Fräulein Schmidt and Mr. Anstruther

The biography explores the life of Elizabeth von Arnim, an English novelist with Australian roots, who became notable for her works set in Germany. After marrying a German aristocrat, she navigated complex relationships, including a notable affair with H.G. Wells. Her literary identity evolved from Mary Annette Beauchamp to Elizabeth, a name she embraced after her first book. Known for her distinctive voice, she also published under the pseudonym Alice Cholmondeley for one novel. Her rich personal history deeply informs her writing.