The Distance Between Us

A Novel

By: Maggie O'Farrell

Narrated by: Susie Riddell

Gripping, insightful, and deft, The Distance Between Us by Maggie O'Farrell is a haunting story of the way our families shape our lives, from the award-winning author of Hamnet and The Marriage Portrait.

On a cold February afternoon, Stella catches sight of a man she hasn't seen for many years, but instantly recognises. Or thinks she does. At the same moment on the other side of the globe, in the middle of a crowd of Chinese New Year revellers, Jake realises that things are becoming dangerous.

They know nothing of one another's existence, but both Stella and Jake flee their lives: Jake in search of a place so remote it doesn't appear on any map, and Stella for a destination in Scotland, the significance of which only her sister, Nina, will understand.

Critic reviews

“[O’Farrell’s] gift for storytelling is wrapped in gold paper and tied with fifteen velvet bows.” —The Independent

“Every bit as good, if not better, than her highly acclaimed previous novels. An intriguing plot, sympathetic characterisation and beautifully observed, sophisticated writing all make for a hugely satisfying read.” ―Booksellers’ Choice

“A well paced read that slowly and tantalizingly unravels a web of mysteries, tragedies and intrigue, keeping you hooked.”―Eve

“Maggie O’Farrell brilliantly reveals how the past has an untidy habit of cluttering up the present in this compulsively readable tale of star-crossed lovers and secretive siblings.” ―Elle

Enthralling

Beautifully written and read! I will be seeking out other Maggie O’Farrell books for sure

Okay but not a favorite

The story drags on some and is not as intricate as Instructions for a Heat Wave or This Must Be the Place. It was okay overall but not my favorite.

Maggie O’Farrell and the wonderful narrator have done it again

This novel is so beautifully written, the characters so real, the plot so intriguing, the settings so vivid that I was mesmerized listening to it.

Love Maggie O’Farrell

This story catches your interest from the very beginning pages. Ms. O’Farrell’s descriptive text uses all the senses. I wish only that the birth father story line had been further developed. Loved the sisters’ story.

Whirlwind

It’s quite a ride from Hong Kong to Scotland to London. As we travel through places we also travel through time, which adds generations to our trip. The characters are basically decent but the plot is full of red herrings, which becomes tiresome. But O’Farrel’s language shines through presaging her mastery with Hamnet.