Bright Burning Things

Marian Keyes' novel "The Brightest Star in the Sky" is a gripping and emotional story about a mother's struggle to keep her son safe. It has received high praise from various publications, including the Observer, Grazia, Irish Times, and Irish Independent.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 04 March 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Marian Keyes' novel "Absolutely Dazzling" is a captivating and heart-wrenching tale that explores the complexities of motherhood and the challenges of being a single parent. On every page, there are small, shimmering bombs that leave a lasting impact on the reader. The novel has received high praise from critics, with the Observer calling it "Quietly devastating . . . Reminded me repeatedly of Shuggie Bain." The Irish Times and the Irish Independent have also highlighted it as a HIGHLIGHT FOR 2021.

The story follows Sonya, a single mother who is struggling to cope with the demands of raising her son, Tommy. Sonya's life is filled with love, fear, and longing, as she tries to navigate the challenges of being a single parent. She is burning the fish fingers, driving too fast, swimming too far from the shore, and Tommy's life is in her hands.

Once upon a time, Sonya had the thrill of a London stage, a glowing acting career, fast cars, and handsome men. But now, her life is filled with blackouts, bare cupboards, and her estranged father showing up uninvited. Mrs. O'Malley is spying from across the road, and the risk of losing Tommy forever hangs over her.

Keyes' writing is exquisite, and she captures the essence of motherhood with raw honesty and vulnerability. She delves into the complexities of the mother-child relationship, and the ways in which love, fear, and longing can shape a person's life. The characters are well-developed, and the story is paced perfectly, keeping the reader engaged from beginning to end.

One of the key themes of the novel is the impact of addiction on a family. Sonya's father is an alcoholic, and his addiction has had a devastating effect on her and Tommy. Keyes explores the ways in which addiction can destroy relationships, and the difficulty of breaking free from its grip. She also shows the resilience of the human spirit, and how people can find hope and healing in the face of adversity.

Another theme of the novel is the importance of community. Sonya's neighbors are supportive, but they also have their own struggles. Keyes shows how the community can come together to support each other, and how it can be a source of strength and comfort.

The novel also explores the impact of social media on modern life. Sonya's son, Tommy, is obsessed with social media, and it has had a negative effect on his mental health. Keyes shows how social media can be a tool for connection, but it can also be a source of anxiety and depression.

Despite the challenges that Sonya faces, she is a strong and resilient woman. She is determined to make a better life for herself and Tommy, and she refuses to give up. She finds solace in her writing, and in the support of her friends and family.

One of the most powerful scenes in the novel is when Sonya confronts her father. She has been avoiding him for years, but she finally decides to face him and tell him how she feels. The scene is raw and emotional, and it shows the depth of the pain that Sonya has been carrying.

Keyes' writing is also filled with humor and wit. She has a great sense of humor, and she uses it to lighten the mood in the novel. This is particularly important in the scenes where Sonya is dealing with the challenges of being a single parent.

However, the novel also has its flaws. Some of the characters are not well-developed, and the story can be slow at times. Keyes also relies on some clichés, which can be distracting.

Despite these flaws, "Absolutely Dazzling" is a must-read for anyone who is interested in motherhood, addiction, and the impact of social media on modern life. Keyes' writing is exquisite, and she captures the essence of motherhood with raw honesty and vulnerability. The characters are well-developed, and the story is paced perfectly, keeping the reader engaged from beginning to end.

In conclusion, Marian Keyes' novel "Absolutely Dazzling" is a captivating and heart-wrenching tale that explores the complexities of motherhood and the challenges of being a single parent. It has received high praise from critics, and it is a HIGHLIGHT FOR 2021. Keyes' writing is exquisite, and she captures the essence of motherhood with raw honesty and vulnerability. The characters are well-developed, and the story is paced perfectly, keeping the reader engaged from beginning to end. Despite its flaws, "Absolutely Dazzling" is a must-read for anyone who is interested in motherhood, addiction, and the impact of social media on modern life.

Weight: 556g
Dimension: 163 x 243 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526624468