'A fascinating novel exploring responsibility, desire and the very stuff of existence with verve and sensitivity' Heidi James, author of Wounding 'A thought-provoking exploration of relationships, obsession and what it means to be a father' Justine Roberts, CEO of Mumsnet Fred Pooley feels as though there's a gaping hole inside him, somewhere between his heart and his stomach. Since returning to London after six years in Hong Kong, he's been drifting; a new job and a new girlfriend do little to fill the gap. Meeting up with his first love Sally and her baby daughter sets him musing about children. He never thought he wanted kids; now suddenly he can't stop thinking about becoming a father. An attempt to connect with the father who deserted him only leaves him more bereft. Presented with a chance to discover a 'family' of his own, Fred crosses a line into a world of dark obsession. A thoroughly modern novel about family and what it means to be a parent.