Helen Walshs striking and ambitious first novel works on the reader like a binge or a spree by the time you realise youre on one its too late youre captures tr... » 

Helen Walshs striking and ambitious first novel works on the reader like a binge or a spree by the time you realise youre on one its too late youre captures trapped transfixed by a horrible fascination as to how and when its going to end. Youre ensnared in something of ferocious power. Brass unfolds in a series of detonations and shocks each of which captures perfectly the delirium of contravention. It is underscored with both a healthy cynicism and a compassion and tolerance for human weakness and yearning. The unexpected ending insists on the possibility of redemption and proffers the unfashionable yet vital idea that suffering may be rewarded with growth and even with love. Helen Walsh is not going to be a major and interesting new voice she already is one. Niall Griffiths author of Sheepshagger and Kelly and Victor. «