‘… stunning debut … Guard’s prose is pacy, her characters visceral, their internal and external narratives enthralling in equal measure, while the searing desperation of young Ailish will have you primitively clutching your gut.‘ The Irish Times

‘… This debut novel takes a surgeon’s scalpel to slice into the hypocrisy of late 20th century Mother Ireland, her secrets and her lies. It just might sweep the boards this year.‘ Irish Independent

‘… a layered exploration of memory, motherhood, identity, guilt and freedom, and the stories – and different selves – we hold onto.‘ Image

‘… captures a time and a place with authenticity and eloquence.’ The Examiner

‘Assembling Ailish is a stunning debut. Sharon Guard is an exceptional storyteller, a talented writer with a true gift for the written word.’  Swirlandthread.com

‘…gripping and skilful debut from a hugely talented storyteller.‘ Joseph O’Connor

‘Assembling Ailish is a beautiful and important novel, an incisive, insightful study of childhood, motherhood, obligation, guilt and the impossibility of true freedom from the circular pain of existence, but all lit by a blaze of love and hope. Sharon Guard is an extraordinary writer.‘ Dónal Ryan

‘Uplifting and powerful – a stunning debut from a gifted new voice.’ Ferdia Mac Anna

‘An evocative story from a fresh new voice about life, love, hard-won wisdom and learning to forgive.’ Martina Devlin