The Octave of Claudius by Barry Pain is a delightful and quirky novel that follows the adventures of the titular character, Claudius, as he navigates life in early 20th century England. Pain's writing is witty and charming, capturing the essence of the time period with vivid descriptions and clever dialogue.

The characters in the novel are well-developed and engaging, each with their own quirks and personalities that add depth to the story. Claudius himself is a lovable protagonist, full of curiosity and a knack for getting himself into sticky situations. The supporting cast of characters, including his eccentric aunt and a colorful cast of neighbors, add to the charm of the story.

The plot itself is fast-paced and full of unexpected twists and turns, keeping the reader engaged from beginning to end. Pain's storytelling is engaging and humorous, with plenty of light-hearted moments that are sure to bring a smile to the reader's face.

Overall, The Octave of Claudius is a delightful read that combines humor, wit, and charm in a way that is truly unique. Fans of classic British literature will surely enjoy this hidden gem of a novel.

Book Description:
One night, Dr. Gabriel Lamb saves the life of Claudius Sandell. He takes him home and treats him excellently, nursing him back to health. However, Dr. Lamb's motives were really not quite altruistic, and Claudius may have to pay an extraordinary price for this kindness at the hands of the strange doctor and his equally strange wife. - Summary by Carolin