The Moon is Red in April

By Joy Martin

Ireland, 1744, and the young Catholic, Richard ‘Dick’ O’Shaughnessy, embarks on a perilous journey to escape the harsh Penal Laws and fight for his country in France. En route he meets wealthy Philip Cantillon, and together they pursue their studies in Paris with the intention of joining the Irish Brigade.

Across the waters in Ireland, Dick leaves behind his erstwhile admirer Ellen Nagle’s, life is changed forever by her crush’s departure. Not dissuaded by his indifference, Ellen sinks her last savings into a trip to France to find him.

However, she arrived to a cold welcome when Catherine Cantillon, Philip’s sister, takes a disliking to her. Having made a promise to Philip, Dick does all he can to take care of Catherine and her mother, Hélène, and Catherine makes the most of this situation. She wants Dick all to herself – and certainly nowhere near the young woman who’s just turned up on their doorstep! So begins a lifelong rivalry, that will lead every one of them to question their choices and desires.

Steeped in the turbulent history and dramatic landscapes of France and Ireland, The Moon is Red in April is a magnificent saga of rivalry and passion that powerfully and movingly evokes the restless spirit of 18th century Europe – and of a love that couldn’t be denied.

Joy Martin was born in Limerick. She trained as a journalist and worked on Dublin’s Evening Press, then moved to writing news for the Zambia Broadcasting Corporation and the BBC Home and External Services. She has also broadcast on radio in Ireland, Zambia, South Africa and Britain. Now she lives in London and works as a freelance journalist.