The Exhibitionist
08 March 2022Synopsis
As heard on BBC Radio 4's Book at Bedtime
A Times, Guardian, and Good Housekeeping Book of the Year
Longlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction
'It takes the most ferocious intelligence, skill, and a deep reservoir of sadness to write a novel as funny as this. I adored it' - Meg Mason, bestselling author of Sorrow & Bliss
Meet the Hanrahan family.
Ray, the father. Acclaimed artist and notorious narcissist, who is obsessed with his own reputation.
Lucia, his long-suffering wife. A lauded sculptor yet terrified of what recognition could bring. And she has a secret of her own which could tear the family apart.
Leah, the eldest daughter, devoted to her father and convinced of his genius.
Patrick, Lucia’s sensitive son, who has finally decided to strike out by himself.
Jess, the youngest daughter, insecure and facing a daunting decision.
As they gather for a momentous weekend – the first exhibition of Ray’s artwork in many decades – each member of the family must finally make a choice. And when they do, once tensions have boiled over and the guests have departed, what will be left of the Hanrahans?
The extraordinary fifth novel from Charlotte Mendelson, The Exhibitionist is a dazzling exploration of art, sacrifice, toxic family politics, queer desire and personal freedom.
'A devastating treat of a novel: funny, furious, dark and delicious' - Sarah Waters, bestselling author of Fingersmith
Details
08 March 2022
9781529052763Reviews
In The Exhibitionist Mendelson brings a forensic eye to family dynamics, laying bare the agonies of rage, frustration and longing that lie just beneath the surface of domestic life. The result is a devastating treat of a novel: funny, furious, dark and deliciousSarah Waters, bestselling author of Fingersmith
It takes the most ferocious intelligence, skill and a deep reservoir of sadness to write a novel as funny as this. I adored itMeg Mason, bestselling author of Sorrow and Bliss
Mendelson is a master at family drama, and plots don’t get much more dramatic than this . . . ExhilaratingThe Times
A delicious, heartbreaking family snapshot about thwarted ambition, misplaced loyalty and good and bad love. Secrets abound. Fabulously written and utterly compellingMarian Keyes, bestselling author of Grown Ups
