A Swift Pure Cry

This story kept me reading into the small hours. Set in Southern Ireland, it tells of Shell, a teenager who struggles to look after her younger siblings after her mother dies. Her father neglects his family, her best friend shuns her and she seeks crumbs of comfort in the kindness of a young priest and a sexual relationship with a classmate. This sad tale, redeemed by Shell’s good nature and lack of bitterness, suddenly turns into a mystery when a bizarre coincidence sparks bitter accusations, guilt and gossip. The characters are beautifully drawn and the suspense is nail-biting. Based on a true story and short listed for two prizes, this marvellous book is wholly engrossing.