The Train Now Departing

Subtle and perceptive, atmospheric and lyrical, these two beautifully accomplished and thematically linked novellas are deceptively profound in their exploration of emotional isolation and identity within human relationships. Each story features a single middle-aged woman who to the outside world seems totally self-assured and content with their quiet and well-ordered lives. But each story features as well a man of seemingly no importance other than as a companion for the occasional meal or an outing in polite society. Reminiscent of Barbara Pym, yet told in Grimes's inimitable voice, they combine the singular characters and richly textured narrative that readers have grown to expect from this internationally bestselling storyteller.