These Days

WINNER OF THE WALTER SCOTT PRIZE FOR HISTORICAL FICTION
WINNER OF THE E. M. FORSTER AWARD
AS HEARD ON BBC RADIO 4's BOOK AT BEDTIME

The Plot

These Days unfolds in Belfast during April 1941, a time when the threat of the Belfast Blitz looms large over the city. The narrative centres on two sisters, Emma and Audrey, whose lives are intricately woven together by love, secrecy, and the backdrop of war. One sister, engaged to be married, grapples with her future, while the other is in a secret relationship with another woman, reflecting the complexities of love in a tumultuous era. As the sisters face external dangers and their personal struggles, the novel explores themes of sisterhood, identity, and the impact of societal expectations.

Themes

• The fragility of relationships in times of crisis
• The exploration of sexuality and love in a repressive society
• The resilience of the human spirit amidst adversity

Writing Style

The author employs a lyrical prose style that captures the emotional depth of the characters' experiences. Rich in historical detail, These Days immerses the reader in the sights and sounds of wartime Belfast, creating a vivid sense of place that enhances the narrative's tension. The interplay between personal and historical events adds layers of meaning, making it a poignant reflection on the era.