This novel, written in a sophisticated and fluid style, examines the significance of beauty, art, and emotion in a period of endurance.
By Christine Lai ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 12, 2023
Penelope is living in a world on the brink of environmental collapse, and she is preparing for the return of a violent figure from her past. She and her partner, Aidan, have converted a crumbling country house into a residence for climate migrants, but Penelope’s academic ambitions have been put on hold due to the rise of homelessness, hunger, and political instability. To make ends meet, they decide to sell the estate and its remaining valuable objects, and invite Aidan’s brother, Julian, to see the house one last time.
Penelope is filled with fear and dread as she remembers their brief romance and the terrible night that followed. To prepare for the sale, she catalogs the house’s contents, including pictures, postcards, novels, and albums of stamps and flowers. As Julian’s arrival draws nearer, the novel builds an electric undercurrent of doom. Penelope’s diary entries and an omniscient description of Julian’s journey to England by train create suspense as he nears her home.
Check on Amazon Check on Walmart Check on Barnes and Noble Check on PowellsPub Date: Sept. 12, 2023
ISBN: 9781953387387
Page Count: 230
Publisher: Two Dollar Radio
Review Posted Online: June 21, 2023
Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 15, 2023