Howarth, Chloe Michelle - Sunburn

Title: Sunburn

Author: Chloe Michelle Howarth

Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Coming-of-age, Sapphic Romance

Pages: 288

Publisher: Verve Books

Release Date: June 22, 2023

Paperback

Synopsis:

Set in the 1990s in the Irish village of Crossmore, the book follows Lucy, a young woman who feels out of place amidst the traditional expectations of marriage and motherhood. Lucy navigates friendships, first love, and the anxieties of growing up in a small town.

Blurb:

A poignant coming-of-age story set in 1990s Ireland, "Sunburn" explores themes of self-discovery, first love, and the complexities of navigating societal expectations.

LGBT Themes:

• Central Sapphic Romance: The core of the story revolves around the developing romantic relationship between Lucy and Susannah, her best friend.
• Exploration of Queer Identity: The novel delves into Lucy's coming-of-age experience as she grapples with her emerging sexuality and the challenges of navigating a same-sex relationship in a conservative environment.
• Themes of Self-Discovery and Acceptance: The story explores themes of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and the importance of finding one's own path, which are highly relevant to LGBTQ+ experiences.

Relevant Tags:

Contemporary Fiction, Coming-of-age, Ireland, Small Town, Female Friendship, First Love, Social Commentary, Sapphic Romance, LGBTQ+ Literature, Queer Coming-of-Age, Self-Discovery

Awards & Recognition:

• Shortlisted for the 2024 Book of the Year: Discover Award by the British Book Awards

• Shortlisted for the 2023 Nero Book Award for Debut Fiction

• An Evening Standard 'One to Watch in 2023'

• An Independent 'Best Romantic Summer Reads