Study for Obedience

This novel intricately weaves themes of complicity and power through the life of a devoted housekeeper in a remote community, exploring her struggles and the growing hostility she faces.

In Study for Obedience, the narrative follows a woman who leaves her familiar surroundings to become a housekeeper for her brother in a remote northern country. This move is prompted by her brother's recent separation from his wife, and the protagonist, the youngest of many siblings, has always been conditioned to care for others, ensuring their needs are met with unwavering devotion. However, this new setting is steeped in the history of her family's ancestors, a lineage that is both obscure and often looked down upon by the locals.

As she settles into her role, a series of troubling events begins to unfold in the community, including bizarre occurrences like bovine hysteria and the mysterious illness of livestock. The protagonist soon realizes that the locals harbor a growing suspicion towards her, directed by an unspoken language that she struggles to comprehend. Despite her diligent efforts to integrate and serve the community, she feels their disdain encroaching on her brother’s property, creating an atmosphere of tension and hostility.

The unfolding drama not only examines her personal struggles with acceptance and belonging but also delves into larger themes of complicity and power dynamics. As her brother's health deteriorates, the woman finds herself caught in a web of misunderstandings and accusations, leading her to question her role and the very nature of her devotion. Study for Obedience is a profound exploration of identity, loyalty, and the complexities of human relationships.