I have been asked by a few people for a flavour of the novel. This is difficult without spoiling the plot for some.
So here goes with a short piece from early on in the story. Those who have read the novel will know that even within this short piece that there are interesting possibilities hinted at.
“By sunrise they were turned above Lough Arrow with the lough now to their west and the legendary Moytirra hills to their east. Here legends told of the fierce battle between the Tuatha Dé Danann and the Fomorians. Ronan had heard these tales when still a young boy. This morning he wished for the magical powers of the Tuatha Dé Danann to guide him and his ragged group safely to Breifne. They held to higher ground as the woods along Lough Key might be patrolled by Elizabethan soldiers hunting for The O’Sullivan Beare.
Few spoke as they made their way above the lake. One fellow did attract Ronan’s attention. Slight and wiry, he kept to himself and uttered not a word as he followed every direction Ronan gave. He looked exhausted and pale faced. By Knockvicar they needed a rest and Ronan was able to acquire a horse for The O’Connor Kerry.
Ronan knew he could not go to the O’Rourke Castle. He would definitely be recognised and that might have serious consequences later if it became known that he had aided the O’Sullivan march. He would go as far as Drumanilra Hill and point them toward the Castle. There were only two that would struggle to finish the journey, the old O’Connor Kerry and the young lad who was limping by this stage. Ronan noticed that blood was oozing from a wound in his foot and called a halt.”
