The Fire Starters

The Fire Starters is a magical realist novel by Jan Carson about two fathers in a burning Belfast who fear what their children may become, ideal for readers who enjoy family conflict and fantastical elements woven into recognisable political, domestic and social reality. Synopsis Dr Jonathan Murray fears his new-born daughter is not as harmless as she seems. Sammy Agnew is wrestling with his dark past, and fears the violence in his blood lurks in his son, too. The city is in flames and the authorities are losing control. As matters fall into frenzy, and as the lines between fantasy and truth, right and wrong, begin to blur, who will these two fathers choose to protect? Dark, propulsive and thrillingly original, this tale of fierce familial love and sacrifice fizzes with magic and wonder. Perfect for readers who like... Magical realism grounded in modern-day Belfast. Parent-child relationships shaped by fear, responsibility and inherited violence. Fiction exploring Belfast’s communities, history and sectarian tensions. Stories where magical and fantastical elements intrude on everyday reality. Books like The Fire Starters Trespasses by Louise Kennedy Guard Your Heart by Sue Divin The Raptures by Jan Carson Themes and story elements Fatherhood Familial love and sacrifice Sectarianism Political memory Inherited violence Guilt and responsibility Fantasy and reality