The winner of France's most prestigious Prix Goncourt 2003, Brecht's Lover is a fictional and hugely compelling tale of love and espionage. Offering a fascinating insight into both the political and theatrical worlds of post-War East Berlin, it is also a tender portrayal of one of the greatest playwrights of the twentieth century. The return of Bertolt Brecht to East Berlin in 1948 after years in exile is a cause of considerable excitement, not least for the theatrical world, and he is encouraged to find an outlet for his creative genius by establishing the Berliner Ensemble. But equally watchful of his every action are the secret police, anxious to learn exactly how far his Communist sympathies extend. Recruiting Maria Eich, Brecht's young lover, into their service, they unleash an influence over the playwright that will shape even his work. "Delicate, lightly structured, very subtle, a mature work" Le Monde "Built around an impeccably constructed narration, carried by writing of a grand elegance, this novel seduces by its classical beauty and intelligent strength." Figaro