"This astonishing collection of stories draws the reader into a world at once familiar and deliciously strange - the world of a fictional island community off the coast of County Mayo. With an unflinching eye for injustice, cruelty and self-deceit, McHugh nonetheless approaches his cast of characters with a sincere and intelligent compassion. These stories bring to life not only the individual lives of human people, but the collective life of a whole community. In exquisite and arresting prose, this collection makes it clear that John Patrick McHugh is one of the most exciting writers working in Ireland today." (Sally Rooney, author of Normal People)

"McHugh’s stories are monoliths that glitter with piercing detail, sunlit with godlike purpose and control." (Gavin Corbett, author of Green Glowing Skull)

"This collection is refreshing and ambitious, its stories full of heart and balls and mischief." (Lisa McInerny, author of The Blood Miracles)

"Ireland produces writers the way some countries produce footballers, and the latest is John Patrick McHugh." (Sunday Times)

"Remarkable, rare and truly brilliant." (Megan Nolan, author of Acts of Desperation)

"Dark, funny, honest and engrossing." (Roddy Doyle, author of Love)

"Full of stylish brio." (Colin Barrett, author of Young Skins)