A True Story Based on Lies is a remarkable and original novel that addresses the universal issues of class discrimination, male oppression and female servitude through dual narratives of spellbinding power. Set in contemporary Mexico, the book charts the consequences of a sexual relationship between Leonora, a servant in the wealthy O’Conner home, and her master. When a child, Aura Olivia, is born from this union she is brought up as the daughter of the house. As the novel unfolds, the ‘true’ story gradually emerges. First published over 20 years ago, but out of print for some time, we are delighted to reissue this early example of the author’s fiction, which was a finalist for the Orange Prize for Fiction.
‘A bold and innovative novel. The rich mixture of the outlandishly real and the hyperfabulistic has a certain superstitious power over the reader. Jennifer Clement employs poetry’s ability to mirror thought… superbly drawn’ Times Literary Supplement
‘A lyrically told, deeply moving tale.’ Sunday Tribune
‘The unfolding emotional and physical complications are fraught with trauma, which the writer’s particular style heightens into an emotionally wracking story.’ Big Issue
‘A True Story’s poetry is obvious, simple, beautiful and clear, like liturgical music.’ The Scotsman
‘YOU WOULD be forgiven for mistaking Clement’s first novel for a book of poetry, such is its lyricism and lightness of touch; yet what we are given here is a narrative that not only pays tribute to Clement’s background as a poet, but uses the tricks of the master storyteller to delight and engross.’ The Times
About the author
Jennifer Clement is President Emerita of the human rights and freedom of expression organization PEN International and the only woman to hold the office of President (2015-2021) since the organization was founded in 1921. Under her leadership, the groundbreaking PEN International Women’s Manifesto and The Democracy of the Imagination Manifesto were created.Clement’s award-winning novels, memoirs and poetry have been translated into 38 languages and have been taken to the stage and screen. Her work has covered topics such as the stealing of little girls in Mexico (Prayers for the Stolen) gun violence and trafficking of guns into Mexico and Central America (Gun Love) as well as writing about her life in the art worlds of Mexico and New York in Widow Basquiat and The Promised Party.For Clement’s work in human rights, she was awarded the HIP Award for contribution to Latino Communities by the Hispanics in Philanthropy (HIP) Organization, as well as being the recipient of the Sara Curry Humanitarian Award. Most recently, she was given the 2023 Freedom of Expression Honorary title on the occasion of World Press Day by Brussels University Alliance VUB and ULB in partnership with the European Commission, European Endowment for Democracy and UNESCO. Jennifer Clement was raised in Mexico where she lives.
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