The Things We Promise

The Things We Promise
ISBN: 9781760290405
Publication Date: 1 March 2017

Gemma's older brother Billy made her a promise that he would ensure she looked fabulous for her first school formal. But his circumstances change dramatically and Billy's promise becomes the least of the family's concerns.

There are two things you need to know about me. The first is that I remember life by what I was wearing. The second is that I think too much.

It's the early 1990s and all Gemma can think about is looking perfect for her first school formal. Gemma's brother Billy - New York's up and coming hair and make-up artist - has made her the ultimate promise: he's returning home especially to 'create magic' on her and two friends for their end-of-year formal. Gemma's best friend, Andrea, is convinced it'll be their moment to shine; Gemma hopes it's the night Ralph will finally notice her.

But when Billy arrives home from New York, Gemma's life becomes complicated. Her family's been keeping secrets; friendships are forged and broken; and suddenly the length of her formal dress is the least of her worries.

Set in a time of uncertainty and fear, The Things We Promise is a beautifully told novel that sings with emotion, humour and heartbreak.

Review by Olivia Crowley

It's not that often that you start a book at 8pm and don't close it until the last page. But J.C. Burke's The Things We Promise did exactly that for me.

The Things We Promise elicited tears, laughter, and a chance to reflect on how far the Australian suburbs have come in the past twenty years. The book is set in the early 90s when the HIV/AIDS epidemic had 'the suburbs' fear the disease and homosexuality; when paranoia ran rampant. Gemma, a teenager with an energetic and remarkable older brother living the high-life in America with his partner, disco...