All the Little Bird-Hearts

All the Little Bird-Hearts by Viktoria Lloyd-Barlow is a masterfully crafted novel that beautifully interweaves themes of family, identity, and the delicate complexities of human connection. The story follows Sunday Forrester, a meticulous woman who adheres to her unique set of routines and guidelines to navigate everyday life. Living in her childhood home with her sixteen-year-old daughter, Dolly, Sunday finds solace in her love for Sicilian folklore and the structured comfort of her etiquette handbook. However, Dolly, spirited and intelligent, is on the brink of stepping into the larger world, which presents both a source of pride and an underlying anxiety for Sunday.

As Sunday endeavours to maintain her ordered existence, her world is delightfully upended by the arrival of the charming and enigmatic couple, Vita and Rollo, who move in next door. Initially, Vita and Rollo mesmerise Sunday with their charm and allure, breaking through her guarded exterior and inviting her into a world of new social complexities that defy her rules. What begins as a charming friendship soon opens doors to new emotions, allowing Sunday to feel an unprecedented sense of acceptance and love.

But beneath the surface of this seemingly perfect relationship with Vita and Rollo lies a hidden agenda. Vita, captivated by Sunday's life, harbours a deep, unspoken desire for the one thing Sunday cherishes most—her daughter, Dolly. This undercurrent of tension weaves a dark thread through the narrative, leading Sunday to confront the vulnerabilities and secrets that could unravel her tightly held world.

LONGLISTED FOR THE BOOKER PRIZE FOR FICTION 2023

“Delicate and strong... I loved it”—Maggie O'Farrell

“Darkly vivacious”—Guardian

“Glorious. Unforgettable”—Melissa Harrison

“A keen eye... immaculate”—Financial Times

“A triumph”—Daily Telegraph

With rich, lush prose and a compelling narrative that explores the boundaries of parental love and the nuances of friendship, All the Little Bird-Hearts is a triumphant debut that resonates deeply with readers. Viktoria Lloyd-Barlow's storytelling is a perfect blend of the delicate and the powerful, creating a memorable reading experience that lingers long after the final page is turned.