Second Place Av Rachel Cusk

<p>''A classic, but with contemporary urgency thumping through it.''<br><b>Claire-Louise Bennett</b>, author of <i>Pond</i><br><br><b>A woman invites a famed artist to the remote coastal landscape where she lives. Drawn to his paintings, she believes his vision may penetrate the mystery at the centre of her life. But as a long, dry summer sets in, his provocative presence soon twists the patterns of her secluded household.</b><br><br>¿The most singular book . . . A psychodrama that is both timeless and up-to-the minute . . . Truly one of a kind.¿ Justine Jordan, <i>Guardian</i><br><br>¿A novel of deep insight and scarring honesty.¿ Martin Chilton, <i>Independent</i><br><br>¿Re-sets the dial yet again.¿ Claire Harman, <i>Evening Standard</i><br><br>¿Extraordinary . . . fearless.¿ Alex Clark, <i>The Spectator</i><br><br>¿Glittering brilliance.¿ Jon Day, <i>Financial Times</i></p>