For fans of Normal People, a queer, coming-of-age debut of impossible first love, first loss, and first heartbreakβ¦
Itβs the early 1990βs in the small town of Crossmore, Ireland, and Lucy knows what sheβs expected to do. Fall in love with the son of the farmer next door, marry him, pray for children, and never, under any circumstances reveal the truthβthat she doesnβt think marriage or motherhood or staying in Crossmore is for her. That the reason she knows this, is because of her close friend, Susannah.
For years, Lucy buries her obsession, until one summer, right before graduation, when her friendship with Susannah escalates. Now, Lucy will do anything to keep their secret safe. Their relationship is both the best and worst thing thatβs ever happened to herβLucy loves Susannah, but every day, it feels like Crossmore, Lucyβs mother, and their social mores are closing in. And when Susannah decides she no longer wants to hide, Lucy must make a devastating choice.
Tender and heartbreaking, Sunburn portrays the realities of growing up in a small rural townβfrom the long, hot summers, to the pressures of a conservative, traditional community where everyone knows each otherβs business. Itβll leave you aching for your own first love.