Haven – Emma Donoghue

Description

Set in 7th-century Ireland, Haven follows a devout scholar and priest, Artt, who has a vision of an untouched island where he can serve God free from the corruption of the world. He gathers two monks—Trian, a young and eager disciple, and Cormac, an older, experienced man—and sets sail down the River Shannon. Drifting into the Atlantic, they discover a remote, steep island inhabited only by birds. Determined to establish a monastery, they claim it as holy ground, but their faith is soon tested by the brutal realities of survival.

Inspired by the real-life monastic site of Skellig Michael, Haven is a hauntingly atmospheric tale of faith, power, and human endurance. Donoghue masterfully explores themes of devotion, isolation, and the tension between spiritual ideals and earthly needs. Fans of historical fiction, survival stories, and literary fiction will find this novel both gripping and thought-provoking. Written with her trademark psychological intensity, Haven is perfect for readers of The North Water by Ian McGuire and The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco.

Shortlisted for the Dublin Literary Award, Haven was also named ‘Book of the Year’ by The Irish Times, The Guardian, The Irish Post, RTÉ, and The Times.