I recently finished “Confessions” by Catherine Airey, and what a journey it was! This multigenerational family saga begins in late 2001, with Cora Brady—a teenager living in New York and coping with the tragic aftermath of 9/11, where she loses her father and becomes an orphan. A letter from an estranged aunt in Ireland leads her to relocate, not only to find a new home but also to uncover the hidden truths of her family’s past. The story spans decades and delves into the lives of her mother, Maire, her aunt, Roisin, and eventually her daughter, Lyra, unravelling a tapestry of love, grief, betrayal, and redemption.
Themes
This novel captivated me with its exploration of generational trauma and the impact of both revealed and concealed secrets. Catherine Airey brilliantly intertwines universal themes of family dynamics, mental health, reproductive rights, and the lasting influence of decisions made across generations. The book also contextualises these intimate dramas within pivotal historical moments, including the AIDS crisis, the 9/11 attacks, and even echoes of the pandemic. I couldn’t help but reflect on how the past shapes us in ways both seen and unseen.
What Worked
- Characterisation: The women in this story are unforgettable. Maire and Roisin’s sibling relationship, with its mix of affection and rivalry, felt deeply relatable, and each woman had a distinctive voice that stayed with me.
- Structure and Style: The narrative structure was bold and innovative, including second-person narration in one section and excerpts from a “choose-your-own-adventure” computer game. These elements surprised me but added layers to the storytelling.
- Emotional Depth: From start to finish, this book is steeped in poignancy and warmth, striking an incredible balance between heartbreak and hope.
- Ambition and Scope: The novel is rich in its scope, spanning time, geography, and historical contexts, while never losing sight of its intimate focus on family. It’s hard to believe this is a debut!
Who May Enjoy This Book
If you love multigenerational family sagas, this book will definitely appeal to you. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate strong, complex female characters and stories that explore identity and legacy. The experimental storytelling elements, like shifting points of view, give the book an extra edge that fans of creative narratives might enjoy. And if historical and personal dramas blended seamlessly are your thing, grab this one—you won’t regret it.
Conclusion
Catherine Airey’s “Confessions” is a powerful debut that beautifully captures the complexity of family life and the long-lasting effects of secrets. While I found some moments slightly disorienting, the emotional depth and masterful characterisation more than made up for it. Airey’s literary talent is undeniable, and I’ll be eagerly awaiting whatever she writes next. This one is highly recommended for those who enjoy thought-provoking, character-driven stories with a touch of creative flair. Truly a book that stays with you!
Thanks to Penguin Random House SA for the chance to read this book.
ISBN 9780241728079
Format Trade Paperback
Published March 2025
Read an extract here: Extract: Confessions by Catherine Airey Penguin Random House South Africa
