'Best period drama' based on 'moving' novel to stream on Channel 4

A new period drama has been listed as one of the "best" by the magazine Red. Trespasses is an upcoming British television series made for Channel 4 and starring Gillian Anderson. It is based on the 2022 novel of the same name by Louise Kennedy and set in the 1970s in Northern Ireland during The Troubles. Alongside Anderson, Lola Petticrew, Tom Cullen, Martin McCann, and Gerard McCarthy star in Trespasses.

Channel 4's synopsis reads: "1975, in a town outside Belfast. Whilst working one night behind the bar of her family pub, serving a mixed crowd including the locally stationed soldiers, Catholic schoolteacher Cushla meets Michael, an older Protestant married man, who often defends IRA suspects and is friends with cultured Bohemians who enrage and intrigue Cushla.

"Worlds apart, Cushla knows a relationship like this spells all kinds of trouble, but they are irresistibly drawn to one another. In a place where loose lips cost lives and danger lurks in the shadows, amidst the fear and paranoia, this illicit affair between Cushla and Michael ignites and burns bright..."

Fans of the book, which was also shortlisted for the Women's Prize 2023 have praised the book, with one reviewer describing it as "moving".

Another reviewer said: "Trespasses by Louise Kennedy is an exceptionally well-written, intense novel. This is not an easy read, and you know from the very beginning that there can be no happy ending for these characters. The prose is direct and at times brutally honest while describing the societal distinctions, violence, divisiveness, bigotry and politics in Northern Ireland during the early years of the Troubles.

"I was completely immersed in this novel. The authenticity shone forth and wrapped me in its spell. This is an extremely well-written book that presents both political and emotional complexities in the most straightforward of plots. There is nothing ornate or clever here, but the author's dedication to truthfulness and organicity broke my heart many times while stoking outrage and tenderness in equal measure. A passionate but everyday love affair has repercussions not just for Romeo and Juliet but contributes to both implosions and explosions for families, the community and Ireland at large. These are characters and narratives that are etched deeply into my gut. Thank you for this humble yet riveting masterpiece, Ms. Kennedy! Brava," added a third.

Trespasses will be available to stream on Channel 4 later this year.