A Fix of Light follows two queer teenage boys in the Cork village of Skenashogue. Hanan has deep struggles with mental health, meanwhile Pax has recently moved to the village to transition. A chance encounter between them leads to a discovery of long-dormant magic.
This is a book where the village itself should feel like a character. And while some of the natural environs of Skenashogue – Hanan’s cove, or the ominous forests – are vivid in their realness, the village and its inhabitants felt a little empty. There are some really interesting concepts about the intersection between the “normal” and the “magical”, and the erosion of natural magic and environment by the presence of humans, that are ultimately diminished by the empty setting.
Throughout the novel, Jessie and Brooke’s identities as teenage girls are not sacrificed. They are allowed to react in realistic ways that expose Brooke’s privileged upbringing and Jessie’s complicated past. Moreover, Jessie’s sexuality is not a source of stress or conflict in the story; it is a non-negotiable aspect of her identity.
Despite this, the book has many strengths. The magic manifests in unique and clever ways, leaning into the natural surroundings and classic Irish folklore. The characters are sympathetic despite some of the mistakes they make, and the author depicts mental health in a way that is both harrowing and sensitive. There are some wonderful concepts (using folk tales to explore queerness) and one of my personal favourites was the excellent prologue from the perspective of the forest.
There are many difficulties the characters face in this book, such as suicidal thoughts and transphobia. These are explored with a delicate touch that remains empathetic while not shying away from reality. Author Kel Menton’s ability to balance an unflinching look at the bigotry and hate in our communities while still maintaining a thread of hope and optimism throughout is perhaps the novel’s greatest achievement. Irish YA could benefit from a lot more novels like this.
Aoife Sheehan
A Fix of Light
Kel Menton
Little Island Books, 2025
Paperback, €10.99
ISBN: 9781915071699
