This astonishing novel, set on a small farm in Cornwall, reconnected me to what matters in life. In times of adversity like these, it told me, we can face our difficulties with courage and determination. Beautifully paced and written in limpid, evocative prose, Charnley's tale shows us that we are able to confront almost anything, even a terrible threat, without losing hold of our lifelines: the way sunlight falls through a window, snow crunches underfoot -- the way that the aroma of good food entices us to enter the kitchen. Jago Trevarno's first-person narration is pitch-perfect. His uncle is a sweetheart. Although entirely unique, this novel reminded me happily in different ways of Mark Haddon's The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime, Clare Chambers' Shy Creatures, and Ernest Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea. I can't wait to read Mr. Charnley's next book. And by the way, the jacket design by Dan Simpkins is one of the loveliest this American has ever seen. The whole book, just as a book, is delightfully made and printed. My congratulations to Patrick Charnley and to Hutchinson Heinemann.

Considering I wasn’t sure what to expect when I began this book, this ended up being one of my most enjoyable reads of 2026 so far! Jago is a great narrator who offers a unique perspective on the world around him; most of all I loved his beautiful descriptions of the slow rhythm of life in the countryside and the way each day unfolds on his uncle Jacob’s farm. I think this novel does a great deal in an impressively short space of time: the narration is glorious, there is a gripping sense of mystery throughout, enchanting scenery, and a satisfying ending - at no point did it feel rushed, or like the story needed more space to unravel. It went at just the right pace. For me, the most memorable characters for me were Granny Carne and Bill Sligo: author Patrick Charnley evidently has a talent for capturing the nuances of a village’s most celebrated and despised characters, and I think these characters were fascinating in their own right as well as in the context of their town. It would be remiss of me not to mention the many kinds of love which this book touches on: friendship, family, and romantic love. All of these are captured with great sincerity and humility, which was one of my favourite things about the book - there is such a human urge to find love and meaning, even while weathering unprecedented storms in life. The author’s own experiences have also had a bearing on the way this novel has taken shape, and I was really moved to read about this background in the book’s acknowledgements. Many thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy; this book deserves great success!

Written with a delicate touch and the true rhythms of life in tow, this impressive first novel follows young Jago step by careful step in recovery of a brain injury on his uncle's farm along the coast of St Ives. The writing achieves a deliberate, careful beat, as we are guided through the story of a field, a few horses, hot breakfasts, the view of the sea; and a surprising new enemy in the dark and shady Bill Sligo, as Jago reconnects with the world around him. Simple, effective, all life is; gently rings like a bell. I hope this isn't the last we see of this author because what a fantastic start.

"I've gone from someone who needed to slow down, to be present, to having no choice about it. I am slow now : I have to do things separately, giving each my full attention. But I wouldn't change it back even if I could." This is the story of Jago Trevarno- a young man who has undergone the life-changing impact of surviving a cardiac arrest (not. heart attack - there is a difference) but also suffering brain injury. Following surgery and hospital recuperation, he goes to live with his uncle Jacob on a farm in Cornwall. Life takes on a familiar routine that helps Jago navigate the day. Small details about events add to the understanding of how a daily rhythm or pattern is key for Jago- breakfast rituals; helping on the farm. Life is jolted by the emergence of Bill Sligo - owner of a neighbouring farm. Jago sees him on his uncle's land at different times of day and begins to piece together something sinister. that could alter the equilibrium of life. Patrick Charnley openly informs us at the start of the novel that he has undergone the life-changing experience of brain trauma and he has used his experiences to narrate the story. Written from the first person perspective of Jago, this very much feels that the author's voice is evident. In many ways, despite the dramatic denouement, this is a very gentle read- a slightly 'old-fashioned' quality - but that is not a negative. Following the pace of Jago's world on the farm, as a reader you find yourself slowing down and focussing on each moment- the details about mealtimes hypnotised. The inclusion of Granny Carne and Sophie add further depth to understanding how Jago interacts and communicates with friends whether it be talking about the past or dealing with the unfolding drama in the story. This is a book that educates as much as telling a story. Ultimately, it is the sense of location and being in the moment are what permeate through this gentle read.