An honest, affecting work of fiction about a young woman s search for her place in the world, "Offcomer" is the powerful first novel from the acclaimed author of "Longbourn." Against the backdrop of The Troubles in Northern Ireland, recent Oxford graduate Claire is a mess. She s trapped in a disastrous relationship with a young academic, working a dead end job, stunned by the emergence of secrets from her mother s past, and seemingly addicted to self-destructive behavior. But like the ceasefire that has brought renewed hope to Belfast, Claire too is afforded an opportunity to reflect, gradually learning to accept herself and to discover her sense of self-esteem and self-worth. Unflinching in its depictions of the uncertainties of youth, "Offcomer" ( An arresting debut "The Independent" (London)) is a novel of real and quiet power, from literary star Jo Baker."