The third lie

The Third Lie seals Agota Kristof's reputation as one of the most provocative exponents of new-wave European fiction. With all the stark simplicity of a fractured fairy tale, it tells the story of twin brothers locked in an agonizing bond that becomes a gripping political allegory for the forces that have divided "brothers" in much of Europe since World War II. The Iron Curtain has lifted, and Claus - war orphan, exile, and seeker after his long-lost twin - lies dying in a prison in the town of his birth. Claus is visited by memories: of his family and of his brother, Lucas, of the war that…