Quirky characters, snappy dialogue, very British (and funny) story of infidelity, faith and family life. Reminded me of my old favorite, Barbara Trapido, and reminded Kirkus of Iris Murdoch. ( )

Simon and Flora Beaufort have three perfect children and a comfortable, happy life in London. When Flora takes the children for a month-long vacation in France, Simon stays home to work on his latest film project … what could go wrong?
A Pure Clear Light examines a marriage at the moment it goes haplessly off-track: Simon succumbs to the temptation of a cool, blonde accountant and Flora turns to religion. At first glance, the book seems to be about an affair. But the frequent mention of time and items being "in transit" shows that it's really a look at how people deal with the temporary nature of life.
This is a skillful exploration of an aspect of the human condition. The story is told with a light and humorous tone, yet all along St. John makes us think about the temporariness of our lives, how seemingly permanent things can change based on seemingly meaningless events. In her hands, what is commonplace is transformed and transcendent. ( )

Another fine story of the intimacy between a man and a woman in this “deliciously devised tale about the phenomenon called love.” Simon and Flora seem to have a comfortable family life with their three children, until Simon veers off into an affair while Flora and the kids are off on holiday. Flora herself is seeking-her seeking takes her to the Anglican church, perhaps the first step on her return to the Church of Rome. St. John’s prose is tight, her dialogue spare, and her story poignant and very human. ( )

A quick read, short chapters. I thought it was ok. couldnt wait to finish the story, seemed to drag a bit. ( )