Fault Lines: Shortlisted for the 2021 Costa First Novel Award (Hardback) - Emily Itami

Brief Encounter set in contemporary Tokyo -- a funny, sharp and moving story of modern love from a writer to watch

'A brilliant modern love story. I found it atmospheric and transporting but also wise, clever and universal in its exploration of love, family and identity. I loved it' Cathy Rentzenbrink

Mizuki is a Japanese housewife. She has a hardworking husband, two adorable children and a beautiful Tokyo apartment. It's everything a woman could want, yet sometimes she wonders whether it would be more fun to throw herself off the high-rise balcony than spend another evening not talking to her husband or hanging up laundry.

Then, one rainy night, she meets Kiyoshi, a successful restaurateur. In him, she rediscovers freedom, friendship, a voice, and the neon, electric pulse of the city she has always loved. But the further she falls into their relationship, the clearer it becomes that she is living two lives - and in the end, we can choose only one.

Alluring, compelling, startlingly honest and darkly funny, Fault Lines is a bittersweet love story and a daring exploration of modern relationships from a writer to watch.

About the Author

Emily Itami grew up in Tokyo before moving to London, where she now lives with her young family. She has been published widely as a freelance journalist and travel writer. This is her first novel.