The Good People

Short-listed for the Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction

From the author of Burial Rites, “a literary novel with the pace and tension of a thriller that takes us on a frightening journey towards an unspeakable tragedy.” (Paula Hawkins, best-selling author of The Girl on the Train)

Based on true events in 19th-century Ireland, Hannah Kent’s startling new novel tells the story of three women drawn together to rescue child from a superstitious community.

Nóra, bereft after the death of her husband, finds herself alone and caring for her grandson, Micheál, who can neither speak nor walk. A handmaid, Mary, arrives to help Nóra just as rumours begin to spread that Micheál is a changeling child who is bringing bad luck to the valley. Determined to banish evil, Nóra and Mary enlist the help of Nance, an elderly wanderer who understands the magic of the old ways.

Set in a lost world bound by its own laws, The Good People is Hannah Kent’s startling new novel about absolute belief and devoted love.

Terrifying, thrilling, and moving in equal measure, this follow-up to Burial Rites shows an author at the height of her powers.