A highly anticipated supernatural fiction novel by a well-known Northern Ireland journalist has recently been released just in time for Halloween. Titled “Perdition Street,” this dark and thrilling novel is the first work of fiction from Leona O’Neill, a Derry-based journalist, lecturer, and author. The book, published by American publishing house Quill and Crow, marks a significant departure from Leona’s extensive journalistic career, which has seen her work with prestigious publications such as the Belfast Telegraph and Irish News, as well as serving as a field producer for international news outlets like Al Jazeera, Vice News, ABC, and CBC.
The inspiration for “Perdition Street” came from Leona’s personal experiences, particularly the traumatic event of witnessing the murder of fellow journalist Lyra McKee in April 2019. This tragic incident, carried out by dissident republicans during a riot in Derry, left a deep impact on Leona, leading her to delve into the realms of supernatural fiction to explore themes of justice, closure, and the afterlife. Drawing from her 25 years in journalism in Northern Ireland, where many families continue to seek justice for their lost loved ones, Leona crafted a gripping narrative that promises to captivate readers with its unique blend of fantasy and darkness.
The novel centers around Dublin Private Detective Atlas Bishop, a soul binder tasked with binding the souls of murder victims to their perpetrators in order to drag them to Hell. Atlas, a complex character with his own struggles and demons, finds himself embroiled in a dangerous game when Hell’s representative on Earth seeks to expand their dominion by turning innocents into murderers through dark magic. As Atlas races against time to save Dublin and prevent a global catastrophe, he must confront his past, navigate treacherous relationships, and outwit the forces of evil that threaten to consume everything he holds dear.
In addition to her work in fiction, Leona O’Neill is also known for her non-fiction book “Breaking: Trauma in the Newsroom,” co-authored with fellow journalist Chris Lindsay. This insightful book sheds light on the harrowing experiences journalists face while reporting on frontline news, from the tumultuous streets of Belfast to the war-torn landscapes of Iraq. Through anecdotal stories and firsthand accounts, Leona and Chris offer a poignant look at the toll that trauma takes on those who bring us the news, highlighting the resilience and courage of journalists in the face of adversity.
The Belfast launch of “Perdition Street” is set to take place on Thursday, September 26th at St Joseph’s Church in Sailortown at 7pm. The event promises an exclusive reading from the novel, a Q&A session with the author, a book signing, and a chance to mingle with fellow book enthusiasts in the historic setting of the church. With its atmospheric ambiance and thrilling storyline, the launch event is sure to be a memorable experience for fans of supernatural fiction and mystery.
For those eager to delve into the dark and enchanting world of “Perdition Street,” the novel is now available at local retailers and online. Readers can visit the Quill and Crow website for more information on purchasing the book and exploring other works by Leona O’Neill. As the author invites readers to embark on a journey of suspense, intrigue, and supernatural intrigue, “Perdition Street” promises to be a captivating addition to the world of fiction, offering a fresh perspective on the age-old battle between good and evil.
As Leona O’Neill continues to make her mark in the literary world with her debut novel, readers can look forward to more thrilling stories and unique perspectives from this talented writer. With her diverse background in journalism and storytelling, Leona brings a fresh voice and a compelling narrative style to the realm of fiction, captivating audiences with her imaginative storytelling and thought-provoking themes.
In a world where reality and fantasy collide, “Perdition Street” stands out as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring allure of supernatural fiction. As readers immerse themselves in the gripping tale of Atlas Bishop and his quest to save the world from darkness, they will find themselves drawn into a world of mystery, intrigue, and suspense that will keep them on the edge of their seats until the very last page.