Sonia Saikaley Review: The Brickworks

“A compelling novel about pursuing dreams in the face of adversity and, on that journey, finding people who believe in the venture and offer support and love.

“The Brickworks” by Lucy E.M. Black is a fascinating and dazzling novel set in Canada at the turn of the twentieth century and describes the lives of two Scotsmen named Alistair and Brodie. Both men have tragic pasts but through their pain emerges an idea that will change the small community they settle in. Although there are many hardships in this novel, there is also hope. Black’s writing is strong and captivating and she has created rich characters who carry this story of ambition and faith in one’s dreams and abilities and readers cannot help but cheer along the two  brave Scotsmen and their team as they undergo various challenges. Black tackles the topics of loss and grief with sensitivity and compassion and this makes her an excellent writer. Furthermore, she does not shy away from tough topics but embraces them with tenderness and powerful insight. She paints a story of strength, determination, and forgiveness. “The Brickworks” is a compelling novel about pursuing dreams in the face of adversity and, on that journey, finding people who believe in the venture and offer support and love. The essence of what it means to be human is captured in the pages of this brilliant and moving story. Autumn brings a new set of books into the world and “The Brickworks” is one of those anticipated books.