The Western Wind (Samantha Harvey)

FROM THE AUTHOR OF 2024 BOOKER PRIZE WINNING ORBITAL

Oakham, Somerset, 1491; when a man is swept away by the village's river, an explanation has to be found: accident, suicide or murder?

The village priest, John Reve, is privy to many secrets in his role as confessor. But will he be able to unravel what happened to the victim, Thomas Newman, the wealthiest, most capable and industrious man in the village? And what will happen if he can't?

Moving back in time over four tense days[IL1] towards the moment of Thomas Newman's death, the story is related by Reve - an extraordinary creation, a patient shepherd to his wayward flock, and a man with secrets of his own to keep. Through his eyes, and his indelible voice, Harvey creates a medieval world entirely tangible in its immediacy.

'A rich and sumptuous delight' DAILY TELEGRAPH

'Astonishing... A rollicking mystery and a profound meditation on faith and existence' OBSERVER