Emma used to have two brothers, but five years ago Kit died and on the day of his funeral Jamie left home and never came back. Their parents never talk about what drove their son away. But now Emma is older she is beginning to ask questions - and she's never given up hope that she will see Jamie again. Told with honesty and warmth, The View on the Way Down is the story of a devastating act of brotherly love that will open your eyes even as it breaks your heart.

'The writing is so lucid and poetically simple . . . the backstory is handled masterfully . . . The last few chapters build to a devastating climax, and as a reader you are caught in the undertow. It lingers with you, and for those who have suffered similar things, it echoes truth.' Guardian

‘Deeply moving’ Mail on Sunday

‘This is a novel about the crater that grief can make in the pattern of family life. Well-plotted’ Daily Mail

‘Sensitive and deftly handled’ Irish Examiner

‘An unforgettable debut novel’ Easy Living

‘I loved this book … The real beauty and genius of The View on the Way Down is in its simplicity. The ease of Rebecca Wait’s writing captures the reader from page one and doesn’t let go … deeply moving and powerful … I could easily have read this novel in one sitting, except for the fact that at times I was so moved, and so affected by the writing, that I had to put it down, walk away, and try to think of other things’ New Books Mag

‘The View on the Way Down is deeply moving – yet unsentimental – and profound, and has a family secret at the heart of it that will remain with you for a long time after you finish reading. It is a novel that needed to be written and which will touch many people . . . a fine achievement.’ Mark Gartside, author of What Will Survive

‘So compassionate, so heartbreaking. I found myself revisiting moments in this novel long after I’d finished reading it; the story wouldn’t let me go.’ Shelley Harris, author of Jubilee

‘The View on the Way Down is a novel that deserves to win awards as well as a huge readership. It’s a wise, honest, wonderful read that marks Rebecca Wait not just as a writer to watch out for, but one to appreciate now.’ Daniel Clay, author of Broken

'The View on the Way Down is written with great sympathy and an aching tenderness. Rebecca Wait’s evocative storytelling is alive to the tragedies and miracles of everyday life, illuminating the grey area between protecting and deceiving the ones we love.' Laura Harrington, author of Alice Bliss

‘Moving and powerful’ Choice Magazine

‘Understated and compelling. I had tears in my eyes at the end.’ Morgan McCarthy, author of The Other Half of Me

‘Wonderfully written… highly sensitive… thought-provoking… ultimately uplifting.’ Bookseller

‘A wonderfully moving portrayal of love and pain with a mystery right at its heart. I defy anybody to read this book and not be touched in some way.’ Sally Brampton, author of Shoot the Damn Dog

‘Will stay with you forever’ Lifestyle Magazine