Cover of 'The Bright Years' by Sarah Damoff, a debut novel about childhood trauma.
Local author Sarah Damoff is releasing her debut novel ‘The Bright Years’ on April 22. The book delves into childhood trauma and resilience, inspired by personal experiences. Set in 1979, it follows Ryan Brighton and his family as they navigate love, loss, and community amidst challenges. Damoff will celebrate her launch with discussion events in Dallas and Fort Worth.
In the bustling city of Dallas, excitement is brewing as local author Sarah Damoff prepares to release her debut novel, “The Bright Years.” Set to hit shelves on April 22, this poignant story dives into the intricacies of childhood trauma while shining a light on the transforming power of hope.
At just 38 years old, Damoff has spent two decades working as a social worker, and it’s clear her years of experience play a vital role in shaping her narrative. The inspiration behind “The Bright Years” is deeply personal—it springs from the life of a childhood friend whose alcoholic father tragically succumbed to addiction, leaving behind a young daughter at just 22. It’s remarkable how personal stories can lead to such healing narratives, and Damoff’s work demonstrates this beautifully.
The story begins in 1979, introducing us to Elise and her son Ryan Brighton, who are fleeing from an abusive husband and father. This gripping opening sets the stage for a family saga filled with themes of romance, betrayal, abandonment, and survival. Readers will soon follow Ryan, his love interest Lillian Wright, and their daughter Georgette, affectionately known as Jet, as they navigate the ups and downs of life in Fort Worth.
Ryan and Lillian’s love story blooms in the Fort Worth Public Library, a sweet and unexpected setting that becomes the foundation of their passionate relationship. Their life together takes a major step forward in 1982 when they open an art gallery in the bustling Sundance Square, merging their last names to create the distinctive “Bright.”
While Ryan’s upbringing was marked by an absent and abusive father, his mother Elise offers steadfast support to the young couple. However, life doesn’t come easy, as Lillian experiences heart-wrenching losses and the challenges of motherhood. With the arrival of Jet in the summer of 1986, the story highlights the bittersweet nature of parenting—reflecting on how raising a child can feel akin to attempting to grasp the vastness of the sky, always present yet elusive.
As the family grapples with emotional trials, Ryan begins to battle his own demons. Initially steering clear of alcohol like a cautious ship navigator, Ryan’s struggle intensifies after 1987 when he starts drinking socially. This choice puts distance between him and Lillian, compelling her to lean on friends and family for support while Ryan confronts the waves of sobriety.
Fast forward to mid-2001—right before the nation faces the shocking effects of the 9/11 attacks—the narrative boldly takes on the emotional aftermath of national tragedy and its ripple effect on Jet and the entire family. Through it all, “The Bright Years” paints a beautiful tapestry of love, sadness, yet above all, the profound sense of hope that emerges through community and resilience.
This compelling novel, published by Simon and Schuster, spans a total of 273 pages and is priced at $27.99. To celebrate her debut, Damoff will host an engaging conversation with fellow author Alicia Hauge at Interabang Books in Dallas on its release date of April 22 at 6 p.m.. Additionally, she will appear at Monkey and Dog Books in Fort Worth on April 30, chatting with Amanda Churchill at 6:30 p.m.
As readers await the launch of “The Bright Years,” it’s evident that Sarah Damoff has crafted a narrative that resonates on multiple levels—with the potential to touch hearts and inspire those who have battled childhood trauma. It’s a book that doesn’t just tell a story, but offers a comforting embrace along the path of healing.
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