The result of Gayford's access to such wonderful source materials, both known and hitherto unpublished, is that Constable in Love comes closest in feel to a historical novel, a story whose frustrations and disappointments are rendered just about bearable by our knowledge that they all lived happily ever after. Gayford is a distinguished art critic, which doubtless explains his choice of theme, and also means he writes informatively about Constable's art; but he wisely ensures that the narrative is neither overwhelmed nor becalmed by art historical analysis.