From a mother meeting her son’s killer, to a wife’s despair and desire for revenge when her beloved cat dies, this is a collection of stories about troubled lives. The protagonists struggle to cope in adversity, some finding themselves capable of unexpected courage and resilience, but for others adapting to their difficult circumstances appears impossible.

In the title story, a newly retired husband becomes obsessed with environmental issues, bringing his marriage to crisis point. ‘Son’ explores the dilemma of discovering a family crime, whether to expose it, or conceal the evidence. In ‘A Beginner’s Guide to Stammering’ a teenager struggles to communicate with dramatic consequences. A middle-aged man falls in love for the first time in ‘Catalina’, but at what cost?

“A gorgeous collection. The stories are suspenseful and thought-provoking” – THE BOOK COMMENTARY

“A collection of beautiful insights into human nature that leaves you thinking. Some are dark, emotional or tragic and some are amusing. They are so well done” – NETGALLEY REVIEWER

“Mairs has a very astute awareness of human behaviour, showing love in all its many contorted forms to great effect. Domestic violence, stalking, the need for company at any cost, the knowledge that we never really know the ones we love completely and utterly. Deep stuff and, at times disturbing, mostly because of her depiction of humanity and her ability to present it in such relatable terms” Rachel Deeming – READER VIEWS

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