Hannah Kent’s latest novel is a distinct shift from her prior work in the historical fiction genre. While those novels delve into the darkest caverns of the human condition, her new work explores a different side. Love. Loyalty. Faith.

Devotion is a tender novel that is destined to be delicately consumed in tranquillity. Perhaps on the beach or in front of an open fire with a glass of wine. Wherever it is, make sure you have a box of tissues handy, you will need them.

Separated into three distinct parts, Devotion follows the lives of young women Hanne and Thea. This journey begins in Prussia in 1836, where we meet Hanne, brother Matthias, newborn baby sister Hermine, her mother and father. Hanne struggles to make friends and instead spends most of her time in the wilderness surrounding her town, Kay. That is until she befriends Thea and love begins to blossom.

The religious oppression their community suffer in Prussia drive the residents of Kay to flee the land. They board a crowded vessel destined for South Australia. This fierce and tragic journey brings Thea and Hanne closer than ever before. The final part takes place upon arrival in South Australia, where we find out if Thea and Hanne’s love can find a way.

Kent’s new work is littered with historical detail and vivid characters that feel as though they are sitting beside you. While Devotion represents a variation from her previous work, her gorgeous language and prose remains steadfast.

It was only a couple of months ago that I labelled The Bride of Almond Tree, by author Robert Hillman, as the best historical fiction that I have read in 2021. Hannah Kent has just spectacularly inserted herself into that conversation.

Reviewed by Samuel Bernard Williams