Second Place

LONGLISTED FOR THE BOOKER PRIZE
RECIPIENT OF THE PRIX FEMINA ÉTRANGER
SHORTLISTED FOR THE GOVERNER GENERAL’S AWARD

‘The most singular book … a psychodrama that is both timeless and up-to-the-minute.’ Guardian
‘A classic, but with contemporary urgency thumping through it.’ Claire-Louise Bennett
‘A novel of deep insight and scarring honesty.’ Independent

A woman invites a famed artist to the remote coastal landscape where she lives. Drawn to his paintings, she believes his vision may penetrate the mystery at the centre of her life. But as a long, dry summer sets in, his provocative presence soon twists the patterns of her secluded household.