Shadow Voices: 300 Years of Irish Genre Fiction: A History in Stories

In the first print run of all hardbacks, the author will sign them. Irish fiction has given the world Lemuel Gulliver, Dracula, and the world of Narnia. John Connolly's one-volume history of Irish genre writing explores how we think about fiction, using the lives of over sixty writers to create a new way of looking at genre and literature, both Irish and beyond.

Format: Hardback
Length: 1088 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2021
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

The captivating world of genre fiction, encompassing horror, romantic fiction, science fiction, crime writing, and more, finds its roots in the rich tapestry of Irish literature. Irish writers have left an indelible mark on the global literary landscape, gifting the world with iconic characters such as Lemuel Gulliver, Dracula, and the enchanting realm of Narnia. Their pioneering works in detection, spine-tingling ghost stories, and groundbreaking women's popular fiction have reshaped the genre and inspired generations of readers.

Now, in a groundbreaking achievement, John Connolly has compiled the history of Irish genre writing in a single volume, delving into the depths of our understanding of fiction itself. With meticulous research and compelling arguments, SHADOW VOICES takes readers on a captivating journey through the lives of over sixty remarkable writers, each with their own unique tale of tragedy, humor, and adventure. Connolly skillfully weaves these writers' lives alongside their literary creations, offering a fresh perspective on genre and literature, both Irish and international.

Within these pages, readers are invited to explore a realm where vampires and monsters roam, murderers and cannibals stalk the shadows, and star-crossed lovers find themselves entangled in tragic romances. Determined detectives, clever criminal masterminds, and vengeful spouses populate the pages, each with their own compelling story to tell. The SHADOW VOICES, a chorus of extraordinary characters, emerge from the depths of imagination, captivating readers with their depth, complexity, and unforgettable presence.

This captivating exploration of genre fiction and Irish literature is a testament to the enduring legacy of Irish writers and their profound impact on the world of storytelling. SHADOW VOICES invites readers to delve into the rich tapestry of genre, unearthing the shadows that lie within the pages and discovering the extraordinary stories that have shaped our collective imagination.

Weight: 1526g
Dimension: 163 x 244 x 73 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529394665