'An admirable collection. Each story has its subtle nuances of narrative and language which established a quite distinct character. A most impressive work of fiction' The Times Graham Swift's taut prose style, natural gift for characterization and tight grasp of the details and complexities of real life combine beautifully in these concentrated and enigmatic stories to offer an incisive expose of the illusion, subterfuge and enigma of everyday interaction. Focusing on the combative relationships between men and women - between a mismatched couple; an ageing doctor and his hypochondriacal patient; a teenage refugee swept up in the conflict of an oppressively sentimental father and his rebellious son - these spare, Kafkaesque stories are a microcosm for all human cruelty and need. 'Graham Swift . . . has a wide range; he can be delicately sensitive or outrageously funny. He is a born storyteller' Daily Telegraph 'He has style and he has range, and quiet strengths that are continuously and effortlessly displayed. Graham Swift should be read by everyone with an interest in the art of the short story' Evening Standard