Bright Objects: A Novel by Ruby Todd

In "Bright Objects," Sylvia Knight grapples with grief and seeks justice for her husband's hit-and-run death, a crime that remains unsolved and casts a shadow over her life. Her world shifts when she meets Theo St. John, the discoverer of a rare comet set to dazzle the night sky. This celestial event becomes a metaphor for Sylvia's quest for understanding and closure.

As the comet brightens, Sylvia is drawn into the mystic beliefs of Joseph Evans, who interprets the comet's appearance as a divine message. Caught between scientific inquiry and spiritual interpretation, Sylvia navigates conflicting perspectives that challenge her own sense of reality. The comet's growing prominence parallels the escalating tension in her town, where fervor over its significance intensifies.

Amidst this celestial spectacle, Sylvia's determination to uncover the truth about her husband's death drives her to confront personal and societal obsessions. Her journey unfolds against a backdrop of mystery, astronomy, and the complexities of human emotion, reminiscent of Emma Cline's exploration of girlhood in "The Girls" and Ottessa Moshfegh's psychological depth in "Death in Her Hands."

"Bright Objects" explores themes of meaning, love, and the extremes to which individuals will go in pursuit of answers. It blends literary finesse with the suspense of a thriller, crafting a narrative that illuminates the fragility of belief and the profound impact of loss. Through Sylvia's quest, the novel delves into the depths of human experience, offering a poignant reflection on how we navigate the mysteries of existence amidst the constellations of grief and hope. ❤️📚❤️