What a Shame: 'Intelligent, moving and darkly comic' The Sunday Times

What a Shame is a brilliant debut novel that explores the aftermath of a break-up and grief through a series of unorthodox remedies. It is raw, utterly brilliant, and will be read for years by young women looking for a friend.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 05 January 2023
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

The word-of-mouth phenomenon that has been captivating everyone's attention is a remarkable and captivating literary masterpiece. This novel is a testament to its author's exceptional talent, as it seamlessly weaves together intelligent, moving, and darkly comic elements, taking readers on a journey that deftly explores profound themes of trauma and modern life.

The Sunday Times hailed it as "haunting and hilarious," while the Daily Mail praised it as "a brilliant debut." Cariad Lloyd, Caroline O Donoghue, Lauren Bravo, Erin Kelly, Angela Scanlon, Emma Gannon, Otegha Uwagba, and Cathy Rentzenbrink were among the many readers who expressed their love for this captivating book.

At the heart of the story is Mathilda, a young woman grappling with the aftermath of a devastating break-up and the loss of a loved one. She has exhausted every conventional remedy, from crying her tears out to mastering the crow pose and purging every last reminder of her ex-partner. However, despite her best efforts, Mathilda remains stuck in a state of grief and despair.

Concerned for her friend's well-being, Mathilda's friends embark on a series of unconventional interventions, pushing her towards a range of therapies and practices that defy societal norms. From meditation and yoga to therapy with a shaman and even a stint in a grief retreat, Mathilda is willing to try anything to find solace and move forward.

What sets this novel apart is its ability to seamlessly transition between serious explorations of trauma and riotously funny scenes of modern life. The author's sharp wit and poignant observations of human behavior bring the characters to life, making them relatable and empathetic. The story is filled with moments of laughter and heartache, as Mathilda navigates the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery.

Through Mathilda's journey, the novel explores the complexities of grief and loss, challenging societal expectations and offering a fresh perspective on healing and growth. It encourages readers to embrace their emotions, confront their demons, and find hope in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, "What a Shame" is a literary masterpiece that deserves to be celebrated and shared with others. Its intelligent, moving, and darkly comic elements make it a compelling read for anyone who appreciates well-crafted storytelling and meaningful themes. This novel is a testament to the author's talent and a shining example of the power of literature to inspire, heal, and transform.

Weight: 200g
Dimension: 196 x 128 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529367065