Early in the pandemic, a Russian author and his wife host some old friends, a former student and a famous actor, at their country estate. As outside threats both biological and political loom, flames are kindled, one friend betrays another, and the temperamental actor jeopardizes the author’s livelihood by sabotaging a potential television series. With a nod to Chekov, this comedy of manners is also a moving tale about the power of friendship and forgiveness.

Richard, Breakwater Books, Guilford