A four-part story of passion and betrayal in the Mediterranean?voted one of the Modern Library?s 100 Best Novels of the twentieth century. ? The Alexandria Quartet is a striking and sensuous masterpiece, breathing vivid life into each of its unforgettable characters and the dusty Mediterranean city in which they live. Set in Alexandria, Egypt, in the years before, during, and after World War II, the books follow the lives of a circle of friends and lovers, including sensitive Darley, passionate Justine, philosophical Balthazar, and elegant Clea. Written in Durrell?s trademark evocative prose, these four novels explore the central theme of modern love, building into a remarkable whole that the New York Times hailed as ?one of the most important works of our time.? ? This ebook features a new introduction by Jan Morris.