"The Transit of Venus" is a thought-provoking novel by Shirley Hazzard that explores the complexity of human relationships, set against the backdrop of the 20th century.

The story follows the lives of two orphaned sisters, Caroline and Grace Bell, as they navigate love, loss, and longing. Caroline, the elder sister, is practical and restrained, while Grace is fiery and independent. Their lives intertwine with the eccentric Ted Tice, a mathematician, and the enigmatic astronomer, Paul Ivory.

As the narrative unfolds, the sisters' pursuit of love takes them on separate journeys across the globe: from Australia to London, and ultimately New York. They encounter a variety of characters along the way, each with their own desires and misfortunes.

Hazzard skillfully weaves together multiple perspectives, shifting between past and present, to delve into the complexities of human connections. With exquisite prose and finely drawn characters, she explores the intricacies of love, passion, and the passage of time.

Through meticulous storytelling, Hazzard asks profound questions about the nature of love and the pursuit of happiness, juxtaposed against the backdrop of a world undergoing immense social and political change.

"The Transit of Venus" is a beautifully written novel that resonates with readers long after the final page. It is a compelling exploration of human emotion, capturing the essence of longing, desire, and the elusive nature of true connection.