The Twelfth Hour (eBook)

Ada Leverson (1862-1933), an eminently witty and astute English writer, is celebrated for her contributions to the literary world during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born into a prosperous Jewish family, Leverson nurtured her literary talents early on, establishing herself as an incisive observer of the society within which she flourished. Often affectionately dubbed the 'Sphinx' by her close friend Oscar Wilde, Leverson mirrored in her works—like 'The Twelfth Hour' (1907)—the sparkling wit and satirical finesse that characterized the banter of her literary circle. Her novels frequently investigate the manners and morals of Edwardian society with a lighthearted, yet poignant, approach. Leverson's unique literary style, which blends comedy of manners with touches of melodrama, is evident in 'The Twelfth Hour', illustrating her adeptness at capturing the moment when high society's glossy veneer starts to fade, revealing the complex human emotions beneath. A sharp observer of human foibles and a master of dialogue, Leverson earned her place among the pioneering women of her time who explored the possibilities of modernity and womanhood through their novels. Although her works are less widely recognized today, her literary contributions remain valuable for their humor, insight, and vivid portrayal of Edwardian life.