Dreams that Turn to Dust
None [of the real characters in this book] is able fully to satisfy his dreams. Each seeks something more. Ryan argues that this is in the nature of humanity; of all life. Continue reading Dreams that Turn to Dust
Category: Irish History
Not all the Tudor ‘Planters’ in Laois were Protestants.
For someone pursuing the history of Stradbally it is pertinent that these five were close neighbours. Continue reading Not all the Tudor ‘Planters’ in Laois were Protestants.
Elizabeth Palmer: The Planter’s Wife?
I can see lots of material here for another novel rooted in Irish history. ‘The Planter’s Wife’ suggests itself as an obvious title, but I have a great deal of reading and research to do before I commence writing. Continue reading Elizabeth Palmer: The Planter’s Wife?
The Pale, a Musical Picnic, a Pigsty and the Complex History of Religion in Ireland.
The descendent of a man who built his home from the ruins of a Roman Catholic religious house was instrumental in the expansion of another branch of Russian Orthodox Christianity in Ireland. Continue reading The Pale, a Musical Picnic, a Pigsty and the Complex History of Religion in Ireland.
Who Really Was Francis Cosby’s Wife?
The available biographies of each of her husbands (other than Cosby) indicate she was the fourth daughter. . . a much more plausible scenario than any suggestion that she, or any of Lord Edward’s daughters, was ever married to Francis Cosby. Continue reading Who Really Was Francis Cosby’s Wife?
The Marriage of Strongbow and Aoife: A Union Bathed in Blood.
De Clare took my hand as he spoke and led me to an empty hut that, I supposed, had been especially prepared for us. He stepped forward and took both hands in his, lowering his head to kiss each in turn. Continue reading The Marriage of Strongbow and Aoife: A Union Bathed in Blood.
His Stag Do was a Massacre: 24th August 1170 the Sacking of Waterford.
“We can ill afford to have such men as enemies,” he said in a final effort at persuasion.
I could see the logic of Father’s assertion but it only added to the burden of responsibility that now lay upon my shoulders.” Continue reading His Stag Do was a Massacre: 24th August 1170 the Sacking of Waterford.
23rd August 1170: An Irish ‘D-Day’ Landing
Father was smiling. I remember thinking how rare an event that was these days. ‘Go now and prepare yourself for a journey and your marriage,’ he bade me. ‘We leave at first light tomorrow for Waterford where de Clare awaits us.’ Continue reading 23rd August 1170: An Irish ‘D-Day’ Landing
Open Book Blog Hop, 20th April
I think fiction must feature settings that are taken from the author’s imagination, whereas historical fiction must, by its nature, be set in real places in order to lend authenticity. Continue reading Open Book Blog Hop, 20th April
Blessings in Adversity – the Popemobile and the Little Ark.
A remarkable coincidence links the two stories. Continue reading Blessings in Adversity – the Popemobile and the Little Ark.
