Faber lands Rachel Cusk's 'fable of female fate'

Faber is to publish Second Place, the latest  novel by Rachel Cusk.

The synopsis explains: "A woman invites a famed artist to the remote coastal landscape where she lives. Powerfully drawn to his paintings, she believes his vision may penetrate the mystery at the centre of her life. But as a long, dry summer sets in, his provocative presence soon twists the human patterns of her secluded household.

"Second Place is a fable of female fate and male privilege, and a story of unfathomable attractions. Modern and timeless, it reminds us of art’s seduction and elemental power – to both save and destroy."

Publisher Alex Bowler acquired UK, Commonwealth and audio rights from Sarah Chalfant at the Wylie Agency. Farrar, Straus & Giroux will publish simultaneously in the US. It will be published on 6th May in hardback, e-book and audio editions. 

Commenting on the acquisition, Bowler said: "Second Place tells the classical story of an interloper, arriving to upend a life — it is a timeless book, dangerous somehow, masterful, and totally distinct."