'A complete original . . . she aims straight for the truth and the heart'
Hilary Mantel

Patrick is a loner, an intelligent but unhappy young man struggling to find his place in the world. But, not long after he leaves home to begin a new life in a boarding house in a remote seaside town, he commits an act of violence and must face the awful and chilling consequences.

This is How is a compelling and unsettling journey into the dark side of human existence and a powerful meditation
on the nature of guilt and redemption.

'An expertly paced, gripping novel that doesn't falter and never compromises its emotional truth' The Times

'M.J. Hyland's prose is in for the kill' Metro

'Remarkable for its authenticity . . . there are moments of extreme tenderness that bring tears to your eyes' Irish Mail

'An eerie, commanding book . . . thrilling, moving and compassionate' New York Times