Twenty-six year-old Sybil is happy enough with her job cataloguing fossils and archaeological finds in an institute of prehistoric studies, and contentedly in love with her boyfriend Simon, whose artisanal spelt pasta makes up for his inexplicable love of camping and the outdoors. But her world is turned upside down when she has an accident and an unwelcome encounter with her glamorous, assertive former university tutor at Streatham Ice Rink. Things become much worse when she learns that Helen is now Chair of the Trustees at the Institute; before long Sybil can’t ignore the growing evidence of just how far Helen is prepared to go to fulfil her career ambitions. As Sybil tries to find solace for her broken heart, revenge becomes the main thing on her mind.

3/10:
Sybil hopes for consolation from poetry, but her confidence takes a blow when she realises Helen has betrayed her twice over.

The Snow and the Works on the Northern Line is Ruth Thomas’s third novel. She’s published three short story collections and her prizes include the John Llewellyn Rhys Award, the Saltire First Book Award and the VS Pritchett Prize.

Ell Potter is an actor, writer, comedian and and award-winning narrator who was named an Audible ‘breakout star’ whilst still at Drama School. She co-created the hit stage shows ‘Hotter’ and ‘Fitter’, and this year co-wrote and starred in the podcast drama ‘Lem N Ginge’.

Reader: Ell Potter
Abridged and produced by Sara Davies Show less