Flesh Szalay David (2026)

This novel follows Istvan, whose life moves through chance, luck and choice from a modest apartment in Hungary to the elite society of London. At fifteen, he lives with his mother in a quiet apartment complex, shy and unfamiliar with the social rituals at his new school. He becomes isolated, with only a married neighbour close to his mothers age as a companion. When their encounters develop into a clandestine relationship, Istvans life spirals out of control. Years later, rising from the army into the elite circles of Londons super-rich, he navigates the twenty-first centurys currents of money and power. Torn between love, intimacy, status and wealth, he finds that his newfound riches threaten to undo him completely.