Green Carnation is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of love, passion, and society in late 19th century England. The story follows the lives of two friends, one openly gay and flamboyant, the other seemingly straight-laced and conventional. Their friendship is tested as they navigate the challenges of societal expectations and personal desires.

Hichens does a masterful job of creating fully realized characters who are both flawed and relatable. The dialogue is sharp and witty, drawing the reader into the drama and intrigue of the characters' lives. The lush descriptions of the settings transport the reader to the vibrant world of London society.

While the novel is certainly of its time in terms of the attitudes towards homosexuality, it also offers a nuanced portrait of the struggles faced by individuals who dare to live outside the confines of societal norms. Overall, Green Carnation is a riveting and thought-provoking read that explores themes of identity, friendship, and the power of love.

Book Description:
The Green Carnation, first published anonymously in 1894, was a scandalous novel by Robert Hichens whose lead characters are closely based on Oscar Wilde and Lord Alfred Douglas - also known as 'Bosie', whom the author personally knew. It was an instant succès de scandale on both sides of the Atlantic. The book features the characters of 'Esmé Amarinth' (Wilde), and 'Lord Reginald (Reggie) Hastings' (Douglas). The words put in the mouths of the hero and his young friend in the story are mostly gathered from the sayings of their originals. Robert Hichens spent nearly a year "in the company of the men" and was able to accurately recreate the atmosphere and relationship between Oscar and Bosie. The book was withdrawn from circulation in 1895, but by that time the damage had been done. Wilde soon stood three consecutive trials for Gross Indecency and was sentenced to two years at hard labor. The Green Carnation was one of the works used against him by the prosecution.