Mount Merrion

Justin Quinn's debut novel is a gripping family saga that spans half a century, exploring the lives of Declan and Sinead Boyle, who are pillars of their community, yet face significant challenges. Born into privilege and educated at Dublin's finest schools, their seemingly perfect life hides deeper troubles. Declan grapples with his ambition while trying to serve his country, and Sinead questions whether she can pursue her own dreams in the conservative Ireland of the sixties and seventies. Their son, Owen, squanders his advantages, while their gifted daughter, Issie, repeatedly makes poor choices despite having every opportunity. The narrative unfolds from Declan and Sinead's first meeting in the late fifties, capturing their family's journey through success, failure, and tragedy against the backdrop of a changing Ireland. This novel is a page-turning drama, rich in satire and detailed character portraits. Critics praise its imaginative storytelling, compassionate observations, and the way it reflects the complexities of family life and societal shifts. The prose is described as light yet controlled, making it a captivating read that resonates with themes of ambition, societal expectations, and personal choices.