One of the finest novels I have ever read. It follows the lives of Anna and Ralph Eldred, newly married and off to South Africa as lay missionaries. Apartheid is at its height, and the couple runs afoul of the authorities. They are deported to neighbouring Beuchuanaland, where an event of almost unimaginable horrow sees them return to England where Ralph takes over the running of a chartitable trust founded by his father. Their lives, though dedicated to good deeds, are tainted by the memory of their time in Africa and a determination to repress the impact of their experiences.
The book contains the great themes of faith, loss, forgiveness and the illusive nature of redemption. The characters leap off the page, and even the minor characters - Ralphs sister Emma, the Eldred children, and a troubled young woman who comes to stay in the Eldred home - are given significant parts to play. I loved the dialoge, especially between the Eldred children, for its humour and wit.
I read this book three times (the last time for a book club meeting) and found new layers of meaning and enjoyment each time. Very highly recommended.