Bass Rock

The Bass Rock is a novel that explores the lives of three women across centuries, linked by their connection to the place. Set in the early 1700s, Sarah is accused of being a witch and flees for her life. In the aftermath of the Second World War, Ruth navigates a new house and the strange waters of the local community. Six decades later, Viv discovers her place in the past and finds hope for survival and new life in sisterhood.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 05 August 2021
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

The Bass Rock, a majestic landmark on the Scottish mainland, has stood as a silent witness to the lives that have unfolded beneath its shadow for centuries. Over the ages, the destinies of three remarkable women have intertwined, bound by their connection to this place and to each other.

In the early 1700s, Sarah, accused of witchcraft, finds herself on the run, desperately seeking refuge from the relentless pursuit of those who seek to harm her. In the aftermath of the Second World War, Ruth navigates the unfamiliar terrain of a new home, a new husband, and the enigmatic social dynamics of the local community.

Six decades later, the house stands empty, awaiting the arrival of a new occupant. Viv, mourning the loss of her father, delves into Ruth's belongings, unearthing a hidden legacy and discovering her place in the past. As she sifts through the remnants of Ruth's life, Viv glimpses a glimmer of hope and a potential path forward.

Each woman's choices are shaped and constrained by the men in their lives. However, in the sisterhood of women, there exists a profound sense of resilience and the possibility of rebirth. Through their shared experiences and unwavering support, these women find the strength to overcome adversity and forge new paths.

The Bass Rock is a testament to the enduring power of female bonds and the resilience of the human spirit. Max Porter's masterful storytelling weaves together the lives of these three women, creating a tapestry of love, loss, and redemption that will leave readers captivated and inspired.

This captivating novel has received widespread praise from esteemed authors and critics alike. Daisy Johnson, in her review for the Sunday Times, hailed it as "daring, heartfelt, and explosive." William Boyd praised it as "dark, disturbing, and very sophisticated," while Claire Fuller described it as "wonderfully subtle and magnificently savage."

The Bass Rock is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the ability of literature to transport readers to new worlds and explore the depths of the human experience. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted tale that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the resilience of the human spirit.

Weight: 260g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784705497