Ep 69: Desire, Language and a Sicilian Summer: Slip by Abbey Lay

In this episode of Between The Lines, Chelle and Leanne chat with Australian author Abbey Lay about her sensual and thought-provoking novel Slip. Set in Palermo during a scorching Sicilian summer, Slip follows Grace, a young linguist who travels to Sicily to study Italian dialects. What begins as a six-week immersion in language and culture takes an unexpected turn when she rents a room in the apartment of a local writer, Nico. As Grace and Nico spend more time together — cooking, talking and exploring the city — their conversations become increasingly intimate. All the while, Grace's long-term partner Jack is due to arrive in Sicily, bringing the tension between desire, loyalty and identity closer to the surface. In this conversation with Abbey, we explore: The inspiration behind Slip Writing about desire and emotional tension The role of language in shaping how we understand ourselves and others The sensory experience of Palermo and Sicilian culture The complex choices we make in relationships Slip is a beautifully written novel that captures the intoxicating pull of place, language and connection — and the difficult questions that arise when our desires begin to shift. About Abbey Abbey Lay grew up in Geelong and now lives in Melbourne. Her first novel, Lead Us Not, was shortlisted for the Victorian Premier's Award for an Unpublished Manuscript. Slip is a lyrical and evocative exploration of language, identity and desire set against the vivid backdrop of Sicily.   Join Our Book-Loving Community Chelle and Leanne created Between The Lines because they love books and great conversations, and wanted to share both with you. Listen to the podcast for author interviews and reading inspiration. Or join our online book club, where we deliver books to your door and a book club to your reading nook. https://www.betweenthelinesaustralia.com/bookclub2026