What happens when magic collides with reality?

Donald is a young fisherman, eking out a lonely living on the west coast of Scotland. One night he witnesses something miraculous … and makes a terrible mistake. His action changes lives – not only his own, but those of his family and the entire tightly knit community in which they live. Can he ever atone for the wrong he has done, and can love grow when its foundation is violence?
Based on the legend of the selkies – seals who can transform into people –Sealskin is a magical story, evoking the harsh beauty of the landscape, the resilience of its people, both human and animal, and the triumph of hope over fear and prejudice. With exquisite grace, Exeter Novel Prize-winner Su Bristow transports us to a different world, subtly and beautifully exploring what it means to be an outsider, and our innate capacity for forgiveness and acceptance.Rich with myth and magic, Sealskin is, nonetheless, a very human story, as relevant to our world as to the timeless place in which it is set. And it is, quite simply, unforgettable.


‘Bristow has drawn a portrait of the unforgiving life of fishermen and the women who rely on their care, while tenderly and carefully portraying a terrible physical and psychological violation and its years-long reverberations. The writing is sorrowful and lovely, with a well-earned, satisfying conclusion'
Publishers Weekly

'This assured and readable story is determined to show that change and growth are possible, even on the very margins of society. The heartfelt message seems to be that acceptance comes when individuals face up to their fears and act for the good beyond themselves' The Guardian

'It’s a multi-layered romance which sits equally well in the realms of literary fiction which is where its publisher’s interests lie’ Frost Magazine

‘Told with skill and beauty … held me spellbound to the very last page’ Amanda Jennings

'Few authors attain these heights of sincerity, artistic authenticity and give readers such a warm glow. Cannot recommend highly enough' Anne Coates

‘Accomplished and intelligent … a fine piece of craftsmanship and a pleasure to read’ Allan Massie

‘Achingly beautiful … written smoothly and skilfully … I absolutely loved it’ Gill Paul

‘Original, vivid, tender and atmospheric … this is a story so deeply immersive that you emerge at the end, gasping for air’ Iona Grey

‘An enthralling human love story. A profound achievement and a stunning debut’ Richard Bean