56 pages 1 hour read

Louise Kennedy

Trespasses

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In the historical novel Trespasses by Louise Kennedy, set in a town near Belfast during the 1970s amidst the violent sectarian conflict known as "the Troubles," young Catholic schoolteacher Cushla Lavery's quiet life is disrupted by a passionate affair with Michael Agnew, a married Protestant barrister who defends IRA suspects, leading her to navigate a complex web of societal expectations, religious divides, and personal desires. The book addresses wartime violence, homicide, and alcohol addiction.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Louise Kennedy's Trespasses has garnered praise for its emotive storytelling and complex characters set against the backdrop of The Troubles in Northern Ireland. Critics applaud its vivid portrayal of historical and social tensions. However, some found its pacing uneven and character development lacking depth at times. Overall, it's a compelling but occasionally flawed narrative.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Trespasses?

Fans of Trespasses by Louise Kennedy will appreciate intricate character development and richly depicted settings. Ideal for readers who enjoy exploring complex social dynamics and historical tensions, similar to The Troubles by J. Bowyer Bell or The Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Irish Literature

Modern Classic Fiction

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Conflict

Emotions/Behavior: Love

Society: Community

Topics

History: World