Lazy City

Erin returns to Belfast after the death of her best friend and takes an au pair job to escape her grief. She finds solace in quiet churches and spending time with her childhood friend Declan at the bar. However, she must confront her past and confront her own emotions when an old flame reappears in her life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2024
Publisher: Canongate Books

SHORTLISTED FOR THE BETTY TRASK PRIZE

Following the untimely passing of her dearest companion, Erin finds herself compelled to leave the bustling city of London. Retracing her steps back to Belfast, she embarks on a journey as an au pair, seeking solace from the depths of her grief and the persistent pressure of her mother. In the quiet embrace of serene churches during the day, and amidst the lively atmosphere of the bar where her childhood friend Declan works, Erin finds temporary respite from her sorrows.

Erin's heart swells with gratitude for the distractions these experiences provide. First, she encounters a captivating American academic, whose charm and intelligence captivate her attention. Their interactions offer a delightful respite from the weight of her emotions. Then, against the backdrop of chance, the reappearance of an old flame enters Erin's life, reigniting sparks of passion and nostalgia. Their reconnection brings forth a wave of excitement and temptation, adding another layer of intrigue to her journey.

Yet, as the days unfold, Erin cannot escape the inevitable call to confront herself. The distractions may temporarily ease her pain, but they cannot fully heal the wounds that lie deep within. She must embark on a introspective journey, exploring the intricacies of her past, embracing her emotions, and finding the strength to move forward.

Through this transformative process, Erin discovers the power of self-love, forgiveness, and the ability to rebuild her life on her own terms. She learns to embrace the beauty of change and the potential for growth that lies within every challenge. With renewed determination, Erin steps into the future, ready to face whatever lies ahead, armed with the lessons learned from her past and the resilience that has shaped her.

In the end, Erin's journey serves as a testament to the human spirit's enduring strength and the transformative power of love and healing. While the Betty Trask Prize may elude her, she has already won the greatest prize of all—the ability to live a life filled with purpose, meaning, and joy.

Weight: 208g
Dimension: 196 x 130 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838859695
Edition number: Main