A Woman in Defence: A Soldier's Story of the Enemy Within the Irish Army

A Woman in Defence is a searing, honest, and courageous account of professional soldiering in a toxic military culture. It follows the career of Karina Molloy, a retired army captain who achieved many firsts, but faced many setbacks due to misogyny. The book exposes a venerable Irish institution that has failed to defend and protect its own.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 26 January 2023
Publisher: Hachette Books Ireland

Senator Tom Clonan, a retired army captain, has written a searing, honest, and courageous account of professional soldiering in a toxic military culture. During her 31-year career as a soldier in the Irish Defence Forces, Karina Molloy achieved many firsts. She was the first female to get promoted to the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) rank, the first to attempt the Army Ranger Wing selection course, and the most overseas service as a female senior NCO.

Despite her pioneering career, Molloy faced many setbacks in an institution rife with misogyny. She experienced sexual assault, routine bullying, and promotional glass ceilings. However, she persevered and fought to make the army a safer and more equitable place for women.

"A Woman in Defence" is the often shocking story of a determined soldier who forged her way in a man's world and who continues to fight to make the army a safer and more equitable place for women. What emerges is a damning exposé of a venerable Irish institution that has failed to defend and protect its own.

The book highlights the experiences of female soldiers in the Irish Defence Forces, including their struggles with gender discrimination, sexual harassment, and violence. It also exposes the systemic issues within the army that perpetuate these problems, such as a lack of training, support, and accountability for those who commit misconduct.

Molloy's story is a testament to her resilience and determination, and her book serves as a call to action for the Irish Defence Forces to address the issues facing female soldiers and to create a culture of respect and safety for all. The book also highlights the importance of women's leadership in the military and the need for more diversity and inclusion in the ranks.

In conclusion, "A Woman in Defence" is a powerful and important book that sheds light on the experiences of female soldiers in a toxic military culture. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by women in the military and the need for change.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 153 x 234 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399712309