"Utu" by Caryl Férey

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Europa Editions

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New York NY 10001

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This book is a work of fiction. Any references to historical events, real people, or real locales are used fictitiously.

First publication 2011 by Europa Editions

Translation by Howard Curtis

Original Title: Utu

Cet ouvrage publié dans la cadre du programme d'aide à la publication bénéficie du soutien du Ministère des Affaires Etrangères et du Service Culturel de l’Ambassade de France représenté aux Etats-Unis.

This work received support from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Cultural Services of the French Embassy in the United States through their publishing assistance program.

Cover Art by Emanuele Ragnisco

www.mekkanografici.com

Cover photo © by Mike Powell/Getty

ISBN 9781609458881

Caryl Férey

UTU

Translated from the French

by Howard Curtis

to Sergio T. G.,

cougar.

to Audrey,

Sister in anger, dead joy,

And no serenity.

When the mask of man is applied

to the face of the earth, her eyes are gouged out.

—RENÉ CHAR

ART

THE TASTE OF STONES

Paul Osborne felt a sudden, overwhelming urge to urinate. Anywhere would do. He could barely see the masses of people scattered on the sand. There was a white hut at the other end of the beach, the air vibrating in his lungs, and that noise that grabbed him by the stomach and sucked him in, that noise that pulled on his penis and sucked it in. First, the sun subsided, then his knees sagged and gave way. Stifling a cry, Osborne collapsed on the sand. Whether it was hyperthermia or the side effects of pills or old fears, he found it hard to hold back the burning sensation suffusing his stomach, and a trickle of urine ran down his pants.

When he opened his eyes again, the noise had disappeared. But the people were still there, on the beach, in the hundreds.

"Utu" by Caryl Férey

is a gripping thriller that takes readers on a suspenseful journey through the violent and turbulent backdrop of New Zealand. The novel revolves around the themes of revenge, cultural conflict, and the impact of colonialism.
The story follows a protagonist who is drawn into a world of crime and retribution, exploring the intersections of personal history and societal issues. As he navigates the challenges posed by his past and the complicated relationships with both indigenous and colonial figures, readers are immersed in a vivid landscape that highlights the beauty and brutality of New Zealand.
Férey's writing is characterized by its intense pacing and rich descriptive detail, bringing to life the emotional struggles of the characters and the stark realities of their environment. The narrative is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they uncover hidden truths and confront moral dilemmas.
"Utu" is not just a crime novel; it is also a powerful commentary on identity and justice, making it a thought-provoking read for fans of the genre. Caryl Férey’s ability to weave social commentary into a thrilling plot elevates the story, inviting readers to reflect on the broader implications of revenge and redemption in a world shaped by historical grievances.