Novel set in rural USA (‘the only thing you are allowed to take from an affair is wisdom’)

13th August 2014

Life Drawing by Robin Black, novel set in rural USA outside Philadelphia.

Strands weave their way through the story including the discovery of old newspapers that feature young soldiers ready to go to war, all pictured in Gus and Owen’s house. Gus uses these to try and give her creativity a kick-start. New neighbour Alison arrives to live in a nearby house, she has left her physically abusive husband behind. But her presence soon disrupts the tranquility and balance in the house – there seems to be no agenda (although the estate agent’s info about the artistic neighbours was influential in her choice of house) but her mere presence as a close neighbour stirs disquiet in the couple’s relationship. She is soon joined by her daughter, Nora, who becomes pivotal in their lives.

Gus has been unable to have children and that too, like the affair, sits in the background, like a snake ready to raise its head and pounce at the most unlikely moment. Her father meanwhile requires ministrations from Gus and her remaining sister, as he gradually sinks into dementia and needs different and more effectual care.

The book is like a theatrical production, incredibly strong on atmosphere, and captures the minute hues of a relationship under duress. The author has a real gift for the subtle interactions between couples and conveying the tiny changes in atmosphere that pervade an adult intimate relationship. Life drawing as in the title, of course has an artistic connotation but in essence the author paints the relationship in all its detail, it is a snapshot of a period within one couple’s life, as they readjust and rejig positions. We know from the outset that Owen will die, but quite how this happens is left until the end. Is it a satisfying conclusion? The writing is superb, and I look forward to author’s next book.

The cover is a real hit. The beautiful swirls of colour – the inky quality of the shades, the alizarin crimson or permanent magenta sinking into water are really striking. We have chosen to feature the cover on our Pinterest Board “Book Covers that caught our eye”.

In terms of TripFiction, the story seems to be set in Pennsylvania, in essence somewhere beyond Philadelphia (rural USA) but serves only as a hint of a country background to the drama playing out in the pages. It is a book that will stir your thoughts, and you can find out more (and buy it) here.

You can follow the author on Twitter and connect with her on her website. And we would also love to see you over on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest and when we have some interesting photos we can sometimes be found over on Instagram too.

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