Left And Leaving - Softcover

"Humane and subtle, a keenly observed exploration of the way we live now . . . I am amazed that Verity's work is still such a secret. A great read." Stephen May, author of"Life, Death, Prizes""

"Apitch perfect evocation of childhood and sibling relationships." Marcel Theroux, author, "Strange Bodies""

"The writing is gorgeous, the characters engaging and real, and their complicated lives make for an excellent, almost escapist read, allowing the reader to forget, for a time, their own troubles and stresses." "Booksmonthly""

"[H]er best yet. It is beautifully written . . . both rewarding and inspiring and I would recommend it unreservedly." Ian Kirkpatrick"

"Verity does have a wonderful knack of representing the nitty gritty reality of our modern day world." "Bookbag""

Photographer Gil is on an extended grey gap-year, working in the London hospital to which Vivian brings Irene for emergency treatment; together they try to establish calm amid the chaos. Irene is thrilled with her 'guardian angels', they less so with her ongoing interest in their lives. Gil has a girlfriend, living in the same building as him, and a troublesome family back home. Thirty-something Vivian has a high-flying boyfriend, an irascible father and a demanding job. But they keep finding reasons to spend time together in the run up to Christmas. And still there is Irene, intent on filling the holes in her life. Marooned in Tooting by a sudden snowstorm, Vivian and Gil are forced to spend the holiday confronting secrets and responsibilities they've been complacent about for too long.