The Year of the Cat: A Love Story

The Year of the Cat is a brave process of healing and self-reconstruction, following Rhiannon as she navigates life in London after an attack and struggles with the desire for a baby. The book beautifully captures the liminal period before any life-changing decision.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 22 June 2023
Publisher: Headline Publishing Group

A courageous journey of healing and self-reconstruction, The Year of the Cat by Nell Frizzell is a remarkable literary achievement. Frizzell's writing is simply one of the finest examples of contemporary literature, encompassing themes of family, glamour, and love. In the story, Rhiannon, the protagonist, finds herself in a transitional phase of life, living in a flat with scuffed furniture and woodchip wallpaper. Despite the lack of a feline companion, she realizes that she does have a life worth living. However, her dreams of moving on with her flatmate are challenged by the realities of London's generation rent, where they share their home with a succession of friends and strangers while saving for a more stable future. The desire for a baby looms ever present, but Rhiannon grapples with the anxiety she has experienced since a street attack. Moreover, her past as a caregiver for her autistic brother raises questions about her desire for motherhood.

Through the seasons of lockdown, The Year of the Cat follows the captivating journey of a kitten named Mackerel, who enters Rhiannon's life and teaches her to confront her fears and embrace the immense love she possesses. Frizzell's writing is masterful, capturing the essence of that liminal period before life-changing decisions. The book beautifully portrays the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and personal growth. Olivia Sudjic, author of Asylum Road, praises The Year of the Cat as a superbly written and special book. Sudjic highlights the book's ability to capture the transitional phase before significant life choices, noting its poignant portrayal of the human experience.

In conclusion, The Year of the Cat by Nell Frizzell is a profound and captivating exploration of healing, self-reconstruction, and the complexities of human emotions. Frizzell's writing is exceptional, and her portrayal of the characters and their journeys is deeply relatable. The book offers a unique perspective on the challenges and joys of life, leaving a lasting impression on readers. Whether you are seeking a meaningful literary experience or simply looking for a story that will touch your heart, The Year of the Cat is a must-read.

Weight: 230g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472290748