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Incendiary

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( 13,757 ratings, 1,819 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Incendiary by Chris Cleave is a poignant novel that dives into the emotional aftermath of a devastating terrorist attack in London. Narrated by a grieving mother, the story explores themes of loss, resilience, and the struggle for redemption in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might like this book if you enjoy thrilling and emotional narratives that explore the impact of a tragic event on a personal and societal level. This book delves into themes of grief, resilience, and the human capacity for hope amidst chaos, offering a deeply moving and thought-provoking experience.

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Incendiary

The extraordinary first novel from the author of THE OTHER HAND

The extraordinary first novel from the author of THE OTHER HAND

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Incendiary by Chris Cleave is a stunning and heartfelt novel that delves into the life of a woman who is grappling with profound grief and guilt. Set against the backdrop of a London still reeling from the shocks of a terrorist attack, this poignant narrative is a raw and gripping exploration of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit.

The story begins with our nameless protagonist, a working-class mother who is trying to navigate her way through the complexities of daily life. In a moment of weakness, she cheats on her husband, only to face the ultimate punishment when a bomb kills her husband and young son at a football match.

As she writes a letter to Osama bin Laden, the woman unravels her emotional journey. She lays bare her soul, revealing her vulnerabilities, her failings, and the overpowering love she had for her child. This letter becomes a cathartic means for her to deal with her overwhelming anguish and slowly find a path towards healing.

You aren't stupid. You know there's no such thing as a perfect mother. Plenty of other books will tell you there is, but this one won't lie to you. I was weak and I cheated and I was punished, but my God, I loved my child through all of it. Love means you never break, and it means you're stronger than the things they do to you. I know this is true because I have been through fire, and I am the proof that love survives.

I am not a perfect mother but I will tell you the perfect truth, because this is you and me talking. This is my story.

With piercing honesty and a powerful narrative voice, Incendiary examines the devastating impacts of terrorism on personal and societal levels. It challenges readers to ponder the complexities of our emotions and relationships amidst tragedy. Chris Cleave’s visceral portrayal of a grieving mother’s indomitable spirit stands as a testament to the enduring power of love and the human capacity for resilience.

This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates deeply moving and thought-provoking literature that does not shy away from the raw realities of life.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Incendiary by Chris Cleave has been lauded for its haunting artistry and impactful storytelling. Reviewers praise Cleave's ability to weave moving scenes within a terrifying backdrop, creating a tale that is subversive, thought-provoking, and well-written. The heroine is described as a richly complex character, alternatingly funny, sad, damaged, and indomitable. Overall, the novel is seen as a compelling and provocative read.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780340998489

Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 13 August 2009

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Sceptre

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 23.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 251g

Pages: 352

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About the Author

Chris Cleave is married with three children, and lives in Kingston-upon-Thames. He keeps a website at www.chriscleave.com and can be found on twitter.com/chriscleave.

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