An Unexpected Guest

It’s not surprising that the prolific short-fiction writer Korkeakivi’s debut novel takes place over a 24-hour period. What is surprising is the depth and magnitude she attains from what first appears to be a thin premise. Clare Moorhouse is the wife of a British diplomat stationed in Paris, a man in line for a promotion to the ambassadorship of Ireland. All Clare has to do is host an elegant dinner with top-ranking officials—and make sure it runs smoothly. It’s something she’s done a thousand times, but this evening is different. The mention of Ireland triggers a flood of memories regarding a youthful but grave mistake she made in college that she’s never forgiven herself for. Running errands throughout the city in preparation for the party, she’s forced to face the demons she’s been carrying by encounters with two men–one of whom has been dead for more than 20 years. Korkeakivi fluidly fuses the past and present, building a solid character in Clare and powerfully exploring whether redemption from past regrets is possible and the lengths one must go to attain it. Agent: Gail Hochman, Brandt & Hochman. (Apr.)