by HarrietVyner (Author)
Among Ruins is the story of Laura, born to a wealthy family and enjoying the lifestyle of the landed gentry - until her father gambles away their vast, legendary Northumberland estate one evening on a billiard table. Laura and her family move away, but she remains haunted by an abusive incident she suffered on the grounds as a child. She moves to London as a teenager and embarks on an affair with a much older, well-known artist. But as his infatuation grows, Laura's lessens, and she finds herself becoming increasingly dependent on alcohol and eventually heroin...with dramatic consequences. Much more than a coming-of-age story, Among Ruins explores Laura's attempt to find significance and esteem as her father succeeds in losing his own. It is a compelling exploration of what happens when life unexpectedly starts to spiral out of control, and Harriett Vyner explores both of their turbulent experiences with extraordinary honesty, elegance and wit.
Format: Paperback
Pages: 240
Edition: Main
Publisher: Faber & Faber
Published: 16 Feb 2006
ISBN 10: 0571225926
ISBN 13: 9780571225927
Book Overview: Among Ruins by Harriet Vyner follows Laura, the teenage daughter of a family fallen from its riches, as she attempts to find significance and esteem - as her father succeeds in losing his own.