First published, 2020.

I picked up this book in “Books for Amnesty” (one of my favourite bookshops in London, as you can get good quality hardbacks for under a £5). I hadn’t heard of the author — the cover drew me in, especially as I had recently visited Colombia, and had spent 4 days in Medellin where the book is based.

The Anthill follows the story of Lina, who grew up in Colombia but was sent to an English boarding school when she was 8. Returning as an adult, she searches for her childhood friend who now runs a volunteer school in Medellin. The book revolves around the backdrop of the Colombian conflict and the knock on effects.

It’s dark and strange, and I was never quite sure what was going on with the characters or where the book was leading to. Many reviewers have loved it, but I doubt the unconventional style is for everyone. However, if you have been to Colombia I think you would enjoy!