A man who hates his father discovers his father’s dead body on the floor, covered in blood, assumed murdered. He should call the police, but doesn’t. Is he somehow responsible for his father’s death, or is there another reason for his guilt? This is a superb story, with elements that feel like magical realism. Smucker writes the kind of stories that leave you exhaling after them, not realising you’ve been holding your breath throughout. The characters feel utterly real and the whole story is beautifully cinematic. As we uncover the secrets of his past, we also get a beautiful portrayal of what guilt does and how we hanker to be absolved. Extra points for complex characters who are church ministers – so many authors resort to two-dimensional portrayals, but Smucker’s thoughtfulness is consistent throughout. As with everything else he’s written, this novel is excellent. One that gets under your skin – highly recommended.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the publisher and this is my honest review. When I began reading this book, I was drawn into the idea of the character, his predicament, and how he would handle it. At first, I struggled with the pace of the story. It wasn’t slow, but I wanted it to unfold faster, match the chaotic pace of my life at the time of reading, and give me more answers - NOW! Yet, before I knew it, the methodical and rhythmic marching ever forward (even in his reflections into the past) had unfolded far more than I realised. I grew to appreciate the pace; I settled into it, and truly enjoyed the journey. I love the author’s use of imagery. His language isn’t flowery, but it definitely has a poetic edge. There’s a realness to the characters’ relationships showing the harshness, love, misunderstandings, and even grace that so often happen in real life. Cohen Marah’s story will be one I return to for a reread down the road.