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• Taking care of Mrs. Carroll : a novel
  This first novel by poet and novelist Paul Monette (1945-1995) begins with the sudden death of wealthy estate owner Mrs Beth Carroll and the introduction of her houseboy David who awakens in bed alongside John, the gardener. The narrative that follows, involving unsigned wills, forgery and impersonation, was described by one reviewer as “a most entertaining venture into fantasy, hilarity, and gay sex”. Monette’s later works, including a memoir of his partner Roger Horwitz’s illness and death from AIDS, took a more serious turn. Horwitz’s presence is felt in the novel displayed here – the book is dedicated to him, and the author photograph gracing the back cover was taken by him. Before Monette’s own death from AIDS, he founded the Monette-Horwitz Trust to honour individuals and organisations that fight to eradicate homophobia.