The Collected Works of E. M. Delafield (Illustrated) showcases the prolific literary output of the esteemed author, known for her witty and incisive observations of English society in the early 20th century. Delafield's writing style is characterized by its sharp humor and insightful commentary on the social norms and expectations of the time. This collection includes a variety of her works, ranging from novels to short stories, all illustrated to enhance the reader's experience of her narrative. Delafield's works are a valuable resource for understanding the shifting dynamics of class and gender during this period of history. The collection is a must-read for those interested in British literature from the interwar period. E. M. Delafield's unique perspective as a woman writer offers a refreshing take on the issues of her time, making her an important figure in the canon of early 20th-century literature. Her works continue to resonate with readers today, offering valuable insights into the evolving social landscape of the era.

E. M. Delafield, the nom de plume of Edmée Elizabeth Monica Dashwood, née de la Pasture (18901943), is best known for her largely autobiographical 'Diary of a Provincial Lady' series. Born to a novelist mother, Marie de la Pasture, Delafield began her career with the debut novel 'Zella Sees Herself' in 1917. Over the years, she carved a niche for herself in the realm of social comedies, using her sharp wit and acute observations to portray the domestic life of the middle and upper classes of early 20th-century England. Her writing, which also extended to plays and contributions to periodicals like 'Punch', is characterized by its ironical humor and insightful representations of women's lives during the period between the World Wars. Delafield's work is often considered part of the 'middlebrow' literary tradition, accessible yet articulate in chronicling the subtle nuances of everyday existence. 'The Collected Works of E. M. Delafield (Illustrated)' includes an array of her novels, encapsulating the breadth of her literary style and the depth of her understanding of human nature. Despite the time-specific settings of her stories, the themes of societal expectations and personal aspirations remain relatable to modern audiences, affording Delafield a lasting place in the canon of English literature.