The Kindest Use a Knife - by Vanessa Jones (Paperback)

About the Book

From the author of 'Twelve', the story of a tangled, obsessive friendship.

Book Synopsis

From the author of 'Twelve', the story of a tangled, obsessive friendship.

Gifted, magnetic, a virtuoso with a short temper, Lee defies his background to win a scholarship to the prestigious Cabresi academy of music. James - richer, less gifted and less charismatic - leeches onto the teenage prodigy to feed off his fame and genius, and to bask in Lee's reflected glory. Slowly, stealthily, James fuels Lee's increasing need for women and illicit substances, the better to pull the strings, keep him close.

Watching all of this is Peter, whose conversations with Lee call into question Lee's tangled relationship with James. Peter appears uniquely placed to present a clear picture of this obsessive, increasingly destructive friendship. Gradually, he reveals the truth behind their power struggle, and the events that led to Lee's tragic, drug-fuelled death...

Gripping and lean, considered and powerful, Vanessa Jones's darkly brilliant second novel confirms the arrival of a bright British talent.

Review Quotes

'Vanessa Jones clearly has a deep understanding of the generation she describes. She is a writer of genuine promise.' Andrew Biswell, Daily Telegraph

About the Author

Vanessa Jones has written two novels, 'Twelve' (2000) and 'The Kindest use a Knife' (2002). It took her eight years to get her first book deal, during which she gardened and painted & decorated to support her writing.