This looks like a hefty, dense, state-of-the-nation address by Blake Morrison. Thankfully it doesn't read as one. Advertising exec Anthea, and her failed writer husband Nat, have their marriage begin to fail. His uncle and friends see their chances in life fail – even though the book opens at the New Dawn of Blair's first election victory.
The five main characters are very well drawn, and their interweaving narratives are all most satisfying. The running thread of the fox – metaphor, rumoured killer, hunted animal – is never overdone, but certainly raises discussion points.
This is a large book, but the pattern of five people, concentrated on five dates over five years, makes it less of a struggle to wade through than it might be. It is an intriguing and strong fiction, that is entertaining, interesting, and recommended. And for once, 520 pages is justified.