In the Quiet (2015)
NSW Premier’s Literary Awards – Shortlisted
Readings Prize for New Australian Fiction – Shortlisted
Australian Book Industry Awards – Longlisted
Indie Book Awards – Longlisted
Cate Carlton has recently died, yet she is able to linger on, watching her three young children and her husband as they come to terms with their life without her on their rural horse property.
As the months pass and her children grow, they cope in different ways, drawn closer and pulled apart by their shared loss. And all Cate can do is watch on helplessly, seeing their grief, how much they miss her and how – heartbreakingly – they begin to heal.
Gradually unfolding to reveal Cate’s life, her marriage, and the unhappy secret she shared with one of her children, In the Quiet is compelling, simple, tender, true – heartbreaking and uplifting in equal measure.
What People Are Saying
“You will weep, and marvel, and pass this book on, and on, to your friends. I was trapped in its spell and am still trapped.”
— Nikki Gemmell
“An affirming narrative, suffused with beauty, gentleness and calm.”
— Judges’ report, NSW Premier’s Literary Awards
“This hearttugging first novel is a beautifully paced mixture of romance, family saga and mystery.”
— The Adelaide Advertiser
“Henry-Jones, in her debut novel, has structured a glorious book that will make you cry, guaranteed. But it’s also uplifting and tender. A surprise find.”
— The Age
“This sad, gentle story explores love, grief and family; the nature of time and memory; the destructiveness of secrets; and the pain of letting go. It’s an impressive debut.”
— Books+Publishing