Lucy
by Paul Pickering
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Pub Date 15 Jul 2024 | Archive Date 15 Aug 2024
Salt Publishing | Salt
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Description
Paul Pickering’s new anti-war novel Lucy is about obedience and rebellion, how one survivor in the actual and moral wasteland of immediate post-war Berlin takes over the lives of three others, psychologically and sexually, in the way Hitler took over a country.
The worldwide protests surrounding the 2024 conflict in Gaza mirror the rebel spirit at the heart of Pickering’s important, groundbreaking novel. Set partly in a German kibbutz, started by Nazis to remove Jews, there is a clash between utopian ideas and the toxic nationalism necessary to found the state of Israel. Operation Lucy, once an idealistic, anti-Nazi espionage ring, of which all the main characters are part, has become a self-devouring monster.
Lucy is darkly comic, showing how best intentions, when they pass through the looking-glass of human failings, change to the opposite. Joseph Heller’s “Catch-22” means no escape because of contradictory rules, “Lucy” is the Lucifer paradox, where the only good is bad, and only bad is good.
A thrilling, disturbing and utterly compelling read from one of the UK’s most celebrated authors.
A Note From the Publisher
Advance Praise
Praise for previous work
‘This is a hilarious, inventive black comedy that inverts all values and mocks the religious spy thriller set in exotic parts in the world of ‘cloak and stagger’ … The black comedy of the year.’ —Andrew Sinclair, The Times
‘Altogether, this is a smashing debut from a new comic novelist of terrific promise.’ —Valentine Cunningham, The Observer
‘Is it as good as Graham Greene? Yes, it is, and in some ways better.’ —Marghanita Laski, The Listener
‘Reminiscent of the early Waugh.’ —The Irish Times
Available Editions
| EDITION | Paperback |
| ISBN | 9781784633240 |
| PRICE | £12.99 (GBP) |
| PAGES | 336 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Kerry H, Educator
Paul Pickering's complex but highly readable novel is a timely anti-war tome. I often think that those who can write 'dark humour' are the most accomplished of writers, and Pickering's novel is no exception. But this novel is more than that, it is fiction as an exploration of what could (what actually might) happen, and reading it in the wake of wars going on today, to be frank, makes the writing all the more unsettling. Obedience and control; human nature and inhuman nature. It's all here. Thought-provoking, to say the least. Highly recommended. My thanks to the publisher and to NetGalley for the ARC.
Reviewer 1453589
What an exciting book! I loved it! Great characters, great story, and great writing. Pick this one up on publication day!
Liz L, Reviewer
A very good and very important book, especially with the current genocide happening in Gaza. It’s very dark but I would definitely recommend
Jo C, Reviewer
"Lucy" by Paul Pickering is a remarkable novel that masterfully intertwines deep emotional resonance with brilliant storytelling. From the first page, Pickering's eloquent prose and nuanced character development draw readers into a richly woven narrative that is both poignant and thought-provoking.
The titular character, Lucy, is exquisitely portrayed with layers of complexity and humanity. Her journey is compelling, capturing the essence of personal struggle, resilience, and the quest for identity. Pickering’s ability to delve into the intricacies of the human spirit is evident, making Lucy's experiences both relatable and profoundly moving.
Pickering's writing is nothing short of poetic, with vivid descriptions and insightful observations that bring the story to life. The novel’s pacing is perfectly measured, allowing the reader to savor each moment and reflect on the underlying themes of love, loss, and redemption.
"Lucy" stands out not just for its beautiful narrative, but also for its capacity to evoke deep reflection and empathy. Paul Pickering has created a timeless piece of literature that resonates on multiple levels, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates finely crafted, emotionally rich fiction. Highly recommended for those seeking a novel that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally satisfying.
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