The Heart's Invisible Furies

In The Heart's Invisible Furies, John Boyne intricately weaves a compelling tale of identity, love, and redemption set against the backdrop of twentieth-century Ireland. This poignant and expansive narrative follows the life of Cyril Avery, a man who is constantly reminded by his adoptive parents that he "is not a real Avery." Born out of wedlock to a young, destitute girl in rural Ireland, Cyril is adopted by Charles and Maude Avery, a well-off but emotionally distant couple in Dublin.

As Cyril grows up, he struggles to find his true self amidst a family who views him more as a fascinating oddity than a beloved child. Despite the stifling atmosphere of his adoptive home, Cyril's journey is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. From Dublin to Amsterdam, and eventually to New York, he navigates a world that often seems set against him, driven by a decisive determination to carve out his own identity.

Throughout his quest, Cyril's life intersects with Catherine Goggin, the courageous and unyielding woman who gave him life. Catherine, expelled from her rural parish for her pregnancy, embarks on her own odyssey of survival and empowerment in a society that rejects her. Together, and apart, their stories unfold, revealing the transformative power of courage, hope, and the search for belonging.

John Boyne's novel is not just Cyril's story; it's a vivid chronicle of Ireland's social history, deeply touching and lined with Boyne's characteristic dark humour and profound empathy. Through decades of change, from the repressive days of mid-century Ireland to modern times, The Heart's Invisible Furies explores themes of family, shame, identity, and the enduring nature of love.

The Heart's Invisible Furies has garnered widespread acclaim:

"A bold, funny epic" – Observer

"Compelling and satisfying . . . At times, incredibly funny, at others, heartrending" – Sarah Winman, author of Still Life

What readers are saying:

• "The story of the life of one man, told against the backdrop of twentieth-century Ireland"
• "Simultaneously heart-breaking, funny and life-affirming"
• "Fantastic eccentric characters and dark humour underpinned by a touching love story, perfect"
• "The saddest and happiest book I have read . . . told with great compassion and ultimately a great love of life"

John Boyne’s masterful storytelling in The Heart's Invisible Furies cements his reputation as one of the most significant literary voices of our time. This is a book that will move you to laughter and tears, and stay with you long after the final page is turned.

The new novel by John Boyne, Water, is available for pre-order now.