Is thirty already too late to reconsider? Natalie, usually so conscientious, can't remember why her life is following Plan B. Dan carries in his mind a vision of the universe, but sings like a donkey. But their marriage has some precious ember at its core, doesn't it? Meanwhile, Mike is relieved to discover that it doesn't matter if there's a void where the weightiest substance of your character should be. Fearless mountaineer Brenda sees arcs of blood in a crowded room. And James, pacing and fidgeting in a cage of his own design, doesn't know how to unfollow his dreams. This vivaciously intelligent novel follows five characters as they fall under a mortal shadow that none is expecting so soon, but that might just help them learn how to live, just in time.

Longlisted for the Desmond Elliott Prize -- Cover.