Under the Net is a 1954 novel by British author Iris Murdoch. It tells the story of Jake Donaghue, a young, unemployed writer living in London. Jake is a free spirit who lives by his own rules and is determined to make his own way in life. He is also a bit of a dreamer, and his life is filled with adventures and misadventures.
The novel begins with Jake living in a small flat in London, and he is struggling to make ends meet. He is also trying to write a novel, but he is having difficulty getting it published. He is also struggling with his relationships, as he is in love with a woman named Anna, but she is married to another man.
One day, Jake meets a mysterious woman named Miss Dubedat, who offers him a job. She wants him to find a missing manuscript written by a famous author, and she will pay him handsomely if he succeeds. Jake agrees to take the job, and he soon finds himself in a world of intrigue and danger.
As Jake searches for the missing manuscript, he meets a variety of interesting characters, including a mysterious old man, a beautiful young woman, and a shady underworld figure. He also discovers that the manuscript is connected to a larger conspiracy involving a powerful secret society.
Throughout his journey, Jake learns more about himself and the world around him. He also discovers that he is capable of more than he ever thought possible. In the end, Jake finds the missing manuscript and is able to make a name for himself as a writer.
Under the Net is a classic novel that explores themes of identity, freedom, and the power of the imagination. It is a captivating story that will stay with readers long after they have finished the book.