Synopsis

The paperback release of 2024’s astonishing literary scifi coming-of-age novel.In January 2314, Rowena Savalas a curator of the vast archive of the twenty-first centurys primitive internet stumbles upon a story posted in the summer of 2024. Shes quickly drawn into the mystery of the text: Is it autobiography, fantasy or fraud? Whats the significance of the recurring number 381? In the story, the protagonist Fairly walks the Horned Road a quest undertaken by youngsters in her village when they come of age. She is followed by the breathing man, a looming presence, dogging her heels every step of the way. Everything she was taught about her world is overturned. Following Fairlys quest, Rowena comes to question her own choices, and a predictable life of curation becomes one of exploration, adventure and love. As both womens stories draw to a close, she realises it doesnt matter whether the story is true or not: as with the quest itself, its the journey that matters.

About The Author

Aliya Whiteley is one of the most exciting talents in the UK. She is the author of six books of speculative fiction, including the Arthur C. Clarke Award shortlisted Skyward Inn and The Loosening Skin, and also The Beauty, which was shortlisted for both a Shirley Jackson Award and the Otherwise Award. She lives in Sussex with her husband and daughter.

This is a standard paperback/soft cover version.