The Polished Hoe is an epic symphony of Caribbean life. Layers of disturbing history slowly unfold through one woman's intimate, murderous confession. In this meditation on love, loss and sacrifice Mary-Mathilda - mistress of a cruel plantation manager - tells her story in an exquisite, dancing vernacular. 'There is a mesmerising stillness to Austin Clarke's latest novel . . . Out of a single act of retribution [he] has spun an entire history, one in which freedom, love and even languor all have their place' - New York Times 'The beauty of The Polished Hoe lies in the poetry of its telling and the marvellous voice of Mary-Mathilda. The value of the novel lies in its patient exploration of the sacrifices that are made for the sake of survival' - Washington Post