Great read

By late August, the summer heat in Athens is oppressive. Tourist numbers dwindle and local families with the means leave the city for the islands. The sun feels “harsh”, “domineering” and “slightly sinister as if it intended to slowly boil you,” as described by author Amy Taylor in her new novel Ruins, which is set in the Greek capital. Heat radiates from this book, sweat drips off the pages. It’s fitting, not just because of the setting, but the subject matter.

- by Amy Taylor, Allen & Unwin

When British couple Emma and Julian arrive in Athens to house-sit for a friend, they settle into the apartment on the fifth floor of a polykatoikia, distinctive tiered apartment buildings built in the ’50s. Inside, the apartment is small but regal, with worn parquet floors, mismatched mahogany furniture and a view of the Acropolis.

It’s here that Emma and Julian invite Lena - a captivating young Greek bartender - to join them for a glass of wine. And more, if she’s interested.