Two boys set fires while their worlds fall apart. A couple embark on a last-ditch effort to save their marriage. A widow seeks a stranger’s help to bury her grief. A horse crashes a house party.With nuance, compassion and the darkest humour, McHugh casts a bold eye on masculinity, family and class, friendships and betrayal, and embeds us in the moments on which a life can twist and turn. Pure Gold heralds the arrival of a vibrant new literary voice. ‘Exquisite and arresting’—Sally Rooney ‘Full of stylish brio’—Colin Barrett ‘Full of heart and balls and mischief’—Lisa McInerney ‘A terrific collection’—Roddy Doyle