"Fascinatingly complex and finally heartbreaking. A quite beautiful work of fiction." (John Sutherland The Times)

"Although thrillingly close to the child within us, McEwan nonetheless writes for, and about, the grown-ups. In a climate that breeds juvenile cynicism, we more than ever need his adult art." (Boyd Tonkin Independent)

"A dazzling tapestry. Another magnificent work by McEwan, important and meticulously crafted." (James McNair National)

"A classic McEwan novella, swift and compelling, asking to be read in a single sitting. So skillfully composed and fluently performed, it's a pleasure from start to finish, one not to be interrupted." (David Secton Evening Standard)

"A svelte novel as crisp and spotless as a priest's collar." (Ron Charles Washington Post)

"A brave and enormously interesting subject." (Amanda Craig Independent on Sunday)

"Masterly." (Kate Kellaway Guardian)

"Pacy and gripping, with a fascinating premise. McEwan skillfully brings complexity and depth to the characters." (Stylist)

"A compelling moral dilemma [with] a moving and heartfelt denouement." (Tatler)

"Shows McEwan as a master of fiction." (Olivia Cole GQ)

"Emotionally wrenching and visceral." (Elle)

"Beautifully told with pared-down emotional honesty, this 13th novel from the Booker Prize-winner is fiercely clever and incredibly moving." (Hello!)

"A class act by one of our finest novelists." (Viv Groskop Red)

"A gripping new novel which brings into question morality, religion and the very nature of life itself." (Hunts Post)

"McEwan masterfully weaves a gripping personal story." (Peter Donaldson Gazette (Colchester))