An uncompromising and heart-breaking end to the story of Nicky and Kenny, the beloved brothers of the Carnegie-shortlisted Rook, beautifully told in McGowan’s gritty and deeply moving prose.

Things are tense at home for Nicky and Kenny. Their mum’s coming to visit and it will be the first time they’ve seen her in years. A lot has changed since they were little and Nicky’s not so sure he’s ready to see her again.

When they head for a trek across the moors to take their minds off everything, a series of unforeseen circumstances leaves the brothers in a vulnerable and very dangerous position. There might even be a chance that this time not everyone will make it home alive.

A thrilling adventure intertwined with a poignant tale of brotherly love, Lark is a masterclass in storytelling and the perfectly pitched endnote to this critically acclaimed series of novellas.