Casey O’Connor’s diaristic novel about a woman’s pursuit of motherhood – and the troubles and struggles this joyful job brings with it – is an entertaining exploration of what it really means to be a parent. A story packed with twists and turns, narrated by Bridie Kelly’s distinctive and amusing voice, which will ride you through the full spectrum of emotions: from heart-breaking resignation to hopeful excitement, from unexpected tragedy to thrilling suspense.
The book also offers an interesting depiction of Ireland’s different socioeconomic realities, giving a glimpse of the workings of the foster care system and of social services (or ‘SS’, as Bridie likes to call them) procedures. This is an enthralling debut novel by a very promising author.