LONGLISTED FOR THE BOOKER PRIZE 2024

A story of love and astronomy that spans twenty years through the lives of two unlikely friends.

«Wonderful... Ethereal» - GUARDIAN

«A book with a cosmic dimension» - FINANCIAL TIMES

«A romantic story befitting Emily Brontë» - WALL STREET JOURNAL

«A novel that blends genres and ideas» - TELEGRAPH

«Sarah Perry is getting better and better» - INDEPENDENT

Thomas and Grace are partners in the Baptist church in a small Essex town, Aldleigh. Though separated by three decades in age, the two are spiritual kin—torn between their commitment to religion and their desire for more. But their friendship is threatened by the arrival of love.

Thomas falls in love with James Bauer, who runs the local museum. Together they develop an obsession with the 19th-century female astronomer, Maria Ventouva, rumored to haunt a nearby mansion. Inspired by Maria and the growing realization that James may not reciprocate his feelings, Thomas finds solace studying the night sky. Can astronomy offer as much wonder as divine or earthly love?

Meanwhile, Grace meets Nathan, a fellow from the 6th form who represents a different, wilder life. They are passionately drawn to each other but are quickly separated, throwing Grace into the wider world and away from Thomas.

Over time, Aldleigh's mysteries unfold, bringing Thomas and Grace back to one another and to a richer understanding of love, the nature of the world, and the simple wonder of life.

Pages: 400, Dimensions: 16.1x16.1cm