“I knew a woman’s life could at any point be turned into a crime scene.”
Forthcoming with Lolli Editions (UK) and Riverhead (US). Winner of the PEN Translates Award 2021.
Along with eight other young women, Rafa arrives at the little alpine resort of Strega to work at the majestic Hotel Olympic. The austere staff teaches them to serve and iron, cook and clean, but the hotel remains deserted. In moments of leisure, they gaze out across the landscape, the hazy mountains, the nunnery. The monotonous work and their isolation ties them close together. It all culminates in a feast, that finally does fill the hotel with people – but after which one of the girls go missing.
“I knew a woman’s life could at any point be turned into a crime scene.”
Johanne Lykke Holm’s novel is filled with atmospheric yet razor sharp descriptions that continues to surprise the reader. It is an enchanting read.
Photographer: Khashayar Naderehvandi
