This new work from Mac Cóil could be categorised as a historical novel but many other themes have been masterfully woven into the story. It was shortlisted for Leabhar na Bliana (Book of the Year) in 2012 agus readers will find the story exciting and gripping.

The story is set in Galway and the year is 1612. The city is rife with rumours, brutality and tyranny; the entire country is under English rule; Aodh Mór Ó Néill and the other Gaelic chieftains are in Rome. Lúcas Ó Briain, a young Galwegian, is charged with an important task that will take him far from his native city on a long and arduous journey abroad. Hot on his heels is An Sionnach (The Fox), one of the cruellest and most brilliant spies in the enemy’s ranks, sent with orders to stop Lúcas, whatever it takes.

This is the first part of a trilogy that will take us across Europe in the company of Lúcás Ó Briain in the early years of the 16th century, with brutal enemies in pursuit.