Evenings and Weekends BY Oisin McKenna

Oisn McKenna's debut novel unfolds against the backdrop of a scorching heatwave in London during the summer of 2019, capturing the lives of four interconnected characters whose paths converge at a pivotal party on the summer solstice.

Maggie, once an aspiring artist now working as a waitress, is grappling with pregnancy and the decision to leave London with her boyfriend Ed, who is eager for a fresh start away from his secretive past and complicated relationships.

Ed, a bike courier with a hidden history of anonymous encounters, navigates his desire for a stable family life with Maggie while confronting his unresolved feelings for Phil, Maggie's best friend.

Phil, drifting through his office job and living for the weekends in a warehouse commune, finds himself on the verge of a meaningful relationship with Keith, his roommate. The communal setting becomes the stage for a transformative party that promises to upend their lives.

Against the backdrop of record-breaking heat and a stranded whale in the Thames, McKenna weaves a narrative that is both emotionally charged and darkly comic. The characters must confront their pasts, navigate their present desires, and grapple with the uncertainties of their futures over the course of this transformative weekend.

McKenna's prose is strikingly heartfelt, infused with sexual tension and wry humor, offering a profound exploration of urban life in London. The novel delves into themes of ambition, relationships, and the challenges faced by young adults striving to carve out meaningful lives amidst personal and societal pressures.

Overall, McKenna's debut is a compelling portrayal of contemporary London, capturing the essence of a city pulsating with life, dreams, and the complexities of human connection.