Sunburn by Chloe Michelle Howarth published today by Verve

Congratulations to Chloe Michelle Howarth on the publication of her debut novel Sunburn, an astute and tender portrayal of first love, out today from Verve.

Selected as ‘One to Watch in 2023’ by the Evening Standard

Selected as one of the best romantic Summer reads by the Independent

It’s the early 1990s, and in the Irish village of Crossmore Lucy feels out of place. Despite her fierce friendships, she’s always felt this way, and the conventional path of marriage and motherhood doesn’t appeal to her at all. Not even with handsome and doting Martin, her closest childhood friend.

Lucy begins to make sense of herself during a long hot summer, when a spark with her school friend Susannah escalates to an all-consuming infatuation, and, very quickly, to a desperate and devastating love. But with the end of school and the opportunity to leave Crossmore looming, Lucy must choose between two places, two people and two futures, each as terrifying as the other. Only one can offer her real happiness.

Praise for Sunburn

‘A deeply moving, heartfelt love story’ – Daily Mail 

‘A beautiful coming of age love novel written with an insightful poetical prose, rich with religious allegory and texture which underscores the transformative, spiritual power of first love explored’ – Scene Magazine

‘A literary coming-of age that captures the similar minutiae of romance as Normal People, and the gorgeous poetic descriptions of Call Me By Your Name… Whether you’re looking for a great beach read, something for your book club, or a queer romance, Sunburn is a book you need to get on your shelves’ 
– Turnaround (selected as Book of the Month)