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Publisher's Summary

A tender, impassioned and unforgettable story of a father's love and a daughter's ambition in the wake of devastating tragedy.

It all starts with the death of Martijn van Vliet's wife. His grief-stricken young daughter, Lea, cuts herself off from the world, lost in the darkness of grief. Then she hears the unfamiliar sound of a violin playing in the hall of a train station, and she is brought back to life. Transfixed by a busker playing Bach, Lea emerges from her mourning, vowing to learn the instrument. And her father, witnessing this delicate spark, promises to do everything and anything in his power to keep her happy.

Lea grows into an extraordinary musical talent - her all-consuming passion leads her to become one of the finest players in the country - but as her fame blossoms, her relationship with her father withers. Unable to keep her close, he inadvertently pushes Lea deeper and deeper into this newfound independence, and, desperate to hold on to his daughter, Martin is driven to commit an act that threatens to destroy them both.

A revelatory portrait of genius and madness, Lea delves into the demands of artistic excellence as well as the damaging power of jealousy and sacrifice. Mercier has crafted a novel of intense clarity, illuminating the poignant ways we strive to understand ourselves and our families.

©2009 Pascal Mercier. Translation copyright Shaun Whiteside 2017 (P)2017 Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd
Family Life Literary Fiction Women's Fiction
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Profile Image for Malicious Genius
  • Malicious Genius
  • 03-03-19

Another gem from Pascal Mercier

Brilliant. Another masterpiece by Pascal Mercier. The characters are deep and complex, the story riveting and poignant. Must read for all those who appreciate original drama and travelling through the meanders of interpersonal relationships. In the background we almost tangibly hear music, as we could in the 'Perelman's Silence'. So glad it's been finally translated into English. Got both kindle edition and an Audible narration right away.