Anesko reveals the remarkable social, political, and sexual intrigue that inspired-and influenced-the deliberate construction of the Legend of Henry James. "Michael Anesko's important, fiercely witty book on the mediation-manipulation-of James's works and reputation by his heirs and successive scholars is hard to put down. Not only Jamesians but lovers of literary gossip will relish his treasure trove of archival revelations about the keepers of the Jamesian flame, from Percy Lubbock to Leon Edel. This inside study of the politics of literary institutions is certain to become a classic, of a very remarkable kind."