The Devoted: A Novel [Paperback]

Longlisted for the Center for Fictions First Novel Prize A rich and entertaining novel about a woman, a seeker, whose life, existence and relationships are all centered around a devout Buddhist mediation practice in Bostonuntil they arent. I couldnt put it down. Provocative.& [A] terrifying but insightful warning not to look for easy answers offered by false prophets. A belated coming-of-age novel with a quest at its core, [Hurley's] hand is confident and steady as she layers Zen teachings into the already complicated history of her novel's focal character.& Hurley leaves you thinking and sorting through feelings long after her final page. With absolutely spot-on descriptions of Boston, this spellbinding story adds much-needed nuance to the discussion of faith and what were willing to forsake in the name of absolution. All lovers of great fiction with complex characters as well as anyone fascinated by narratives about religious cults will want this insightful story. This thoughtful novel carefully untangles the often knotty interconnection between romantic and religious love, revealing the dangers inherent in each without denying their value. A thoughtful exploration of faith, surrender, and ecstasy. US