This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. The Fire Starters

   

   Set against the backdrop of a scorching Belfast summer, this novel weaves together the lives of two fathers grappling with the chaos and unpredictability of their children. As the city is engulfed in a series of mysterious arson attacks, the narrative delves into themes of identity, legacy, and the haunting specters of the past. With a blend of magical realism and gritty social commentary, the story explores the complexities of parenthood and the lengths one will go to protect their own, all while the city teeters on the brink of destruction.

   The 9721st Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. Quickly, While They Still Have Horses

   

   "Quickly, While They Still Have Horses" by Jan Carson is a collection of stories set in post-conflict Northern Ireland, blending humor with horror and tenderness with absurdity. The tales explore various facets of life, from the innocence of first love to the complexities of parenthood. Each story is infused with empathy and dark wit, often taking a surreal turn. In one story, a couple on a beach is too distracted to notice their baby crawling towards danger. Another tale features a haunted car, while a public pool becomes the center of chaos due to rumors of miraculous healing. The stories are filled with unexpected events, such as a baby found in a biscuit tin and a mysterious hand appearing in a refrigerator. Occasionally, the narratives venture into alternate realities where unusual phenomena occur, like pillars of fire used as mental health treatments and animals going extinct by law. Though the backdrop of the Troubles is present, the focus remains on the vivid characters and their unique experiences, making them feel incredibly real.

   The 17008th Greatest Book of All Time

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