Book Review: Hurricane Summer by Asha Bromfield
When I first stumbled upon Hurricane Summer, I was immediately intrigued by its promise of vivid emotions and intense storytelling, and the author Asha Bromfield did not disappoint. From the moment I opened the pages, I found myself swept away into a whirlwind of emotions, and by the end, the impact lingered with me long after I read the last line.
This poignant story follows Tilla, a biracial Jamaican girl navigating the complexities of family, identity, and the devastating ripples of trauma. The book explores multifaceted themes like racism, colorism, and the pain of family dynamics, making it both timely and timeless. Tilla’s experiences resonate deeply, reflecting real-world issues many face. I must admit, I spent half the book yelling at Tilla to stand up for herself while simultaneously empathizing with her struggles.
Bromfield’s writing style is lyrical and immersive, drawing the reader into Tilla’s world with lush imagery and heartfelt prose. The pacing of the narrative kept me glued to my seat, with each chapter unfurling like a flower, revealing layers of complexity and truth. I couldn’t help but feel exhilarated and devastated all at once. At moments, I found myself quietly sobbing—an accomplishment, considering I often have trouble digging into my emotional well.
The characters are beautifully flawed and complex, each leaving a mark on my heart. They evoke a mix of anger and sympathy, perfectly embodying the idea that people aren’t purely good or bad; they’re human. Bromfield’s portrayal of the toxic relationships surrounding Tilla left me breathless—painfully aware of the burdens that occupy the minds of so many. The male love interest, while perhaps leaning into some "insta-love" tropes, was a refreshing presence; his depth served as a wonderful contrast to the challenges Tilla faced.
However, it’s essential to note the trigger warnings that accompany the book—bullying, gaslighting, and instances of abuse are woven throughout Tilla’s journey. While these elements are integral to the story’s emotional weight, there are moments where it felt like some heavy themes could have been explored further. I found myself craving a bit more closure regarding certain traumas that were mentioned yet glossed over. Still, this is a small blip in an otherwise beautifully tragic narrative, which certainly left me wanting to scream, cry, and reflect all at once.
If you’re seeking a gripping read that will challenge your heart and mind, I can’t recommend Hurricane Summer enough. It’s perfect for those who enjoy contemporary narratives that tackle significant social issues while also immersing readers in a rich, emotional landscape.
For a book that had me as emotionally wrecked as it did enriched, one thing is clear: I will carry the memories of those 400 pages with me for a long time to come. As I set myself to the task of navigating shallower reads in hopes of regaining my composure, I can’t help but feel thankful for the experience Bromfield has gifted us with. Happy reading, everyone—may your next book also leave you in a pleasantly shattered state!