Mark Eyles, sat down with the Tasmanian Times to talk about his debut novel Mary’s Ireland: the battles of the Crimea and the streets of Belfast veil the simple life of young barmaid Mary Cannon. A Polish sailor, who lives in the shadow of Russian wars and religious conflict, enters her Shamrock Hotel. Mary feels his jade black eyes seeing right through her to the very white of her skin. He pierces her heart. Family, faith and humour shape Mary as she struggles with grief, her violent Ireland and uncertain love. Encased in detailed historical events and settings, Mary’s Ireland enshrines the human capacity to confront adversity and flourish within it, turning donkeys into racehorses.

If you’d like more information about Mary’s Ireland, follow this link: https://aurorahouse.com.au/books-new/marys-ireland/.