Only Here, Only Now

More about the book

Set in the scorching summer of 1994 in Fife, Cora Mowat navigates a world where she feels misunderstood by her friends and, more profoundly, by herself. Living in a seaside council estate filled with quirky characters, Cora is desperate to escape her chaotic surroundings but is uncertain about her future. The arrival of her Mam's new boyfriend, Gunner, complicates matters. Though he means well, his shady past as a shoplifter adds tension to their cramped home. As Cora grapples with her small-town life, she yearns for love, acceptance, and a sense of belonging. In this remarkable debut, Tom Newlands captures the essence of coming of age in a forgotten part of Scotland, intertwining humor and poignant moments. The narrative is vibrant, lyrical, and fiercely funny, exploring themes of poverty, identity, and family while radiating hope and resilience. Critics have lauded the novel as a potential modern classic, praising Cora as a compelling and chaotic protagonist. Newlands' writing is described as fierce and tender, taking readers directly into the heart of Cora's tumultuous journey. This story promises to resonate deeply, offering both laughter and heartache along the way.