Longlisted for the Women’s prize, this ambitious debut journeys into the inner world of a vulnerable teenager who is left traumatised by a toxic friendship

Lucy Apps’s debut novel tells the moving story of Gloria, a 19-year-old woman with a learning disability living in east London in 1999. Often isolated and vulnerable to abuse and exploitation, Gloria longs for simple pleasures, friendship and companionship. When she meets Jack, she feels happy to have someone in her life, but their friendship becomes troubling as Jack’s desire for control leads to a terrible crime. Although Gloria is traumatised by the violence, she still longs to see Jack because she struggles to understand why their friendship has ended.

Through simple language, repetitive expressions and vivid descriptions of east London, Apps successfully conveys Gloria’s unique way of experiencing the world. While the writing may initially feel unusual, it gradually draws readers into her thoughts, emotions and everyday experiences. The novel also introduces compassionate characters, including Gloria’s mother and her patient carer, Tyrone, while highlighting the difficulties of supporting a vulnerable person in a society where adequate care and understanding are often lacking. Tender, disturbing and heartbreaking, the novel offers an intimate portrayal of Gloria’s life and leaves readers questioning why society struggles to provide the kindness, attention and companionship that she needs.