Adding us as a Preferred Source tells Google you trust our content, so our articles show up more often in your Google Search, Discover feed, and AI Overviews.
verifiedCite
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies.
Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.
Select Citation Style
The Heat of the Day
novel by Bowen
The Heat of the Day, novel by Elizabeth Bowen, published in 1949, about the ramifications of an Englishwoman’s discovery that her lover is a spy for the Axis Powers.
The novel is set in London during World War II and concerns the lovers Stella and Robert, who both work for the British secret service. Harrison, a colleague who informs Stella that Robert is a double agent, attempts to blackmail her into a sexual liaison. Stella confronts Robert with Harrison’s allegations, but he vehemently denies them. Near the end of the story, Robert finally confesses to Stella that he has betrayed his country; soon after, he falls or jumps to his death.
This article was most recently revised and updated by Kathleen Kuiper.
Discover how ordinary objects work, and expand your understanding of the familiar.
" height="20" alt="HEW Logo">
By clicking "Sign Up", you consent to the Britannica Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.