spoiler, and that, as Oscar says,

Had I made a different decision, my entire life might have taken a different course.

This novel imagines exactly that as Oscar lives to be nearly 100 years old. He meets many famous figures, actors, princes, novelists, poets…all named including Winston Churchill, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Charles as a boy. All very well imagined.

Oscar is a sympathetic character and we do see the world through his eyes. I really enjoyed this imagining and all the various characters, especially the writers, such as Yeats, GB Shaw, Kipling, Stoker and females including Emmeline Pankhurst and Sarah Bernhardt.

I read an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publishers for which I am grateful.

[Catherine Mahoney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t describe how wonderful this book is. I laughed and I cried. Oscar Wilde has always been a favourite of mine and to read this account of his life was insightful and made me love the man and not just his works!