Consolation

Consolation (La Consolante) was the bestselling French novel in 2008, with sales of over half a million copies and translations into thirty-two languages. Darker and more complex than Hunting and Gathering (Ensemble, c’est tout), but just as dazzling, the second novel by Anna Gavalda tells a heartbreaking, unusual story about one man, two women, and an unforgettable transvestite. A successful architect hears about the death of a woman he once loved, and his life starts to unravel. He seeks her past and his childhood, ultimately finding himself in a painful situation. The story offers a final chance of consolation when he meets Kate, a young woman who is damaged but fearless and loves life. This novel is about life, love, and second chances.