8. After the Silence by Louise O'Neill.
If you haven't yet heard of Louise O'Neill then we have a treat in store for you. In 2014, O'Neill's debut novel, Only Ever Yours was published for a YA audience and went on to win Sunday Independent Newcomer of the Year at 2014, the Bord Gáis Energy Irish Book Award; the Children's Books Ireland Eilís Dillon Award for a First Children's Book, and The Bookseller's inaugural YA Book Prize 2015. Since blasting onto the writing scene in 2014 O'Neill has written 4 more books, for children and adults alike. After the Silence is her fifth book and is as bold, brave and shocking as her other novels. The book is set in Inisrun, Ireland and has a chilling tag line: Nessa Crowley's murderer has been protected by silence for ten years. Until a team of documentary makers decide to find out the truth. Do you even need more information to read the book? Just in case you do, here's more... on the night of Nessa Crowley's murder there was a big storm, cutting the island off from the mainland, so nobody was able to leave. The mystery behind the murderer was hidden, but those on the island who was to blame. This book delves into the deadly nature of secrets and how they can devastate those who keep them. We loved this book and felt every emotion reading it. Join us for this podcast episode when we delve into the themes and mystery in detail. @bloomingratbooks.