The Silver Swan cover art

The Silver Swan

Quirke, Book 2

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The Silver Swan

By: John Banville
Narrated by: Stanley Townsend
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Summary

'Absorbing, atmospheric' Guardian
'A romp of a read, a compelling fix' Scotsman

In 1950s Dublin, world-weary pathologist Quirke is reckoning with grief. A woman he loved has died, a man he once admired is dying, and his daughter is still finding it hard to accept him as her father.

When an old acquaintance approaches him about his wife's apparent suicide, Quirke recognizes trouble. But, as always, trouble is something he cannot resist.

©2026 John Banville (P)2026 Faber & Faber Mystery Police Procedurals
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All stars
Most relevant
Probably my favourite JB novel, but then again… This is so beautifully written. Elegant, knowing prose that illuminates and gets to firm grips with the ‘doings’ of life. No one can write of the relationships between men and women like JB. The achingly gorgeous description of the child discovering leverets is rivalled only by DH Lawrence. What a writer!
I’m about to listen again. The narrator is exceptional.

Outstanding!

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