Debut Novel ‘After Dad’ Set for Release this September
After Dad, the debut novel by Northern Irish writer Claire Shiells, is a contemporary love story. Drawing on real-life personal tragedy and exploring themes familiar to local readers, the book is set mostly in modern day Northern Ireland and Donegal.
The shadow of the past hangs over the book, with an historic murder by the IRA at its centre. After Dad skilfully explores the eroding effects this loss has on family, life and love. But it is also a book about hope, reflecting on how the human spirit strives to deal with past trauma to prevent it seeping into the future.
Millie, the victim’s daughter, a spirited, flawed, journalist, retreats to the family home in Co. Tyrone after a decision leaves her gilded London life in ruins. Eventually retreating to the family cottage in Donegal, it is here she meets the enigmatic Finn McFall, a Catholic from west Belfast. A talented artist by day and a beguiling storyteller by night, Finn enthrals Millie with readings from Joyce and Heaney and tales of Irish legends. In this new modern Ireland, Millie believes religion is no longer a barrier for love.
But she soon discovers home is a place still struggling with a fragile peace and simmering sectarianism. When she finds Finn’s past is inextricably linked to her own, she is heartbroken and must decide between love and loyalty. Eventually, Millie has to ask herself the question: can love really conquer all?
After Dad explores love in all its guises: family love, romantic love and maybe the most potent of all - tribal love. It also highlights issues facing modern Ireland today, including reignited sectarianism, Brexit border tensions and the hidden exploitation of migrant workers.
After Dad book cover
Jeremy Thompson of The Book Guild, said of the new signing: “Claire’s personal experience of growing up during The Troubles in Northern Ireland is both heart-breaking and joyous and this comes through in her writing, and in the colourful characters and powerful narrative voice she has created. After Dad will resonate with local audiences but its main themes of love, loss, and loyalty are universal in appeal.”
Author Matson Taylor (The Miseducation of Evie Epsworth, a Richard & Judy Book Club Pick & BBC Radio 2 Book Club Choice), says of After Dad: “Wonderful - a beguiling modern love story full of humour, suspense and a huge amount of heart. The lush setting is a joy and thoughts of Millie & Finn will stay with you for a long time.”
Commenting on the announcement, Claire Shiells said: “I’m thrilled to be signed by The Book Guild. Bringing a debut novel into the world and seeing my characters come to life is something I have always dreamed of doing. This is an exciting development in my writing career and I cannot wait to share Millie and Finn’s story with readers at home and abroad.”
After Dad by local author, Claire Shiells will be published by The Book Guild on 28th September 2022 (RRP 9.99). The book can be pre-ordered online from Waterstones and all good book outlets. Ebook pre-order available from Apple & Amazon (RRP £4.99).
A book tour across Northern Ireland will be announced soon. For further information, visit www.claireshiells.com or connect with Claire on Instagram and Twitter, @claireshiells and on Facebook @Claire Shiells – Writer.
We are currently sending out review copies of After Dad to media, bloggers and selected book clubs. Fancy reviewing the book? Request a review copy via the form below.
