BBC Between the Covers Book Club pick!

Set against Iceland’s stark landscape, Hannah Kent brings to vivid life the story of Agnes, who is charged with the brutal murder of her former master.

Inspired by a true story,Burial Ritesis perfect for fans ofAlias Graceby Margaret Atwood andThe Wonderby Emma Donoghue

– The Women’s Prize for Fiction Shortlist
– The Guardian First Book Award Shortlist
– The International IMPAC Dublin Literary Awards Shortlist

Iceland, 1829 Agnes Magnsdttir is condemned to death for her part in the murder of her lover.

Agnes is sent to wait out her final months on the farm of district officer Jn Jnsson, his wife and their two daughters who are horrified to have a convicted murderer in their midst. Only Tti, the young assistant priest appointed Agness spiritual guardian, is compelled to try to understand her. As the year progresses and the hardships of rural life force the household to work side by side, Agness story begins to emerge and with it the familys terrible realization that all is not as they had assumed.

In beautiful, cut-glass prose, Hannah Kent portrays Icelands formidable landscape, in which every day is a battle for survival, and asks, how can one woman hope to endure when her life depends upon the stories told by others?

‘Outstanding’ Madeline Miller, author ofCirce

‘Sublime’ Sunday Telegraph

‘One of the most gripping, intriguing and unique books Ive read