Death In Summer by William Trevor

This novel delves into the life of a widower grappling with the sudden loss of his wife in an accident, leaving him to care for their infant daughter alone. Amidst his grief, he encounters a series of potential nannies, each bringing their own complexities and the past into his meticulously ordered world. The narrative weaves through themes of loneliness, the search for connection, and the shadows cast by past actions, as the protagonist navigates the challenges of new fatherhood and the intrusion of an obsessed stranger. Set against a backdrop of everyday English life, the story unfolds with subtlety and depth, exploring the nuances of human relationships and the quiet moments that define and disrupt our lives.

The 6427th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 96

Since this book was first published in 1998, there is a penalty of 38.4%. The age adjusted score is 59.14.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.