Because Venus Crossed an Alpine Violet on the Day That I Was Born

"In a way, the language is the protagonist in this book. It is luminous and vibrant, full of associations, reflections and quotes. The words embrace the world with sensuality, humour, wonder and a confusion of feelings."
—Fredrik Wandrup

In a hotel, high up in a mountain village, two sisters aim to reconnect after distant years that contrast their close, almost twin-like upbringing. Martha has just been discharged from a sanatorium after a mental breakdown. Ella agrees to keep her company in the hope that the clean winter air will provide clarity—and a way back to their childhood connection.

It's only when plans go awry, and Martha disappears in a rage, that Ella discovers a new sense of self outside her filial role. This identity is reinforced by various encounters: the hotel receptionist who takes her under her wing; the enigmatic love interest; the wistful, drunken Salvation Army soldier; the carpenter. And not least, Ella's encounter with the writings of Stefan Zweig, which have a profound impact.

Winner of the Critics' Prize 2018 and shortlisted for the Booksellers' Prize 2018, Mona Høvring's work is as sharp as it sensitive; insightful as it is original when exploring the many distractions of the heart.

MONA HØVRING is an award-winning Norwegian author of many acclaimed books, including eight poetry collections and six novels. She has been nominated for and won various prestigious awards, including the Unified Language Prize, the Nordic Council Literature Prize, and the Dobloug Prize. Because Venus Crossed an Alpine Violet on the Day that I Was Born, translated into English by Kari Dickson in 2021, won the Norwegian Critics’ Prize for Literature, was a finalist for the Norwegian Booksellers’ Prize, and was included on numerous best of the year book lists. Høvring lives just outside of Oslo, Norway.