The Brothers

A Shakespearean drama from icy Finland.

Finland, 1809. Henrik and Erik are brothers who fought on opposite sides in the war between Sweden and Russia. With peace declared, they both return to their snowed-in farm. But who is the master? Sexual tensions, old grudges, family secrets: all come to a head in this dark and gripping saga.

Why Peirene chose to publish this book: 'This is a historical novel in miniature form. It deals in dark passions and delivers as many twists as a 500-page epic. And if that were not enough, each character speaks in a distinct voice and expresses a unique take on reality. I'm thrilled to be publishing a book that is as Finnish as a forest in winter - but that resembles a work from the American South: William Faulkner's As I Lay Dying.' Meike Ziervogel

'A brooding family drama that has something of the timeless quality of good soap opera.' Nicholas Lezard, Guardian

'Intensely visual . . . A brooding, atmospheric, Scandinavian late night movie.' Brandon Robshaw, Independent on Sunday

'A heart-stoppingly intense historical novel of grand scope.' White Review

'This short, intense novel examines concepts of home, inheritance and the connection between personal and international conflict.' Max Liu, Times Literary Supplement

LONGLISTED FOR THE INTERNATIONAL IMPAC DUBLIN LITERARY AWARD 2014