The House of Broken Bricks: 'Shocking and powerful . . . This is the best kind of story telling.' Victoria Hislop

The House of Broken Bricks is a powerful and moving story of a broken family, exploring themes of loss, love, and the possibility of healing. The prose is haunting and poetic, and the characters are well-developed and relatable. Readers are deeply impressed by the book, with many calling it a strong candidate for book of the year. The author's stunning nature-writing and poetic prose turn a relatively simple story into a hauntingly beautiful experience. The book is also praised for its portrayal of children's emotional intuition and its structural beauty.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: Faber & Faber

"The House of Broken Bricks" is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of a broken family, exploring their perspectives and the complexities of their relationships. Written by EVIE WOODS, the book offers haunting prose that cracks the English pastoral novel and allows darkness to seep in. It is a pleasure to read, as it captivates readers with its poignant storytelling and deep insights into the human heart.

The novel revolves around Tess, who finds herself yearning for the comforting chaos of her past life. As she traces the sunrise over the floodplains, she observes the house painted a startling crimson, a reminder of the changes that have taken place. Instead of the usual noise of her children, Tess is immersed in the quiet, savoring the stillness that surrounds her. The nights grow longer, and Richard, her husband, focuses on planting his winter crops rather than engaging in the discussion that he avoids.

Secrets and vines crawl over the broken red bricks of the house, symbolizing the family's hidden struggles and unspoken emotions. Despite the appearance of withering, something stirs beneath the surface, waiting for the right moment to emerge. As the seasons change, and the cracks allow more light to filter in, the family begins to heal, finding solace and hope in the space for acceptance, of passing, and of laying to rest.

"The House of Broken Bricks" is a tale of life in the cracks, where possibilities for new energy, light, and love are seeded. The overlapping perspectives of the family members shed light on their individual journeys and the complexities of their relationships. It is a raw and honest portrayal of the human experience, offering a glimpse into the depths of pain, loss, and redemption.

Readers have been captivated by the novel's powerful storytelling and deep emotional resonance. The characters are well-developed, and their struggles feel authentic, making it easy for readers to connect with them on a personal level. The prose is elegant and evocative, painting vivid images that linger in the reader's mind long after the book is closed.

"The House of Broken Bricks" has received widespread praise from authors and critics alike. SARAH MOSS, author of "Ghost Wall," praised the book for its clever, heartbreaking, and heartwarming depiction of family love, grief, and the possibility of hope. JO BROWNING WROE, author of "A Terrible Kindness," described it as poignant and unexpected, brave and subtle. EMMA HEALEY, author of "Elizabeth is Missing," praised it as wonderful and brave in its deep truths about loss and love. INGRID PERSAUD, author of "Love After Love," praised it for its message of resilience and the strength found in vulnerability.

In conclusion, "The House of Broken Bricks" is a must-read novel that offers a captivating portrayal of a broken family's journey toward healing and redemption. With its haunting prose, deep insights, and powerful storytelling, it has captured the hearts of readers and earned widespread acclaim. Whether you are looking for a poignant exploration of family dynamics or a story that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit, this book will not disappoint.

Weight: 508g
Dimension: 146 x 224 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571379552
Edition number: Main