First published 2006
Clem Glass comes back to London from Africa carrying images that have shattered his faith in people. He has witnessed slaughter without consequence and believes mankind is fundamentally corrupt. When his sister becomes ill, Clem takes her to the West Country where they grew up. In this familiar landscape, he encounters everyday decency and small acts of kindness from neighbors and strangers. These moments challenge his dark worldview, forcing him to acknowledge the goodness that still exists around him and within himself. Then word arrives that gives Clem an opportunity to face the person responsible for his trauma. He must decide whether to pursue this confrontation and what it might mean for his understanding of human nature.
Genres: literary-fiction, contemporary, family-drama
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: fish-out-of-water, redemption-arc
Setting: Africa, London, West Country
Period: contemporary
320 pages · Paperback · Sceptre
Content warnings: violence