My Heavenly Favourite

Set in the turbulent summer of 2005, a veterinarian becomes infatuated with a young farmer's daughter, leading to a complex exploration of obsession, social norms, and the consequences of desire. My Heavenly Favourite delves into these themes with haunting prose.

My Heavenly Favourite is a compelling exploration of obsession and the complexities of desire, set against the backdrop of a tumultuous summer in 2005. The story follows a local veterinarian who becomes infatuated with a 14-year-old farmer's daughter while tending to her father's cows. This relationship, described through the eyes of the troubled narrator, delves into the blurred lines of affection and obsession, as he perceives himself as a means of escape for her from the confines of her conservative rural life.

As the narrative unfolds, the veterinarian's fixation spirals into a dangerous entanglement, revealing the darker aspects of his affection. What begins as a seemingly innocent connection evolves into a gripping tale of manipulation and entrapment, leading to a crime that threatens to fracture their small community. The novel confronts societal taboos and moral boundaries, challenging readers to grapple with the uncomfortable realities of the characters' lives.

With its beautifully crafted prose, My Heavenly Favourite captivates and unsettles, drawing readers into a world of grief and obsession. The author skillfully balances poetic language with the raw intensity of the story, making it both a haunting and thought-provoking read. Translated by Michele Hutchison, this novel stands as a remarkable follow-up to Lucas Rijneveld's acclaimed work, The Discomfort of Evening, further establishing the author as a bold voice in contemporary literature.