So Late in the Day / Claire Keegan

An exquisite new short story from the Sunday Times bestselling author of Small Things Like These and Foster.

After an uneventful Friday at the Dublin office, Cathal faces into the long weekend and takes the bus home. There, his mind agitates over a woman named Sabine with whom he could have spent his life, had he acted differently. All evening, with only the television and a bottle of champagne for company, thoughts of this woman and others intrude — and the true significance of this particular date is revealed.

From one of the finest writers working today, Keegan’s new story asks if a lack of generosity might ruin what could be between men and women.

Is it possible to love without sharing?

‘A genuine once-in-a-generation writer.’ The Times.

‘Every word is the right word in the right place, and the effect is resonant and deeply moving.’ Hilary Mantel.

‘Claire Keegan makes her moments real – and then she makes them matter.’ Colm Tóibín