Broken Light by Joanne Harris
Narrated by Imogen Stubbs
Joanne Harris’s Broken Light is a thought-provoking, powerful, and deeply engaging novel that explores themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and women’s invisibility as they age. It starts with bold, unflinching honesty, tackling topics such as menopause and bleeding—elements that, at first, can feel a little confronting. However, these themes quickly become integral to the narrative, woven into a larger, compelling story about the complexities of identity, repression, and resilience.
The protagonist, Bernie Moon, is a woman struggling with the emotional and physical changes brought on by menopause. Her journey from feeling invisible and discarded by society to discovering her extraordinary potential is both gripping and deeply relatable. Harris masterfully portrays Bernie’s transformation, shining a light on issues that are often brushed aside, while crafting a story that is equal parts dark, empowering, and richly layered.
The novel’s mix of magical realism and psychological depth adds a unique edge, creating a world where the ordinary and extraordinary blend seamlessly. Harris’s writing is, as always, beautifully evocative, balancing moments of raw vulnerability with flashes of dark humour and hard-hitting truths.
Broken Light is a bold and unforgettable story that lingers long after the final page. It’s a celebration of second chances, a call for visibility, and a reminder of the untapped power that lies within us all. Joanne Harris has once again proven her ability to tackle difficult subjects with grace and brilliance. Highly recommended.