Shame by Karin Alvtegen

The prose is crisp and the narrative fast paced

Book Review by Helen Grey | 13 Oct 2006
Book title: Shame
Author: Karin Alvtegen
It's rare that I ever pay any attention to the blurb that's plastered over the front of books. Phrases like "The number one international best seller" and "This book is so incredibly brilliant you won't be able to put it down" usually give no realistic indication on how good the said book actually is. But for once the phrases dotted around the cover of 'Shame' do actually come close. I have to agree with the fine people at the Guardian, that the second offering from the Swedish author Karin Alvtegen is "Compassionate and Gritty" and "Relentless and Frightening". 'Shame' follows the lives of two women who seemingly have nothing in common except their ingrained fear of their pasts. Written in the first person, Maj-Britt and Monika speak of their innermost turmoil in such a way that you feel more than a little uneasy as you tap into their thoughts. The prose is crisp and the narrative fast paced, which combined with a strong and compelling story, makes for an enjoyable read. I use the word enjoyable loosely though, as 'Shame' is an intense read that examines how, if we let it, our past can consume and destroy our future. I thoroughly recommend this book. [Helen Grey]
Out now, Price £9.99