A compulsive, atmospheric novel about writing, obsession and desire from the award-winning author of The Other Side of the World

'Eventful, atmospheric, deliciously complex' New York Times

'Elegant and highly accomplished . . . dangerously readable . . . If only all novels were this engaging and this perceptive about human nature' The Guardian

'A literary potboiler about love, obsession, professional rivalry between intimates and the dilemmas confronting a female artist. Riveting' Sydney Morning Herald

There were things that I wanted to say. Things I knew I couldn't say but needed to tell someone. And then the things I knew I should say. What they wanted to hear. There is never only one version.

Novelist JB Blackwood is on a cruise with her husband, Patrick, to celebrate their wedding anniversary. Her one-time professor, Patrick is much older than JB. A maverick when they met, he seemed somehow ageless, as all new gods appear in the eyes of those who worship them. He is a film director. A cult figure. But now his success is starting to wane and JB is on the cusp of winning a major literary prize. Her art, that has forever been overseen by Patrick, is starting to overshadow his.

For days they sail in the sun. They lie about drinking, reading, sleeping, having sex. There is nothing but dark water all around them.

Then a storm hits. When Patrick falls overboard, JB is left alone as the search for Patrick's body, the circumstances of his death and the truth about their marriage begins.