Charles Wesley has long been recognized as one of the most accomplished hymn writers in the English language whose contribution is recognized in all major Christian denominations. However, his achievements are often hidden behind those of his brother John who is regarded as the founder of the Methodist movement.

Published to mark the tercentenary of his birth, this is the first major biography of Charles Wesley for over a century and a half.  Here at last is his true contribution uncovered. This is not only the history of one man but of a movement, rich in characters, whose personal links with ‘the man made for friendship’ account for some of the major developments of eighteenth-century Christian history and beyond.

Gary Best is Headmaster of Kingswood School in Bath.