A review by madamelacy
Trespasses by Louise Kennedy
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
Spoiler
Set in Northern Ireland during the 1970s the story follows Cushla, a Catholic teacher and occasional bartender, as she embarks on a relationship with Michael, a married, Protestant barrister. Their relationship happens to a backdrop of The Troubles, with people trying to live normal lives despite daily acts of terror occurring in their communities.Cushla befriends a Catholic family in need after the father of one of her pupils is severely beaten. The two strands of her life, as a teacher and as Michael’s lover, become inextricably linked.
Spoiler
Graphic: Violence, Injury/Injury detail, Gun violence, Hate crime, and Fire/Fire injury
Moderate: Religious bigotry
Minor: Death of parent