Where to Start with Asha Bromfield
Since Asha Bromfield’s novels are standalone releases rather than part of an ongoing series, you can start with either of her books. However, the best way to experience her literary growth and the evolution of her themes is to read them in publication order. Starting with her debut novel, Hurricane Summer, introduces you to her contemporary storytelling style and her exploration of modern family dynamics, before you dive into the complex historical landscape of 1970s Jamaica in Songs of Irie.
Publication Order of Standalone Novels
Here is the chronological publication list of Asha Bromfield’s novels. Both books are published by Wednesday Books, an imprint of St. Martin's Publishing Group.
- Hurricane Summer (2021)
- Songs of Irie (2023)
Deep Dive into Asha Bromfield’s Books
Hurricane Summer (2021)
Set in the summer of 2008, Asha Bromfield's debut novel is a gripping, emotional young adult story. It follows eighteen-year-old Tilla, a Canadian teenager who, alongside her nine-year-old sister Mia, is sent to Jamaica to spend the summer with their father, Tyson. Tilla has spent most of her life longing for the approval of her father, who is frequently absent and considers Jamaica his real home. Hoping to connect with him and discover her roots, Tilla instead faces immediate culture shock when she is sent to stay with extended family in the countryside.
As she tries to fit in and navigate her family’s secrets, a major hurricane begins to threaten the island. The storm acts as a metaphor for the emotional turmoil and revelations Tilla faces, including hard truths about colorism, classism, sexism, and toxic family structures. It is a raw and complex look at a young woman finding her voice and learning to stand on her own feet amidst the wreckage of her family's past.
Songs of Irie (2023)
In her second novel, Bromfield takes readers back to 1976 Jamaica, a turbulent era marked by severe political civil unrest and social division leading up to a historic election. The narrative focuses on the relationship between two teenage girls from opposite worlds: Irie and Jilly. Irie is a dark-skinned teenager living in Downtown Kingston, working at her father's record shop, and dreaming of using her voice to become a reggae musician. Jilly is a wealthy, light-skinned Uptown girl who lives behind gates and is shielded by her family's political prestige.
Despite their social differences, the two girls form a deep bond at school over a shared love of reggae music—the "rebel music" of the streets. As political clashes escalate in Kingston, their friendship is tested by systemic classism, privilege, and the dangerous environment of the city. The book deals with themes of music as a vehicle for resistance, the legacy of colonialism, and a complex same-sex romance developing between the two protagonists amidst the chaos of a country on the verge of civil war.
What to Know Before You Start: Content and Tone
Asha Bromfield’s novels are highly praised for their lyrical writing and cultural authenticity, but they are also known for dealing with heavy and intense themes. Unlike lighter contemporary YA romances, her books portray the raw realities of systemic struggles and personal trauma. Before starting, readers should be aware of the following content warnings:
- Hurricane Summer: This novel contains depictions of sexual assault, rape, child neglect, mental and physical abuse, colorism, misogyny, and toxic family dynamics.
- Songs of Irie: This novel contains depictions of political violence, civil unrest, poverty, systemic classism, and the legacy of colonialism.
Future Adaptations and Projects
Fans of Hurricane Summer will be pleased to know that Asha Bromfield has actively worked on bringing her debut novel to the screen. In addition to her career as an author, Bromfield is an established actress, famous for her roles as Melody Valentine in the CW’s Riverdale and Zadie Wells in Netflix's Locke & Key. Her dual experience in acting and writing has paved the way for a planned film adaptation of Hurricane Summer, which she is set to write and executive produce.