Edwina Preston's novel 'Sororicidal' explores complex sisterly dynamics across decades
Edwina Preston’s 'Sororicidal' delves into the complex dynamics of sisters Mary and Margot Cussen in 20th-century Adelaide. The story starts in 1915 on a vineyard, where Mary, an ambitious and stunning artist, contrasts with her quieter, devoted sister Margot. As Mary becomes increasingly absorbed in her art and sexuality, their relationship deteriorates. Margot seeks comfort in Nessy, the cook's daughter, while an affair with a tennis instructor changes everything. The narrative alternates perspectives, tracing their lives into middle and old age. Mary establishes a career in Europe before returning to Adelaide, whereas Margot leads a simpler life with her husband Arthur and daughter Christina. Published by Picador, the novel explores the distortions of memory and the psychological turmoil between the sisters.
Key facts
- Edwina Preston authored the novel 'Sororicidal'
- The novel follows sisters Mary and Margot Cussen
- Set primarily in 20th-century Adelaide, Australia
- Begins in 1915 on a vineyard estate above Adelaide
- Mary is a beautiful, ambitious artist
- Margot is quieter, observant, and initially devoted to Mary
- Nessy, the cook's daughter, becomes Margot's friend and first intimate connection
- An affair with a tennis instructor alters both sisters' lives
- Mary builds an artistic career in Europe before returning to Adelaide
- Margot marries Arthur and has a daughter named Christina
- The novel shifts perspectives between the sisters multiple times
- Violence between sisters remains largely psychological, not physical
- Published by Picador
- The narrative explores memory's distortions and different perspectives on shared pasts
- Power dynamics between the sisters evolve across their lifetimes
- The story asks readers to consider the cost of failing to be kinder to siblings
Entities
Artists
- Edwina Preston
- Mary Cussen
- Margot Cussen
- Lisette Drew
- Anna Poletti
- Anita Heiss
Institutions
- Picador
- ArtsHub
- ScreenHub
- The Conversation
- Stella Prize
Locations
- Adelaide
- Australia
- Europe
- Alice Springs
- Western Sydney
- Hungary