Episode 2

Whilst on his international book tour, the writer Erich Ackermann reveals more than he intended to his young aide Maurice.

Maurice Swift is handsome, ruthless and desperate to become a successful novelist. He just needs the right story.

However a chance encounter with the celebrated author Erich Ackermann gives Maurice an opportunity to ingratiate himself into the literary world. And Erich has a story of his own. Unfortunately Maurice is the last person Erich should confide in…

John Boyne’s seductive thriller about a writer who won’t let anything, or anyone, stand in the way of his ambitions.

Abridged by Doreen Estall

Read by Wolf Kahler.

Producer: Michael Shannon

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2019.