Maine Irish Reads “Trespasses” by Louise Kennedy

“Trespasses” by Louise Kennedy is a poignant and evocative novel set against the backdrop of the Troubles in Northern Ireland during the 1970s. The story follows the life of a young Catholic schoolteacher, Cushla, who becomes entangled in a forbidden romance with an older Protestant man, what is essentially a taboo relationship in a divided society marked by deep sectarian strife. As their affair unfolds, Cushla navigates the complexities of personal desire and societal expectations, while the escalating violence surrounding them threatens to engulf their lives. Kennedy’s lyrical prose captures the tension of a time and place where love, loyalty, and the desire for freedom clash powerfully, making “Trespasses” a moving exploration of identity, belonging, and the human capacity for resilience in the face of conflict.