***SHORTLISTED FOR THE MCKITTERICK PRIZE 2018*** 'This heartfelt and touching read about love and loss will stay with you long after you turn the last page.' Chrissie Manby 'Set in a small Protestant community in Northern Ireland in the 1990s, the main themes Anne Patterson explores are universal and timeless; themes of loss and longing and, ultimately, hope. A beautiful book which continues to resonate.' Kate McQuaile, author of What She Never Told Me and Without A Word. 'Anne Patterson has written a brilliant debut novel. In a witty and touching style the author draws us into the internal world of stroke victim Maureen, and tantalisingly reveals, drip by drip, a powerful story that engages us until the final page.' Tony Hawks, author of Round Ireland with a Fridge 'This uplifting novel shows the healing power, not of talking, but of listening.' Anja de Jager Maureen McCormack wakes up in hospital after a stroke. Her memory is fragmented and she can say only one word – yes. Friends, family and lovers visit her, filling silences with secrets and learning to open up as Maureen learns to listen. As the revelations mount, she and those around her attempt to come to terms with all that has been left unsaid and unexamined, and her view of life shifts fundamentally. When Maureen’s ability to speak returns she decides to keep it a secret until she has made sense of her past and gathered the strength to shape her future. Yes is a captivating novel about how relationships grow, disintegrate and heal, showing what happens when people really listen to each other. 'Set in a small Protestant community in Northern Ireland in the 1990s, the main themes Anne Patterson explores are universal and timeless; themes of loss and longing and, ultimately, hope. A beautiful book which continues to resonate.' Kate McQuaile, author of What She Never Told Me and Without A Word.