The triumphant return of the multi-million copy bestselling author of The Miniaturist and The Muse - a riveting, provocative and unforgettable novel about the roles women play in modern life

Kezia and her best friend Iris met at drama school and both dreamed of making it in the acting world. But whilst Iris has found fame and fortune, Kezia is a single mother struggling to make ends meet, living with her son Kit on a boat moored by the Thames and wondering what became of her life.

When Kezia loses her job, Kit convinces her to audition for a reality TV documentary for mothers and children. Though initially reluctant, Kezia wonders if it could be the lucky break she's been waiting for. But the producers have their own agenda and the show changes the course of her life - and tests her relationships - in ways she could never have expected .

A riveting exploration of creativity, parenthood, female friendship and the roles women are expected to play in public and private life, this extraordinary novel asks: are we all performing in some way? And how are our choices perceived when the wider world is invited to judge?