Our Take

Harding delivers a devastating and ultimately redemptive portrait of addiction that never falls into sentimentality or judgment. Her background working with vulnerable populations informs every page, bringing authenticity to Sonya's internal struggles and the cyclical nature of addiction. Readers who appreciated My Education by Susan Choi or The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo will be drawn to Harding's ability to explore complex emotional terrain with both brutality and tenderness. The relationship between Sonya and Tommy is rendered with particular skill—their bond is palpable, making Sonya's inability to prioritize his safety all the more heartbreaking. Harding's prose alternates between lyrical beauty and stark realism, mirroring the highs and lows of her protagonist's experience. The novel succeeds because it refuses to offer easy answers or quick fixes, instead showing the messy, ongoing work of recovery and self-forgiveness. While the subject matter is challenging, Harding's compassionate approach makes this accessible to readers who might typically avoid addiction narratives. Perfect for book clubs seeking meaningful discussions about family, responsibility, and the nature of love. Bright Burning Things establishes Harding as a powerful voice in contemporary Irish literature, capable of finding hope in the darkest corners of human experience.