Liza of Lambeth

A young woman’s brief spark of life. Passion, poverty, and the unforgiving streets of London.

In W. Somerset Maugham’s powerful debut novel, Liza Kemp is a vibrant, independent factory girl living in the gritty working-class district of Lambeth at the end of the Victorian era. Full of spirit and eager for excitement, she catches the eye of a married man and embarks on a passionate but doomed affair that sets her at odds with the rigid moral codes and sharp gossip of her tight-knit community.

With unflinching realism and compassionate insight, Maugham paints a vivid portrait of slum life—its vitality, its hardships, its casual brutality, and its moments of tenderness. The novel captures the energy of music halls, street fights, bank holidays, and the harsh consequences of defying social expectations. Liza of Lambeth (1897) announced the arrival of a major talent, showcasing Maugham’s keen eye for character and his ability to portray the lives of the poor with dignity and honesty.

• First published in 1897
• W. Somerset Maugham’s first novel, written when he was only twenty-three
• A pioneering work of British realism inspired by his experiences as a medical student in Lambeth

Available in multiple formats:

• Paperback & Hardcover: Elegant print editions presenting the complete, unabridged text, ideal for your bookshelf.
• Ebook: DRM-free EPUB compatible with Kindle, Kobo, Apple Books, and all major e-readers.
• Audiobook: Professionally narrated, complete and unabridged, perfect for immersive listening.

A gripping and unsentimental classic for readers who enjoy realistic portrayals of society and the raw beginnings of a literary master, or the perfect gift for fans of early Maugham and Victorian-era drama.

About the Author

W. Somerset Maugham (1874–1965) was a British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, regarded as one of the greatest storytellers of his era. A master of lucid, witty prose and penetrating character studies, his works—including Of Human Bondage, The Moon and Sixpence, Cakes and Ale, and the short story collections The Trembling of a Leaf and Ashenden—have delighted readers for over a century. Though trained as a doctor, Maugham found his true calling in literature, drawing from his extensive travels and keen observations of society to create timeless tales of love, adventure, and the human condition. Liza of Lambeth marked the beginning of his long and illustrious career.