The Collected Novels of E. M. Delafield presents a meticulously curated anthology that encapsulates the nuances of early twentieth-century British society through the lens of her various protagonists. Renowned for her keen observational style and sharp wit, Delafield's prose navigates the complexities of gender roles, social expectations, and the subtleties of domestic life, often employing a rich array of characters to illuminate the contradictions of her time. The collection, marked by a blend of realism and satirical humor, offers readers insight into the private struggles and public facades of the era's women, making it an essential study for those interested in the evolution of feminist literature and domestic fiction. E. M. Delafield, also celebrated for her diary entries and the acclaimed novel 'The Diary of a Provincial Lady,' draws from her own experiences as a woman in a patriarchal society. Her background as a writer and editor during a period of significant societal change allows her to thoughtfully explore themes of individuality and conformity. Delafield's unique perspective as a middle-class woman navigating the constraints of her time enriches her narratives with authenticity and depth. This collection is a critical read for anyone interested in the intersection of gender and genre in early 20th-century literature. Delafield's insightful commentary and rich character portrayals invite readers into a world where the mundane becomes poignant, making The Collected Novels an indispensable addition to both literary scholarship and personal libraries.

In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works' unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions.
- A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader era—social currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation.
- A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists.
- A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different work's strengths.
- Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the author's overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts.
- Lastly, our hand‐picked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collection's central themes.

E.M. Delafield, born Edmée Elizabeth Monica Dashwood (née de la Pasture) in 1890, was an eminent English author known primarily for her Provincial Lady series, which deftly satirizes the social nuances of the British middle class during the interwar period. The daughter of novelist Mrs. Henry de la Pasture, Delafield's literary pedigree was evident from her earliest works. Her writing career spanned the 1920s through the early 1940s, during which she authored numerous novels, articles, and a play. Her distinctively wry, self-deprecating narrative style, exhibited in 'The Collected Novels of E. M. Delafield', carries a timeless appeal that has resonated with audiences for decades. This collection showcases Delafield's talent for creating relatable, humorous depictions of everyday life, often drawing from her own experiences in rural Devon, where she lived with her husband and children. Her socio-critical prose not only entertained but subtly critiqued the rigid gender roles and societal expectations of her time. Delafield's contribution to the literary canon is significant, with her work being a touchstone for feminist and sociological studies of early twentieth-century British culture. Her prose continues to be studied and enjoyed for its elegance, wit, and insightful commentary on the human condition.