Shortlisted for the 2014 Baileys Women's Prize for Fiction.
An historical dual-narrative tale set in Iceland in 1829 where three, two women and a man, are sentenced for killing two men. We follow the narrative of the “jealous” woman as she is lodged with a family awaiting execution. Through her conversations with her priest and the family, who has daughters, whose opinions we also follow, we learn the startling truth. The atmosphere, the detail, the morals and beliefs of the period and the raw emotions gently unfolding make for a very fine novel indeed.
Shortlisted for the Guardian First Book Award 2013.
In addition to our Lovereading expert opinion for Burial Rites a small number of Lovereading members were lucky enough to be invited to review this title - 'Burial Rites is a mesmerising piece of historical fiction and one of the best début novels I have ever encountered.' - Nicola FosterScroll down to read more reviews.
Shortlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction and a BBC Between the Covers Book Club pick!
'Outstanding' - Madeline Miller, author of Circe 'Gripping, intriguing and unique' - Kate Mosse, author of The Burning Chambers
Northern Iceland, 1829. A woman condemned to death for murdering her lover. A family forced to take her in. A priest tasked with absolving her.
But all is not as it seems, and time is running out: winter is coming, and with it the execution date. Only she can know the truth. This is Agnes's story . . .
Based on actual events, Burial Rites by Hannah Kent is a dark, thrilling work of historical fiction, and a beautiful and gripping read.
'One of the best Scandinavian crime novels I've read' - Independent 'Remarkable' - Sunday Times 'A must-read' - Grazia Shorlisted for the Guardian First Book Award Shortlisted for the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Awards
One of the many extraordinary books featured in the Picador Collection.
