Heather O'Neill Knihy

From the bestselling author of The Lonely Hearts Hotel comes a spellbinding tale of two young women whose intense friendship threatens to destroy them and alters the course of history. Marie Antoine, the charismatic daughter of a sugar baron, is the leader of the children in Montreal’s affluent Golden Mile. At twelve, her whimsical charm captivates all until Sadie Arnett, dark-haired and brilliant, moves in. The two girls quickly become inseparable, drawn together by their passion and intensity, igniting a volatile relationship. While Marie revels in the pleasures of life, Sadie is consumed by an obsession with darkness. Their innocent games soon turn dangerous, leading to a forced separation that shapes their teenage years, marked by alternating innocence and depravity. A pivotal event reunites them with devastating consequences. As Marie inherits her father's sugar empire and Sadie delves into the gritty underworld, the working class begins to rise in revolution. Each woman unexpectedly influences the upheaval in their city, leaving the future of their friendship uncertain. This page-turning novel delves into themes of gender, power, desire, class, and the profound strength of the human heart when faced with loss.

Shortlisted for the Women's Fiction Prize, the startling story of a girl who has to bring herself up

A novel about childhood damage and the redemptive power of art from an author twice listed for the Women's Prize and the Giller Prize

Set in a vividly imaginative world, the narrative blends dark humor with poignant themes, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a unique and dreamlike experience. Heather O'Neill crafts a fable that transcends traditional storytelling, offering a rich tapestry of emotions and creativity that captivates the imagination. This work stands out for its ability to evoke both laughter and reflection, showcasing O'Neill's distinctive voice and vision.